Volume 55 , No. 1•January 6, 2006

Kingdom Citizens in Secular Canada

Christian Politics: What Does it Involve?

Political Apathy Is Not a ChristianVirtue Editorial C. Van Dam Kingdom Citizens in

Dr. C.Van Dam is professor of OldTestament at the Secular Canada Theological College of the Canadian Reformed Churches in Hamilton, Ontario. The Lord wants us to be salt and light in a world [email protected] that has a tasteless morality and lives in darkness

Shaking foundations as well as by Mr. Ron Gray, the leader of the CHP. The speeches or summaries of them can be found in this With the civic morality of our country dropping to issue of Clarion . ever lower levels as witnessed most recently by our national parliament passing the same-sex marriage Responding to the challenge bill last June, many Christians are asking themselves: It is very important to note that virtually all the What can be done to halt the apparently unstoppable speakers made the point that if we want to oppose slide of Canada going ever deeper into being a secularization and make a difference for our modern Sodom and Gomorrah? What used to be country, we need to start with our daily walk and considered an abomination and sin, for the Lord said talk as Christians. To be sure, the truth must be it was so, is now exalted as good and is defended as a proclaimed, but it must also be demonstrated in our human right. “The wicked freely strut about when lives. If each Christian in this land aggressively what is vile is honoured among men” (Ps 12:8). There lived his faith in the face of secularism, the salt of is no doubt about it; the fundamentals of our national the gospel could have quite an impact. The life are being shaken. With the psalmist, we can ask: Christian’s daily life and the collective witness of “When the foundations are being destroyed, what can the local church is really where it all starts. It is the righteous do?” (Ps 11:3) good to underline that. We owe it to our society to show that the gospel has real answers for the problems of today and we can start demonstrating Society has to change before the solutions in how we interact with society in the politics will. place where God has placed us. Now our churches, societies, and schools are of course very important and we rightly invest Last fall the Burlington Reformed Study Centre considerable time in them. However, considering the organized a series of lectures under the theme of state of our land, we must be mindful not to ignore what “Kingdom Citizens in Secular Canada.” The first is going on outside our immediate community. The evening explored how we got into the present danger of placing ourselves in a self-imposed isolation predicament. Dr. F.G. Oosterhoff, a retired historian, is not imaginary. Our country needs Reformed people to gave valuable historical background on being be involved more than ever before. We need to be involved in the public square as Christians by giving involved in local civic affairs and network with others us a brief historical tour of how Christians in The in our society; we need to be involved in moulding our Netherlands sought to fulfill their political task. Rev. contemporary culture at all levels. We are no longer Tristan Emmanuel, Executive Director of the ECP immigrants or immigrant churches. Although it is easy Centre, dealt with the problem of Christian apathy to stay within our own comfort zone, this is a temptation and some of the dynamics involved in this. The we must not fall into. The Lord wants us to be salt and second evening investigated how we can effectively light in a world that has a tasteless morality and lives impact for good. This basic question was addressed in darkness. Our voice needs to be heard. by Mr. Ray Pennings, who has worked both for the But how can our voice, our Christian testimony, Christian Heritage Party (CHP) and the Alliance Party, best be heard? There is no single answer. Ray

2•JANUARY 6, 2006 Pennings reminds us that politics is not always as important as it is made out to be. Society has to change before politics will. Our first duty therefore lies in being agents for the transformation of society. Depending on the gifts the Lord has given us, we must be active as Christians in every level of society wherever the Lord has placed us. When it comes to politics, Dr. Oosterhoff warns us Published biweekly by Premier Printing Ltd.,Winnipeg, MB not to use the Dutch model of confessional parties as EDITORIAL COMMITTEE: our template. Canadian Christians have historically Editor: J. Visscher; Copy Manager: Laura Veenendaal been integrated in mainline parties and not faith- Coeditors: R. Aasman, W.B. Slomp, Cl. Stam based parties. Furthermore, because we have no ADDRESS FOR COPY MANAGER : proportional representation, there is little hope of a Clarion, 57 Oakridge Drive South, St. Albert, AB T8N 7H2 Christian party electing a Member of Parliament. E-Mail: [email protected] This is a sobering realism which we need to factor ADDRESS FOR ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS: into the equation. (subscriptions, advertisements, etc.): Yet, as Mr. Ron Gray has eloquently argued, we CLARION, Premier Printing Ltd. need to carry the banner of the biblical truth high in One Beghin Avenue, Winnipeg, MB, Canada R2J 3X5 this country and keep God’s norms central. This Phone: (204) 663-9000 Fax: (204) 663-9202 Email: [email protected] testimony includes the need to develop alternate RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: policies for our land, policies that both meet biblical One Beghin Avenue, Winnipeg, MB, Canada R2J 3X5 criteria and are persuasive for our secular society. Our country needs to be convinced that policy Subscription Rates for 2006 Regular Mail Air Mail grounded in biblical principles is good policy for Canada* $44.00* $72.00* U.S.A. U.S. Funds $46.50 $60.00 reasons that can be demonstrated. Here much work International $72.00 $108.00 can and should be done and the CHP can continue to *Including 7% GST – No. 890967359RT facilitate and do much of this. Advertisements: $13.50 per column inch Full Colour Display Advertisements: $19.00 per column inch Get involved We reserve the right to refuse ads. How one gets involved is, at bottom, not as We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada, through the Publication Assistance Program (PAP), toward our mailing costs. important as simply being involved. There are many Cancellation Agreement ways to work as Christians. At the most basic level Unless a written subscription cancellation is received we assume you wish to con - we are to be an effective salt and light in our daily tinue to subscribe. You will be invoiced prior to the subscription renewal date. task and in our neighbourhoods. Individually and Agreement No. 40063293; PAP Registration No. 9907; ISSN 0383-0438 Copyright © Premier Printing Ltd. collectively, if Christians and the church are All rights reserved. No part may be reproduced in any manner without faithful, their influence can be profound! permission in writing from the publisher, except brief quotations used in Furthermore, one can be involved in supporting connection with a review in a magazine or newspaper. Christian think-tanks and special Christian Useful Link: www.canrc.org advocacy groups, working for political parties such as the federal CHP or, in Ontario, the Family Coalition Party. One can also seek to influence by working within an existing political party. Exactly IN THIS ISSUE how one works politically is a matter of personal conscience. South of the border, decades of hard work Editorial – Kingdom Citizens in Secular Canada by Christians to infiltrate the Republican Party have — C.Van Dam ...... 2 made a big impact on that country. Christian Politics, What Does it Involve? The bottom line for all of us is that we need to do — F.G. Oosterhoff ...... 4 our utmost to be involved in our country’s weal and woe and seek to make a difference as Reformed Political Apathy Is Not a ChristianVirtue believers. We also need to be aware that this is going —Tristan Emmanuel ...... 10 to be a long and tough battle. It is a life long Influencing for Good endeavour. So, let us as Christians persevere! — Ray Pennings ...... 13 As you read this issue of Clarion , may it stimulate and challenge you! May we as kingdom citizens Influencing Society for Good living in secular Canada never be justly accused of — Ron Gray ...... 22 apathy. May the Lord bless our efforts for the good of our country!

JANUARY 6, 2006 • 3 F.G. Oosterhoff

Christian Politics,

Dr. F.G. Oosterhoff is a historian living in Hamilton, Ontario. What Does it Involve?

Tonight and next week we easily lead us astray. After all, as nationally, so that even smaller speak about our calling as Reformed people of mainly Dutch parties have a chance of getting Christians in a secular society. descent we have been influenced representatives in Parliament. Among the topics to be discussed by the Dutch tradition, and one of The Canadian situation, then, are the causes of today’s the reasons why we have been discourages the type of political secularizing trend, the strategy we hesitant to get involved in politics involvement that is possible in The should follow in trying to stem that may well be this Dutch heritage. Netherlands. This does not mean, trend, and the best means of That is, we may still harbour the however, that the history of that organizing politically. With respect conviction that the only acceptable involvement should be ignored. We to the last issue, we would seem to political organization is with can learn from it with respect to have two options. One is to join a committed Christians, preferably strategy and organization, and also Christian political party, such as Reformed ones. with respect to the nature of the Christian Heritage Party; the Christian politics. That is, it can other is to do what many help us find an answer to the Christians south of the border are Those who ignore the question as to what truly Christian doing. It is to organize as a mistakes of the past run politics involves. For a century and Christian alliance and so attempt more, Reformed thinkers in to influence one of the mainline the risk of repeating them. Holland have attempted to parties. In the United States that is formulate biblical principles on the Republican Party. In Canada it these issues, and their work should would most likely be the The fact of the matter is, not be forgotten. In paying Conservatives. however, that the Dutch model attention to it we should note not does not really fit the Canadian Dutch Reformed politics only the positive insights and context. Canada lacks a tradition achievements, however, but also My presentation is meant as an of confessional parties; Christians the failures. After all, as an introduction to these discussions. here have generally voted for a American philosopher has It will not deal with Christian mainline party. Canada also has reminded us, those who ignore the politics in Canada as such, at no proportional representation. The mistakes of the past run the risk of least not directly. I will focus man or woman who gets the repeating them. instead on The Netherlands and on highest number of votes in a riding the way Reformed believers in that is elected; the votes that are cast Dutch “pillarization” country have tried to fulfil their for competing candidates are lost. – the first phase political calling. As long as Christians form a The history of Reformed politics The reason why this topic was minority in each of Canada’s 308 in Holland can be divided into two chosen is not that the Dutch model ridings, their votes are wasted phases. The first one began in the can serve as a blueprint for us here when cast for a separate party. late 1800s and lasted into the in Canada. This should be stressed This is unlike the Dutch system, second half of the twentieth at the start, for to ignore it can where votes are counted century. The second began after

4 • JANUARY 6, 2006 World War II and continues today, support, the two religious parties was clear that the old system of although there is evidence of agreed to the socialist demand pillars had had its day. decline. My main concern is with that all adult male citizens receive Secularization engulfed the this second phase, but to explain the right to vote. country, bringing with it an erasure its origins and character, What we have in these of religious and worldview something must be said about the developments is the start of a boundaries. first one as well. typically Dutch phenomenon, The second phase At the beginning of the first namely that of “pillarization” phase, the dominant power in The (Dutch: verzuiling ). This term refers There were exceptions to this Netherlands was the liberals. They to the organization of society into trend, however. Some Reformed controlled the government, the separate groups or pillars that are people continued to believe in the universities, the schools, and much distinguished by their worldviews. need of separate action in politics of the rest of society. Their rule did Each of the four pillars had its own and other areas. Prominent among not remain unopposed, however. media, its own socio-economic them were members of the There were three groups that organizations, its own radio- liberated Reformed churches. In challenged the liberal monopoly. broadcasting, and often even its 1948, well before the demise of the They were the orthodox own choral and sports groups. In Anti-Revolutionary Party (ARP), Protestants or Reformed, the addition, the religious pillars had these people broke with that party Roman Catholics, and the social- their separate schools, colleges, and established their own, the GPV democrats. Each of these had its and universities. All pillars were (Gereformeerd Politiek Verbond or own political party. The party of equal in the sight of the Reformed Political Alliance). the Reformed was the Anti- government and could, if certain Revolutionary one of Groen van conditions were met, count on Prinsterer and Abraham Kuyper. financial support – not only for the Political cooperation with schools but soon for other other Christians should associations and activities as well. Reformed believers built During the first half of the be possible. dividing walls against the century the system of pillars had a good deal of support from the world and against each Reformed and Roman Catholic There was more than one other. constituencies. The religious reason for the break. It took place parties often formed the four years after the church government. After World War II, liberation (or Vrijmaking ) of 1944, A big issue for both Reformed however, enthusiasm for and in the early years much stress and Roman Catholics was the pillarization declined. The was placed on the so-called ethical school system, which had become theology of Karl Barth played a role conflict between the liberated and increasingly secularized. here. People also remembered that the “synodicals.” Organizers of the Reformed and Roman Catholics in their resistance against Hitler new party argued that until the were allowed to establish their liberals, socialists, and injustice done to their group was own schools, but they had to pay communists had worked with admitted and the schism healed, for these themselves and at the Reformed and Roman Catholics. no political cooperation was same time help support the public Why, they asked, could this possible. They also raised system. The two groups got cooperation not continue in peace objections to the fact that the ARP together in an attempt to remove time? Increasingly people deserted was non-confessional and this injustice, and their their own pillar to vote for a interdenominational. A cooperation paid off. In 1917 a law “national party” – often a socialist confessional foundation (that is, a was passed that guaranteed full one. The Roman Catholic and foundation on the Three Forms of financial subsidy for separate Reformed parties withstood the Unity) had been avoided on schools. To ensure socialist trend for a while, but by the 1970s it principle, as unnecessary for

