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Countering jihad with clarity and charity An interview with Nabeel Qureshi of whether Islam is a religion of Ron Rupke peace was brought back to the fore, but people hadn’t resolved that yet Ron Rupke met with Dr. Nabeel when San Bernadino happened, so Qureshi for Christian Courier on it had a multiplying effect. People March 18 as part of Qureshi’s were angry; people were demand- speaking tour for his book on ing answers, very much reminiscent jihad, just released this month. of the atmosphere post-9/11. What I Qureshi is a Christian, former Nabeel Qureshi didn’t hear anyone do at that time is Muslim and global speaker for shed light on the issue with clarity Ravi Zacharias International Min- Ron Rupke: I’m sitting here with and charity. I saw people who felt istries. His new book is a direct re- Dr. Nabeel Qureshi, the author of very compassionate towards the sponse to last year’s Paris attacks several significant books, including Muslims who were innocent, and and San Bernadino shootings, and Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus. I just take up their cause and say Islam the fear of Islam that followed. finished reading his most recent is a religion of peace, and on the Four days after this interview, book, Answering Jihad: A Better other side I saw people who would two suicide bombings in Brus- Way Forward (review on page 9). be very passionate about stopping sels tragically underscored the Nabeel, you were reticent to jihad and they would focus on the relevance of their conversation. write about jihad, and I’m sure violence inherent in Islam and they As Qureshi wrote in an op-ed the you had lots of questions since you wouldn’t say anything to amelio- next day, solutions to the violence were known as a Christian who rate some of the anger towards I found your book helpful, to hear around them. And that’s the case that “overlook the spiritual and was raised Muslim. What made Muslims. There was no voice that some of your own experiences for virtually everyone in every religious roots of jihad can only you decide to write about this? was both compassionate and truth- growing up, in believing Islam religious tradition. We were told have limited effectiveness” (USA Nabeel Qureshi: After the Paris ful, or at least no loud one. So out of was a religion of peace. Can you Islam was a religion of peace. Today, March 23). Here, Qureshi attacks, which [created] confusion concern for the Muslims in my life, talk a bit about that? Whenever the topic of jihad came shares his “better way forward.” in the West, people didn’t really and for those confused Christians Yes. Most Muslims inherit their up, it was always contextualized, Editor know how to respond. The question and Westerners, I wrote the book. understanding of Islam from those Continued on page 2 Shifting media landscape shrinks the ‘God-beat’

Jennifer Neutel In ‘98, he organized and led the today’s mainstream newsrooms. inaugural national conference on Longhurst, faith page colum- When John Longhurst began his faith in the media, which drew nist at the Winnipeg Free Press communications career in the editors and reporters into dialogue and director of communications 1980s it was common for all Ca- about the importance of covering and marketing at the Canadian nadian newspapers to have a faith religion. Religion reporting was Foodgrains Bank, says other than page and a reporter assigned full “on everybody’s radar.” himself he knows of only one Lorna Dueck looks at current events from a Christian perspective on “Context.” or part-time to the religion beat. This is in stark contrast to Continued on page 2 PAGE 2 christian courier

News

Countering jihad with clarity and charity continued at least in my experience, as a defensive effort. Muhammad had to fight to defend the Islamic religion. He had to fight to defend the onslaught of polytheism. The problem is that this is a very filtered, selective and inappropriate interpretation of Muhammad’s life and of the battles he fought. When you actually read the records, and go to the Quran and what it says, and the life of Muhammad, there is no avoiding the fact that there is violent jihad, both offensive and defensive, in [his] life, and that’s all glorified by traditions of Islam.

I took a particular interest in the question of whether it would be proper to seek a reformation of Islam, and the answer you gave, that the Protestant Reformation was go- CSM ing back to the roots of the Christian faith, and if we are A memorial in Paris to honour the victims of terrorist attacks last year. Those who try to reform Islam by going back to its roots find a violent message, Qureshi says. asking the Muslim to go back to the roots, we might not like what we are asking for. Can you elaborate on that? Jihad is real. How do we answer? Your answer is a pro- I’ve read widely on what is happening, and why it’s hap- When we think of a reformation, we think it’s something foundly Christian one, that we love our neighbour – reach pening. Yours is the first book I’ve seen that gives an honest that will make a religion more modern, more peaceful, out, go beyond our comfort zone, welcome Syrian refugees and forthright assessment of what motivates a jihadist, and because we envision the Christian reformation. The fact is, to Canada who might be Muslim. I can understand mak- how that is tied to something that really does exist, and yet when you go back to the roots of the Christian faith, Jesus ing this a realistic proposal to a Christian audience. Will advocates a loving and compassionate response. I want to says “Turn the other cheek”; “If you live by the sword, you’ll it work beyond that? commend you for that. Yet it was a response to something that die by the sword,” “Love your enemy, pray for those who First things first, let’s make sure [it works] with Christians. happened four months ago. How did you write it so quickly? persecute you.” That’s why the Reformation was peaceful. This is what you’re called to do – to not be afraid. Jesus never It’s not a scholarly tome. It’s not cutting edge research. In Islam, though, when we bypass the traditions we’ve shows fear in the face of threats. Engage even our enemies This is just the reality of jihad that has been obscured by inherited over the centuries, and go straight to the Quran, with love. Be willing to be self-sacrificial. I’m not saying controversy, by political correctness. I lived the discovery we come away with a very violent message. That is what we need to be naïve and open up our borders without any of this for many years, researching it for myself. Muslims those who tried to reform Islam in the 20th century kept kind of policies at all. But I am saying that the matrix by are coming to a crossroads when they are researching this encountering. [. . .] which we allow foreign policies to be made should be love, material and concluding that Islam is truly teaching violence When Muslims wonder, why has Allah taken his fa- concern for others and not fear for our own lives. in its core text. I was at that crossroads once, and the reason vour away from us? It’s because in the West, Muslims are For a secular audience, the hope is that they would catch I came away as I did was God sent a young pandering to capitalism. In the East, to communism (at at least one part of the answer, which is to not conflate Christian into my life who was compelling the time); so we need to stand up for Sharia, for our law. Islam with Muslims. For though Islam might be violent, about sharing the truth of Christianity. God And that’s exactly what ISIS is doing today. ISIS is an and the Quran might teach violence and Muhammad’s life was very good; his hand was over this. offshoot from Al Qaeda, which goes back to the [previous exemplifies violence, that doesn’t mean that your Muslim reformers]. ISIS is the Islamic reformation – an attempt to neighbour is violent. Muslims have inherited different trad- Ron Rupke is a freelance writer living in go back to the roots of Islam and curry favour with Allah. itions of Islam, and the vast majority are a peaceful people. Cobourg, Ontario.

Shifting media landscape shrinks the ‘God-beat’ continued Faith and writing focus other reporter (at the Vancouver Sun) who has religion as – leaving a lack of interesting and well-written content. Grand Rapids, Mich.-based Calvin College announced part of his beat. Otherwise, freelance journalists are cover- “If a martian landed today and looked around at Christian- this March its new Center for Faith and Writing. See ing these stories. ity he’d be convinced the entire Bible was full of condem- page 6 for more information. Stay tuned for Christian This means almost no one in mainstream media is nation, so we’re not doing a very good job of it, are we?” Courier’s coverage of Calvin’s biannual Festival of equipped to explore how religious issues pertain to the Coren was well-known as a Catholic until he joined an Faith and Writing, held this year from April 14-16. One daily news. Anglican congregation last year. He also shared his changed of the new Center's aims is to ensure that the popular view to be in support of same-sex marriage, causing some Festival is sustainable long-term. Religious reporting is relevant of his media employers to cut ties with him, including the Both in Canada and internationally, many current events Christian TV station Crossroads. the new community watercooler? Is there a community have a religious dimension. Yet there is “virtually no one watercooler or are there 100 of them? Two hundred? A in the media who is qualified to try and figure out what it Millennials – a new media mindset? thousand? It’s a very fragmented media universe now.” means and to unpack it,” Longhurst says. Longhurst recalls speaking in a university International De- Lorna Dueck, executive producer of half-hour televi- “There are fewer God-beat pros at news organizations velopment Studies class of 20 students last year and asking sion broadcast Context with Lorna Dueck, has successfully who can help lend context that readers need,” Bob Smietana how many read the newspaper. One hand went up. A couple created an independent media ministry and also writes for wrote in a recent Washington Post column; “fewer long- went up when asked if they listen to the evening news. The Globe and Mail. In an email interview, she says social time reporters who have the experience, relationships and This illustrates that even when media that goes viral is the best way to tell our stories, with reputation for being trustworthy that are needed for great a story is successfully printed in a the hope that mainstream media gets the spillover. religion coverage.” major Canadian newspaper, only a “I do still believe that leaders are influencers and we Broadcaster and author fraction of the population is reached. must do all we can to get to the leadership positions in the Michael Coren says that People under 35 years of age are not cultural elite of media ownership, and bring our faith there understanding religion is turning to traditional media, instead as a needed part of God’s love and grace to the world,” essential for understanding accessing news through social media Dueck tells the Christian Courier. the wider world, particu- feeds. When these millennials turn 50 larly India, Russia, Africa, the they will still have the same media Christians in the media Michael Coren Middle East and China. John Longhurst habits, Longhurst believes. One of the changes Dueck has seen in news and information “Probably the most important issue facing the world What does this mean for the role of the church? Similar programming is the privatization of faith, which has been a right now is how [to] deal with modern Islam,” says Co- to other interest groups, Longhurst says if the church wants “great loss.” This was experienced recently when Dueck’s ren. “China is about to explode in freedom and there are to impact society and share its message it needs to figure team requested an interview with an iconic Canadian business hundreds of millions of Christians who are condemned . . out how to navigate social media sites like Facebook. CEO who is a Christian. The response was he would only do . religion is incredibly important.” Through his NGO work Longhurst says he is faced with the interview if there were no questions about his faith in God. But it tends to be the same religious conversations on the same challenges as everyone else – asking who and “Such reluctance of Christians to express their faith repeat in the media – such as the same-sex marriage debate where people are reading the stories he is sharing. “What’s Continued on page 3 april 11, 2016 page 3

Column

Fermented Faith Brian Bork The orthodox barber Every third Fri- your turn in a row with some other reflection that’s human, weighty day afternoon chaps, thumbing through a frayed and profound. I despaired over the or so, I stop into Sports Illustrated. I’ve been no- obsession we have with all things the Bright Bar- ticing that I need to book earlier shiny and new. Of the idol of in- bershop in Up- and earlier these days; he’s booked novation and our drive to maximize town Waterloo sometimes three weeks in advance. discontinuity with the past. I specu- for a haircut. A few weeks ago, sitting in that lated on what sort of slovenliness is Though I tend to live a fairly di- old barber chair, head bowed as if left in the wake of all our reforms sheveled and disorganized life, I do in expiation, I asked Mitch why he and revolutions. love a particularly crisp, squared- thought his services were in such That train of thought was enter- off kind of haircut. The kind you high demand. . c o m ing a dark tunnel, and I was re- could set your watch to. And a flat- “I think it’s because men are lieved to be startled back to the tering haircut isn’t always easy to starting to care more about how bright lights of the shop by a splash find, especially as I move into my they look,” he said, as he pressed of aftershave on the back of my 30s, and my forehead doesn’t yield the clippers around the back of neck. A barber’s benediction. I the, erm, bumper crop it once did. my neck. G e n t Th e V ersatile stood up, and reached for my coat. It’s everything you’d expect I hummed an “mmm-hmm” “Maybe some guys are looking for a place to talk,” he said. As I paid Mitch, I thought, for only from an old barbershop, yet more. of approval, mixed with some re- other week a guy was in here and “Whoa, you’re like a priest . an instant, that maybe he’d have There’s an old chair that contorts lief. Men these days do seem to out of the blue he started telling me . . or a bartender,” I said. I think some insight into how this all might into the requisite postures, ads for be quite content to look slovenly about a fight he got in when he was Mitch was more pleased with the fit into matters of ecclesiology, of pomades and creams that look like and unedited. Sports jerseys out at younger, and how the other guy latter association. how being shaved might relate relics from the 40s, a red and blue dinner. Flip flops at the eucharist. died and how he was convicted of I bent forward once again, and to being saved. I caught myself, swirled barber pole hanging on the There are fewer and fewer occa- manslaughter. It just kinda spilled Mitch gently put some hot shav- though. You don’t want to startle wall, and combs and shears loiter- sions for which formality requires out of him; I didn’t ask for his life ing cream on the back of my neck the man holding the straight razor. ing in a tall jar filled with Barbi- a necktie, and we’re poorer for story or anything like that. I think and drew a straight razor down I walked down the steps and cide. George the bulldog snoozes it. That fellas are starting to push that maybe some guys are looking it. I thought about old rituals and onto the street. The March breeze on an old pillow in the corner. back on this pandemic of casual- for a place to talk, for a place to get venerable institutions. About the was bracing on the back of my It’s not all old fashioned, ness is wonderful news. some things off their chest. They’ll quotidian liturgies of days gone head, but I felt light, pleased that though. Mitch, the sole proprietor, tell me about an argument they had by, and of old hallowed spaces and something so old fashioned could is somewhere in his mid-twenties. Old rituals with their wife, or about how their the room those things all create for feel so needed, so new. He has tattoos on his head. There’s The clippers buzzed some more, boss is riding their back. Maybe Brian Bork is the Christian Reformed chaplain at the University of Water- heavy metal on the shop stereo. and my hair started to take shape. they don’t know where else they loo and Wilfrid Laurier University, and a columnist for Christian Courier. You need to book your appoint- “But maybe there’s more to it can go, but for some reason they The title of this piece is borrowed from one of GK Chesterton’s reflections ment online, instead of waiting than just that,” Mitch said. “The feel they can talk about it here.” in Tremendous Trifles, a potent little collection of musings from 1909.

