Season’s Greetings

THE CANADIAN REFORMED MAGAZINE Year-End 2014 From all of us at Premier Printing Ltd. CLARION YEAR-END 2014 Best Wishes and the Lord’s blessings in the year 2015 to all our readers

Dr. J. Visscher, editor Rev. P.H. Holtvlüwer, co-editor Rev. E. Kampen, co-editor Rev. K. Stam, co-editor Dr. C. Van Dam, co-editor Mrs. L. Veenendaal, copy manager EDITORIAL

New Year Challenge Cornelis Van Dam Professor emeritus of Old Testament at the Canadian and Joy Reformed Theological Seminary in Hamilton, Ontario [email protected]

As we leave one year behind, we look forward to a Oppression and persecution have a way of strengthening new one. What will it bring? For many Christians, more the faith and making clear what is really important in life. oppression, misery, and pain. Especially in North Korea However, freedom, prosperity, and the seductive power of and the Middle East the suffering of countless believers has materialism can be very corrosive and damaging for the been of staggering proportions. Communists and Muslims faith. History shows that when we don’t seem to “need” God who hate Christianity make a frontal assault on the children as much, he tends to fade more into the background. The of God, killing and imprisoning with impunity. One can danger is that the things of this life become more and more imagine that like the souls below the altar in Revelation 6, important and can even form the focus of our lives. they too can cry: “How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, The challenge we face is to oppose and counter the until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our caustic and subtle influences of our ungodly culture. The blood?” Yet, in spite of their wretched condition, they cling only real solution is to grow into a closer relationship to the faith entrusted to them. Willingly they face death with God even as the world tugs at our hearts and minds. rather than deny their Lord and Saviour. Their choices in life Nurturing and cultivating a living bond with our Lord are very clear and stark. Luther’s hymn resounds with them: and Maker is the only adequate answer to the demonic “Let goods and kindred go; this mortal life also, the body challenges of our time. In short we need more and more to they may kill, God’s truth abideth still.” We cannot begin to know our God and Saviour. imagine what these believers go through. Today we enjoy unprecedented access to knowledge. Yet their challenge to hold on to the faith also brings Computers and search engines have made for information them the deep and lasting joy of knowing their Saviour in overload. But that is not the kind of knowledge that is needed. circumstances that bind them in unbreakable bonds of love Many years ago Hosea warned, “My people are and commitment to their Lord. Their love for him knows destroyed from lack of knowledge” (4:6). What the prophet no bounds and they literally sacrifice everything, including had in mind was not intellectual knowledge. In theory Israel this earthly life, for him. Although it may be beyond our knew who God was and knew what the Lord expected of comprehension, they experience the word of our Saviour. them in terms of outward obedience. The problem was that “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and they did not heed God’s will and live in close communion falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice with him. To know God is to love him and to treasure and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven” (Matt prayerful fellowship with him; it is to experience his 5:11-12). And the Lord gives them the peace that surpasses all nearness and grace. As those living in the last age, to know understanding (Phil 4:7). God includes being in awe of the privilege of being a child of Father in heaven who of mere grace has reached down to Our challenge us unworthy beings and embraced us in unfathomable love As we pray for these Christians, we should realize that in Jesus Christ. It means being in awe of Almighty God, many of them also pray for us. They correctly see that we Creator and Renewer of all things, before whom we worship need their prayers for we too face enormous challenges. In in holy reverence and fear. While the worldly culture around the Western world, Satan does not use the tactic of a frontal us is fixated on individualistic interests and what I want and assault. He has more insidious weapons at his disposal, one what works for me, a child of God is focussed on his Lord of which is the culture of narcissism and individualism. and Saviour and what he wants.