JANUARY 6, 2006 • 5 politics. The basis of the ARP was first representative to Parliament, Federatie ). This factor, combined simply the confession of God’s and eventually even a second seat with other developments to which sovereignty and the authority of was won. By the 1970s and ‘80s, I will give attention later, the Bible. In practice this meant when the old ARP disappeared convinced GPV leaders that that Christians could become party from the scene, its successor was interdenominational cooperation members regardless of church well established. was necessary if the Reformed affiliation, including (for example) Also well established by this voice was to be heard at all. In the Baptists. The founders of the GPV, time was the new phase of 1980s the two Reformed parties on the other hand, believed that a pillarization in The Netherlands. began to support each other’s truly Christian political party Although it was on a much smaller candidates and in 2000 they finally should be based on the Reformed scale than before, there were close united, under the name confessions. They further rejected resemblances. As during the first Christenunie . This type of any kind of phase, divisions were drawn in departure from the vrijgemaakte interdenominationalism and held practically all areas of life. In tradition of pillarization took place that their party should consist of addition to their separate political not only in politics but in other members of the liberated churches party, members of the liberated areas as well. The Reformed daily only. And so the GPV denied churches had their own newspaper, for example, also membership to people of other newspaper, their own socio- loosened its ties to the liberated churches, no matter how orthodox economic organizations, their own community and allowed as editors and how sympathetic to its elementary and secondary schools, members from elsewhere. Attempts political program. colleges, institutions of care, and for union with other Reformed This was a radical departure so on. A striking difference with the churches were also intensified. from tradition and threatened to first phase was that the lines of restrict the new party’s outreach separation were drawn not only Divisions quite drastically. Not nearly with respect to the world, but also The departure from liberated- everybody therefore agreed with with respect to other Christians. Reformed isolationism has been the approach. K. Schilder was Reformed believers built dividing met with relief by a good number among those who warned against walls against the world and of church people, but there are also it, arguing that by establishing against each other. many opponents. In fact, the new their own separate party the approach has played a role in yet liberated churches would another schism, the so-called “new marginalize themselves and be These organizations are liberation,” which so far has unable to influence politics. attracted some 1250 members. But Schilder eventually broke with the important as means of these secessionists are not alone in ARP (in 1949), but he never joined preparing believers for their protest. The divisions run the GPV. through the churches. That party’s existence during their task in the world. The arguments that are the first years was precarious. marshalled on either side are of Many church members continued interest, and I will give an to reject a political break. After the This continued for some years, overview of the deliberations. We schism of the 1960s, however, when but in the end opposition to a begin with those who oppose some 30,000 members left the radically exclusivist approach amalgamation. I already touched liberated churches, attitudes revived and gained in strength. In upon their arguments, so that I can changed. For a while the churches the l970s non-liberated Reformed be brief. Firstly, these people reject would present a more united front, people who had supported the Abraham Kuyper’s theories of a in politics as in other matters, and GPV but were refused membership visible and invisible church and of the new party began to flourish. In established their own party, the the pluriformity of the church. 1963 it had been able to send its RPF ( Reformatorische Politieke Referring to Articles 27 through 29

6 • JANUARY 6, 2006 of the Belgic Confession, they interdenominationalism per se was infant baptism, should have any conclude that there can be only one seen as a heresy. Before 1944 bearing on politics. Douma admits true church in any location. Other Reformed theologians, including that participation would be churches are by definition false, men like K. Schilder and B. impossible if a political party and any sort of cooperation with Holwerda, saw no problem should ask us to deny our them is out of the question. Even whatsoever in cooperating with confessions. But if this is not the the willingness by their members other Christians in a variety of case, he asks, why should we to subscribe to the Three Forms of areas, including politics and the refuse to work with others for the Unity is insufficient, since their schools. As we have seen, even good of the nation? refusal to join the true church after 1944 Schilder believed that I may add here that the shows that in practice they fail to political cooperation with other legitimacy of working with others honour the confessions. Christians should be possible. was at least tacitly admitted within Another argument, connected the liberated churches. When with the first, is that life is one, that necessary to get government church membership comes before We are members of society, subsidy, they did and do cooperate all else, and that it therefore must with other Reformed groups, for determine one’s activities in all share in its guilt, and example in establishing areas of life, including politics. If must work for its peace institutions of care. In other areas, this means that one’s outreach such as the fight against abortion, remains limited, so be it. and welfare. there is cooperation even with Christians must obey the command Roman Catholics. and leave the outcome to God. The advocates of amalgamation Neither did these theologians also justify their position with The other side insist that all such cooperation practical arguments. They point, The other group, the one that must be based on the Reformed for example, to the decline in the favours amalgamation, accuses its confessions. There was number of GPV supporters in opponents of theological one- widespread agreement with the recent years. A new generation has sidedness. While admitting that view of Herman Bavinck, who had arisen that does not see the issues one can raise objections to said that the extent to which the of 1944 as politically relevant and Kuyper’s theory of the church, these confessions have to play a role that demands cooperation with people disagree with the idea that depends on the field of other committed Christians. It does we cannot speak at all of the engagement. Bavinck so at a time when the urgency for invisible church, or that there can distinguished four areas, namely such cooperation becomes more be only one true church in any evangelism, the work of charity, and more evident. An early location. J. Douma, professor education, and politics. With warning sign was the introduction, emeritus of the theological respect to evangelism, he said, in 1981, of the concept law for equal university in Kampen, has shown cooperation between people who treatment; a law that could make it that this idea is of recent origin did not adhere to the same possible, it was feared, that and was taught neither by John confessions and were not members Reformed schools would be forced Calvin nor by the author of the of the same church was virtually to hire homosexual teachers. Belgic Confession, Guido de Brès. impossible. The objections were Issues like same-sex marriage and Douma and others also question not as strong, however, in the case the legalization of abortion and the idea that the ecclesiastical of education and work of charity, euthanasia became additional divisions among Christians must and even less so in politics. Douma reasons to seek political lead to separation in all areas. is among those who agree with this cooperation with fellow-believers. They point out that that conclusion view. He asks opponents to explain So did European integration and also was not drawn in the past. It why confessional statements about the desire to have a Christian voice was only after the Vrijmaking that the church, for example, or about in the European Parliament.

JANUARY 6, 2006 • 7 Drawbacks of pillaring tradition, he points out, had as goal But in making use of that the re-christianizing of the nation, means, we must be aware of Those favouring amalgamation and used as means the establishing potential dangers. My study of have offered reasons of a different Dutch pillarization in particular nature as well. Their reasons of separate organizations. The concern not only cooperation with means succeeded very well but the and of Christian political activity fellow-believers but the legitimacy goal was not reached. The result of in general suggests to me that we of Christian organization as such. pillarization has all too often been should guard especially against The question is being asked, for to protect one’s own Christian group the following drawbacks or pitfalls: example, if the practice of rather than to offer help to a world pillarization has not been counter- in need. Indeed, the fortress 1. Believing that our political productive. Douma mentions an mentality has been so strong that cooperation must necessarily article by evangelical author one no longer knew even one’s be restricted to members of our Oliver R. Barclay, who sharply fellow-believers in other churches. own churches or confessional criticizes the Dutch tradition of There is considerable irony circles. I think we should keep pillarization. Barclay argues that here. The reason why Reformed in mind Dr. Bavinck’s arguments the system of separate Christian people engage in politics is their on this point, as well as organizations has contributed to confession that all of life belongs Reformed practice in The 1 the rapid pace of secularization in to Christ. A separatist, Anabaptist Netherlands before 1944. The Netherlands. It is among the kind of isolationism from society is reasons, he believes, why the level therefore out of the question; yet 2. Withdrawing into our own of public morality in that country is the history of Reformed politics in organizations and neglecting lower than in other parts of Europe The Netherlands shows that the needs of society. I am where Christians have continued pillarization can in practice lead to referring here to Oliver to work in mixed organizations. such isolationism. Barclay’s charge that by circling the wagons Dutch Christians Although Douma rejects the Conclusion idea that we should get rid of our have failed in their Christian organizations, he admits In my brief (and admittedly responsibility toward society that an important point has very incomplete) description of and so contributed to its rapid nevertheless been made. Reformed politics in The moral decline. Although Christians are a salt and a light in Netherlands I have drawn quite a Canada does not lend itself to the world. They are not to hoard the bit of attention to the mistakes the type of pillarization that salt for themselves and shine the that can be made when as existed in The Netherlands, the light only within their own circle Christians we become politically danger of forgetting that we are and their own organizations. These involved. I did not do so to a salt and a light for the world organizations are important as discourage Christian political confronts us as well. To the means of preparing believers for outreach, which I am convinced is extent that they ignore this their task in the world. They necessary. We are members of danger, Christians are indeed become a stumbling block and a society, share in its guilt, and must not only among the victims of liability, however, if they serve as work for its peace and welfare. secularization, but also among fortresses that Christians erect for Concretely this means that we are its causes. their own protection and benefit. to remind rulers and subjects of Gerrit J. Schutte, leader of the God’s sovereignty over all of life, 3. Misunderstanding the nature of GPV in its final years, agrees that and of the requirement to honour our political task. The political the danger of which Barclay and his laws. Organized political duty of Christians is not to Douma speak is a real one. action can be an important means safeguard their own particular Pillarization in the Reformed to fulfil this task. group, nor is it to declare

8 • JANUARY 6, 2006 warfare on the rest of society course, organization is 1 Groen van Prinsterer’s well-known and act as one of many special important. The truth that God’s slogan “In our isolation lies our interest groups, fostering an “us laws are laws of life must be 2 strength” has been used in support of versus them” mentality. To proclaimed as widely as the idea that church and political repeat what I said before, our possible, and political political task is to promote the organization is a means of party should coincide, but wrongly so. peace and well-being of society. doing that. But if the truth must For Groen (who stayed with the state We fulfil it by reminding rulers be proclaimed , it must also be church, rather than joining the and subjects that a turning demonstrated . This means that Reformed), isolation meant away from the biblical moral it must be modelled in the steadfastness in adherence to biblical code is to court disaster. Social daily life of Christians. Deeds principles. He specifically rejected the well-being depends on speak louder than words. In idea that it referred to seclusion and obedience to God’s laws, which the words of an evangelical ‘political cloistering.’ See on this are laws of life and therefore point J. Kamphuis, Evangelisch the best possible ones for all author, “The Kingdom of God is people. This must be the best spread, not when we force isolement (Vuurbaak, 1976), pp. 9f, 44. primary political message. its ethics on others, but when we demonstrate through tender 2 Evangelical author John MacArthur 4. Failing to realize that that care for our own and our warns against the danger, which he message must be delivered neighbor what the gospel looks notices especially among American wisely, intelligently, and with like.” 3 And that neighbour, Christians, of seeing secular society an expert understanding of the incidentally, may be a militant as the enemy and of following the issues involved. If we want to homosexual or an abortionist. strategy of unbelievers, resorting to have a voice in the courts of the The time may come that a life aggressive lobbying, intimidation, nation we had better know what of modelling the truth of the and confrontation. Society, he writes, we are doing, or else our efforts gospel is the only means left to is our mission field, not our enemy, will have only a negative effect us to fulfill our political task. and the Christian’s task with respect and become a source of Such a situation would not be to society therefore consists not in embarrassment and ridicule. unprecedented. It existed in warfare but in faithful prayer, godly On this point, I may add, we can the early church and it still living, and diligent evangelism. John learn something positive from exists today, namely in MacArthur, Why Government Can’t the current Dutch Reformed countries where there is no tradition. In spite of their small Save You: An Alternative to Political freedom of speech, association, size, the GPV, and now the and religion. Activism (World, 2000). On the same Christenunie, are highly topic see also American evangelical regarded in The Netherlands by In Canada, however, we still have author Michael S. Horton, Beyond both friend and foe for their Culture Wars (Moody Press, 1994). hard work, their expertise, and these freedoms, and political Horton affirms the Christian’s political also for their compassionate engagement in the customary calling, but warns against a political approach. This began with the sense of the term remains possible. first representative, P. We should make use of that approach by Christians that may Jongeling, and continues today. opportunity, all the while helping adversely affect the advancement of each other to find the criteria for God’s Kingdom. 5. Looking at organization as the truly Christian politics. I hope that be-all and end-all of the this conference will contribute 3 Darrel Bock in Christianity Today, Christian political life. Of towards that end. September 2005, p. 87.