Shifting media landscape shrinks the ‘God-beat’ continued from page 2

The next generation selves in jobs such as editors at Wood says. This is the first year Redeemer Uni- small production houses or working Longhurst says during his ca- versity College in Ancaster, Ont., for an organization’s in-house me- reer he has looked to create space has offered a degree program in dia team, which is why the digital for the religious points of view in Media and Communication Studies. media track looks to give students the media, with all religions being As stated on its website, students a wide skill set, Wood says. fairly represented. will learn to “engage, critique and “Part of what I want to cultivate “What does it mean to be a transform contemporary media as in students is an ability to listen to Christian witness to the media as Christians.” Without any advertis- voices that are unlike our own, and these things are changing? That’s ing on campus, both courses being ask themselves how is God call- the big challenge facing everyone offered this semester are almost full. ing me to hear something I’m not today,” Longhurst says. In today’s hypermediated envi- used to hearing in these voices,” ronment, offering this program is a Jennifer Neutel is a freelance journalist living in way to help students think through Cobourg, Ont., with her two young sons and hus- their daily media lives in a way that band. She is a member of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Students get into character for a video to promote Redeemer’s new Me- is hopefully distinctly Christian, Church and can be found on Twitter @JenNeutel. dia and Communication Studies program (redeemer.ca/media). says assistant professor of the pro- in public is an alarming change I ployed in the media live out their gram Naaman Wood. Turn to page 12 for a longer Q&A with Lorna Dueck. have seen over the 25 years I have faith? What obstacles might these “Beyond just people going been reporting,” Dueck says. media makers face? Tiffany Le- into the business of making me- “We must speak about our faith; pack, a reporter at an Ottawa-area dia our hope is all students will it simply is an honest expression Metroland Media community make their way into classes at of our identity. As Canada has be- newspaper, thinks millennials are some point and reflect in that come more secularized, fewer me- more open with their faith. way . . . [and] begin the pro- dia outlets are asking the Christian “There’s never been any issue cess of discerning how does questions, and I don’t think it is a that I haven’t been able to cover this stuff shape me, what are CLARENCE WEIMA CFP, Senior Financial Consultant result of hostility to faith. It is truly because of my faith,” Lepack says. these things asking of me as a Investers Group Financial Services Inc. an honest ignorance; the Canadian “I am pretty inclusive. I want to be person and how do I reflect on Clarence [email protected] media simply does not know what the light that shines in this world it as a Christian.” Toll free 1-800-488-9817 or 519-871-7946 (24hrs.) about religion matters.” and I want to show Jesus’ light,” Graduates from the Redeemer How, then, do Christians em- she says. program are likely to find them- PAGE 4 christian courier Editorials Foreign policy and Donald trumps Preston the second sex on the Rideau! Angela Reitsma Bick Nick Loenen

“It’s the 100th anniversary of women My hope to kindle an appetite for elec- being allowed to vote,” I heard a male toral reform among the political right at comedian say recently. “Okay, pay atten- the recent Ottawa-held Manning con- tion, men! How the heck did we lose that ference quickly floated out the Rideau vote?” he wise-cracked. Canal along with the snow and ice. To Women in Manitoba were the first to vote provincially the conservatives in attendance, Liberal “sunny ways” are in 1916. It took two more years for inclusive federal elec- all sizzle with little steak. Liberals are self-destructing. The tions. A century later, our country has marked many more party base will happily return in 2019 ensuring the next Peace processes that include both genders have higher success rates. milestones on the road to greater equality between genders. government is a majority Conservative government. No Within our borders, that is (which is the right place to start). Her voice was heard nonetheless. The Nobel Women’s need to change the election rules! Or, so I was told. What After hearing a good interview on CBC with Swedish Initiative (NWI), for example, uses the prestige of six a disappointing response! I had prepared endlessly, even Foreign Affairs Minister Margot Wallström, I started to Nobel Peace Prize winners to support and connect women invoking the memory of Preston Manning’s provocative, wonder about Canadian conduct beyond our borders. Wall- globally, particularly in peace-building and human rights “Your MP represents Ottawa to you, not you to Ottawa!” ström is the first politician to say she’s pursuing a “feminist in war zones. The Nobel winners are literally using their Help came from unexpected quarters. Motivation for foreign policy.” What does that mean? freedom to promote the freedom of others. Right now they changing the voting system came not from Preston Manning’s It’s not a set list of political views or positions, she says, are working in Burma, Israel and Palestine, Mexico and past but the fear of a Donald Trump future. During the confer- just a few tools for engaging with other countries. It’s an the Sudan, as well as on disarmament and sexual violence. ence the Trump phenomenon was prominent. Could Canada’s antidote to “Russian male machoism,” or politics marked I spoke with Diana Sarosi, Manager of Policy and Ad- government be seized by Trump-like mob rule? We should not by confrontation and aggression. vocacy at NWI, and asked what Foreign Affairs Minister dismiss such fears too quickly. Democracy is a fragile plant And it’s in keeping with UN Security Council Resolu- Stéphane Dion could learn from NWI’s approach. easily trampled underfoot and tossed aside for a strong leader tion 1325, which recognized for the first time both the dis- “Even though there has been a lot of talk about gender promising to distribute wealth and opportunity more justly. proportionate impact war has on women and the vital role equality and women’s rights, so far we don’t feel that it is at of women in peace-building initiatives. Wallström suggests the heart of Canadian foreign policy making. The Women, looking at women’s rights, representation and resources in Peace and Security agenda should be the guide to all foreign international relations, and you’ll have an idea of whether policy making decisions,” she says. “Don’t bring in their gender equality matters abroad. So I started digging, and opinions later; [women] should be part of designing policies found many heartening examples of what happens when and peace processes and participate from beginning to end.” the second sex is sitting at the foreign policy table. Equal representation Equal rights As part of its feminist foreign policy, the Swedish government “Please use your liberty to promote ours,” Burmese free- has invited Syrian women to Geneva to join peace talks. Why? dom fighter Aung San Suu Kyi asked university students Recent research shows that peace processes in which both in a 1997 commencement address. Or rather, her husband genders participate increase the success rates of the peace did, since he gave the address on her behalf. She was under agreements. Women’s skill in peacebuilding has been evident house arrest at the time. in Afghanistan, Sierra Leone and – most memorably – Liberia. Could Canada's government be seized by Trump-like mob rule? Leymah Gbowee jointly led Liberian women on a sex strike in 2003 to end a brutal civil war. Their strategy was Canada may, at this moment, lack the disparity between effective, as Gbowee explained in an interview with the rich and poor that fuels social unrest in the U.S. but for Christian Courier Huffington Post. “We withheld sex from our spouses to get how long? More importantly, the structure of our demo- Founded in 1945 attention, and [they] obviously noticed what we were do- cratic institutions might actually assist a Trump-like tyrant An independent biweekly that seeks to engage creatively ing. We said, ‘We need you to take a stand.’ And they did.” to attain power. There are two reasons for that. First, our in critical Christian journalism, connecting Christians with a network of culturally savvy partners in faith It was part of a larger effort by women that included months voting system is a winner-take-all system. It is designed for the purpose of inspiring all to participate in of daily, public prayer and other nonviolent protests. Ellen to magically translate a minority of the votes into majority God’s renewing work within his fallen creation. Johnson Sirleaf worked closely with Gbowee in successfully government for one party. That might be acceptable where EDITORIAL TEAM & PRODUCTION STAFF waging peace to end the war, and she was elected President of Continued on page 5 Editor: Angela Reitsma Bick [email protected] Liberia three years later – the first female head of state in Africa. Features Editor: Monica deRegt [email protected] Let’s pray that Syrian women can likewise turn the tide Church News Editor: Marian Van Til [email protected] towards peace in their homeland. Reviews Editor: Brian Bork [email protected] honour killings and rape as a weapon of war. Contributing Editor: Michael Buma [email protected] Evenly distributed resources Kyrie, eleison. Lord, have mercy. Peter Schuurman Contributing Editor: [email protected] Speaking of prayer, where are people of faith in this “For a Christian organization like World Renew, the Contributing Editor: Cathy Smith [email protected] Contributing Editor: Bert Witvoet [email protected] conversation? call to address gender injustice is even more important. Admin/ads/web: Ineke Medcalf-Strayer [email protected] Another piece of the foreign policy puzzle is aid – de- We understand from the Bible that men and women are Circulation: Rose der Nederlanden [email protected] termining whether development assistance is distributed created equally to live in partnership with each other. Both Social Media Editor: Rachel Baarda [email protected] equally. That’s what the Christian Reformed Church’s aid are valued children of God. Both were affected by the Fall. Christian Courier is published by the Board of Reformed Faith Witness: agency World Renew wanted to find out through an internal Both are equipped with skills and talents. Both are called Gary Van Eyk, Sylvan Gerritsma, Nelly Westerhoff and Emma Winter. “gender audit” in 2014. While the organization had deliber- to use those talents for God’s Kingdom work.” The publication of comments, opinions or advertising does not imply agreement or endorsement by Christian Courier or the publisher. ately incorporated gender justice into its programs since the The word feminist probably has too much baggage for Please contact circulation if you cannot afford the subscription early 80s, it wanted to ensure that its ministry was adequately the idea of a feminist foreign policy to take off in Can- price of $65.00 but want to receive Christian Courier. meeting the needs of men and women. “Any organization ada. Yet consider how much there is to be gained from The paper is published the second and fourth Mondays of the month. or group that hopes to tackle poverty in our world today international relations that take into account the rights, Christian Courier Tel: 905-682-8311 must consider gender justice,” Kristen deRoo VanderBerg representation and resources of women. It’s been proven 5 Joanna Dr 1-800-969-4838 St Catharines ON L2N 1V1 Web site: christiancourier.ca explained when I asked her about it. “Throughout the world to make a positive difference, and it’s part of our calling there are examples of gender brokenness that both result as citizens in God’s kingdom. from poverty and also perpetuate it.” VanderBerg, Com- munications Manager for World Renew, says these include Angela Reitsma Bick is Editor of Christian Courier (editor@ domestic violence, female genital mutilation, sex trafficking, christiancourier.ca). She lives in Newcastle, Ont. with her family. april 11, 2016 page 5

Letters

WHAT’S YOUR STORY? Donald trumps Preston continued Your ideas needed: please participate in our online survey! Seventh Annual Christian everyone is well-intentioned and civilized, but in a hostile Courier Short Story Contest! take-over fuelled by a wave of anger, watch out! Second, The current media landscape (see Jennifer Neutel's the current voting system induces parties to practice wedge page 1 article) makes the work of CC stand out. Chris- Adult division: Send in your original short fiction (1,000 politics. Issues are parsed, sliced and diced to appeal to 40 tian Courier serves a need by providing independent to 3,000 words) on any theme by April 30, 2016. First percent of Canadians and to anger all others. Is that not what Canadian journalism from a Reformed perspective. prize receives $100 and publication in a summer issue tainted the Harper years? Wedge politics are divisive, polar- If you saw our 70th anniversary issue last October, or of Christian Courier. Second prize receives a one year izing and eventually lead to a Trump. Trump’s politics are read CC regularly, then you know that it’s always been subscription. Please note that this contest is for fictional wedge politics on steroids! Wedge politics are not worthy of a joint effort. Our editors and Board need your help as short stories, not essays or articles. democracy, not worthy of Canada, not worthy of Christians. we make decisions about the future of this paper and Youth Division: Our readers 9 to 15 years of age determine how to serve you even better. (Grades 4-9) can participate in the category for youth. Respect and reverence ● What topics would you like to see covered in CC? There will be two divisions: junior (Grades 4-6) and We live in perilous times with divisions, polarization and ● Which version of CC do you currently read – digi- Intermediate (Grades 7-9). Send your short stories strong inequalities. Canada needs incentives for cooperation, tal or print? (500-1000 words) to [email protected] by consensus and mutual support to avoid polarization. Our ● Would you be in favour of an entirely digital CC? April 30, 2016. The first-place winner in each division voting system is wrong for our times. Prudence demands Why or why not? will win a gift certificate to Chapters valued at $50. improving our democratic institutions, making it harder These questions are part of our online survey. Click Please note: All stories must be submitted for a Trump takeover and doing so before the threat is real. on the link from our website, christiancourier.ca, or electronically, as an attachment to an email, to monica@ It is instructive that electoral reform has been used to enter the direct link into the internet browser on your christiancourier.ca. Entries over the word limit will not forestall social unrest in the past. Following the Big Strike of computer, tablet, or smartphone: be considered. All entries must include (on the attached 1919, the City of Winnipeg was deeply divided. Wise persons document, not in the email): your full name and mailing changed the voting system, making it more proportional. http://goo.gl/forms/VFv3QlLyrw address, a photo of yourself, a short bio about who you They put in place the Single Transferable Vote (designed to are and the title of your story to be considered as a valid achieve proportional representation). It was used for local The survey will take approximately 10 minutes to contest entry. All valid entries will receive a confirmation and provincial elections for over 30 years, then abolished for complete. Thank you so much for participating. of receipt by May 15. Only the winning entries will be partisan reasons. Voters had no say. In 1921, the British im- Editor contacted after that point. posed the Single Transferable Vote on the Republic of Ireland and for the same reasons. Following WWII, Americans and British forced proportional representation on Germany. In Comments about CC articles each instance the aim was to stop the adversarial politics of polarization and to encourage cooperation. In each instance posted online it worked. Yet Canada, Britain and America have not applied “Grace, grief and stubborn hope” by Sara Pot, March 14 The struggle is real! May we embrace our bodies in all to themselves what they prescribed for others. How ironic! My heart goes out to every parent with Special children! of their wonderful variety yet make more good choices Could the Trump scare be a wakeup call? I have worked most of my life with children like yours and than poor choices for our health and keep our vanity at bay. Democracy without respect for others is impossible. loved every minute of it, but at the end of the day I got to Messing around on my computer I found a way to “erase” Trump does not respect others. He is unfit to lead a de- go home to watch my children grow and mature. the connect-the-dot moles that decorate my cheeks. Wow, mocracy. Democracy is more than free and open elections. Living grief, I never thought to look at it that way. I have I thought, nice! But, that is not me so I hit “undo.” A small The Arab Spring of recent years quickly floundered when no doubt that it takes a special person to persevere and be win on that day. Progress not perfection. majority parties thought they could with legitimacy reward there for their Special children. Heather Loenen their friends and punish their enemies. That is a shallow and I have lost a child at the age of four and also live with misleading view of democracy. In contrast, the American grief but would not try to compare. I sincerely hope and “Under the microscope: Affordability” Christian writer, Marilynne Robinson, offers a profound un- pray you are getting the love and support you need! Hugs by Angela Reitsma Bick, Feb. 9 (2015) derstanding of democracy. “Democracy is to accept the dif- to you from one grieving mom to another! Last February you wrote an article about the high cost of ficult obligation to honour others and oneself with something Siska DeVries Christian Education. I thoroughly enjoyed your thoughts and approaching due reverence.” Treating others with reverence shared some of them with our school supporters the same day excludes wedge politics. It requires a voting system that “Confessions of a dual citizen” by David Koyzis, March 14 that I read the article. I was hoping to see some more follow-up rewards cooperation and consensus building. Not everyone As a seriously flawed voter, I am happy to be Canadian. articles. Have there been any? can be a ruler, but all citizens should participate; not every- Diane Slofstra Our local Christian school was able to reduce tuition by one can have their way, but all should have a say. That is 30 percent two years ago. Our one-child rate is now $5,600/ the strength of democracy. It could be Canada’s strength, “The art of worship” by Chris Cuthill, Feb. 22 year. ($7,600 for two.) Enrollment continues to climb. I’m provided the incentives of the voting system are changed Less words and noise, more contemplation. Thanks for alarmed that other Christian schools refuse to acknowledge from an adversarial politics to a politics of consensus. Is writing it. that they are over-priced for the middle class. that not what Christians should commit to? Lydia Chang Anonymous