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 665 The Lord has richly blessed us in the past year. As the Growing in knowing God and living in the fear of his overview elsewhere in this issue of Clarion shows, churches holy Name will enable us by God’s grace to be discerning could gather in peace and freedom and evangelism and and to see and withstand the subtle attacks of the evil mission projects prospered. We have been richly blessed one in the New Year. Then one no longer conforms to the with faithful office bearers, with Christian education, and pattern of this world, but is transformed by the renewing with our seminary. Also on a person level God has been of the mind (Rom 12:2). Knowing God also means having gracious to us in so many ways and we give thanks to him the joy of the children of God. for family and friends, for the communion of saints, and for The joy the freedoms we have as Christians in this country to live out our faith! Meditating on God and his Word gives tremendous At the same time, as one year transitions into another, delight and happiness (Ps 19:8; 119:162). As we fill our an opportunity for self-evaluation presents itself. We need minds with his Word, we grow in faith, gratitude, and joy to ask ourselves about the progress we are making in terms in the Lord (Ps 119:11; Col 3:16). Christ promises us that as of knowing our God and Saviour and our single-minded our life is moulded by God’s Word, then Christ’s joy will devotion to him in all our activities. Could it be that some of be in us and our joy will be complete (John 15:10-11). This the corrosive effects of the me-culture are becoming visible joy is far richer than the world’s happiness. Indeed, it is of a completely different order. The joy Christ gives can in our midst? Afternoon worship services are not always never be taken away from us. Even though we can expect attended as they should be. It does not always seem to be hostility and even persecution from the world, our Saviour the priority that it used to be. Trying to solve the problem assures us that although “you will weep and mourn while by making services more user-friendly is doomed to fail. the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn We do not go to church to feel good, to be entertained, to joy. . . but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and accommodated, or to be humoured, but we go to worship no one will take away your joy” (John 16:20, 22). This our gracious God in holy reverence, to thank him for the is possible for in this the final age, the age of the Spirit, opportunity to sing our praises to him, and to hear his those who know God also know the reality of Christ’s Word. Does our Sunday demeanour and deportment in promise that he will live in us by his Spirit. Believers enjoy church always reflect the awe and privilege of meeting holy inseparable communion with the Father and the Son (John God in adoration and worship? Even the angels in heaven 14:20). With the Apostle Paul, the believer can say that are in constant awe of his majesty (cf. Isa 6:1-7). Should it is no longer I who live but Christ who lives in me (Gal the current dress-down culture and the fixation on what’s 2:20)! So close is the relationship between the Lord and comfortable for me influence us when we come into the his people that when they persecute Christians, Christ presence of the King of kings, sovereign Lord of all the is persecuted (Acts 9:4). This reality is what helps keep earth? Why is it that in many cases Christian education is Christians in the Middle East, North Korea, China, and not as widely supported by the entire church community elsewhere going. Their fellowship with the living God is an as it used to be, in spite of the fact that times are more unbreakable bond and they savour it and rejoice in it. prosperous than when the schools were first established? On When we know God in this rich and real way, then we the home front, are we always finding appropriate time for can face the challenges of the new year as children of light family worship and personal devotions? In our hectic society in a world of darkness. And therefore, as the imprisoned and myriad commitments is there still time for reflecting on apostle wrote from his dungeon: “Rejoice in the Lord always. the Word and giving the Spirit the opportunity he needs to I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to mould us as God’s children after the image of Father? all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but The questions for the necessary godly self- in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, examination as we enter a new year can be multiplied, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which but you get the idea. As the Psalmist put it: “Teach me transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth; give me your minds in Christ Jesus” (Phil 4:4-7). Have a blessed an undivided heart, that I may fear your name” (Ps 86:11). New Year in knowing God and the joy of his salvation!

666 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE What’s Inside

As 2014 comes close to its end, so does another volume of Clarion magazine. We are pleased to bring readers a special year-end issue, celebrating the birth of our Saviour and looking ahead to a new year. It is a blessing to have all we need to publish the magazine every two THE CANADIAN REFORMED MAGAZINE weeks for the past year. On these pages you will find articles specially prepared with the EDITORIAL COMMITTEE season in mind. We have our editorial and Treasures New and Old Editor: J. Visscher; Copy Manager: Laura Veenendaal meditation. There is an article from Rev. Klaas Stam. We are also Coeditors: P.H. Holtvlüwer, E. Kampen, K. Stam, C. Van Dam thankful to be able to reprint an article that originally appeared in New Horizons, “Do You See the Angels?” by Allen Harris. And looking ADDRESS FOR COPY MANAGER back on the past year for the Canadian Reformed Churches, there is Clarion Dr. James Visscher’s Year-End Review. There is also a message from 8 Inverness Crescent, St. Albert AB T8N 5J5 E-Mail: [email protected] the publisher.