JANUARY 6, 2006 • 9 Speech Summary Speech by Tristan Emmanuel Summarized by Herman Faber

Rev. Emmanuel is the Political Apathy Is Not Executive Director of the ECP Centre (Equipping Christians for the Public Square – www.ecpcenter.org ). a Christian Virtue

Introduction king: to recognize himself a the confession that Christ is the minister of God in governing Messiah was in direct opposition to How is it that our culture (the his kingdom. 1 the Sanhedrin’s authority and the West in a general sense) has come What was in dispute was not the claims of King Herod. to abandon the principle of “public king’s authority in these matters or theism” for a “public agnosticism”? Things have radically changed the fact that politics was a proper The answer, unfortunately, is not in our day however. Today we have domain for religion. It was simply a flattering. It is my contention that serious debates as to whether or question of which faith to defend. secularism is a by-product of not we can participate in rallies or The early church was equally Christian apathy. protests and whether or not we aware of the principle of “public Historically, Christendom should even speak out against theism.” To be a Christian in that represented the holistic integration Caesar’s claims to provide day of state rule and Caesar universal and material salvation between Christian religion and the worship, a disciple and follower of various spheres of human for its citizens – acting beyond what Christ (Acts 11:26) had to confess is its divinely mandated mission: to existence both in private and very publicly that Jesus Christ is public. It was rooted in the belief defend the innocent and punish the the Saviour, Messiah, and Lord. All evil doer (Rom 13:1-6). What has that God governed all of life, three titles violently challenged caused this change? private and public, spiritual and Rome’s preoccupation with it own I suggest three factors which secular. It is precisely for this cultural humanism. It was contributed to the disengagement reason that Calvin appealed to the precisely for these public “faith” of Christians in public life. First is King of France, in hopes of commitments that the early church the general abandonment of persuading him to consider the suffered so grievously. culture and history in the wake of truthfulness of the Protestant faith Moreover, the Jewish ethos was and, in turn, to defend it: equally challenged. When Christ Darwinism – what I call the “As It will then be for you, most declared Himself to be the only the West goes, so goes serene King, not to close your true Messiah – a Jewish reference Christianity” fallacy. Second, ears or your mind to such just to the anointed office of the seat of Christians have conceded the defense, especially when a very King David (also referred to as ground of “objectivity” to great question is at stake: how “Anointed One”) – Christ was secularism in the area of political God’s glory may be kept safe on challenging the stated theology of social-theory. I call it the “myth of earth, how God’s truth may the Jews, who had appointed the neutrality.” Third, there is the retain its place of honor, how Sanhedrin as their body politic. It ontological elevation of the state – Christ’s Kingdom may be kept is important to appreciate that the political positivistic fallacy in good repair among us. Christ was not betrayed and prevalent with many pacifists and Worthy indeed is this matter of handed over to the Romans pietistic Calvinist circles. All three your hearing, worthy of your because of the miracles He did, but factors have contributed to the cognizance, worthy of your because the Jewish hierarchy advancement of secularism in royal throne! Indeed, this viewed Him as a threat to their Western culture generally and consideration makes a true public control of the people. Thus, Canadian culture specifically.

10 • JANUARY 6, 2006 1. Abandonment of culture and generation before Christ returns, but might. Might, you see, is what history and if so, what should our priorities makes right. And secularists know The change from a cultural be, politics or evangelism? this better then anyone else, principle of “public theism” to This paradigm (as the West although they strenuously deny it. “public agnosticism” rests with the goes, so goes Christianity) became church. On the general level it is popular among Evangelicals with the church’s anti-intellectualism Francis Schaeffer. Of course there Christians have adopted a coupled with a preoccupation with have been others before him “end times” that that has helped to promoting a specific separation of state and advance and institutionalize eschatological school, but religion, for the sake of secularism. Schaeffer popularized it. Books with titles like: The Late Great equal treatment for all, Plant Earth; 88 Reasons Why Christ allowing secularism to Are we the last generation Will Come Back In 88; and Are We before Christ returns, and Living In the End Times? all creep further. warned of the impending end of if so, what should our the West and of the end of world priorities be, politics or history. The unstated (and Gay marriage is right not because sometimes not so unstated) it is a human right but because evangelism? assumption was (and still is), secularists have the political “if Christianity is in decline here in power right now to make it so. But the West, then that must mean that mark my words, as time moves Instead of endeavouring in God is done with world history and forward so will public opinion, and society, competing for a consistent Jesus’ return is just around the public views change. In that Christian view of knowledge that corner.” And so the conservative different time different didn’t separate reason from faith, church community implicitly fell interpretations of human rights Christians abandoned the back on first principles – let’s tell will emerge, and we will see that academy and therefore abandoned people about Jesus, so they the secularist-homosexual agenda society, law, media, the arts and get saved. is ultimately rooted in the shifting entertainment, and, yes, politics. 2. Conceding objectivity to sands of public opinion – because Pious believers instead turned to secularism human rights in a secular world spiritual pursuits –missions, Bible are ultimately not absolute. study, and prayer. The idea that is being Western academics quickly promoted here is that “true 3. The elevation of the state began to integrate Darwinian freedom” necessitates a religious Finally, there is the political cosmology (i.e. the survival of the negation as far as the state is “positivist” view of the state, which fittest) with a scientific social concerned, as though freedom can simply means that Christians have theory. The liberal academy hailed exist without the imposition of adopted a view of acquiescence a new order of progress whereby morality. Christians have also with, if not acceptance of, the state science, economics, and political adopted a separation of state and even when it is going against social theory would finalize human religion, for the sake of equal God’s moral order. Evangelical evolutionary development. treatment for all, allowing Christians such as John MacArthur Further, the fact is that the secularism to creep further. base their acceptance of such a world wars, the Cold War, and now “All truth is relative,” we are state in particular on Romans 13. the rise of secular hedonism have repeatedly told. “No one can Unfortunately, Romans 13 has radically affected the outlook of the interpret reality independent of the been the subject of countless Christian community when it particular culture and ethical exegetical and interpretive comes to the doctrine of the “end context,” it is asserted, except distortions that have helped to times.” As a result of the dark secularism, because it is based on entrench a passive approach forces at play in the West, the objectivity and the denial of the towards political engagement church has become obsessed with religious drive. among many Christians. The the question: “is our time, the time In such a world, then, it isn’t common thread among these of the end?” Are we the last truth which establishes the “truth,” interpretations is the premise that

JANUARY 6, 2006 • 11 Paul is teaching Christians that the government is to rebel against In conclusion they must remain respectful, or protest God. However, the Christians have wittingly or submissive, and patriotic even problem with this position is that it unwittingly contributed to the when the government is wicked, falsely attributes “value-laden” advance of secularism. because it “is” a minister substantive – the verb “is” – By way of the general rejection of God. qualities or characteristics that are of reason, science, and the One argument is that when personal and specific, rather than academy, the concession that Paul wrote the epistle of Romans corporate and general. Paul uses secularism is capable of rendering Nero was emperor of Rome. The this same idea with respect to objective moral judgments, to the historical significance of Nero’s ministers in 2 Corinthians 4:1-2. erroneous elevation of the state, reign was that Nero’s reputation Here ministers are said not to be Christianity has removed itself without dispute was that of a perverting the Word of God. He is from the public sphere. While the wicked, cruel, and evil tyrant. This saying that to be a member of this discussion has been general, I significant bit of social contextual class of people obligates one to hope it has painted a picture of information is very important to fulfill the identified duties Christian apathy – an indifference keep in mind with regard to Paul’s pertinent to the class. to society, time, moral-judgments, assertion that Christians must be and the rightful place of the state – willing to support even the most which has contributed to the rise of evil of tyrants. However, no one Christianity has secularism in our world more than can know for certain whether Paul any other dynamic. had Nero in mind when he wrote removed itself from the this chapter, and therefore it public sphere. 1 John Calvin, Institutes of the should not play such a significant Christian Religion: In Two Volumes, role in determining its actual ed. John T. McNeil and trans., Ford meaning. Clearly there is much more to Lewis Battles (Philadelphia, PA: The Another argument is that the this debate and many concerns are Westminster Press), p. 11-12. In fact, it was for precisely this reason that passage clearly establishes that not doubt left unanswered. But this the English Parliament called for the the government, irrespective of this discussion is enough to show that Westminster Assembly to draft a moral nobility or faith commitment our particular theology of the state confession of faith that the to God, “is” the “minister of God.” can encourage a political apathy, Parliament of England and the Thus to rebel against or to protest when no such basis exists. Crown would defend.

Introducing the Organizer

The sponsor and organizer of the speeches in this issue of Clarion was the Burlington Reformed Study Centre. Established in 1991, this Centre has promoted Reformed, biblical thinking and living by organizing meetings and sponsoring speakers, seminars, and panel discussions on relevant topics to which the entire Reformed community is invited. These meetings are usually held in the fall. The Centre also publishes selective events. In this way, the Centre wishes to make a contribution to equip the saints for their task in church and society. The publications of the Centre are, in order of publication: C. Van Dam, ed., The Challenge of Church Union (1991) J. Mulder, ed., Marriage and the Family (1996) J. Mulder, ed., The Challenge of Being Reformed Today (1999) C. Van Dam, ed., Tinkering With Creation: the Promise and Perils of Genetic Engineering (2002) C. Van Dam and K. Kottelenberg-Alkema, eds., Work and Leisure (2004) All these titles are available from Premier Printing. For more information, or to suggest topics and speakers for presentations, write to: [email protected]

12 • JANUARY 6, 2006 Ray Pennings Influencing for Good Ray Pennings isVice-President, Research ofWork Research Foundation (http://wrf.ca )

Introduction In no way do I mean with any of are questions of prudence and what follows to diminish the tactics, not principle. Winston Churchill reportedly I will try to be as direct as I can once said that party democracy is important truths reflected by these tonight, trusting that you realize the worst form of government familiar statements. I understand except for all of the others. the assignment given by the that in almost every case, the Reflecting on the questions organizers to dig beyond these answer requires nuance and provided by the organizers of this familiar and safe answers, with qualification. Wisdom in this evening in their kind invitation for which everyone in this room will matter includes taking account of me to address this meeting, I could presumably agree, and examine the circumstances, and when asked not help but wonder, “How would our strategy and experience what one should do faced with a we respond to these questions if relating to public life involvement particular challenge, the answer is we asked them in the context of under a more probing lens. Is the almost always “It depends on. . . .” Winston Churchill, World War II, Christian community being good My intention is neither to debate and the stark issues confronting stewards of the opportunity for those who differ nor to present my Christian citizens in that time? influence which God in his present understandings as the Would we still regard Churchill providence has provided us in this “right” answer, implying that those with the same respect as I sense society? Are we being “wise as who come to different conclusions are therefore necessarily wrong. I most of us do today? Would we serpents and innocent as doves” as can readily understand how have been active supporters of we go out into the political arena? Christians can responsibly come to his leadership?” When we face opposition or defeat, different, and sometimes seemingly Many of the questions we will is it because we have been resisted opposite, conclusions on some of deal with tonight challenge us to by those who are hostile to the these issues. As I will outline, I reflect on “safe lines” that we – and I gospel, or are we sometimes as view some of these questions quite include myself – have used for many “stupid as pigeons and poisonous differently than I once did and as I years to rationalize the lack of as snakes” in our political efforts? political influence which Christians noted in a published essay related appear to have in Canada today. to these matters last year, my These include lines such as: understanding of these issues • God calls us to obedience, not Retreating into the safe reflects a journey. I can share success. sanctuary of church life some lessons I have learned to • Our involvement and presence date, although I by no means am in the political arena provides never seemed a certain that I have arrived at an opportunity to be a Christian satisfactory answer. the destination. example. I have divided my talk into three • We always need to be ready to distinct parts. First I will provide provide reason of the hope that These are stark questions and something of an autobiographical is in us; even while politically are more difficult to responsibly sketch, walking you through some involved, confessing God before answer than they first appear. I of the significant lessons that I men, letting his Word guide our presume that we are basically have learned during my twenty-five thinking, and letting our agreed in our basic understanding years as a Christian activist in neighbours know of their need of scriptural teaching as to why public life. In the second part, I will of Christ remain priorities for Christians ought to be engaged in identify a few of the critical a Christian. public life. The questions before us questions and strategic priorities