Nick Loenen ([email protected]) lives in Richmond, B.C. “A pair of pants on my door” Christian Courier by Julia VanHuizen, Feb. 8 Canada mail: U.S. mail: Publications Mail Agreement No. Christian Courier (USPS 518-090) 40009999 Second-class postage paid at Return undeliverable Canadian ad- Lewiston NY dresses to Postmaster: send address changes Christian Courier to: Christian Courier, Box 110 5 joanna dr Lewiston NY 14092 St. Catharines ON L2n 1v1 email: [email protected] Subscriptions: Canada and USA Online Overseas one year (24 issues) $65.00 $40.00 $100 two years (48 issues) $120.00 Advertising deadlines: display and classified advertising: Tuesday, 9 a.m. (13 days before publication date) See classified pages or web site www.christiancourier.ca for more details. (ISSN 1192-3415) Published second and fourth Mondays of the month. Address all correspondence to: 5 Joanna Dr, St. Catharines ON L2N 1V1 Tel: 905-682-8311 or 1-800-969-4838 e-mail: Advertising: [email protected] Subscriptions: [email protected] PRINTED IN CANADA PAGE 6 christian courier

News Calvin College to open Center for Faith and Writing

Matt Kucinski at nearby Zondervan publishing, who with his wife Shelley gave the primary dona- GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan (CRCNA/Cal- tion to establish the center. “We are deeply vin College) Calvin College has announced grateful to the Hudsons for their generous the launch of its Center for Faith and Writ- gift to launch the Calvin Center for Faith ing. A commissioning service, which will and Writing,” said Calvin president Michael be open to the public, is scheduled for the Le Roy. “This gift enables the college to morning of April 14 in the college chapel. provide intensive mentoring and research The center’s mission is to examine the opportunities for our students, supports intersection of faith and writing from a faculty scholarship and enables the [faith Reformed perspective, and champion faith- and writing] festival to continue to be gen- ful and intelligent conversation about the erative in encouraging writers and readers. intersections of religious belief and litera- These are all good things identified as goals ture.The new center will partly carry out in the college’s strategic plan that will help that mission by ensuring the long-term strengthen and support the mission of the sustainability of Calvin’s Festival of Faith college.” like myself, to take their writing to the next history of publishing. and Writing, which is celebrating its 25th English professor Jennifer Holberg also level.” “This gift that he’s giving the center is anniversary this month. thanked the Hudsons. “We’re absolutely incredibly generous, and that’s just how he The center will also pursue new initiatives: delighted to have Bob and Shelley Hudson Encouraging ‘frustrated writers’ works as a person,” said Merz. “I saw that ● A Hudson-Townsend student fellows as the lead donors for the Calvin Center That’s something he has been committed with his time when I was an intern and now program which will provide four stu- for Faith and Writing. Bob’s involvement to and successful at for the past 30 years at with this gift. . . . He’s just a wonderfully dents each year with mentoring and in every festival since the very beginning Zondervan. During that time more than 70 generous person, and he cares so deeply experience in publishing; means he deeply understands – and has students (largely from Calvin) have com- about faith and writing and books and pub- ● A faculty fellows program for three helped to grow – the work the entire English pleted internships with him at Zondervan, lishing.” faculty members annually, supporting department has been trying to accomplish and many of his former students are now Holberg and Jane Zwart, both English their scholarship; over the years. working professionally in publishing. professors at Calvin, have been named co- ● Publications and podcasts; “His wonderful history with us means he “I love coaching. I love mentoring. I’m directors of the new Center for Faith and ● The Hudson-Townsend institute for doesn’t have to be sold on the mission. In- just bubbling with pride when I think of the Writing. Like Hudson, they prize the chance editing and writing for undergraduates, deed, the vision expressed in his and Shel- former Calvin interns who are now publish- to equip and encourage other writers. In- recent graduates and community mem- ley’s extraordinary gift helps us achieve ers and editors at major companies,” said deed, strengthening writers – and readers bers (including working profession- that mission beyond what we could have Hudson. One of those former students is – is central to their work as teachers. “This als) who are interested in professional ever expected.” 2009 graduate Kathleen Merz, who is now new center is the culmination of such a schooling in the publishing field. At the heart of the Hudsons’ decision the managing editor for Eerdmans books rich heritage, the work of so many people’s to make the substantial investment in the for young readers. She said Hudson went hands,” said Holberg. “We’re grateful to be Years of support new center was a desire to spur on the next out of his way to make her internship an able to continue to provide more opportuni- The “Hudson” part of Hudson-Townsend generation of writers. As Bob Hudson put educational experience, sharing everything ties for our students and to expand that work comes from Bob Hudson, the senior editor it, “I want to encourage frustrated writers, he knew about books, publishing and the to ever greater numbers of people.”

can help increase that growth. The CBS is church growth outpaces its resources. “There Canadian Bible Society to bring one planning to provide Christian churches in are far more believers than there are Bibles,” Cuba, and ordinary Cuban Christians, with said Pastor Joel Ortega Dopico, Presbyterian million Bibles to Cuba one million Bibles in the next 18 months. pastor and head of the Cuban Church Coun- “The Canadian Bible Society is coming cil. “Almost the exact reverse situation that alongside the church in Cuba, a church that we find in countries like Canada. Our initia- grows by 15 percent each year, to provide tive with our partner Million Bible Mission Bibles that will change lives by bringing in Cuba will help to put a Bible in the hands God’s Word to the people there,” said Alain of over a million Cuban Christians.” Montano Hdez, leader of the Cuban Biblical The Canadian Bible Society is welcom- Commission. “This is a country where scraps ing Canadians to participate in providing of Scripture have been passed on pieces of Bibles to the tropical and deeply impover- paper hand-to-hand between believers, be- ished island that is such a popular vacation cause Bibles just were not available.” destination for so many Canadian travelers. Like many developing nations, Cuba’s “In a recent visit there many, many people were express- ing their gratitude to the Canadian Bible Society for Bibles,” said CBS development officer Reg Graves. “They would tes- tify while hugging their Bibles, and tears run- TORONTO (CCNS) – Canadians make up unaware of the lack of freedom and difficult ning down their cheeks the majority of foreign visitors to Cuba. conditions that not only political protesters – ‘Thank you, thank you They, along with the rest of the world, are but Christians have long lived under since Canadian Bible Society watching what will happen next as U.S.- Fidel Castro took over in 1959, followed for making this happen.’” Cuba relations have thawed. Christians are by his brother Raul in 2008. Cuba has a popula- hoping that thaw will improve conditions Yet the Cuban church, across denomina- tion of about 11 million for churches in Cuba. tional lines, has grown under those difficult Retired airplane painter Ernesto Arias, 78 (L), and accountant and is thought to have a Cuba is a favourite tourist destination for conditions. Now the Canadian Bible Society Carola Suarez, 81, watch President Obama on television at the near 100 percent literacy Canadians, many of whom have likely been (CBS) is praying that they, through the Spirit, Eterna Juventud (Eternal Youth) retirement home in Havana, Cuba. rate. april 11, 2016 page 7

News Down syndrome still Terrorists murder four Bible translators surrounded by myths World Down Syndrome Day works to change that

Marian Van Til, with files from TCI, dren, and advanced maternal age is associ- WDSD, LifeNews, CT ated with increased risk of having a child with Down syndrome,” researchers say. NEW YORK – Many “causes” have their “And without knowing what it’s like to raise day – that is, a day each year when supporters a child with Down syndrome, many women celebrate that cause and ask others to pay at- will make their decisions based on misinfor- tention to it. One of those is World Down Syn- mation – and myths – about the disorder.” drome Day, recently observed on 21 March, as it has been each year since 2012. (For six Discrimination and exclusion years previous to that, many acknowledged The negative assumptions regarding Down the day though it was unofficial.) syndrome have even more negative effects But some ask: Why would anyone want on people with the condition (and their fami- to celebrate a genetic anomaly? Supporters lies). “The prevailing negative attitudes re- MIDDLE EAST (ICC) – Islamic militants translate, publish and print God’s Word answer that the day both celebrates the lives sult in low expectations, discrimination and killed four workers from Wycliffe Associ- for these eight language communities,” and abilities of people with Down syndrome exclusion, creating communities where chil- ates in the Middle East late last month, the the ministry said in a statement. and also educates those who continue to dren and adults with Down syndrome cannot Bible translating ministry reports. The exact The ministry requested prayer for the “buy into” myths about the syndrome. integrate successfully with their peers,” say location of the office is being withheld. families of the victims. “Please ask the That education is becoming more and advocates of World Down Syndrome Day The ministry said that terrorists raided Lord to mend the hearts and wounds more crucial because of an appalling real- on the WDSD website. “But where children the translators’ office and shot and killed of the translation team who have gone ity: at least 90 percent of Down syndrome with Down syndrome and other disabilities two of the translators. Two other workers through this horrible ordeal,” Mae Green- babies are now aborted: for every 10 babies are given opportunities to participate, all saved the lead translator by lying on top of leaf, a prayer coordinator said in a state- with Down syndrome, one gets to live. As children benefit from this and environments him, but they died deflecting bludgeoning ment. She asked for prayer for the safety long as four years ago Christianity Today of friendship, acceptance, respect for every- blows from the attackers’ weapons. of the team moving forward, and that magazine published an article on World one and high expectations are created.” The militants also destroyed all of the they would be able to replace lost equip- Down Syndrome Day entitled “Children “Not only this,” the advocates continue, equipment in the office, including the ment and continue the work that God with Down syndrome: Will culture make “but these environments prepare all today’s print-on-demand system, and burned all has called them to do in the Middle East. them disappear?” The author, Kelly Ro- children for life as tomorrow’s adults, en- the books and other translation materials “Pray with me for the killers too,” she sati, asserted that “our bias against people abling adults with Down syndrome to live, they could find. added. “Pray for these whose hearts are with disabilities reveals an inner defect, a work and participate, with confidence and Nevertheless, Wycliffe Associates are so hard. Pray the Lord will open their sickness of the heart that is far worse than individual autonomy, fully included in so- praising God that the computer hard eyes to what they have done. Please ask any physical or intellectual challenge.” She ciety alongside their friends and peers.” drives containing the translation work the Lord to meet them, each one, right also discussed “why we should see Down From a Christian point of view, and for for eight language projects were not de- where they are. Pray that he will show syndrome children as an endowment from fellow Christians, Kelly Rosati concludes, stroyed. “The remaining translation team himself merciful, that they will know his God and not a mistaken diagnosis.” “John’s story about the healing of a man born has decided to re-double their efforts to forgiveness, his love and his peace.” Many pregnant women, when they discover blind is particularly meaningful: “As Jesus was they are carrying a Down syndrome child, ad- walking along, he saw a man who had been mit to being fearful, believing their child will blind from birth. “Rabbi,” his disciples asked essentially be a “vegetable.” Sadly, those fears him, “Why was this man born blind? Was it be- Indiana becomes 2nd U.S. state to ban and serious misconceptions are exacerbated by cause of his own sins or his parents’ sins?” “It Down syndrome abortions the large numbers of physicians who encour- was not because of his sins or his parents’ sins,” age such women to abort their child. Jesus answered. “This happened so the power INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana (LifeNews) – pro-life measure that affirms the value of That very high abortion percentage is, in of God could be seen in him.” God’s glory is Indiana has become the second state in all human life, which is why I signed it into fact, increasing partly because the actual manifested in weakness and imperfection, for the U.S. following North Dakota to ban law today,” Gov. Pence said. “I believe that number of Down syndrome babies has in- he is truly the God of the sick and desperate abortions on babies who are diagnosed a society can be judged by how it deals with creased. “Birthing trends worldwide show among us. His power is made perfect in all of in the womb as having Down syndrome. its most vulnerable – the aged, the infirm, that women are waiting longer to have chil- our disabilities (2 Cor. 12:9).” Gov. Mike Pence signed the bill late last the disabled and the unborn.” month to protect unborn babies from being Two state senators who worked on the aborted simply because of a disability, or bill, Liz Brown and Travis Holdman, said their race or sex. that many families face pressure to abort The new law prevents abortion doc- from doctors or other health care profes- tors from knowingly aborting an unborn sionals when their babies are diagnosed baby solely because of a genetic disabil- with an illness or disability in the womb. ity such as Down syndrome, the unborn LifeNews has documented numerous cases baby’s race or sex. The bill also has several of families saying the same thing. “What other abortion-related measures, including we hear from doctors is – it would really a requirement that aborted or miscarried be better off if you were not born,” Brown babies’ bodies be cremated or buried, and said. The new law prevents them from ad- another requirement that abortionists who vocating abortion in such cases. have hospital admitting privileges renew Indiana Right to Life President and CEO them annually. Mike Fichter praised Gov. Pence for sign- The burial/cremation requirement backs ing the bill. “We are pleased that our state up a law signed last year by Gov. Pence values life no matter an individual’s po- requiring that aborted babies’ bodies be tential disability, gender or race. We also disposed of in a humane way. “Throughout believe that the other measures in the bill my public career, I have stood for the sanc- are positive steps forward for providing tity of life. HEA 1337 is a comprehensive dignity and compassion,” Fichter said. My Window Seat The Public Square Mendelt Hoekstra Harry Antonides