This final issue of the year contains many other articles: news ADDRESS FOR ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS reports from the federation, the final article in a series from Rev. Eric CLARION Kampen, and a variety of regular columns. Premier Printing Ltd. One of our traditions at Clarion is to print greetings from One Beghin Avenue members throughout the federation. May I do so as well: to all our Winnipeg MB Canada R2J 3X5 readers, I wish you a blessed Christmas season and joyful New Year. Phone: (204) 663-9000 Fax: (204) 663-9202 Laura Veenendaal Subscriptions [email protected] Advertisements [email protected] Website www.clarionmagazine.ca

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Doug Vandeburgt

Reasons for Joy Co-pastor of the Canadian Reformed Church at Langley, “They will rejoice before you.” British Columbia [email protected] (Isaiah 9:3)

It is the season of joy. This is just one of the many He declares, “Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every descriptions of Christmas. It is an accurate description of garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be Christmas for reasons I’ll explain in just a moment. But fuel for the fire.” Everyone who has experienced war knows before we get there, let’s ponder what joy is. Joy is an emotion, that with the end of war there is great joy. This was certainly an emotion of great happiness that wells up in your heart. the experience of many in Europe when the Allied armies Life contains events that bring great happiness. No defeated the German army. As the Allied troops rolled doubt you have experienced this at some point. Maybe it was through villages the townspeople came out to greet them your wedding day. Maybe it was the birth of your child or with shouts of joy. grandchild. The joy of Christmas can be compared to the joy Because we anticipate experiencing great joy over the end you experience at such moments. Christmas is an event that of all spiritual warfare we can already now, in the words of brings great happiness. Or to maybe say it more accurately, Lord’s Day 22, feel in our heart the beginning of eternal joy! the Lord increases your joy through the Christmas event. Rejoice before the Lord for he has increased your joy. This is the way the prophet Isaiah speaks in 9:3. He The third reason for your joy brings us to words that says that the Lord has increased the joy of his people. And are often repeated during the Christmas season, “For to then Isaiah goes on to say of the people of God, “They us a child is born, to us a son is given” (9:6). The joy of rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, as men Christmas is not just like the joy we experience at the birth rejoice when dividing the plunder.” Their joy before the of a child. It is the very same joy. For to us a child is born. Lord is compared to the great happiness experienced For to us a son is given. during certain life events. His birth brings us such great joy because of what But why is there this great happiness that can be he grows up to become. He grows up to become our compared to the joy of children being born or people everlasting King: “And the government will be upon his getting married? Why is the Christmas season reason shoulders. . . of the increase of his government and peace for you to rejoice before the Lord? Because of what the there will be no end.” Lord has done for you through Jesus Christ! In the verses What follows the end of war in the kingdom of God? immediately following Isaiah 9:3 the prophet provides What happens once all the garments rolled in blood are three reasons for your joy. burned in the fire? There is everlasting peace. This is what The first reason for your joy is that through Jesus Christ the child born to us will do for us as our everlasting King. the Lord our God shattered the yoke that lay upon us because As the Prince of Peace he will bring about everlasting peace! of our enemies. In Isaiah 9:4 the prophet compares the Rejoice before the Lord for he has increased your joy. victory of Christ on the cross to the day of Midian’s defeat. He has increased your joy by giving you his son. To you He does so because the victory of Christ belongs to the Lord a child is born. This child grew up to shatter the yoke of alone. So rejoice before the Lord because Christ has shattered sin that lay heavy on your shoulders. This child grew up to the yoke of sin and death! He has increased your joy. ascend to the right hand of God from where he will bring The second reason for your joy is that the final victory about the end of war and usher in everlasting peace. For of Christ over all our enemies has been guaranteed. In these reasons the celebration of his birth is indeed a season Isaiah 9:5 the prophet draws a picture of the end of all war. of joy. May you have a joyous Christmas!

668 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE Do You Allen Harris This article was originally published in New Horizons magazine. See the Angels? It is reprinted with permission.