JANUARY 6, 2006 • 13 which in my mind are among the objective, he wins hands-down. sense. I was convinced that there most important questions the Today, he serves as a ranking was a silent majority out there who, Christian community needs to Liberal insider with a senior if they only knew what was going wrestle with if we are to be an position on the Prime Minister’s on, would en masse march to the influence for good. In the final part, campaign team.) My lessons were ballot boxes and use their X’s as a and it will be the briefest as I will less career-advancing. I quickly weapon of mass protection. already have made my major learned enough about the system to My five years of CHP points by this time, I will in “rapid- know that living in it would involvement also provided many fire” manner work through the challenge my Christian walk. lessons. My first responsibilities questions originally presented and were internal, as the party was directly respond to them. focused on recruiting members and I fully understand given the Our problem is a culture building organizational capacity. I nature of this assignment that it recall some disillusionment as I will be impossible for any of us to in which mediocrity and realized that for many confessing leave the stage with everyone in hedonism shapes the lives Christians, the politics of earthly the audience fully agreeing with cities really didn’t matter, since all that was said. I do, however, of the citizens. their heavenly citizenship took up hope that even those who disagree all of their available political time. will acknowledge that “at least he This world was going to burn honestly answered the questions,” At the same time, however, it anyway, so why bother? Others which given prevailing political seemed that at least part of the were willing to be engaged, but behaviours in Canada, may in reason the system was that way only using spiritual weaponry. itself be an identifiable Christian was because too many Christians Those of us who advocated using contribution to public life. were taking the easy way out and the sophisticated weaponry that is leaving a vacuum for others to fill . I part of contemporary political 1. Learning from the journey remember having a sense of warfare were by definition less I celebrated the twenty-fifth helpless urgency, since there were spiritual, less faithful, and anniversary of active engagement a bunch of bad guys engaged in therefore not really to be trusted. in public life last December. The politics who had an evil agenda of Although these challenges were occasion was the fall of the militant secularization but too few evident from the outset, we minority Progressive Conservative Christians seemed to pay attention soldiered on, inspired by Gideon’s government led by Joe Clark over a to even notice, much less story that perhaps God would use proposed deficit-reducing gasoline effectively resist them. My first our comparative few to defeat the tax. I remember the debate in our five years of political activity were enemy. After five years, a good grade eight classroom well. “I a time of confusion, learning the dose of human sin and weakness want to drive a car when I get ins and outs of political battle combined with the reality of older” was the critique of my alongside some skilled Christian political diversity to Liberal-sympathetic classmate. electioneers, and to be perfectly become a landmine that ultimately “But I want a country to drive a car candid, a wonderful time of blew up inside of the CHP camp. in,” was my response. “Besides, it’s exhilarating fun. I say with some A crucial lesson learned during unfair and even immoral for us to regret that I although I looked for this period was the difference have to pay the bills being racked one, I did not find a mature between power and influence. My up by adults today.” Christian mentor involved in early apprenticeship in It wasn’t very nuanced, but a politics anytime during those mainstream political parties grade eight world is pretty black teenage years of Progressive focused on winning elections and and white. Both my classmate and I Conservative involvement. attaining power. Policies were a launched apprenticeships of active These teenaged conclusions tool in the battle. They were involvement in campaigns, made me a ripe candidate for proprietary and were to be attendance at party conventions, involving myself in the formation of protected lest the enemy steal your and ongoing friendly quarrels. (If the Christian Heritage Party (CHP) good ideas and implement them as political influence was the in the late eighties. It made so much if they were their own.

14 • JANUARY 6, 2006 In the CHP, it was different. The next major phase of my In the process of learning about Politics 101 told me that in a first- journey was in the labour relations the interconnectedness of the past-the-post election system, the arena, where I worked for eleven political and labour spheres, I CHP could never hope for more years as the public affairs director came to appreciate that sorting than the occasional seat here or for the Christian Labour through the knots required there. The political objective was to Association of Canada. It was in unraveling strings that had their force other parties to pay attention this phase that I came to the source in other spheres. The to our issues. I don’t remember how seemingly contradictory conclusion organizational culture of the the insight came but I remember that politics was at the same time business, the maturity (or in some repeatedly using the NDP as a both more important and less cases the immaturity) of the model in my CHP promotional important than I had previously relevant industry association, and speeches. I argued that if one assumed. Change – significant the specific characteristics of the reviews the policies advocated by change that touched people’s lives client group served often needed to the NDP at their formation in 1961, and made a difference in how they be understood and accounted for if and looked at public life today, one lived and thought – could be the challenge of the day was to be could only conclude they had been accomplished through other solved. I might have known this successful since most of what they institutions like a labour union, and stuff had I read about the enkaptic had advocated had been put into in a manner that was quite characteristic of the spheres from place in spite of their never having oblivious to the political goings on people like Kuyper and won a national election. With that captivate junkies like me. Dooyeweerd, but being raised Free wisdom and sound strategy, I Reformed, these authors were not on the reading list as some of their argued, Christians could do the There is a “my-life-is-my- other ideas were controversial. So, same. Remembering the challenge I learned the validity of some of that the CHP had then – and still business” mindset which this theory through experience. has today – of getting the media to is too prevalent among On more than one occasion I pay any attention to it, I can still wondered whether the overall feel the frustration I felt when a church members. objective of influencing the CHP meeting in Guelph received ordering of public life to glorify coverage under a prominent Still, there were limits. When a God was a hopelessly naïve and heading “NDP Most Successful government like the one which futile prospect. Maybe those who Political Party.” The issue of media held power in BC in 1997 decided to isolated themselves from the bias never changes, but that is a solve certain industry problems world, devoting themselves topic for another night. through policies that would reward exclusively to Bible study and It is clear to me in retrospect their friends and put independent evangelism, were being better that our efforts in those times unions like CLAC virtually out of stewards of their resources. A were premised on the belief that existence, the only options that troika of temptations seem to water if properly confronted with the could make a difference were down the effectiveness of Christian right questions, there was in political options. Good labour public witness. The pragmatic society a “silent majority” – relations may improve the working temptation rationalizes whether motivated by explicitly environment in a given nursing compromise and silences Christian or other beliefs – that home, but the health policies and conscience tugs with tactical might be educated and mobilized. funding provisions provided by explanations. The belonging While I never bought into the governments were real limits to temptation causes one to downplay populism that was current in the what might be done. Legislation external piety in order to better “fit nineties – some things are true that determines the circumstances in,” all of course in the cause of and need to be stood up for in which one might join, or leave, a using this resulting relationship whether the majority agrees or union makes a world of difference influence for good. The mental not – the CHP model of influence to people working in that industry, laziness temptation adopts the is premised on a grassroots view even those who never contemplate solutions conceived in secular of changing society. joining a union. policy houses, dresses them up

JANUARY 6, 2006 • 15 with a few proof texts and pious and the effective support we were concerned about were put up to a principles, and baptizes them as able to organize from the national referendum, we would the Christian solution to the community at large, but especially lose on most issues. 2) There is a problem. the Christian community, was to significant proportion of the Still, retreating into the safe attract the attention of political population that does share our sanctuary of church life never organizers at a higher level. We concerns, but their voice isn’t seemed a satisfactory answer. were able to leverage this into proportionately considered in the Pragmatism, inconsistency, and a playing a role in support of a tax national discussion. 3) The reasons lack of intellectual rigour are on credit for independent schools for our lack of proportionate display inside, as well as outside, without strings attached, influence have as much to do with the church. Besides, to abandon something that would have our internal divisions and inability any attempts to influence public significantly enhanced parental to communicate a clear message life only because the challenge is choice in education. Unfortunately, as they do with a secular hostility difficult seemed like the behaviour even after making progress in that to our message, although that is of the man in the parable who battle and seeing the tax credit certainly a factor as well. buried his talent. God expects a implemented into law, the last My present thinking about return on what He has given us election saw it removed. political strategy has been and certainly the institutions of influenced by interaction with Dr. public life are part of the creation which must be replenished and Politics will follow, not James Davison Hunter, a professor stewarded. lead the change. at the University of Virginia whom Throughout my CLAC decade I WRF has brought to Canada for continued to dabble (in my several speeches, and probably personal time) in politics, taking up Now, after over two decades in best known for his book Culture the cause for candidates and the practitioner trenches, my Wars. His argument, in a nutshell, issues that seemed worthy. I honed current assignment involves is twofold. Ideas that have cultural my skills in the political combative working with a think tank, the impact are advanced through the arts such that my son, who is now Work Research Foundation (WRF). core institutions of society to the the age I was when I began my It is a different approach to dealing periphery. They also are advanced apprenticeship, marvels at my with public life. Rather than through an intersecting network of ability to pick causes that seem getting involved in partisan leaders in various spheres and not like long-shots, and finishing in political activities and being by any one institution on its own. second place (which, he reminds considered by those who hold 2. Key strategic questions me, is still losing). I worked as a office as competitors and political This brings me to the second campaign manager for a Christian adversaries, we are seeking to part of my talk – identifying some candidate in 1997. After that advance our arguments through of the core questions and strategic election I was inactive until the position papers, research reports, priorities that we face. Alliance leadership campaign of media articles, and a journal and 2000 when I joined in support of encourage politicians and other Hunter’s thesis has challenged Stockwell Day. I was recruited to be opinion leaders to deal with our my core assumptions. If changing a candidate in the 2000 election arguments. Our mission statement the world matters – and I am and I was reminded of another states our objective clearly: to theologically convinced that it reality of the first-past-the-post influence others to a Christian does – and if it is a sociological system and party politics in view of work and public life. fact that cultural change is driven Canada. What you do locally So what have I learned during from the top down, not through doesn’t really matter – it is the these twenty years of public life grass-roots movements of activism, party, national campaign, and involvement? 1) Canada as a then the network is equally if not national media coverage that whole does not share the more important than the influences Canadian voter perspectives I suspect are institution. Political parties, while decisions. The only impact that the generally held in this room, and if being part of the answer, are much effectiveness of our local campaign the various issues we are less a part of the answer than I