From the 11th Christ @ Culture Province Lloyd Rang Marian Van Til

Toddlers to Teens From the Lab PAGE 8 christian courier Denise Dykstra Rudy Eikelboom Columns

SU MO TU WE TH FR SA the concentration of both legislative and Principalities Everyday Christian executive powers in the cabinet, making & Powers England’s greatest export for a highly efficient system able to get David Koyzis Cathy Smith things done with a minimum of fuss. This is what we now know as the Westminster Angophiles. We all know system of responsible government: the them. They like everything government of the day governs as long as Technically SpeakingEnglish, from marmalade Getting Unstuck it enjoys the confidence of the Commons, and Earl Grey tea to shep- and if that confidence is withdrawn, the Derek Schuurman Arlene Van Hove herd’s pie, blood pudding government resigns. and spotted dick. (Google In the same year Bagehot published it! Trust me; it’s not what his influential book, our own Fathers of itIntangible sounds like.) Things They avidly watched the Flowers and Thistles Confederation created a new federal union concluding episode of Downton Abbey last of four of the British North American colo- monthHeidi andVander may Slikke even affect certain British Curt Gesch nies. Drawing again on their own political pronunciations in their speech. They like the experience, they transplanted the Westmin- BBC and probably worship – if they go in for ster system into the Dominion of Canada. A that sort of thing – at a high Anglican church. Words from little over a generation later Australia, New CountrySome three Living centuries ago a certain French Wild Horses Zealand, Newfoundland and South Africa aristocrat surnamed Montesquieu (1689- would follow suit, each operating under a Meindert Vander Galien Warkentins 1755) was a different sort of Anglophile. A more or less identical arrangement. lawyer and man of letters, he spent two years The British Parliament is often styled the in England and was favourably impressed by “Mother of Parliaments,” due to its having the experience. He had come to admire in been replicated in so many other countries. particularPatchwork England’s Word politicals institutions for Our World Today Because the English constitution has proven theirMeliss durabilitya Kuipers and reputation for protecting Bert Hielema so durable and flexible in its homeland, it has liberty. Through many centuries of consti- been widely imitated. If the United States tutional development, the subjects of the and Canada appear now to have different English king enjoyed rights that the French political systems based on contrasting prin- could only dream of. Beginning with Magna ciples, it is because each drew on England’s Carta (1215) and extending up through the constitution at different stages in its devel- Petition of Right (1628) and Bill of Rights opment. Nevertheless, the two forms have (1689), the powers of the king had gradually served our respective countries well, and we Members of the British House of Lords vote in 1911. been limited and parliamentary government could certainly do a lot worse. came into the ascendancy. In 1748 Montesquieu published his po- customed to representative institutions in- Am I an Anglophile then? Well, I This was in stark contrast to his own litical ideas in The Spirit of the Laws. “One herited from the motherland. One of the key couldn’t manage to get past season two of country, whose political life had been re- nation there is also in the world that has for features they incorporated into their system Downton Abbey, so perhaps not. Neverthe- lentlessly centralized in the person of the the direct end of its constitution political was the separation of powers, thought at the less, I thank God to have lived my life in monarch. “L’état c’est moi!” King Louis liberty,” he wrote, with reference to Eng- time to characterize England’s constitution. two countries that are heir to a highly suc- XIV famously uttered. “I am the state!” land. Some four decades later on this side of cessful political system with an enviable From Montesquieu’s side of La Manche the pond, the leaders of the newly indepen- The Mother of Parliaments reputation of doing public justice over a (the English Channel), England looked dent American states drew heavily on Mon- A century later, however, things looked vast swath of the globe’s surface. pretty good, with its division of sovereignty tesquieu’s magnum opus in fashioning their rather different in what by then had become amongst King, Lords and Commons; its own constitutional document. There was the United Kingdom of Great Britain and David T. Koyzis is the author of Political jury system; and its balanced constitution. perhaps a certain irony in Americans, who Ireland. Writing in 1867, the journalist Visions and Illusions (2003) and We An- No one in particular had invented this form had just won a war for independence from Walter Bagehot argued that the genius of swer to Another: Authority, Office, and the of government; it simply came about by England, borrowing from English models The English Constitution (the title of his Image of God (2014). He teaches politics at happy circumstance – and, of course, a fair as interpreted by an admiring Frenchman. book on the subject) was not a separation of Redeemer University College and has lived bit of conflict. Yet for generations Americans had been ac- powers, but a “fusion of powers,” namely, in Canada for just over half his life.

Pew Research: Faith patterns of men & women relate to which religion is followed WASHINTON, D.C. (TGH) – The historical pattern of women generally being more once a week (48 percent vs. “religious” than men is not universal, and varies by religious traditions, says a new Pew 42 percent). This attendance Research Center analysis of international census and survey data. gap is largely driven by 27 Nevertheless, overall, women are more likely than men to be affiliated with a religious countries in the survey with organization; women also pray more than men do, and are more inclined to say religion large Muslim populations. In is “very important” in their lives, indicated the Pew findings collected in 84 countries. many Islamic societies, men The analysis compared men and women in various aspects of religious commitment. are expected to attend com- It found that in some countries and faiths, notably Muslims and Orthodox Jews, men are munal Friday worship services more faith-committed than women, at least in terms of attending weekly services. in the mosque, while women The largest gender gap is in daily prayer. Analyzing results across the 84 countries, can fulfill this obligation either more women than men say they pray daily, by an average difference of eight percentage inside or outside the mosque. points. Specifically, in 43 of the 84 countries, more women than men said they pray daily. There are similar religious In one country – Israel – more men said they pray. In 40 of the 84 countries there is no norms regarding worship atten- significant difference between men and women in daily prayer habits. dance among Orthodox Jews in More women attend services in largely Christian countries. Pew also asked people how important religion is to them personally. In more than half of Israel. As a result, men in these the 84 countries surveyed (46), roughly equal shares of men and women said their religion 28 countries report far greater rates of attendance than women, often by margins of at least is “very important” to them. In 36 other countries, by wide margins more women than 20 percentage points. By contrast, in countries that have large Christian populations (30 of men said that. the 81 studied on this measure), women are more likely to report attending services weekly. The biggest exception to the general pattern of women being more religious than men oc- In 23 other countries, men and women report attending about equally. There are instances curs in weekly attendance at worship services. Across the 81 countries where Pew Research when the religious gender gap is nonexistent, or too small to be significant, said the Pew staffers. Center data are available for this measure, more men than women attend worship at least For example, men and women display similar levels of belief in heaven, hell and angels. april 11, 2016 page 9

Reviews Responding with Learning to cross love and truth the divide Ron Rupke Sonya VanderVeen Feddema

The word “Jihad” has been forced into Patricia Raybon, award-winning author of My the languages of Western culture, par- First White Friend: Confessions on Race, Love ticularly since September 11, 2001 when and Forgiveness, grew up in the Jim Crow era, a determined cadre of Muslim young experiencing the racism and injustice of the men flew hijacked passenger jets into the segregated American South. She and her fam- towers of the World Trade Centre and the ily grew deep roots in their church community, Pentagon. In the decade and a half since trusting Jesus for salvation and embracing that epoch-changing day, smaller-scale social activism. She writes: “We grew up on suicide attacks by self-defined jihadists these stories of injustice. So we drink from the have occurred regularly in many western social justice fountain. But our hope is built on countries. By now the public is used to nothing less than the sacrifice of Jesus and the the official response to such acts: reli- righteousness of his love.” gious and political leaders assure us that Patricia married Dan and they raised their the unprovoked violence is terrorism that two daughters, Alana and Joi, to love and know should not be tied to the Muslim faith. We Undivided: A Muslim Daughter, Her Jesus. From all appearances, theirs was a will be reassured that “Islam is a religion Christian Mother, Their Path to Peace stable family united in love, community and of peace.” Following the December 2015 By Patricia Raybon & Alana Raybon faith. So, when Alana became a young woman mass shootings at an office party in San Thomas Nelson, 2015 and decided to embrace Islam, her parents Answering Jihad: A Better Way Forward Bernardino California, President Barack were shattered. Shouting, arguing and plead- By Nabeel Qureshi Obama went so far as to say that the ing ensued as Patricia and Dan tried to change Alana’s mind. Zondervan, 2016 word Islam means peace! By contrast, But Alana held firm to her choice. The result? They stopped talking about faith; it be- Donald Trump took the occasion to urge came the proverbial elephant in the room. For 10 long years, the rift between them grew, his countrymen to put a temporary ban on the immigration of Muslims into America “until though they eventually were able to find common ground and joy inAlana’s first child. we can figure out what the h___ is going on.” Throughout the 10 years, Patricia and Dan continued to pray that Alana would sur- Nabeel Quereshi’s new book Answering Jihad is an ideal resource for anyone trying to render to Christ and abandon Islam. understand what is going on. A former Muslim and author of the recent best-seller Seek- Then Patricia came up with a bold, innovative idea. She approached her editor and ing Allah, Finding Jesus, Quereshi is qualified and able to answer the urgent questions Alana about the possibility of launching a book project which would involve a back-and- provoked by jihadi violence. In the preface to this volume, he tells the reader about his forth discussion to share their deepest feelings and struggles with each other. Both Alana reluctance to write about jihad “because the topic is so charged that even broaching the and the editor agreed. Undivided is the honest, brave, heart-wrenching result. subject makes one’s intentions appear suspect.” Recent events including the November Taking turns, Patricia and Alana discussed topics such as why Islam?; why the Christ?; 2015 attacks in Paris, the San Bernardino attack, the plight of nearly five million Syrian wearing the hijab; prayer and the role of asking questions in interfaith dialogue.The road refugees hoping to find a safe haven in the West and candidate Donald Trump’s proposal to peace was a rocky one. Old tensions flared up between mother and daughter, making to put a temporary ban on Muslim immigration persuaded him to overcome his reticence. it difficult to truly listen to the other. He writes, “I cannot feign impartiality. Ignoring the reality of jihad endangers my nation, Patricia and Dan continued to pray fervently for Alana, leaning on the Holy Spirit for hope while responding with fear endangers my Muslim family. There is a better way forward, and endurance as they waited for God to answer their prayers. Patricia began to understand a way that upholds both truth and compassion. I pray that is what you will find in the that “the way Jesus healed was first to ask questions. Who do men say that I am? (Matt. pages of this book.” 16:13). He asked it quietly, this perhaps most important question ever asked. . . . He asked The book that follows this compelling preface is structured in three parts, and eighteen without drama. Without facing down his disciples. Without crossing his arms, twisting questions. The first six questions in part one explain the origins of jihad, the next six in his mouth, telling off his rebellious children of God. . . . So if Jesus could ask without part two deal with jihad today, while the final six deal with jihad in Judeo-Christian con- drama, why can’t I?” Patricia committed to showing respect to Alana by asking her ques- text. The language is straightforward and clear, and the explanations are often startling tions about why she had converted to Islam and what she now believed. Having suffered rather than reassuring. A reading public used to the bland assertions of politicians will injustice herself, Patricia knew that she needed to practice justice toward her daughter. be startled to learn that “Islam signifies a peace after violence, or under the threat of it . Patricia hung onto Jesus’ words, especially to his proclamation in John 6:44 that no one . . so the word Islam refers to the peace that comes from surrender.” can come to Jesus “unless the Father . . . draws them.” She learned that she had to let go Yet Quereshi presents his own experience, growing up in a patriotic American military of Alana and entrust her to Jesus. She writes, “I will never get from Alana the satisfaction family of devout Muslim faith, as his first schooling in the teaching of Islam as a religion of a faith decision for Christ. Even if and when she returns to the family of Christ, my of peace. He points out that the modern Muslim world by and large has rejected violent hope should be not in her but in him.” jihad in modern contexts. He states, “I sincerely believe September 11 was a greater shock From the start, Alana was relieved that her mother had finally opened up the conversa- to American Muslims like my family than for the average American. I remember hearing tion on faith. As the discussion progressed, sharp contrasts between Christianity and Islam a slogan at my mosque that I shared with many, ‘The terrorists who hijacked the planes emerged: Christianity’s belief in the Trinity in contrast to Islam’s belief in one undivided on September 11 also hijacked Islam.’” However, the attack on his country led him to God; Christianity’s belief that Jesus is God’s Son sent to bring us salvation in contrast study the history of Islam and the meaning of jihad. After years of study he came to the with Islam’s belief that Jesus was just a prophet, one among many. Another contrast conclusion that “if the traditions about the prophet if Islam are in any way reliable, then that became evident to this reader was the differing sources of the women’s strength. As Islam glorifies violent jihad arguably more than any other action a Muslim can take.” mentioned earlier, Patricia leaned on Jesus to save her and on the Holy Spirit to help and This conclusion left him with three choices: either become apostate and leave Islam, to guide her on their journey. In contrast, about her faith, Alana writes, the Muslim believer be apathetic and ignore the prophet, or become ‘radicalized’ and obey him.” The fact that is “one who lives her life in the pursuit of pleasing God. Essentially, a Muslim tries to he took the first choice, left Islam, and embraced the Christian faith, reveals his personal do the best she can to please God in every part of her life. It is through this path that a answer to the call to jihad. Muslim finds peace.” How should we – fellow Christians – answer the challenge of Jihad? Quereshi con- As mother and daughter drew to the close of their project, they understood that peace cludes his book with the stirring call to “engage Muslims proactively with love and between them is not a place or a destination but a journey, a way of living. friendship while simultaneously acknowledging the truth about Islam. Christian parents whose children have rejected Christ and embraced This is not the final step in answering jihad, but it is the correct first step another religion, or no religion at all, will find in Undivided a story of and it offers a better way forward.” To this reviewer, this conclusion shows Christian parents who persevered in hope, as well as the vision of always that Quereshi has embraced the Christian faith with the same passionate keeping the door open to nonbelievers, including our own children. honesty that he brings to his Muslim heritage in this volume.