If you are a genuine believer in Jesus Christ, not simply eighty miles when she was nearly due to deliver her son a religious person who is sympathetic to Christianity, then did not suggest that God was in control, but rather Caesar you live simultaneously in two worlds. You, of course, live Augustus. Well, at least she would be spared the shame of in the world you can see and touch, like everyone else. But, family embarrassment at the birth. Small comfort. unlike unbelievers, you are aware of a world you cannot see, a heavenly reality you know only by faith. You affirm this, but sometimes it is hard to distinguish what you cannot see from fantasy. This is true especially in hard times, when God seems to be absent and it feels as if Jesus is Lord this world is all there is. The Book of Revelation was written to Christians in of all history, hard times to reveal what we cannot see: the cosmic battle and he will win going on between God and Satan in this world. It portrays what sometimes seems so unlikely to us, that Jesus is Lord in the end of all history, and that he will win in the end. It opens our eyes to the world we cannot see, to give us hope in the suffering of this world. This dual perspective is nowhere more evident than in So they arrived at Bethlehem. The “inn” that Luke the Christmas story. Let us examine that familiar story from speaks of was a half-open enclosure. It was first come, these two perspectives. First, we shall consider the world of what Mary and Joseph saw and felt when it seemed that God first served. Were there relatives living there who had had abandoned them. Then we shall see how the Bible gives heard of Mary’s pregnancy and refused hospitality to such us a glimpse of the heavenly reality and involvement. a shameful woman? We are not told. All we know is that no one made room for her when she went into labour. The earthly perspective Joseph undoubtedly pleaded her case: “Please, my wife Mary got pregnant before her marriage to Joseph. is having a baby!” Response: “Go have it in the barn.” It Imagine the awkwardness and humiliation she must was probably a cave in the nearby limestone hills where have felt. There was no way to convince people that she animals were sheltered. was innocent. Those must have been very lonely days for So “she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped her. Joseph seriously considered a private divorce to spare him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because her further shame. Did she think, “Lord, why don’t you there was no place for them in the inn” (Luke 2:7, ESV). vindicate me?” She wrapped him; she laid him. She did not receive help He did vindicate her, at least to Joseph, but then she from any other woman. All she had was Joseph, and you heard that the Roman government required them to travel women can tell us how much help a man is at that point! eighty miles to Bethlehem for a census. Did she think, “This Did she wonder, “Where are you, Lord?” Could she does not seem like very good timing, Lord”? Having to walk comprehend that he was right there – lying in the manger?!

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 669 They tried to settle down after the birth. They were The heavenly perspective dog-tired, and the animals were no help. Suddenly, as they Before our hearts are too weighed down, let us look at were drifting off to sleep, they heard the rough voices of the same story from the heavenly perspective. God reveals shepherds outside: “Is there a baby in here?” I can hear himself again and again – largely through angels, those Joseph: “You gotta be kidding! Do we have to move?” messengers of heavenly reality. Remember that Mary and Joseph had not gotten the memo In Luke 1, we read that Zechariah was an aged priest from the angels about shepherds coming to worship. – ordinary, but faithful. An angel appeared to him to They decided to stay in Bethlehem and try to make a announce that his wife, Elizabeth, would give miraculous new life there. It must have been difficult to find a home birth to a son, John. Then an angel announced the birth of and start up a carpentry business in a new area. We know the Messiah to Mary, his mother. So she knew that whatever at least that before too long they had a house to live in, would happen, God would be with her. since Matthew mentions that the magi came to visit them Elizabeth rejoiced when Mary, her relative, came to visit there (Matt 2:11). her, because Elizabeth’s baby, John, leapt in her womb at Jesus’ presence. Mary was given a song, which she sang to Elizabeth. Mary was no doubt smart and spiritual, but what Galilean teenager could have crafted “the Magnificat” When you focus extemporaneously? The song must have encouraged Mary on the manger, as much as it has encouraged countless believers down through the ages. do not forget to look at Then an angel, in a dream, vindicated Mary to Joseph and assured him of her innocence and supernatural the angels pregnancy (Matt 1:20-25). and see heaven breaking An angel announced the birth of the Messiah to some shepherds, and was then joined in a heavenly chorus. (I through know the Greek says they “said” [Luke 2:13], but could such a pronouncement have been without melodic crescendo?) Luke tells us that after the shepherds reported to her what they had seen and heard, “Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:19, ESV). But then Joseph learned that Herod was out to kill his Surely she was given a glimpse of the Lord who was indeed son, so they were uprooted again and took a hasty, long with her, and she was comforted. journey as refugees to Egypt. While they were there, they One or two years later, as they began their life in heard that Herod’s soldiers had slaughtered all the baby Bethlehem, some strangers in rich garb came to their door boys in the environs of Bethlehem two years old and under from the east and said a light had led them to this house, – probably about twenty infants. That was about the same where the king of the Jews was living. The visitors then number of children that were gunned down in Newtown, presented extravagant gifts. Mary and Joseph did not know Connecticut, eleven days before Christmas [2012]. that these were God’s provisions for a long trip that they Remember the horror we felt about that child massacre. would soon need to make. This was another evidence that he Mary and Joseph certainly knew those families. They was with them. probably knew some of them well. Jesus may have played Again an angel appeared to Joseph and warned him with some who were killed because of him. Surely Mary and of Herod’s nefarious plan. God warned, delivered, and Joseph felt deep grief and possibly guilt. “God, what are you protected them. And in another year or so, this dreadful doing? This world is so full of pain. Where are you?” man was dead. In the coming years, Mary would see her