16 • JANUARY 6, 2006 once thought they were. They are general are apathetic and institutions involved in the public simply tools in the process. hedonistic (using its literal square also play important roles. As I survey the current political pleasure-seeking definition), and The public square really cannot scene, I must confess to having a as such are generally satisfied to thrive without any of them. far more utilitarian view of live in the culture as it is without Churches must practice public political parties and organizations seeking to effect cultural renewal. theology – regaining a central than I ever had before. Our place on the public square by problems are not political parties, proclaiming the meaning of the lobby groups, or think tanks that Christians must be gospel for the common good. are active in the public square. Our involved in diverse spheres. Vibrant churches with biblical and problem is a culture in which confessional grit, sacramental heft, mediocrity and hedonism shapes and serious moral discipleship are the lives of the citizens. And by There is a “my-life-is-my- central to any cultural strategy. this, I do not just mean the fact that business” mindset which is too If the essential question before so many people are evidently not prevalent among church members. us tonight boils down to: “What saved and do not lead Christian Secular notions of authority and strategy would be best to achieve lives. Even among those who community have infiltrated the an effective Christian presence in confess Christ, go to church, and church. When churches back off the public square?” the answer even explicitly seek to do politics their confessions in an attempt to starts with a vital prerequisite out of a Christian framework, there avoid controversy, when the condition that must be met. There is a prevailing attitude of authority of ordained church can be no Christian presence in the consumerism and mediocrity. So leaders is ignored by church public square, no matter what why should we expect government members and a blind eye is turned strategy we employ and how to look any different? I don’t like it. to lifestyles that flagrantly vigorously we pursue it, if there is I believe our society is on a path contradict what the church stands no Christian presence in society. It towards spiritual – and with it for, when the sacraments are starts, of course, within our inevitably legal and social – debased and any transcendent churches, but it extends outside of suicide. But it doesn’t do us any significance lost, then those the safe confines of the sanctuary. good to deny the realities of our outside the church have no way of Are we prepared to be known and present environment. identifying who the church is, held to account as Christians by I need to expand a bit on this much less any reason to pay our neighbours and co-workers? Do admittedly stark observation attention to what is said in the others know that we are salty, not regarding the Christian church’s name. because they see us attend the salt community. It is more prevalent for shaker, but because they taste the Christians to consider themselves Let the church be church salty flavours whenever we are victims of social trends. The It used to be that the church sat involved in a business, a decline of society is something that on the main street of each town, community group, a sports team, or we have observed as something with its steeple the highest point. a cultural event? “You are the salt that has happened “out there”; Even those who never set foot in its of the earth, but if salt has lost its something that happens to us as a door were reminded of its taste, how shall its saltiness be community. I want to respectfully presence, even if they chose to restored? It is no longer good for suggest that the place to start is for ignore everything beyond the here anything except to be thrown out the Christian community to take its and now. Vibrant churches, while a and trampled under people’s feet” share of the responsibility. I would necessary prerequisite, are by no (Matt 5:13). argue that this is as much means a guarantee of a Christian This central point – let the something that has happened by voice in the public square. The church be church, not only within us as it has happened to us. lessons of history painfully remind her walls, but also in society – is It is a sweeping generalization us that some of the most anti- an essential, and I would argue an to be sure, and there are many Christian, destructive agendas overlooked, piece of a discussion exceptions, but it needs to be said. have advanced while religious life regarding Christian public North American Christians in appeared to be thriving. The other influence.

JANUARY 6, 2006 • 17 Pre-requisites are important but trade agreements and alliances, since I agree with Churchill’s only start the conversation. I and court-driven approaches to comment that that party democracy understand the demands and public policy conspire to limit the is the worst system except for all of challenges that church and family available choices of our elected the others, I am not going to obligations place on each of us. I representatives. If everyone in this advocate that we change the too have served in consistory, on room was elected to Parliament system. The logical consequence the school board, attend Bible tomorrow and for the next four then, is to argue that it is not study, and actively participate in years we tried to do everything we politics, but society that needs the life of the church. But to those could to implement a platform that transformation. We need to think of who say “that is all that I have time we all felt comfortable with, we these questions not as political for,” I want to challenge you this would be remembered as nothing questions, but as broader public evening. Paul writes to the more than a curious footnote in square questions. Ephesians that God will gather “all history a decade from now, with no The implications of this some things” in Christ, “both which are meaningful effects of our mandate may find surprising and even in heaven and which are on earth” lasting that long. counter-intuitive. It implies that (Eph 1:10). We are called to “bring joining the symphony orchestra every thought captive to the may be as significant an activity of obedience of Christ” (2 Cor 10:5). I Are we prepared to be Christian influence in the public understand the Great Commission square as is joining a political to go into all the world not only known and held to party. Developing strategies to refers to the spreading of the account as Christians by assist those who are board gospel geographically throughout members of the chamber of the entire world, but “to make our neighbours and co- commerce or industry association, disciples” – that is followers of workers? community association or labour Jesus in their entire lives, not just group is as important as signing their religious lives – of all nations, up everyone each year for their and that certainly includes us. A electoral district association. That biblical understanding of Don’t misunderstand me. I will is not to say political parties are discipleship does, I suggest, imply continue to be politically active, unimportant; it is to say that their that each of us ought to take provide energies and support to importance will be leveraged by seriously some involvement and worthwhile candidates who are activities in other spheres. engagement in public life beyond willing to stand for office, and can Of course, while becoming the walls of the church community. even conceive of doing so myself involved in these activities is a Allow me to highlight three again someday. We have been first step, how we exercise our strategic priorities that need to be given democratic privileges and an involvement is as important. I considered if we are to see an opportunity to make our voice would argue every Christian ought effective public Christian witness heard, and I strongly believe for us to vote, but voting for the wrong in our society. to ignore our citizenship privileges things or people hardly helps. is like taking the talent that God Similarly, becoming involved in Three strategic priorities has given us and burying it like the broader public square activities, The first is that we need to man in the parable. Politics but in a manner that is not adopt a broader public square provides an opportunity to have attentive to providing a Christian approach and not become our voices heard and to be counted influence, is ineffective. I have preoccupied with politics. While as participants in society. But in spoken to non-Christian politics has its place and is our present circumstances, it is not community leaders who have ignored at our peril, it is probably a place where I expect any served on boards or committees less important as a strategic significant differences will be with members of the Christian priority for activity than we made. Politics will follow, not lead community who were surprised to sometimes think. Economic the change. As I already noted, our learn, after many years of working realities forced on government by governments reflect our together, that the person was a the marketplace, international citizenship. The system works, and Christian. The challenge I would

18 • JANUARY 6, 2006 put before each of us is: how does aided by technological tools that While most of us would like to our faith make a difference in the equip everyone to communicate think we are more sophisticated decisions we are asked to make in more broadly – even if it is simply than to be influenced by public life? Do those we serve forwarding emails to contacts on marketing, the truth is that with know about our faith and their contact list – diverse networks marketing does work. The perspective, not because we are essential to the arsenal marketing and “branding” of quoted a Bible text or told them required to fight the culture war. Christian public square we went to church, but by the Not only do we need individuals involvement needs some work. For stands we took or the perspectives to diversify themselves, but we most, Christian public involvement we offered on the issues that need forums that bring leaders today equates to “sex and family emerged in our shared work for from these sectors together. Time issues,” with a secondary brand of the public good? spent in discussion is necessary in “peace and poverty issues” that So the first strategy I would order to bring coherence to a has carved out its place on the left. recommend this evening is for Christian framework of public life Neither is an adequate Christians to be involved in that will be communicated through distinguishing brand. This isn’t a diverse spheres. The building of a compatible vocabulary and call for an advertising makeover or diverse networks and investing the based on some broadly recognized cute slogans. However, “Joe and time necessary to build principles. Today, most Christian Mary Public” who drive by the understandings and relationships organizations are re-inventing the local church and notice its steeple of reliability are essential at both wheels. Existing Christian cultural should equate the Christian church leadership and grassroots levels. leaders need to reach out to one with something different from what At an individual level, people need another across the divide between they do currently if our voice is to to diversify their involvements the various spheres to develop a be heard in the public square. where they meet different people. common overarching strategy. This The third key strategic priority While not everyone can be can unfold only if new forums are is for Christians to recalibrate involved in everything, people organized for intentional expectations to allow for should consciously rotate their conversation about such a strategy. perseverance over decades of organizational commitments. It is effort, rather than be exhausted by the rare person who has the the rollercoaster ride of short-term interest, aptitude, or energy to It is not enough to be triumphs and disillusionment. We develop strong relationships in all must gather our strength from the of the institutions that are “key” to identified narrowly with source of our hope and the promise public life. But if there are five either sex and family of the gospel. There is simply not institutions key to public square enough experience and practical influence, we need many more issues or peace and know-how to fill the many crucial three- and four-institution players poverty issues. positions required. Even today, than we have today. There are two with the relative dearth of natural consequences that emerge Christian candidates and cabinet from a conscious effort toward A second key strategic initiative ministers seeking and holding institutional diversification. The is to re-brand Christian public office, finding competent staff first affects our perspective. The square involvement, both among members to fill out their teams is a ability to look at a problem through Christians and in public opinion. It challenge. When it comes to the various lenses will deepen our is not enough to be identified day-to-day tactical and understanding of both the problem narrowly with either sex and communications skills required to and result in a far more creative family issues or peace and poverty conduct significant campaigns process in proposing solutions. It issues. While the philosophy, targeted to the general public, our will also help our communications. background data, option papers, best do not match up against their The age of broadcasting in which a and alternatives considered in best. In fact, those who would single newscast or newspaper building any platform take many oppose a Christian voice can go singularly shaped the environment words, the core message is reduced through several rungs on their is over. In an era of narrowcasting, to a simple image or clear slogans. depth chart before the levels even

JANUARY 6, 2006 • 19 out. The only cure for this is time keeping promises is in short engagement and change; and (c) and experience. supply in the public affairs have the perseverance to pursue Perhaps the most significant business, so let me try to make a this strategy for the longer-term. challenge will be reorienting contribution. Influence will only be measurable expectations and the framework Do keep in mind that I will be by decades, not years. within success or failure as direct and cryptic in giving these 3. What should be our relative currently evaluated. Although answers. I trust by this point you priority: think tanks, lobby groups, motivating that majority for whom realize that full answers would or political activism via a political the public square is not on the require more nuance and party? qualification than would make for priority list is the biggest It depends. We need all of them, effective communication. I trust challenge, the expectations of although they are only tools in the that based on what I have already activists also need reorienting. process. No specific public square said, you will be able to fill that in. While successes are to be organization (I am obviously not preferred over failures, the battle including the church) is a matter of for public square influence is not principle. dependent on any one policy I cannot agree with those initiative, election, or campaign. who suggest that there is a 4. From which method would we Results will only be measured over get the most mileage? decades, and we need to develop principled obligation for If we accept the argument that the persistence and perseverance Christians to vote a (a) the Christian perspective is a to keep at it. The recent debate minority perspective and that we about redefining marriage is a certain way. are at odds with the prevailing prime example. It is only in the worldview in society; (b) the past few years that there has been political process is designed to anything that even approached a 1. How can we make an impact on reflect the views of the citizenry, widespread awareness of this society around us for good? then direct political involvement is unlikely to achieve change. issue in the Christian community. First, by having a vibrant For many, this was their first church, where the love, holiness, 5. How can Christians be involved political experience. They became and other attributes of God are on in the political arena with integrity despondent when their petitions, display to the world through his in the most effective way? protests, and ballots seemed not to body. Second, by a robust With great difficulty, but that is affect the outcome. What is engagement in all aspects of also true of Christians being forgotten is that this issue is the culture by utilizing the various involved in the business world, culmination of about three gifts which God has given us, cultural world, etc. Taking a long decades’ very active work by the building relationships with those term view, we need those with an gay-rights advocacy community. around us, and having the courage interest and aptitude in politics to They used a variety of societal to speak out of biblical convictions become engaged now, if for no institutions and patiently worked, so that things natural become other reason to begin building always keeping their longer term spiritual, and spiritual things within the Christian community objectives in mind. We have some become natural. the skills and experience required lessons to learn. 2. And what are the most effective over time for us to have any 3. Answering the questions directly ways of influencing the direction of meaningful political influence. I promised to finish by directly our country? 6. What options are open to us and answering the questions put to us Through a coordinated strategy what standards must we use in by the organizers, even though the in which Christian citizens (a) deciding how to cooperate with essence of my argument is, I become involved in the full range others? suppose, that these are not the first of institutions and build wide It depends. In some cases, the questions we need to be facing. networks; (b) develop an inter- enemy of my enemy is my friend. In However, being reliable and sphere strategy for cultural others, there needs to be a much