Ron Rupke is a freelance writer living in Cobourg, Ont. Sonya VanderVeen Feddema is a freelance writer living in St. Catharines, Ont. PAGE 10 CHRISTIAN COURIER

Features Prettiest princesses Brianna Bell much less my beauty. This has led to a life-long insecurity in nearly every aspect Every day at five o’clock my husband of my life. Daniel returns home from his job as a Am I kind? youth pastor and spends quality time with Am I smart? our two daughters, ages three and one. Am I pretty? He loves to snuggle with them and tell Are you proud of me? them stories. As a teenager my longing for accept- “Did you know that I happen to be ance and need for approval spiraled out of friends with the two prettiest princesses control. Any boy who would pay attention in the entire world?” to me could have whatever he wanted, A conversation begins; my oldest as long as he gave me the satisfaction of daughter patiently listens as my husband being noticed. tells her an elaborate story about the two Today I continue to pray that God princesses and how special they are to would help me to be secure both in my him. Finally, she cannot contain her ex- physical appearance and my value as a citement anymore, and asks “but who are woman of God. Whenever I have a mo- they Daddy? What are their names?” ment where I feel insecure about myself, Of course, their names are Penelope I repeat Psalm 139:4: “thank you for mak- and Georgia – our two girls. My husband ing me so wonderfully complex! Your and I tell our daughters often that they workmanship is marvelous – how well I are beautiful and precious, both inside know it.” and out. This is the truth that I will teach my It’s not advisable to tell your daughter daughters. God created them, both their she is pretty – at least that’s what the hearts and their physical appearance. God experts say. Eileen Murphy, a family breathed life into their lips, and opened up therapist in the UK, recommends a more their eyes, so that they could delight in the balanced approach: “Celebrating our chil- splendor and beauty of this world. How dren’s physical beauty or physical fitness can I not stop in complete awe, amazed doesn’t need to negate the accompanying by the wonder and beauty of my two chil- validation of their personal qualities: good dren, a masterpiece gifted to me by God students, good friends, kind, empathetic, himself? disciplined and so on. Highlighting what you admire about them is a good founda- tion for building self-esteem – it does no harm to add ‘you’re beautiful’ or ‘you’re Brianna Bell is from Guelph, "The Four" by artist Tricia Robinson depicts four grandmothers from the family tree of Jesus handsome.’” Ont., where her husband is – Tamar, Rahab, Ruth and Bathsheba. "Some had affairs, were prostitutes, lied and were truly a youth pastor at a large not starry-eyed perfect princesses," says Robinbson, "but God chose them and used these four church in Guelph, and she Finding validation is a work-at-home mom with broken women. And that's why I gave them crowns – a symbol of love from our Creator and Our family has adopted a similar ap- two young daughters. Redeemer." Tricia Robinson lives in Cedartown, NW Georgia, where she found her style and proach. Our children are praised for their voice through cheerful paintings and bright colours (triciarobinson.com). inner beauty often; we encourage them to be kind, forgiving and generous with others. We also tell them that they are beautiful, because they are, and we want them to find validation in their physical How to encourage self-esteem in our daughters appearance from us. • Praise them often for the little and big victories. Whether it’s helping their sibling with a chore or trying their very Scripture speaks of inward and out- best at their sport (even if they don’t win)! ward beauty often. We will teach our children that inward beauty is what is • Don’t be afraid to point out that they are beautiful in their physical appearance. This does not need to be the focus most important, and that vanity is sinful. within the home, but children should hear praise of their physical appearance. However, the Lord created us in his im- • Don’t criticize yourself or others for their physical appearance. It’s unhealthy for our children to hear us call people age, and human-beings are beautiful to “fat,” or make comments about our own weight. Ban the word ‘fat’ in your home and clarify with your children that behold. King Solomon says to his bride in God created everybody equal, just in different shapes, sizes and shades. Song of Solomon 4:7, “You are altogether beautiful, my darling, beautiful in every • Minimize the amount of media that your children see, and be sure to give your children appropriate dolls and toys way.” The entire book is filled with verses to play with. Dolls with make-up or TV shows where girls dress like adults can be confusing; let your children praising the physical beauty of the bride experience beauty the way God intended, unspoiled by the media. and her groom. • Show affection in your home and praise the physical beauty of your spouse. One of the greatest examples that we We believe it is healthy to find a middle have of this is in Song of Songs. Praise your spouse often, comment on how beautiful they are and show physical ground when speaking with our daughters love and affection. about their beauty. If we don’t tell them they are beautiful, won’t they go search- ing elsewhere for validation in both their Further Resources physical and inner beauty? Raising Body Confident Daughters by Dannah Gresh I have experienced first-hand the dif- Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters: 10 Secrets Every Father Should Know by Meg Meeker ficulty of being raised in a critical home. Preparing Your Daughter for Every Woman’s Battle by Shannon Ethridge Throughout my life I have been called Redefining Beautiful: What God Sees When God Sees You by Jenna Lucado overweight and chubby, and I don’t have memories of being praised for anything, APRIL 11, 2016 PAGE 11

Features

Our family’s unexpected must have known for a long time, but had Discerning the new life been unable to articulate what I had been Since figuring it out, Jessica had settled waiting, longing, praying for. down. Though she’d never acted out, she change of direction was no longer restless and indecisive, but Telling Mom and Dad – grounded. She’d told her sisters some Jessica Dekker and James Dekker every girl had crushes on other girls like I the hardest step months earlier, trying to decide how and did. At that point I started to think maybe My whole family came to Grand Rapids when to tell us. I wasn’t straight. It was kind of a relief, for my graduation in May 2005. By then By the time Jessica did, she’d met Liz JESSICA’S DISCOVERY because I had been so puzzled about dating I’d told my sisters about my relationship – her only steady. Another English major, by Jessica until then; nothing about it had ever come with Liz and wanted my parents to know Liz is a daughter of our best friends from naturally. too. But I worried about that, sometimes Calvin Seminary. In 2006 a gay former I’m the youngest of three daughters. feeling sick, lying awake, thinking how CRC pastor led a commitment ceremony at Though my sisters preceded me by five Coming out, but not alone to start that conversation. This could a restaurant in Grand Rapids where Jessica and eight years, we’ve always been excep- After that summer, I spent the fall semester threaten the family unity I cherished. I had worked for several years. Liz’s parents tionally close. Even when the parsonage of my senior year at The Oregon Extension knew what was at stake, but also knew I and Rose and I bookended the ceremony in Edmonton had enough space for each (OE), an off-campus program offering stu- had no choice. My parents had taught with a welcome and prayer. Among family of us to have our own bedrooms, I rarely dents wide open time for thinking, writing us three to be honest, true to ourselves. and friends, seven CRC pastors attended slept alone. When I was 13, Dad accepted and discussing. Exploration of God’s great So I rode home with Mom and Dad after – our oldest daughter, Erika, four of Liz’s a call to a church three provinces away; my outdoors and of one’s personal inscape graduation and told them as soon as we family, plus a pastor friend. grown-up sisters moved to separate cities. is integral to OE’s curriculum. There I arrived. I remember emailing Liz before While Jessica and Liz lived and worked We were far apart, but remained very much forged several deep and lasting friendships. I gathered my parents in the living room, in Washington, D.C. for two and a half a family unit. I continued to be a good kid, Among them was Liz Lucas, but things “I’m going to go tell them just how special years, they were married. The Justice of the never drank or stayed out too late. By the were different with her. you really are.” Peace who performed the brief ceremony is time I left for college, I’d never really done I knew she was in the process of coming third cousin to Pierre Elliott Trudeau, father anything to rock the boat. out herself, but didn’t know she was about of Canada’s current Prime Minister. Nice to take me along. Near semester’s end, she MOM AND DAD’S STORY bi-national touch, eh? It wasn’t a dark closet started what my generation calls a DTR by James Jessica and Liz now live in Columbia, My wife Liz likes to tell me that I came dan- (“Determine/Define the Relationship”). Missouri. Liz works with an affiliate of cing out of the closet, unlike many whose After a couple of days of shying away from We had just arrived home from Grand the University of Missouri’s School of experiences are much more painful. While the topic (my exact words may have been Rapids, Michigan, after our youngest Journalism. Before leaving Grand Rapids, my coming out wasn’t the easiest thing “I think we’re exceptional friends!”), I told daughter Jessica’s graduation from Calvin they were active and welcomed members in my life, it was more enlightening than Liz that I knew we were, well, more than College. After I’d carried the last of the of Sherman St. CRC. Now they attend a excruciating. I finally consciously acknow- friends. luggage inside, I joined Jess and my wife small congregation in Columbia. They ledged my attraction for women when I was The following six months were a blur Rose in the living room about 30 seconds nurture two rescue dogs, Darby and Juno. 23; a certain burden lifted, a light turned on. of finishing courses, trying to make post- after Jess had begun shifting our family life Jess is studying to be a family counsellor, I felt as if I’d stepped through a door into a college plans, and navigating this new re- in a new direction. teaches knitting classes and works online much bigger and brighter room and was so lationship. Liz and I were surrounded by for her cousin’s sewing pattern and fabric glad to be out there that it might well have friends and siblings as word got around that Fun, smart and restless design company. looked like I was dancing. we were a couple. Many adapted with and All through high school, Jessica was the Coming out always happens in stages, supported us; others didn’t. magnet for a small crowd of close friends. Accepting, loving, not really though. One hot afternoon in southern I’m grateful to have been in the intense Friday evenings our Thunder Bay kitchen understanding Ontario while securing grapevines to guide social environment of school during that often absorbed her cohort until they decided: Some reading this will see it as advocacy; wires as part of a summer job between years time. Living with roommates and always Stay here? Go to a movie? Invade an absent that’s not my point. Yet Rose and I remain at Calvin College, my female co-workers sharing space, meals, rides and study time member’s home who hadn’t obeyed the astonished and deeply pleased at the beauty and I were discussing celebrity crushes. All provided Liz and me with a concentrated, order to show up chez Dekker soon enough? of Jess and Liz’s love and their hospitality of mine were women, but all of my friends focused time to test the waters of “real life” But Jessica’s social life mostly em- that again attracts all manner of gay and listed men. Until then, I had assumed that as two women, together. It solidified what I braced the group. Though plenty of boys straight friends. asked, she never dated the same boy twice. By the way, I might completely mis- After starting Calvin College, Jessica understand God and his ways – a likely pos- navigated almost predictable stresses, some sibility for everyone. Regardless, I remain worrisome for distant parents. She hit a perplexed and bemused by the mordant rough patch of depression — not surpris- irony of prayer. During Jessica’s last year ing, since it has afflicted my family for at Calvin, Rose prayed daily that Jessica generations. But Jess was unsettled; over would find a life partner. We didn’t imagine four years, she pursued two majors and it would turn out this way. (almost) three minors, finally settling on English, like her older sisters.

Not totally unexpected news Now having graduated, Jessica came to St. Jessica Dekker knits and Catharines with an agenda before returning cooks her way through most to Michigan. In that living room, Rose said, days. When James returns to “Jess has something to tell us.” visit, they’ll finish the book- “Mom and Dad, I’m gay.” case they started last October. Rose was surprised; I much less so. I’d wondered for several years if Jessica was gay. Much experience with gays in min- James Dekker thanks God istry – a few in the church, most gone and for all three of his and Rose’s gone for good – had taught me signs. So daughters and that all love when Jessica told us, my questions were and serve the Lord.

JEN VANDER HEIDE. VANDER JEN answered; Jessica’s revelation added a new The Dekker family at Lake Cecelia, Baldwin, Michigan in July 2015. piece to our family’s puzzle. PAGE 12 CHRISTIAN COURIER

Features Q&A with Lorna Dueck Jennifer Neutel Huntley Street and given a daily, live TV platform to be mentored by Canada’s lead- The following questions and answers are ing broadcast evangelist, David Mainse. part of the full interview between freelance After eight years, both David and a gener- journalist Jennifer Neutel and executive ous philanthropist offered me a platform television producer, Lorna Dueck, for the to create an independent media ministry. article on page 1, “Shifting media land- The Globe and Mail was asking me to be a scape shrinks the God-beat.” commentary writer on faith and public life, my denominational president, Dr. Franklin CHRISTIAN COURIER: Thinking about Pyles, agreed to lead a new media char- your career, can you share a story of a ity as our founding board Chair, Preston time when you were faced with an ob- Manning, served as his co- chair, and, well, stacle in your work because of your faith? with a prayer team of 40 people, the media LORNA DUECK: I do feel that the call charity has grown. we have as Christ-followers to exhibit the fruits of the Spirit affects my column writ- What changes have you seen in the media ing at The Globe and Mail significantly. landscape regarding religion? There are many issues I would like to rant I think the entertainment and advertis- and be polemic on, there is a sarcasm and ing world of media is the most influential biting wit that would make for energy in dimension of the media landscape. I’d like a column, but I most often hit delete on to quote from Prof. John Stackhouse here, these impulses because, in my mind, it is a Canadian expert on culture, who has said incompatible with Gospel witness. it would appear that we have a great need

for artists who know their Christian faith TV CONTEXT Can you share your impetus to build your deeply, and can infuse that into beautiful Lorna Dueck interviewing Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield. own media company? craft. This decision came very reluctantly But let me talk next about the media old, not hostile to religion, just completely The Vatican has been deeply strategic in to me; ultimately it was a “by my Spirit” landscape I know best: news and informa- unaware of how to access religion. We creating media channels, and messages in move upon my heart. I responded to an tion programming. have to break the privatized world of our their own brand, on their own time, and inner call I believe was from God, a call Three issues here. First, privatization faith communities and get speaking about they play by an other-worldly confidence. to tell the story of Canadians and God of faith has been a great loss. A story that our belief and trust in God. When people The Catholic Church has maximized the interacting in all dimensions of life and illustrates that change to me occurred again share their faith, it still makes news; I think globalization media creates in a brilliant culture. A few very significant things this week. We were producing a broadcast of Calgary’s Lavalle family, or Monty way; one pastor for the planet. The crowds aligned, which could only have been the episode on “what makes Canada great?” Williams – both recent stories that went tell all media that they dare not ignore re- work of God in my life; I had been given so we approached an iconic Canadian viral in mainstream news because the ac- porting on the words and travels of Pope a broadcast-quality pitch in my voice, and business because we knew the owner was tions of faith were newsworthy. I think of Francis. This globalization of seeing such an innate curiosity that was tailor-made a Christian, asking to hear the full expres- Jean Vanier or Cardinal Collins sharing popularity for the Pope, of China – where for journalism. After a season of working sion of what this CEO brings to the job their faith views on Canada’s proposals we have reportedly more Christians in in secular media, being home and rais- and our country via their firm. The CEO’s shaping our Physician Assisted Death China than there are members in the ing our two young children, I had been son was the corporate gatekeeper and legislation; both made mainstream news Communist Party – the great rise of the approached, without applying, by 100 said we could interview the owner, pro- on public policy because they spoke out global south in Christianity, will be present vided we not ask anything on their God-shaped beliefs. in the media landscape. about the CEO’s faith in Second, there is now a widely held God. It was simply off belief amongst news agencies that reli- With the media markets becoming more limits. We declined the gion equals violence and an attempt for fragmented and the decline of religious interview and are look- political power. This is the aftermath of reporters on staff in mainstream news- ing for another, but such ISIS, and there is no avoiding that terror- rooms, how do you think religious stories reluctance of Christians ism’s legacy has altered how Islam and can best be told? to express their faith in Christianity will be positioned in West vs. Social media that goes viral is now the public is an alarming East. Media understands “power blocs,” best way to tell our stories, with the hope change I have seen over such as the reporting you see around the that mainstream media gets the spillover. the 25 years I have been U.S. Presidential election and religion. However, I do still believe that leaders are reporting Christian story. These colourful factors mean there is a influencers and we must do all we can to As Canada has become great media push that power blocs of re- get to the leadership positions in the cul- more secularized, fewer ligion are scary and dangerous, which is tural elite of media ownership, and bring media outlets are asking simply the low hanging fruit that is easy our faith there as a needed part of God’s the Christian questions, and quick for news agencies to gather. But love and grace to the world. and I don’t think it is a unfortunately, it will dominate religion result of hostility to faith, coverage in the press. The 2016 Templeton What changes would you like to see hap- it is truly a honest ignor- Prize for Progress in Religion this year pen in the media (that could open up ance; the Canadian media was recently given to Rabbi Lord Jonathan more faith dialogues)? simply does not know Sacks – who wrote Not In God’s Name: Faith-filled media employees working what about religion mat- Confronting Religious Violence – I am in all dimensions of media. ters. This week I asked a looking forward to interviewing Rabbi media executive, “what Sacks. Perhaps he will be part of changing would you like to know the global narrative. [Lorna’s interview about God?” He replied, with Sacks can be viewed at http://goo. “I don’t even know what I gl/fl014O.] don’t know.” Here was an Third, Pope Francis has shown us the Jennifer Neutel is a freelance

JENNIFER NEUTEL JENNIFER open, informed, 50-year- power of putting leadership into media. journalist living in Cobourg, Ont. My Window Seat The Public Square Mendelt Hoekstra Harry Antonides

From the 11th Christ @ Culture Province Lloyd Rang Marian Van Til

Toddlers to Teens From the Lab Denise Dykstra Rudy Eikelboom

SU MO TU WE TH Principalities FR SA & Powers Everyday Christian David Koyzis Cathy Smith

APRIL 11, 2016 PAGE 13 Technically Speaking Getting Unstuck Columns Derek Schuurman Arlene Van Hove

Intangible Things LadiesFlowers and and Thistles Heidi Vander Slikke gentlemenCurt Gesch Our writers’ group met Attitude, not accessorizing the other night – four of Personally,Words I frthinkom Ruth’s father had it My name is Mud Country Livingus who have been friends right (exceptWild Horses maybe for the gum part). In Renée Hoogstad Meindert Vanderlong Galien enough to say what- my mind,Warkentins a lady is someone who conducts ever needs to be said, herself in a mannerly way toward others. Most people agree that I am the dud and not take offense. We She is not rude, unduly loud or irritat- of all creation. I have no use. I’m sat together reading each ingly pushy. That doesn’t mean she’s a just a murky mess that oozes through time, other’sPatchwork work and Wo tradingrds comments. Ruth pushover.Our ItW hasorld to Tdooday with attitude, not a sloppy, smelly pile of mucky crud. had written a beautiful devotional on accessorizing. Not all women are ladies, I cause those stains and streaks and cold wet pud Esther.Meliss Ata K oneuipers point she referred to her as but allBert ladies Hielema are women. I don’t apply it -dles, bothering moms and maids with beastly grime. a “young lady.” just to the female gender; I would define With rain and wind I coat the world with slime “I would take that out,” said Donna. “gentleman” with the same criteria. If I an irritation caused with every flood. “Young woman is better.” refer to someone as a lady or a gentleman, Despise and scorn! I do not feel your bite. “Agreed,” said Sara, “I hate that word. I mean it as a positive. For once, you see, I was not thought so mean. It’s so patronizing.” Okay, not always. If I’m sitting at a A gentle, holy man made me a sight, I shrugged my shoulders as Ruth looked stoplight and the woman in the car ahead for blind, sore eyes. Redeemed by him I’ve been. at me, eyebrows raised. “Uh-oh,” I said, “I of me is texting when it turns green, I may In me, I know, my Saviour takes delight; think I started my email to you the other very well blow the horn and shout, “C’mon this mud He’s touched and made pristinely clean. night with ‘Hello, ladies!’” We laughed. lady, let’s get moving!” (Distinctly un- But it sparked an interesting discussion. ladylike behaviour on my part, right?) Renée Hoogstad is a teacher at Quinte Christian High School in Apparently “lady” is often construed Later on, thinking of our discussion, Belleville, Ont. She lives with her husband and three children in as someone who can’t be taken seriously. I wondered how one simple word could Trenton, Ont. You know . . . the privileged, helpless sort evoke such varied responses, which led of prissy miss in pink ruffles who’s more me to consider where my own feelings concerned about her nail polish than world about it originated. Of seven dictionary peace. We all knew that wasn’t what Ruth definitions listed, none exactly matched meant, but there’s no denying that lady my own. The only manners mentioned are carries with it some distinctly negative those associated with women regarded as Mud tracks connotations for many people. being of a superior social status. Sara, a contemporary novelist, said I asked my best friend how she felt Rosalie Brandsma lady reminded her of something from about the term. She doesn’t like it either! Rosalie Brandsma lives on a dairy farm near Smithers, a small Pride and Prejudice. Donna, a profes- So I may have to rethink my use of town in northern B.C. surrounded by four mountain ranges and sor of Women’s Studies, pointed out that the word. I learned long ago in academic many rivers, streams, lakes and forests. She sees everything in “Ladies’ Studies” wouldn’t convey nearly writing to replace generics like man and creation as a photo opportunity and takes photos almost every day. the same import. mankind with people and humanity. We On the other hand, Ruth explained that no longer have waitresses, stewardess- her father wanted his daughters to be de- es or actresses. They’ve been replaced cent young ladies, meaning basically, with servers, flight attendants and actors. women who carried themselves with pur- It’s not that hard really, just a matter of poseful decorum and respect. For instance, practice. as far as he was concerned, young ladies I concede that my vocabulary needs up- should never chew gum. dating. Still, would a kinder, gentler world Immediately I heard my Grade Six be so bad? It goes back to what used to be teacher in my head. She always said the called common courtesy – things like say- only difference between a cow chew- ing “excuse me,” when you walk in front ing its cud and a young lady chewing of someone; holding a door open for the gum is the contented look on the cow’s person behind you; offering your seat to face. Even back then I thought it was someone elderly or in obvious discomfort; somewhat sexist. How come the “young and the generous use of polite words like gentlemen” were exempt from this ad- please and thank you. Sadly, common age? Nevertheless, I promised myself courtesy is quite uncommon these days. that while chewing gum I would make a Seems to me the Bible is full of refer- conscious effort to look happy. ences to letting our gentleness be evident to all, being humble, putting others ahead of ourselves. Manners may be cultural, but aren’t they still a good vehicle for being a decent human being? Maybe I’ll start a one-woman campaign to bring back “ladies and gentlemen.” As for those fellow writers of mine – they’ll always be ladies in my heart. And you know what I mean by that.

Heidi Vander Slikke (hmvanderslikke@ hotmail.com) lives in Mapleton Township, Ontario. PAGE 14 CHRISTIAN COURIER