20 • JANUARY 6, 2006 closer worldview alignment in entire range of issues in the do regarding some of the faith order to work together at all. balance of Scripture, and to settle commitments and worldviews of Within the long-term strategy, our in our own consciences which some present-day leaders. Yet for organizational involvements need approach is the most stewardly use the most part we hold Churchill in to be measured against short-term of the opportunities given to us for relatively high esteem for his benchmarks, and cooperation with political involvement. As is evident leadership in difficult times but are others can be evaluated against from my own political career, at prepared to critique present-day those benchmarks. Keep in mind different times in the past I have leaders who explicitly work out of that public influence requires viewed both approaches as the their faith commitments – all-be-it public organizations, and cannot most prudent course to follow, and using strategies with which we can readily contemplate be viewed simply as an might disagree. circumstances in the future in accumulation of private I will not comment on the which I might choose to follow organizations. personal faith commitments either approach again. 7. Can or should Christians work regarding either Churchill or with others who do not share their Conclusion present day leaders. That is not our faith? I began with citing Winston focus here. Even those who confess Yes. Churchill and I would like to go to be Christian sometimes conduct 8. What standards must we use in back to history in wrapping up my themselves politically in a manner deciding how to cooperate with remarks. I take it as a given that that is unbecoming to their others? we all share a deep concern about confession, and by God’s grace, We are always to obey God the present direction of our country, some who make no faith profession rather than man. Our involvements and a sense that faithful Christians perform valuable service in the with others needs to be measured have an obligation always, but public arena that deserves not only against defined objectives, and especially in present our support, but also our should always be structured to circumstances, to be a salt and appreciation. God accomplishes give everyone involved space for light in society. I have tried to his purposes through the Cyrus’s, us to act out of our most deeply provide some thoughts tonight on the David’s, and the Daniel’s of held convictions without violating how this might be done. this world. their conscience. God’s kingdom is an eternal 9. Some opt for the CHP and others Results will only be kingdom and although we are go for the Conservative Party. What strangers and pilgrims in the earth, should we do and why? The measured over decades, looking forward to the time when question is urgent given the and we need to develop the we will be at home in the eternal concerns Christians have about the city where there will be no sin, direction of our country and the persistence and tears, nor disagreement, for now political realities in Ottawa. perseverance to keep at it. we are called, as Israel was while The choice to join or not join a in Babylonian captivity, to build political party, and which one, are houses and live in them; plant tactical questions. I cannot agree I would respectfully suggest gardens and eat the fruit of them with those who suggest that there that if we would apply the same (Jer 29:29); and I might add, to be is a principled obligation for standards to Winston Churchill faithful citizens, rendering to Christians to choose one over the that we apply to our present Caesar what belongs to him, and other. It might be tactically wise in politicians, most of us would to God what belongs to Him. one set of circumstances to choose regard him quite differently than May God grant each of us one, and in different situation, to we do. I am no expert in Churchill grace, wisdom and courage to choose the other approach. The history, but most of us know exercise this responsibility basis for making this choice probably as much anecdotal faithfully to the glory of God, and requires each of us to weigh the history regarding Churchill as we the betterment of society.

JANUARY 6, 2006 • 21 Speech Summary Speech by Ron Gray Summarized by Allard Gunnink Influencing Society for Mr. Ron Gray is the leader of the Christian Heritage Party (www.chp.ca ) Good

What is good? billion we had just collected from nation. One morning, Sir Leonard Canadian taxpayers – an Tilley from New Brunswick came to If we want to influence our outrageous $18,000 per household, the conference table at society for good, we need to by the way – we’d have to make Charlottetown and said, answer the question: what is this some compromises between “Gentlemen, this morning in my “good” that we want to competing demands on the public devotions” (which tells you accomplish? The ultimate source purse; and we could do so by something important about the and definition of “good” is what shifting a few million from this Fathers of Confederation: they Jesus said, “None is good save column to that, in response to the considered it normal for a man to One, that is, God” (Luke 18:19). The needs and arguments expressed. begin his day with devotional Bible further informs us that every That’s acceptable compromise. study of the Bible) “. . .this morning good and perfect gift comes from However, if we hope to influence in my devotions, one passage of the Father of Lights (James 1:17). our society for good, we have to be Scripture seized my attention; it Our working definition of very clear about our standard of was the eighth verse of the “good” is to be found in the oracles what is meant by “good” and we seventy-second Psalm: ‘He’ – God’s of God – and only in the oracles of have to be prepared to defend that Messiah – ‘shall have dominion God. Before we can hope to position without compromise. also from sea to sea. . .’” And Tilley achieve any “good” in society, we proposed that the new nation be must first acknowledge the sole named “The Dominion of Canada,” author of all good: the God of the We have to be very clear to remind us under whose Bible. Jesus said, “I am the way, about what is meant by authority we govern ourselves. His and the truth, and the life; no man proposal was unanimously comes to the Father but by Me.” “good.” adopted by all thirty-three Fathers Let me state it flatly: we will not of Confederation. In 1906, even begin to achieve any acknowledging the same Biblical influence for good in this society We in the Christian Heritage source, Parliament officially until we take a firm and Party (CHP) say that we cannot adopted as Canada’s motto “A Mari unshakeable stand for the only hope to achieve influence for good Usque Ad Mare,” the Latin origin and standard of good: the without a clear and strong rendering of “from sea to sea.” God of the Bible. We must commit commitment to immutable terms of This brings me to a very ourselves to the inescapable fact reference. We must not be cowed by important point I want to make that we can make no progress the refusal of others to accept those before this evening is out: many towards influencing our society for terms of reference. If I have a “life critics of the CHP have accused us good until and unless we are verse” from the Bible, it is Romans of wanting to use the power of willing to lay that foundation stone 1:16, “For I am not ashamed of the government to compel others to and to defend its authority. gospel of Christ. . . .” In that, I believe what we believe. That believe I stand closer to the canard is absolutely false. Rather, Compromise Fathers of Confederation than most our goal is to stop governments Many argue that politics is the other contemporary politicians. and courts from behaving like art of compromise. That is true, but When they were drafting the enemies of the culture that has we must know when compromise is British North America Act – our first done more good in the world than possible and acceptable and when Constitution, and still an integral any other. it is not. If thirty of us were sitting part of the Canadian Constitution – Richard John Neuhaus, editor of around the Cabinet table at the Fathers of Confederation First Things , wrote in his book The Ottawa, divvying up the $186 debated what to call this new Naked Public Square that, while

22 • JANUARY 6, 2006 many dreadful and unbiblical absolute sovereignty, make such clear understanding that things have been done in the name decisions. Businesses are free homosexual behaviour is a sin. of Christianity, “on balance, (within the scope of what God Now, Scripture also tells us that we Christianity is the best thing that allows as just) to determine their are all sinners, and that ever happened to this planet.” He’s own best course of action. Private forgiveness and healing from the right. The world is indebted to property (which, because of Mr. spiritual effects of sin are Christianity for universities, Trudeau’s socialist bent, was never available through Jesus Christ if hospitals, the principle that all included in the Charter of Rights we repent. So we’re not saying that men and women stand equal and Freedoms) is protected by the homosexuality is a worse sin than before the law, the abolition of commandment against theft. And any other; and we emphatically do slavery, democracy as we know it, so on. Yet the supremacy of God – not condone those who attack, and many other benefits. which, happily and providentially, demean, or insult homosexuals. The process did make it through the Liberal/ But we also understand from Socialist screen and got into the Scripture that marriage is a picture Once we have established our Preamble of the Charter by one of the relationship between Christ source and definition of “good,” vote – stands over and above all and the church, and that conjoining and made a commitment to defend these spheres. it to something that God calls an it unashamedly, where do we go abomination is blasphemous. So from there? How do we make we take the issue of same-sex progress in our campaign to Our biggest challenge is to marriage very, very seriously. influence the nation for good? However, when we articulate our It is a three-stage process. First, articulate these policies in opposition, we don’t refer to we must develop public policy out ways accessible to “blasphemy,” because that would of the biblical criteria for good; be incomprehensible to most second, we must articulate those secularists as well as biblically-illiterate Canadians. policies in terms that are believers. Instead, we talk about public accessible to both Christian and policy defects. secular audiences; and third, we Official recognition of same-sex must work to have those Thus it is that we have arrived marriage or civil unions implies arguments heard, overcoming a at fifty-six pages of policies some degree of government media blackout that implements a designed to strengthen the natural, approval for such relationships. distinctly anti-Christian agenda – married, two-parent family; to That’s exactly why homosexual if necessary, by becoming our own protect children from so-called activists have demanded it. You can media. Fortunately, the Internet (for “education” that is really humanist see it already in most government all its scummy underside) is also indoctrination; to ensure labour schools, where acceptance and mostly exempt from the climate of peace; to eliminate the National even approval of homosexual censorship that afflicts the old Debt; to protect the sanctity of relationships is now mandated from media. innocent human life and of kindergarten to grade twelve. On Public policy is developed out marriage; to preserve a common university campuses approbation of biblical criteria, which precludes day of rest; to protect the of homosexuality has attained the utterly the modern Liberal ideology environment; to enable the military status of Holy Writ. Or more that sets the government in place to defend national sovereignty and accurately, while Holy Writ is of God as the source of all good. to assist in times of natural of civil close to being banished on The mandate of civil government disaster; and so on. Perhaps our campus, it is being replaced by (taken, again, from the Bible) is to biggest challenge is to articulate the homosexual agenda. be God’s minister – that is, servant these policies in ways accessible Yet the evidence is – to you for good; it is to restrain to secularists as well as believers. overwhelming that homosexuality evil and reward those who do is a treatable psychopathology. Its good. This leaves a lot of scope for Same-sex marriage and civil practices are dangerous and even Sphere Sovereignty: the family is, unions life-threatening. Therefore, we’ve by and large, to be its own arbiter Let me cite a useful example tried to bring these facts to light. of what is beneficial for its from many recent exchanges about Any recognition or approval of members; the parents, who are same-sex marriage and civil homosexuality is bad public policy. accountable to God’s overarching unions. From Scripture, we have a Implied official approval will

JANUARY 6, 2006 • 23 inevitably tempt some adolescents behind the policy statement is part strategies, and the devices of the to experiment, and some of those and parcel of our campaign to world – “but we will remember the who experiment will become influence society for good. Nothing name of the Lord our God.” That’s addicted. Anyone who advocates of lasting benefit will happen to where the power is to influence same-sex marriage or civil unions society without policy-makers society for good. will bear the guilt of sentencing who consciously recognize and At a recent conference in those children to a premature respect the only source of the grave. As Christians, we must wisdom that has shaped public life Tumbler Ridge, BC, Tristan remember what our Lord said and western civilization for almost Emmanuel cited Jesus’ introduction about those “who cause one of twenty centuries. to The Great Commission: “All these little ones to sin”; we must We must be clear, we must be authority in heaven and earth has warn them, whether they want to open, and we must be bold. The been given unto Me.” All authority hear us or not. times demand a clear voice. “For if means all authority. All power. So here is the CHP’s policy the trumpet gives an uncertain Human cleverness and so-called statement regarding sound, who shall prepare himself “wisdom” mean nothing in this homosexuality, same-sex marriage, for battle? (1 Cor. 14:8). Too many in arena. Trust in God means and same-sex civil unions: “No the public policy arena have tried everything. If we hope to influence government has the right to grant to be clever. They have tried to use recognition or favour to sexually secular labels and tactics and this society for good, we’ll have to aberrant practices.” That’s a very have given forth an uncertain start by truly believing what we say simple policy statement; but there sound. Psalm 20:7 says, “Some trust we believe and then act as though are volumes of information and in chariots and some in horses” – we truly believe what we say we wisdom behind it. The information those are the weapons, the believe – without compromise.

Discussion Questions

“Is it not necessary for a Christian party to have a confessional basis?” Dr. Oosterhoff responded, in part, by pointing out that historically, the members of the Anti Revolutionary Party in Holland confessed the authority of God and the Bible but had no position on matters such as infant baptism or the marks of a true church, as these matters did not relate to political issues. Church leaders such as Bavinck, Schilder, and Holwerda were right in supporting this view. Members of different denominations can cooperate in politics and a Christian party should have basic scriptural pronouncements but not confessional standards. “In my experience [in farming organizations dealing with government], to say we can influence from within is a theoretical concept but it doesn’t work in practice. When I, as an individual in a meeting with other farmers, express my Christian views strongly, I’m told to leave the room…How can we as a Christian community be more effective?” Dr. Oosterhoff responded by suggesting that we need to make an alliance with other Christians and work as a group within existing structures or parties. If we are well prepared and express our views intelligently, the others will listen. “The fact is that the CHP won’t win. In the U.S., religious groups work through established parties, think tanks, and lobby groups with some success. Why does the CHP not become an advocacy group and support specific candidates who share Christian views rather than run candidates against such people, and in the end split the Christian or socially conservative vote?” Ron Gray responded that he believes that the CHP does not take votes away but rather increases voter turnout. It should remain a political party and as the CHP is able to run candidates in more ridings, it will get more visibility and its voice will be heard. We need churches to mobilize the voter turnout, as was done in the U.S. in the last election. The CHP has credible policies and we could do some real good if we can mobilize support.

24 • JANUARY 6, 2006 Advertiisements: CLARION ADVERTISEMENTS Announcements of Weddings, Anniversaries (with Open House) should be submitted six weeks in advance.

BIIRTHS ANNIIVERSARIIES Your hands shaped me and made me…You molded me like clay… Did You not… clothe me with skin and flesh and knit me together with bones and sinews? You gave me life and showed me kindness, and in 55th Wedding Anniversary Your providence watched over my spirit. Job 10: 8a, 9a, 11, 12 What I mean, brothers, is that the time is short. From now on Our gracious God has blessed our family with the birth of a those who have wives should live as if they had none; those who healthy baby boy! mourn, as if they were not; those who are happy, as if they were TAREN DANIEL KOTTELENBERG not; those who buy something, as if it were not theirs to keep; Born on November 21, 2005 those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in Welcomed by thankful parents: them. For this world in its present form is passing away. Jan and Melanie Kottelenberg (nee Van Dyke) (1 Corinthians 7:29-31) Big brother: Kierijan Benjamin Grandparents: Aren and Mary Van Dyke; Ben and Joan Kottelenberg 8581 Lynnwood Drive, Lynden, Washington, USA 98264 [email protected]  Your hands made me and formed me; give me understanding to learn your commands. Psalm 119:73 We thank our Heavenly Father for entrusting to us another of His beloved children, to raise to His glory. MOLLY JACOBA joined our family on November 23, 2005 Nick and Anna-Marie Barendregt Erienne, Mekayla, Kiera, Ian, and Tessa Box 153, Elm Creek, MB R0G 0N0

1951 ~ January 10 ~ 2006 ENGAGEMENTS With thankfulness to our heavenly Father for His care and guidance, we joyfully announce the Great is the L ORD and greatly to be praised; And His greatness is 55th Wedding Anniversary of our dear parents, unsearchable. Psalm 145:3 grandparents and great-grandparents It is with thanks for the guidance and blessings of our JAN (Jack) and ELTJE ( Elly ) SCHUTTEN nee Oosterhoff Heavenly Father that we Hamilton, ON: Harmina and Hank Vanderbrugghen JOHN BRUNING and HANNA HUTTEN Sarah and Brad Visscher - Jaden announce our engagement on November 25, 2005. Adam and Christa Vanderbrugghen 216 Colbourne Street, Box 892, Elora, ON N0B 1S0 Canada Rachel David St. Catharines, ON: Bert and Susan Schutten WEDDIINGS Emily Kerry Psalm 121 Grimsby, ON: Joanne and Robert Steltman With praise and thankfulness to our Heavenly Father, we Cameron JAMES BENJAMIN VANDERMEULEN and Kristopher Jason ADRIANNA RACHEL DEBOER Mississauga, ON: Freda and Sam Yannacacos together with our parents, Carina Jack and Frances Vandermeulen and Nick and Joanne DeBoer Steven invite you to share in our joy as we are united in marriage. Brantford, ON: John Schutten The ceremony will take place, the Lord willing, Toronto, ON: Antoinette St. Angelo on Friday, January 13, 2006 at 4:30 p.m. Redeemer Canadian Reformed Church in Winnipeg, Manitoba 33-261 Stone Church Road East, Hamilton, Ontario L9B 1B1 Rev. R. Schouten officiating. Future address: 840A McMeans Avenue East, Winnipeg, MB R2C 4B3

JANUARY 6, 2006 • 25 Thank you I lift up my eyes to the hills – where does my help come from? My help comes from the L ORD , the Maker of heaven and earth. We wish to thank everyone who remembered us and sent their Psalm 121:1, 2 best wishes by card, e-mail or phone call, and those who At the age of 77 on November 20, 2005 greeted us in person at our Open House on the occasion of our 60th wedding anniversary. JACOB ( Jack ) NICOLAAS VOORHORST Mr. and Mrs. M. Slomp passed away peacefully at his home in Coaldale, Alberta – God’s child, beloved husband of Grace, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Besides his wife Geertje (Grace) Voorhorst, Jack is survived by his daughter Grace Marko; sons John (Jenny) Voorhorst; OBIITUARIIES Henry (Haidee) Voorhorst, Harry (Joanne) Voorhorst, Jim (Zandra) Voorhorst; 24 grandchildren; 2 great- grandchildren; sisters Peta Veldkamp-Voorhorst and December 1, 2005 Mientje (Jack) Vischer-Voorhorst; brother Cornelis Voorhorst; Cast your burdens on the L ORD and He will sustain you. Psalm 55:22 step-brothers Rutger, Kees, and Jan Veldkamp; The Lord in His wisdom took to Himself, before she knew any sin as well as numerous nieces, nephews and their families. Grace Voorhorst DEANNA CHRISTINE 1310 - 24 Avenue, Coaldale, AB T1M 1C9 We pray that John and Sonya Post may receive comfort from their Heavenly Father. John and Ena Post Henry and Christine Pieffers Herman and Karen Post Job and Donna Schenkel The Lord took home to Himself our beloved sister in the Lord Neil Post Matt and Liza Kosinski JOHANNA KOTTELENBERG – PIEFFERS Jacqueline Post Brian and Connie Jones on Sunday, November 20, 2006. Lindsay Post Garret and Nicoline Pieffers May our heavenly Father be near to Harris and the children Roy Pieffers and Pamela Hulst during this time of grief. Alex and Laura Thalen Jo’s leadership and wisdom will be missed in our meetings Tyrel Pieffers where we shared in the joy of the Word of God. We are comforted by the words of scripture which we recently studied together. On December 3, 2005, at His appointed time, the Lord called Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the home our beloved Mom, Grandma, and Great-grandma right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city. BERENDINA ( Bea ) SPITHOFF (nee Moedt) Revelation 22:14 Orangeville Women’s Society “Thy Word Our Guide” in her 84th year. She was predeceased in 1974 by her husband, Dirk Spithoff. Her life exemplified true christian love as described in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, Love is patient, love is kind; it does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud; it is not rude or self- TEACHIING POSIITIIONS seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrong. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres. The Canadian Reformed School Society of London and Although Mom could not communicate with us during the last District , operating Covenant Christian School, invites years of her life, we will miss her but are comforted by the applications for the following possible opening for the knowledge that she is now with her Saviour Jesus Christ. 2006/2007 school year: Jack and Aafke Spithoff GRADE 3 and 4 TEACHER Karen, Tony, Rob Applicants with teaching experience and skills in developing Collin and Irene Spithoff Special Ed. resources are encouraged to respond. Daren and Meaghan (Audrey), What we offer: Leanne and Roger (Edyn, Joelle), • Positive Christian work environment. Carissa, Erica, Ray • Small class sizes Klaas and Marg Spithoff • Supportive school community with excellent volunteer base. Sheryl, Janice and Harold (Reuben, Logan, For more information please contact the Principal: Alayna, Samuel, Norah), Heather, Sheldon, Mr. James Meinen at 519-681-1196 Andrea, Martin or email: [email protected] Richard Spithoff Letters of application may be sent to: For we are convinced that nothing will be able to separate us from Mrs. Lisa Pieterman , Secretary of the Education Committee the love of God that is in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:38, 39 99 Harcroft Crescent, London, ON N6C 2Z9 594 Rosedale Crescent, Burlington, ON L7N 2T1 Telephone 519-649-7564, email [email protected]

26 • JANUARY 6, 2006 Maranatha Christian School of Fergus, Guelph and District Guido de Brès Christian High School Hamilton, Ontario invites applications for a Due to possible staff retirement, we require TEACHER’S ASSISTANT POSITION FULL OR PART-TIME TEACHERS currently available in grade 2 for the balance of the 2005-2006 A variety of subject areas may be available. All positions school year. would commence September 1, 2006. For further information, Duties to commence January 2, 2006 please contact the interim principal, We are in need of a teacher’s assistant with the ability to aid Mr. R. VanAndel at school. in providing a proper learning environment for our students, Telephone: 905-574-4011 particularly in the following areas: Fax: 905-574-8662 – provide one-on-one as well as small group assistance to a Email: [email protected] class that varies in the pace of progress Letters of applications should include university and teaching – assist the teacher with interactive and “hands-on” qualifications, two letters of reference and a statement about teaching activities your view of Christian education. Mail to: – assist the teacher with grading and evaluating of Guido de Brès Christian High School students Education Committee – promote and ensure proper behaviour of students Box 30013, 1576 Upper James Street, Hamilton, ON L9B 1K0 – instill in the students a love for God-centered learning Our school is located in a beautiful and picturesque southern Ontario town, where one would be close to rural life and at the same time close to major urban areas. If you are interested Eben-Ezer Christian School, Chatham, Ontario in teaching at our school, or have any questions about aspects invites applications for the 2006/2007 school year. of the position or of the school, please contact one of the Due to possible staff replacement we require: following people for more information, or submit your resume ELEMENTARY TEACHERS to the following address: Eben-Ezer Christian School has… Lydia Van Veen, Principal • 46 students (519) 843-3029 • 4 full time teachers and 1 part time teacher Kasper Van Veen, Education Committee Chair • friendly, close knit school with good relationships (519) 856-9605 between staff and school members Applications to be addressed to: Chatham-Kent has… Maranatha Christian School • population of 110,000 c/o Education Committee • located in southwestern Ontario, within one hour drive RR 3, Garafraxa Street, Fergus, ON N1M 2W4 from major centers • lower housing costs For more information, please contact: The Free Reformed School Association (Tas) Inc. of Mrs. Carol Bos , principal Launceston invites applications and expressions of interest for 519-354-1142 (school) the position of 519-695-2445 (home) FULL-TIME PRIMARY SCHOOL and HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER Mrs. Rita Versteeg, Education Committee chair to join our small but dynamic team of John Calvin School staff. 519-354-8946 Employment would commence at the beginning of the new Mail, fax, or email your application to: school year, January 2007. Eben-Ezer Christian School Those who are interested in only part-time work are 485 McNaughton Avenue East, Chatham, Ontario N7L 2H2 encouraged to make enquiries or apply as well. fax to: 519-354-2159 All enquiries will be responded to promptly and email to: [email protected] with confidentiality. Applicants must be a member of the Free Reformed Church of Australia or any of her sister churches. Credo Christian Elementary School in Langley, BC may be Conditions and salary are in accordance with the Tasmanian in need of a Independent Schools (teacher) Award. GRADE 4 TEACHER For more information on this position, general information and expressions of interest, please contact the Principal, for the school-year 2006-2007. Mr. G. Brouwer. Successful applicants must meet the BC teaching certification Phone: (03) 63 271800 (home), (03) 63 443794 (school) requirements. Those interested in this position should direct E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected] their inquiries to the principal, Applications should be directed to: Mr. J.A. Roukema The Staffing Committee phone 604-530-1131 (school)604-530-4268 (fax); E-mail: [email protected] 604-856-0544 (home) Address: PO Box 89, Launceston, Tasmania, Australia 7250 [email protected]