Columns

Roots and Wings The silver Emily Cramer lining

At the beginning of Awareness of life’s seasons. With a first February, we welcomed child, the dramatic changes can seem our second daughter. This overwhelmingly permanent. And they are. means that the number of There will never be a time when you can children in our family is unload the burden of loving and worry- Joy & Grace To know and be now equal to the number of ing over your child. But with baby num- parents – we have officially lost our major- ber two, you realize the brevity of each Sara Pot ity. It also means it’s been at least 60 nights phase. Sleeplessness doesn’t last forever. known since I’ve slept more than three consecutive Colic typically starts to dwindle after three In 1987, Martin Pistorius was a healthy As a result, we began to consider age-ap- hours, not including the last two months of months. The hard times are fleeting, and 12-year-old boy living in South Africa. propriate content of the girls’ TV and au- my pregnancy when I hardly slept at all. the love grows. Without warning, he contracted an unusual dio programs. Emily and Sophia recalled Having a baby is not for the faint of heart. virus that progressively changed him from shows and stories they preferred at the ages So much has been turned upside down in Peace. A blanket of peace has descended a typical young man to someone in a vege- of their sisters. I took time to ask Rachel’s the last weeks – my house, for example. Ah, over our home with the coming of the baby. tative state. The Pistorius family faced peers what sorts of things interested them, my house. I’m Dutch, but my house does Is it her? Is it grace? I don’t know. But I uncertainty surrounding their son’s health and we spent more time assessing Rachel not look Dutch. It looks like a place where see it everywhere. My four-year-old has and wellbeing; they were told to wait for and Janneke’s body language as they hedgehogs would go to hibernate: cozy, but suddenly started to play on her own, belly him to die. Miraculously, Martin became watched and listened to programs. dirty. My older daughter has never enjoyed on the floor, for hours. My husband and I aware of his surroundings approximately being home so much because I don’t have sometimes sit on the couch, without TV, two years after falling ill, yet he was the Living to understand the energy to make her clean up her toys. and rest. We watch the baby. We talk. We only one cognizant of being held captive We are thankful to parent two typically devel- There are toys everywhere. close our eyes and doze. In our eight years in his own body. Though he could hear and oping girls alongside two severely disabled My hair. Here, at least, is one goal I have of marriage, we’ve never been so still. think, he could not communicate with his girls. Emily and Sophia have often spoken achieved since giving birth: to wash my Our home feels like a sun-bathed pause caregivers and family. Only after obtaining for their sisters, telling us what Rachel or hair only once a week. I’ve never quite been in a frantic world. Something restless has a communicative device was he able to Janneke “thinks” about something. In the able to make this happen, always caving been quieted. slowly recover his life. His full story is earlier years, some of the “thoughts” were in the last few days before the week is up. captured in his memoir, Ghost Boy (which patterned after their big sisters’ interests, Yesterday I realized it had been a full week Love. This might sound self-evident, but an editorial in CC last year also referenced). but more recently we have appreciated the since my last hair wash and I hadn’t even it’s the love of my older daughter that has special insight siblings have with each other. noticed. Or looked in the mirror. Is this too struck me. Having a newborn in the house Forever guessing As parents, we know we ought to create much information? I can’t tell because I’m reminds me of how far my four-year-old I learned the story of Martin in January healthy and respectful expectations for all too tired. has come, how much she has learned, how 2015, and the idea of being a prisoner our girls. We want to live as if Rachel and Sleep. Dear me, the two to three hour unique and capable she is, and how in- within one’s own skin hit close to home. Janneke can hear and understand what we intervals are the least of my problems. timately tied I am to her little world. I am Martin spent over a decade being cared say and do. We talk to them, and we allow It’s the tandem wake-ups. Last night, for seeing her with new eyes – as a person who for as an incapacitated young man. When time for them to respond. However they example, my four-year-old woke up an gives back. I read Martin’s frustration and anger from show interaction – eye gaze, a slight grin hour after one of the baby’s feeds, came having to watch Barney (purple dinosaur or the extension of their hands – we try to into our room and, millimetres from the Hope. Pregnancy feels like a long wait with of a children’s television series) reruns at appreciate and acknowledge as such. bassinet, yelled, “MOM!” After escorting a daunting task at the end. What joy when a special care centre, my stomach turned. her back to her room, cuddling her and then a healthy baby is delivered after so much Caring for and raising children who Intercessory grace getting settled back in my own bed, I had uncertainty! And then the work begins in are nonverbal comes with a set of unique In Martin’s story, his mother struggled 15 minutes of sleep before the baby woke earnest, the years of labour with the hope challenges. You are forever guessing what to care for and love her vegetative son. up for her next feed. of raising a healthy adult. Parenthood really captures their attention and what causes He recalled one moment when he heard It’s crazy, chaotic, at times impossible, is about the joy set before you, an excellent them pain. As Rachel and Janneke age, we his mother wish aloud that he would die. just as I knew it would be. But there were metaphor for life on this side of eternity. I can only guess what they know and com- Before judging her dreadful words, we things I didn’t know would happen, an am so grateful for this journey. prehend. We have no clear understanding must understand this mother was desper- unexpected silver lining to this craziness: about their understanding. ately grieving the loss of her son – who Because Rachel and Janneke can’t inter- was still alive. A forcible vacation. When I had only one act with regular play activities, they often I may not know her words, but I know her baby, I felt an anxious drive to tidy up and Emily Cramer lives in Barrie, Ontario with observe others play. They watch TV pro- grief. I also know there is grace that allows organize whenever there was a break in the her husband, James, and her two daughters. grams that show kids playing and sing- me to mourn and still live with the joy that action. Now there is never a break in the She is currently on maternity leave from ing, and they also enjoy listening to songs someday, we will all be made new. I believe action, so I am making my peace with a teaching at Georgian College and is hoping and stories read aloud. When the story of that my kids are understood by their Creator, degree of domestic chaos. I’ve even relaxed she will soon be able to read something longer Martin Pistorius was sent to me, the girls one who intercedes for all of us when words with visitors in the midst of it, baby flotsam than the weekly fliers. were watching a Barney rerun. fail or aren’t possible. I believe that as com- strewn across the living room. plicated as they may seem, both Rachel and View from their shoes Janneke have purpose, a purpose that may I shared parts of Martin’s story with Emily simply be to motivate the rest of us to care and Sophia, and we talked about the idea and be more caring. of Rachel and Janneke “trapped” inside their bodies. Now that Emily and Sophia are in their early teens, they are able to Sara Pot is a new colum- engage in some introspection; they are nist with CC. She lives in St. slowly able to shift perspective from their Catharines, Ont. with her hus- band, four daughters and their own shoes to their sisters’. Together, we golden doodle; she welcomes wondered if Rachel and Janneke really conversation and feedback to want to watch Barney? [email protected]. My Window Seat The Public Square Mendelt Hoekstra Harry Antonides

From the 11th Christ @ Culture Province Lloyd Rang Marian Van Til

Toddlers to Teens From the Lab Denise Dykstra Rudy Eikelboom

SU MO TU WE TH Principalities FR SA APRIL& Power 11, 2016s Everyday Christian PAGE 15 David Koyzis Cathy Smith Columns

part than a live call, and thus communicat- Technically Speaking Getting Unstuck ing using this medium seems more efficient. Do our tech tools It may not always be the most appropriate Guest:Derek ScNickhuurman Breems Arlene Van Hove medium, however. match our goals? One possible response is to recognize that the device or application we are using As we head into the second for modern technology to play in our rela- My Window Seat The Public Square may be pulling us in a direction we do not decade of ubiquitous social tionships and communities. As a flexible Intangible Things Flowers and Thistles want to go, and to exert extra effort of will Mendelt Hoekstranetworking, and mobile mediumHarry which Antonides can represent and transmit to pull back. In order for this to be work- phone technology starts much of the meaning we find in our lives Heidi Vander Slikke Curt Gesch able, we need self-knowledge – we need to seeming more normal than together, there are many ways in which understand our own internal predispositions, novel, it is well worth regu- a careful use of technology can greatly From the 11th and gauge whether or not we’ll be able to Christ @ Culturlarly pausinge to consider enhance our relationships with friends, PrWoovincerds from successfully resist the temptation to do what the impact these technologies have on our family and community by opening up new LloydCountry Rang Living Marian Van Til is easy rather than what is right. If we deter- lives. Part of the design of any particular possibilitiesWild Horsesfor interaction. mine that our willpower is not up to that task, technologyMeindert V isander an embedded, Galien intrinsic set ButW wearkentins need to remember that the goals then the second alternative is much more of values. That is, every technology is de- and values inherent in our chosen tools do radical and countercultural – to selectively signed to do something, or to make some not necessarily line up with the professed abandon that particular use of technology. taskToddlers easier. The to very Teens design thus suggests valuesFr weom try tothe live Lab out in our friendships, A number of my acquaintances have thatPatchwork some courses Wo ofrd actions and outcomes relationshipsOur W andorld communities. Today In order to Denise Dykstra Rudy Eikelboom taken this approach with Facebook. Having are preferable to others. make the use of technology in our lives line technology, so we can perceive the subtle Melissa Kuipers Bert Hielema determined that it was having a negative One of the main unifying values present up most faithfully with how we are called pull exerted by any particular device or impact on their behavior in relationships in the majority of modern computer tech- to live, we must first be sensitive toSU the pos- application we choose to use. With this, MO TU WE TH – and in particular, their own narcissistic nology is efficiency, getting the most util- sibility for a mismatch between the tool andFR SA and having both a clear understanding our Principalities (human) tendencies to post comments and ity with the least possible effort invested. the goal,Everyday and second, Christian be wise about how to own internal motives and predispositions, & Powers replies for reason of subtle self-promotion This is, of course, often positive. Finding respond to such a mismatch. and a vision of how we wish to engage David Koyzis Cathy Smith and self-love rather than edifying others ways to accomplish our tasks with less with others, we can be prepared to make – they have either temporarily or perma- time, energy, effort or risk is obviously a careful choices about which technologies Easy or right? nently ended their participation in this so- valuable goal in many cases. However, in For example, many young people express we use, and how we employ them. cial networking tool. When this step begins the context of community or relationship, a a preference for texting over making voice Technically Speaking Getting Unstuck to seem too radical, that may be a telling focus on efficiency can backfire badly. An calls. When a phone call is placed, there is indication that idolatry may be at work. Nick Breems is a Professor of Computer “efficient friendship” is an oxymoron – if a moment of connection, in which the caller Derek Schuurman Arlene Van Hove Living well with technology cannot in- Science at Dordt College, Sioux Center, you’re measuring a friendship in terms of and the recipient must declare themselves, volve either mindless acceptance or mind- IA, where he lives with his wife and three the amount of utility you get compared to must form or re-form, at least temporarily, less rejection; rather, it requires mindful children. This article was adapted from an the amount of time and effort you invest, a genuine human relationship. With texting, evaluation. We must be sensitive to the essay originally published on inallthings.org, it’s not really a friendship. much less opening ourselves up is required. Dordt College, Sioux Center, IA. Republished Intangible Things Flowers and Thistles embedded suggestions inherent in any This does not mean that there is no role Texting takes less emotional effort on our with permission. Heidi Vander Slikke Curt Gesch

Words from this man as I sat there looking at the three kept pace. James says she would be happy Country Living Farm safety brave men. We complain about the price if farmers would at least start by shutting Wild Horses of hydro, gas, groceries and whatnot. Here things off before trying to dislodge items Meindert Vander Galien is crucialWarkentins was a young man with no arms. or even performing regular maintenance. As the men stood quietly behind her, “People can get their arms ripped off It won’t be long and millions of acres across North America James pointed out that, while accidents when something is jammed because they farmers everywhere will will be planted. It’s truly amazing how happen in a blink of an eye, they can affect jump off quick to get it unjammed and Patchwork Wobe onrd thes land. Some have this isOur achieved World with Today modern, high-tech you for years or even a lifetime. Although their arm gets pulled in,” she says bluntly. already started. When the equipment and long man hours. Last spring the men had been offered the opportunity “You have to shut it off!” James says bad Melissa Kuipersweather and soil conditions I watchedBert aHielema 36-row corn planter at work. to speak, they seemed to prefer that the weather compounds these bad habits. are ideal, the big operators There is also a 48-row planter that plants Workplace rep give the message. The other Getting clothes caught in augers, PTO and custom operators will work around a swath 120 feet wide. two farmers are still suffering from their shafts and other revolving parts has been the clock in shifts. In a matter of days, When farmers are planting and injuries. One had steel hooks for hands. a problem since powerful machines were harvesting, it is go, go, go. Between His hands had been severed when he fell invented. Reading the weekly Eganville hazardous farm equipment and sometimes into a turning power-take-off (PTO) shaft. Leader the next day, there was an item erratic livestock, farmers work in a very The other farmer suffered a broken back in the “100 Years Ago” section (March 7, dangerous environment. Farm safety is when a round bale came down on him from 1916) of a shocking tragedy at a sawmill. a serious concern. Thus “Safety on the the front-end loader of his tractor. The operator of a steam sawmill had Farm” was the theme during the official gone to the ground floor of the sawmill to opening of the Ottawa Valley Farm Show Follow standard procedures adjust a piece of machinery, and while in on March 8, 2016. Eastern Ontario Health James said most farm accidents happen a stopping position a set screw on a collar and Safety Consultant Sheila James between the months of May to November. of a revolving shaft caught in his clothes. gave the audience a chilling reminder of She reminded farmers to put the shields He did not survive. the dangers of working around running back on over the PTO if you’ve taken The three-day Ottawa Valley Farm equipment, of working with livestock and them off. Tractor rollovers are also a Show, now in its 89th year, attracts 10,000 of cutting corners. major cause of fatalities. Augers are the to 12,000 visitors annually. To prevent James, a representative with Workplace classic hazard any grain farmer should more needless tragedy, let’s hope that Safety and Prevention Services and a always be wary of. In the manufacturing James’ workplace safety message got farmer herself, introduced three farmers industry, it is commonplace for workers through to all of them. who have been seriously injured in farm to shut off, remove any keys and perhaps accidents. The first young man stood up even physically disengage the mechanical front in a short-sleeve shirt. He had no means of any auger-like machine that is Réjean Pommainville shattered his heel in arms, having lost them three years ago in jammed before proceeding to fix it. But Meindert van der Galien does a lot of spring a farm fall. a silo unloader auger. I felt so sorry for on the farm, standard procedures have not planting but never does field work after dark. PAGE 16 christian courier

Features

Series: Lives of the Saints St. Luke in the Kingdom of God

E. R. Underbrink was fine, unless he had a morning meeting, disciple to kick the dust from his feet and which would necessitate the ordeal of an look for other cities. Yet it is exactly in I never saw much of Saint Luke. He was hour banging on his door and shouting for such moments when hope becomes some- a cloistered man, spending most of his him to get up. I never meant to be cruel, but thing you can touch, even taste. I know that days muttering to himself, brooding his re- there is a terror in such invasions. I was a there will always be a little empty place in flections on past conversations. He tasted hygienic marauder: entering into personal, my stomach for the words and presence of words, even as he slept. He was a short holy spaces and sterilizing any sense of that stammering saint. I feed it with pray- man, with the unmistakable potato-like love or safety that could grow there. ers for Saint Luke, and I have over time quality of good American breeding and starved out all the regrets, save one. I wish bad American food. He’d often sit in front A hope you can taste that, instead of building our relationship of the television, whiling away the hours And then one day, he’d had enough. on the sandy shores of language, St. Luke by watching the same animated movies Maybe I should of seen it coming. After and I could have tended a rock garden again and again, quietly rehearsing the commanding a particularly hard day’s together. We could have watered the trees conversations of the last week. More than chores for Saint Luke, I went off to sleep in silence, and enjoyed the fruits of our all that, he was my friend and flat mate. the sleep of the self-justified, and he loaded labour through touch, and smell, and full That was before he ran away. up two duffel bags and walked out. The stomachs, in a place where “good good We were living together, he and I, along cops found him four hours and 10 miles good” was all that God needed to say. with two grad students, in a squat little re- later. He wanted to go home, to his par- furbished house in the Kingdom of God. ent’s. The folks at the Kingdom of God It was a place for the loose screws of so- CMYK like to practice something called “positive Evan Underbrink is an instructor of Theology ciety to get together so Christian maga- 100/60/0/10framing.” Thus it was not a failure; it just and Church History at the zines could write articles about “living in 70/40/0/0wasn’t a good fit for Luke. We did the best New Testament School of community with persons with intellectual 5/35/75/0we could. The framing was to crop out any Theology in Greensboro, disability.” Most people call it Friendship close to a gallon a day out of a wine glass. fault or blame, but it also cut out any chance North Carolina, as well as House. Language has never been kind I’d ask him how his day was. to give a voice to grieving. The house was a freelance writer and poet. He holds a to word-tasters like Saint Luke. I’d ex- “Huh? Good good good,” he’d intone barren without Luke, empty as a cleanly- Master’s in Theological Studies from Duke plain that my housemate was a great guy dismissively. I wouldn’t pursue the matter. licked cookie dough Tupperware tin. Divinity School and a Bachelor of Arts in who “had” Downs Syndrome, like it was The unkindness of words was present be- Sometimes, we lose saints. Even the Theology from Whitworth University. a disease we’d yet to cure. Folks would tween us. I “have” Asperger’s, and he “has” Kingdom of God suffers the occasional congratulate me, like I was providing pal- Down’s. I’d categorize terms, obsess over liative care. The Kingdom of God tried to change this. I was given the title “friend Language has never resident,” and given the mission to “live in been kind to word-tasters community.” The phrase posed some dif- ficulty in being so intentionally nebulous. like Saint Luke. I was a student, often lived alone, and had spent the past few years in apartments each letter. He ate syllables, let them flow Meeting you where it matters. where nobody knows anybody’s neighbor. down like chips in the cookie dough he Such confusion, when mixed with a busy loved so much. Eventually conversations schedule and the inevitable processes of became commands, as silence and uncom- time, so often creates a kind of spiritual fortability made our friendship a working We can help you plan ahead. laziness. I’d sit, quietly writing or watch- relationship. If we talked, it would be to In the comfort of your own home we can ing a movie, and listen to Luke in his room, remind him to sweep the floor. The worst digesting a choice bit of dialogue with the times were the wake-up calls. Saint Luke answer your questions about: ghost of his brother. Occasionally he’d liked to stay up with his movies, and sleep come out to get more milk, as he drank like the dead through the morning. This > Visiting and Service in your own church facility > Cemetery arrangements COMPASS CREATIVE STUDIO INC TITLE: FLK_Logo_CMYK 201-1040 south service rd CLIENT: Kitching, Steepe, and Ludwig > Monumentsstoney creek, on L8E 6G3 and MarkersDATE: August 2014 www.compasscreative.ca DESIGNER(S): Nick Tenhage > How we honour ALL prepaid plans We’ll come to you at no cost or obligation. Let us show you how much we understand. REV - SPOT - COATED

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Classifieds

Birthdays Anniversary Obituaries Happy 80th Birthday May 4, 1956 – May 4, 2016 Oct 27,1923 March 11, 2016 How blessed Lord are they who know the joyful sound. – Psalm 89:15 "The Lord will watch over your coming Joyce (Jitske) Haanstra Harry Vander Kooij Zuid-Bijerland, The Netherlands Grimsby, Ontario and going both now and forever more." April 17, 2016 The Lord received home His child, Joyce, peacefully at March 8, 1921 March 23, 2016 Psalm 121:8. Shalom Manor in Grimsby in her 93rd year. With gratefulness for God’s faithfulness, Celebrating the Beloved wife of the late Harvey (1996). mercy, love, and blessing of health. 60th Wedding Anniversary of our parents May God continue to bless our wonder- Loved mother of: Effie (Bert†) Struyk – Gorrie ON ful Dad and Grandpa. Jacob and Annie Vander Meulen John & Debbie Haanstra – Caistor Centre ON Anna & Bert Haar (nee Colyn) † Laura Martha (Wayne ) VanderWier – Smithville ON We invite you to share in this special Raymond & Sue Vander Kooij Elizabeth & Jeremy VanDuyvendyk – St. Thomas ON occasion with an Open House Matthew, Kendra Jerry & Jane Haanstra – Stoney Creek ON on Saturday April 30, 2016 from 2-4 p.m. Joyce Haanstra – Brantford ON Mailing address: 111 - 278 Hurst Dr. at the Community Christian Reformed Harvey (Hilda†) & Ann Haanstra – Hagersville ON Barrie, ON L7N 0Z3 Church of Frankford, Ontario. Anita & John Kuipery – St. Catharines ON Congratulations Dad and Mom for the Nelly & Jim DeKlerk – Dunnville ON many years that the Lord has blessed you She is also survived by 43 grandchildren and many great- together. grandchildren. Funeral service was held on Wednesday, March 16, in With love from your children: Grace Reformed Church, Dunnville. Earl (deceased), Christine & Luke, Tine Buma (nee van de Meeberg) Evelyn & Sid Marlene & Jerry Praise the Lord, my soul . . . Ps. 103:1 Liz & Don Jackie & Michael Correspondence address: John Haanstra Predeceased by her beloved husband, Gerard “George” Andrew & Jennifer 2322 Abingdon Rd RR 1 C. Buma (1988) son Harmen, “Harry” (1956), Caistor Centre ON LOR 1E0 and son-in-law Wiebe (2008). 17 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren. Dear mother, Oma, and Great-Oma of: Home address: 193 Jarvis Road, Nick and Jane Buma (Strathroy, Ontario) Wooler ON K0K 3M0 Jan “John” Kruid Jeff and Rachael Buma – Addison Best wishes only. Passed away peacefully at Haldimand War Memorial Hos- Alison and Brad Ramsay – Bryn, Nelson, Evie pital, Dunnville on March 25, 2016 at the age of 87. David and Chiara Buma Andrea Buma MORE DUTCH SERVICES Beloved husband of late Teatsche “Trudy” (de Roos). Maaike Buma (KItchener, Ontario) Due to the many requests, the Ancaster Sadly missed by his family: son Henry (Natalie), daughter Paul and Clara Buma (London, Ontario) Willem Vandermeer CRC has agreed to have three Dutch Marguaritha Kruid, and daughter Felicia (Ian) McCrory; Michael and Selena Buma – Logan, Connor, Cadence services in 2016. The first one will be Sun- and grandchildren Tiffany and Timothy Kruid, Ashley and Alisa and Samuel Quillah With thanks to God we hope to day, April 24 at 3:00 p.m. See Calendar of Zachary Wesselson, and Evan McCrory. Nicholas and Kathryn Buma celebrate Dad's 100th birthday. Events p. 18. John and Joan Buma (Grimsby, Ontario) Also remembered by: Colleen O’Reilly (Carl Erwin), and An Open House will be held in Horizon Mark and Candace Buma – Noah, Hannah their children Tristan and Brendan Erwin; the Kruid family Hall at Holland Christian Homes, Vacation Sarah and Adam Dean – Jesse, Corban, Eden, Asher in the Netherlands, and de Roos family in Canada. Brampton, Wed. April 20, 2–4 p.m. Jonathan Buma Friends were received at Ballard Minor Funeral Home. Wil Timmer (Amersfoort, The Netherlands) Cards may be sent to: Holiday accomodation in Holland The funeral service was held at Bethel Christian Reformed Jacquelien and Antonio Ganau – Nine Holland Christian Homes with vehicle rentals and tours. Church, Dunnville, on March 31, 2016. Leonie and Rufus Nijhuis – Job, Jilles 713 - 7900 McLaughlin Road chestnutlane.nl Tine Buma (St. Thomas, Ontario) Brampton ON L6Y 5A7 Donations in John's memory can be made to Dunnville Hospital & Healthcare Foundation would be A service of remembrance and thanksgiving sincerely appreciated. was held on March 26, 2016, at Williams Funeral Home and Chapel in St. Thomas, Ontario. www.ballardminorfh.ca Correspondence: Tine Buma, 34 Southwick St. Voted No. 1 Diamond Winner • Christian Community St. Thomas ON N5R 3R8

In Loving Memory of Peter John Berghuis January 20, 1938 (Grijpskerk, The Netherlands) Just knowing that we have a complete February 21, 2016 (Ingersoll, Canada) campus of housing and services at our It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of a wonderful “ husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. doorstep, is our peace of mind! Surrounded by his family in a time of prayer, tears, singing and J.N.D. Resident reminiscing, Peter peacefully passed at the University Hospital in London on Sunday, February 21. We grieve, but not without hope, as was evidenced at the celebration of Peter’s life on Saturday, February 27 at the Ingersoll Christian Reformed Church. Living and serving in Ingersoll for over 50 years, Peter was the loving husband of Hilda (Nauta), wonderful father of Henry (Heather Rooks), Wendy (Bryan Hummel), Marlene (Maarthen Reinders) and Christopher (Catharine Orchard), amazing Opa of Peter, Hannah, Sarah and Lydia; Rachel and Mikaela; Jordan, Bayden and Isaac; Josiah, Micah and Dane. Peter is also survived by his sister Elly (Skarratt) and brother Andy. Correspondence can be sent c/o Marlene Reinders, 976 Line 13 North, Oro-Medonte ON L0L 1T0

Spring Chorale Silent seeds in quiet slumber, Urgent searching: faster, higher, wait for life and sun and sky. tiring task now nearly done. Listen for the words of waking Breaking from the womb of darkness breaking up their lullaby. by the light of smiling sun. Drowsy dreaming in the darkness, Born again in bursts of splendor, stirring soft in silent soil. all the flowers and grasses sing. Long for light and wind and living Praising God for gifts of living! Call Today and Discover Life is Better at Evergreen Terrace! slowly start their gentle toil. Praising God for gifts of spring! evergreenterrace.ca 275 Main Street E • Grimsby • 905-309-7888 • Frank DeVries PAGE 18 christian courier

Jobs/Advertising/Events

Job Opportunities We, Maranatha Christian Reformed Church of ittle urope esort aranatha Lethbridge Alberta, are seeking a L E R M Full time Youth Director. and Trailer Park Homes We are searching for a dynamic candidate who would Living independently in Christian community facilitate programs, encourage growth in faith, show Maranatha Homes, located in south Burlington near many amenities, leadership development and have a passion for lead- is a place where Christian seniors can enjoy independent living in ing and mentoring our youth. Bracebridge, community with others. Muskoka • Reasonable rent rates at $821 per month Two years of education at a Christian College or Uni- • Newly renovated units • Award winning architectural design versity in youth ministry is recommended. • Well maintained building and grounds For the job description and full church profile please Plan a successful vacation at our resort • No condo fees or utility bills visit our website at maranatha-crc.ca known for it’s Dutch Hospitality. Reasonable All this and more make Maranatha Homes an attractive and affordable accommodation for seniors. If this position interests you please send your resumes rates for cottage rentals. Excellent for camp- to [email protected] ing, swimming and fishing(ideal for group For further information contact: Rosanne van der Woerd 109-3260 New St. Burlington ON L7N 3L4 All resumes need to be submitted by June 1, 2016. camping). Showers available. “Little Europe” is located 10 km. east of Hwy 11 on Hwy 118 905-681-0311 Email: [email protected] East, past the Muskoka Airport.

We offer Roel & Riet Bakema full ser vice & factory Phone: 705-645-2738 warranties Little Europe Resort 1063 Ashley Lane, RR 3, Bethel Christian Reformed Church of Acton, an active church located north-west of Toronto, Ontario, is seeking a Bracebridge ON P1L 1X1 Your church and home organ specialist No pets please. full-time Youth Pastor/ 712891 Middletown Line Norwich, ON N0J 1P0 Youth Ministry Coordinator The organ that plays digitally 519-879-9779 to join our staff-led ministry team. We are seeking a person eal organ pipes, recorded r built for homes and www.classicalorgan.ca with a passion for Jesus and love for youth in the church churches. and community, and who is outgoing and a self-starter. The [email protected] primary focus is on high school ministries, with some respon- sibilities for children ministries and young adults. A degree in youth ministry is preferable. We are excited about what God is doing in our church and community. Where there’s a Will, For more information please contact [email protected] there’s a way... s 46YEARS OF SERVICE s Your funds will be invested in To help your family AND benefit charity, Christian Reformed Church and Christian school building projects in contact CSS for a free, confidential visit. Canada. Rates to June 30, 2016 We pay 2.4% on CRC deposits. “...serving Christian 1-800-267-8890 | [email protected] Reformed churches and Earn approx. 3% www.csservices.ca Christian schools since on RRSP/RRIF/TFSA 1970" Write: CRC Extension Fund 45 Harriet St, Toronto ON M4L 2G1 Email: [email protected] Call: 416-461-1207 Fax: 416-465-6367

Calendar of Events Low Interest Rates? April 15-16 London District Chris- tian Secondary School 50th An- Ever considered a charitable niversary. For more information, visit ldcss.ca GIFT ANNUITY? April 22-23 The National Institute Sex and Age Rate /amount Charitable receipt Tax Free Taxable for Learning Development annu- Male 70 5.97% $1,194 $5,791 $1,084 $110 al conference in Toronto called Female 75 6.20% $1,240 $6,010 $1,202 $38 "Neuroplasticity: The Basis for Education." See: nildcanada.org Amount based on sample of $20,000 Sample for joint life annuity (payable as long as either person is alive) April 24 Dutch Service, Ancaster Male 75 & CRC 3 p.m. Rev Ralph Koops Female 75 5.59% $1,118 $4,889 $1,045 $73 preaching. Call or fax for an explanatory brochure and/or confidential no-obligation quote. May 6-8 Canada Gathering 2016 Keeping in step with the spirit. Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, Ont. See events @ christiancourier.ca 905-648-4451 May 14 Spring Friendship Festival, Working together Clearview Church, Oakville, Phone: 416-410-4244 I Fax: 416-465-6367 I www.linkcharity.ca Fred Hagen Mark Nyman Broker to serve you better. Sales Representative 10 –2. weloveourfriends.com. 1-800-387-8146 I 45 Harriet St, TORONTO, ON M4L 2G1 905-541-4549 905-537-9655 April 11, 2016 page 19

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Event

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