JANUARY 6, 2006 • 27 The Emmanuel Christian High School of Fergus, Guelph and The Niagara Reformed Christian Education Association which district is in the process of expanding their school into grade operates Heritage Christian School invites applications for the 12 for the 2006-2007 school year, having just added grade 11 following openings this year. For this expansion to take place next school year we GRADE 6 TEACHER beginning February 2006 will be in need of high school teachers in various disciplines. If GRADE 2 TEACHER beginning May 2006 you are interested in a HCS HIGH SCHOOL TEACHING POSITION • in the heart of Ontario’s beautiful Niagara Peninsula we would love to hear from you. Our school is located in a • a student body of 560 students from K to 12 beautiful and picturesque southern Ontario town, where one • a dedicated and supportive Christian community would be very close to rural life and within easy reach of • a cohesive, professional faculty and staff of over 40 persons major urban areas. With the addition of grade 12, we expect a • beautiful, modern facilities high school population of approximately 115 students; We seek currently in grades 9 to 11 we have 88 students. • qualified applicants who seek to serve Jesus Christ in the area If interested in a possible position in our expanding high of Christian education and who submit to Holy Scripture as school with attached elementary school, please contact one of confessed in the Reformed creeds the following people for more information, or submit your • enthusiastic, dedicated rookies or seasoned veterans looking resume to the following address. for a positive change H. Nobel, principal How to join us (519) 843-3029 (work); (519) 848-3922 (home) • submit a résumé, with a statement of your philosophy of A. Wildeboer, chairman of the board education, a statement of faith, and references, including one from your current pastor (519 928-2849 (home) Please forward inquiries and/or applications to: Dr. S. Spencer, chairman of the education committee Mr. A. Ben Harsevoort , Principal (519) 767-1614 Heritage Christian School Applications should be addressed to: 2850 Fourth Avenue, Box 400, Maranatha/Emmanuel Christian School Jordan Station, Ontario, Canada L0R 1S0 Attention: S. Spencer Phone: (905) 562-7303; Fax: (905) 562-0020; Education Committee Chair Home: (905) 664-1234 RR3, Garafraxa Street, Fergus, ON N1M 2W4 Email: [email protected] or [email protected] Check our website at www.hcsjordan.ca for a PROVIDENCE REFORMED COLLEGIATE school profile. invites applications for the positions of Behold, children are a heritage from the L ORD . Psalm 127:3 FULL-TIME HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER in the areas of History, Geography, Music, Bible and Family To fill possible vacancies, the Board of the Studies for the 2006/07 school year beginning August 1, 2006. Canadian Reformed School Society of Providence is a small regional high school serving the Abbotsford, B.C. operating the John Calvin School Reformed communities of Southwestern Ontario, from invites applications for Woodstock on the east, Wyoming (ON) on the west, PRIMARY (K TO GRADE 3) or Clinton on the north and St. Thomas/Aylmer on the south INTERMEDIATE TEACHERS (GRADE 4-7) with London in the center. Successful applicants must: The school has experienced continual growth since its • be a communicant member of a Canadian Reformed inception, as of January 2003 occupying its Church or a sister church; newly constructed building. • be able to obtain an Independent School certificate or Qualified individuals who seek to serve in the field of Reformed certification from the B.C. College of Teachers; Christian education, who submit to Scripture as summarized by • be able to commence duties as of September 1, 2006; the Reformed Confessions, and who are interested in joining our • furnish two professional references; staff, are invited to submit a resume, a statement of faith, a • furnish a character reference from the applicants’ pastor; philosophy of education, and letters of reference • applicants with French proficiency would be an asset. (including one from your church consistory) to: For information contact the principal, Providence Reformed Collegiate Mr. P.H. Torenvliet PO Box 114 – 93 Queen Street, Komoka, ON N0L 1R0 1-604-823-6814 (school); 1-604-854-5851 (home) For more information contact the principal, 1-604-823-6791 (fax); [email protected] Mr. Roger Vanoostveen at Send resumes and applications to the Secretary of the Board: (519) 471-0661 (school), (519) 264-2575 (home), c/o John Calvin School or e-mail 4268 Steward Road, Chilliwack, BC V2R 5G3

28 • JANUARY 6, 2006 The board of Credo Christian High School invites applications The Canadian Reformed School Society of Edmonton, for employment starting in September 2006 for operating Parkland Immanuel Christian School, invites suitable teaching combinations of: applications for the following position for the 2006-2007 Automotive Technology / Band / Drafting school year Information Technology / Mathematics / Physical Education JUNIOR/SENIOR HIGH FRENCH TEACHER Prospective applicants with interest in other subject areas are A major/minor in English and/or formal training in Special encouraged to inquire. Education will be an asset. British Columbia affords teaching opportunities to those with For further information please contact the Principal, Professional Certificates (B.ED), undergraduate degrees Mr. R. Van Delft (Subject Restricted) and/or meets Trades Interprovincial Phone: (780) 444-6443 (school) or fax: (780) 444-6448 Standards (Red Seal). Our school is located in the Fraser Valley in beautiful British (780) 458-0433 (home) Columbia. We provide a full range of educational Applications should be directed in writing to the school in care opportunities for students in grade 8 through 12. More of the Personnel Committee. information about our school can be obtained at Parkland Immanuel Christian School www.credochs.com c/o Personnel Committee For further details please contact 21304 - 35 Avenue NW, Edmonton, Alberta T6M 2P6 Mr. Harry Moes (principal) 604-530-5396 [email protected] Send your application to Credo Christian High School PO Box 3457, Langley BC V2Y 2M7 The board of Credo Christian High School is conducting an Covenant Canadian Administrative Review during the month of January/February. Reformed Teachers Administrators and those that desire to be considered for ...tell the next generation... administrative positions are encouraged to formally apply to Psalm 78:4 College the Chairman of the Board. Mr. Ken Huttema Hamilton, Ontario c/o Credo Christian High School P.O Box 3457, Langley, BC V2Y 2M7 ADMISSIONS SEPTEMBER 2006 [email protected] Cell 604-556-6753 The Board of Covenant College invites applications from prospective students for the 2006-2007 academic year.

Cornerstone Christian School, Lynden, WA The College offers teacher training programs to prepare Due to expanding enrollment and our desire to add another candidates for teaching positions in the K-Grade 10 range. grade next year, the board invites applications for a Admission Requirements: HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER For the 1-year Diploma of Education Program: Our school currently has 109 students in grades 1 – 11, seven a suitable university degree teachers, many volunteers, and enjoys a high level of For the 3-year Diploma of Teaching Program: community support. For the 2006/2007 school year, we anticipate the need for a a grade 12 diploma with university equivalence. high school teacher with expertise in the Prospective candidates are invited to contact the College for science and math areas. more information and/or to obtain an enrolment package. Lynden is a vibrant community, just minutes away from the Students are encouraged to apply before March 31, 2006. Fraser Valley B.C. and its attendant attractions, yet with a taste of rural America. Those who plan to seek admission in the year 2007 are also Interested applicants can contact either the chairman of the encouraged to contact the College as soon as possible. school board, Mr. Bob Lodder at: Visit our website: www.covenantteacherscollege.com [email protected] Phone: (360) 966-3123 Covenant Canadian Reformed Teachers College Or the school’s principal, Mr. Otto Bouwman at: Location: 410 Crerar Drive, Hamilton, Ontario [email protected] Telephone: 905-385-0634 Fax: 905-385-8409 Phone: (360) 354-0112 E-mail: [email protected] Mailing Address: Postal: 1576 Upper James Street, P.O. Box 30026 Cornerstone Christian School Hamilton, ON L9B 1K0 8872 Northwood Road, Lynden, WA 98264

JANUARY 6, 2006 • 29 Maranatha Homes WALI NG A USA INC. Burlington, Ontario is looking for someone to aid in the day to day management of their business. This award-winning Senior Citizen Home is located close Are you retired or semi-retired with business management to Ebenezer Canadian Reformed Church. It has audio background and looking to get back to work? hookup for the church services in every apartment and a An agricultural background or an understanding of the Ag weekly evening video church service presentation pro - Industry will be an asset. vided for by Ebenezer. Respond with resume to: Information from: Walinga USA Inc. Mrs. Rosanne van der Woerd 6950 Hammond Ave. S.E., Caledonia, MI 49316 email: [email protected] 109-3260 New Street, Burlington, ON L7N 3L4 (905-639-9054) or: Arie J. Hordyk The Campfire! Operations Committee is requesting 2212 Headon Road, Burlington, ON L7M 3W7 applications for 3 positions as a (905-331-7625); SUMMER STAFF MEMBER email: [email protected] for the full duration of camp beginning the summer of 2006. The successful applicants will be available for the nine weeks from June 23 until August 26. They will be communicant members of the Canadian Reformed or United Reformed American Reformed Fellowship Churches, will have experience as a staff member or counsellor Palmetto, Florida at a Christian camp, and will have special interest and ability in the areas of program, music, and organization. Sunday Services : 8:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Inquiries can be directed to Location : Palm View First Baptist Church Michelle Schulenberg (905-690-6129) Corner US 41 and 49th Street East Letters of application with attached résumés and two references will be received no later than January 20, 2006. Minister : Rev. R. Stienstra Please send to Parsonage : Phone: (941) 721-4519 PO Box 30033, RPO South Square Information : Phone: (941) 723-6898 Hamilton, Ontario L9B 2Y5

INTERESTED? The Spirit Interested in helping “export” Reformed theology to countries hungry for biblical and the Bride preaching, but your cash donation resources by Clarence Stam are stretched to the limit? In this book Clarence Stam discusses Consider remembering the FOREIGN STUDENT BURSARY FUND many Bible passages that speak about of The Theological College of the Canadian Reformed Churches the Person and the work of the Holy in your will. Spirit. It is specifically his purpose to show that the Holy Spirit perfects and completes the work of The Fund financially assists needy but academically qualified salvation in Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit came to dwell in and with foreign students who have expressed a love for Reformed the church of Christ, his holy bride, to prepare her for the great theology. When graduated, they will return to their country of marriage feast of the Lamb. It is through this Spirit that the bride origin to proclaim the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. prays, “Maranatha, come Lord Jesus. ” For further information please contact Soft cover, 236 pages . . . . Can. $12.75 . . . U.S. $10.00 The Theological College ISBN 0-88756-083-0 of the Canadian Reformed Churches ORDER FROM YOUR FAVOURITE BOOKSTORE OR FROM 110 West 27th Street, Hamilton, ON L9C 5A1 Phone: 905-575-3688; Fax: 905-575-0799 PREMIER PUBLISHING Email: [email protected] One Beghin Avenue, Winnipeg, Manitoba R2J 3X5

30 • JANUARY 6, 2006 JANUARY 6, 2006 • 31 ROOMS AVAILABLE IN ELORA I’m looking for a few responsible Christian guys to fill the void in the house I just purchased. Reasonable rates include a room to yourself, rest of the house shared. 20-25 minute drive to University of Waterloo, Wilfred Laurier University, and University of Guelph. Contact Jeremy VanderGaag at (519) 846-0370 37 Wilson Crescent, Elora, Ontario N0B 1S0 Investment Planning Counsel of Canada TM

Financial Planning Professionals Eric VanGrootheest • R.R.S.P.s / R.R.I.F.s Sales • Mutual Funds Representative • Life Insurance • High Yield Cash Accounts • GICs / Term Deposits “Serving Fergus, Elora, Guelph and • Financial Planning surrounding area ASSOCIATES / A DMINISTRATION Bus: (519) 843-5400 Royal LePage RCR PETA-GAY TAI-MILTON , B.A. Fax: (519) 843-2810 162 St. Andrew Street East TINA TAI-DESTRO, B.A. Cell: (519) 993-1780 Fergus, Ontario N1M 1R9 email: [email protected] ASSOCIATE / I NSURANCE Visit me at www.eric-sells.com ANDREW JANSEN

59 Kirby Avenue, Unit 1, Dundas, Ontario L9H 6P3 50TH ANNIVERSARY PHONE: 905-628-9666 • FAX: 905-628-1035 The Canadian Reformed Church, Brampton Ontario TOLL FREE: 1-866-856-5910 E-MAIL: [email protected] January 15, 1956 – 2006 MEMBER OF IPC FINANCIAL NETWORK INC. “As for me, this is my covenant with them,” says the L ORD . “My Spirit, who is on you, and my words that I have put in your mouth will not depart from your mouth, or from the mouths of your children, or from the mouths of their descendents from this time on and forever.” Says the L ORD . Join us in celebrating 50 years on Friday, January 13, 2006 7:30 p.m. at Holland Christian Homes – Heritage Hall 7900 McLaughlin Rd. S, Brampton, Ontario Refreshment social following the program! For further information contact Gert or Christine Stieva at 905-453-6968

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