670 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE son be misunderstood, mistreated, and then crucified. She The Song of Mary didn’t see that it would be in his moment of deepest agony, at Gethsemane, that God would again reveal the unseen reality with an angel’s comfort (Luke 22:43). Jesus’ crucifixion crushed all hope for his disciples. My soul does magnify God seemed to them to be totally absent. Evil appeared to have won the day, and it was hard to imagine going on. But the Lord, for he Most High on the third day, Mary, together with other women, would have the resurrection of Jesus announced to them by has shown to me his favour. angels (Matt 28:2-7; Mark 16:5-7; Luke 24:4-7; John 20:12– 13). Again the unseen inhabitants of our world disclosed I praise him with my voice; the reality we so need to perceive in our darkest hours. my spirit does rejoice They announced the power and presence of God in a way that changed everything, transforming the very world in him, my God and Saviour. that seeks to erase him from our thoughts. No matter how grim your circumstances, the resurrection of Jesus is your window into that reality and hope. The Lord, so good and great, The risen Christ appeared to many over the next forty days. Then he ascended to heaven, where he is no longer looked on my lowly state. seen. He is now seated at God’s “right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority” (Eph 1:20-21, ESV). Now will all generations And God has even “raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus” (Eph 2:6, from age to age attest ESV). Our true life is “hidden with Christ in God” (Col 3:3, how richly I am blest. ESV). You cannot see that any more than you can see the angels, but it is as real as the chair you are sitting in. Ah, Great is my exaltation! but “when Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory” (Col 3:4, ESV). This is that enduring reality of which this world is only shadows. Yes, we live in a suffering world. When you feel How holy is his name! overwhelmed by your trials and wonder where in the world The Mighty One, he came God is, I ask you, as strange as it sounds, to look at the Christmas story. Realize that there is always a dual drama and showed me his great favour. unfolding – one that we can see, and one that we cannot. When you focus on the manger, do not forget to look With mercy he is near at the angels and see heaven breaking through. Then, like to all who him revere; Paul, you will not lose heart because you know that “this slight momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal his love endures forever. weight of glory beyond all comparison.” We look “not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things Hymn 17, Book of Praise that are unseen are eternal” (2 Cor 4:17–18).

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 671 The Baby Jesus Klaas Stam

Minister emeritus of the Canadian Reformed Church at Hamilton, Ontario [email protected]

“Kiss the Son, lest he be angry and you be destroyed on the powerfully unfolding events in this angry world? in your way, for his wrath can flare up in a moment. His birth did lead to a massacre: King Herod had all the Blessed are all who take refuge in him.” children in Bethlehem under a certain age killed without (Psalm 2:12) any pardon or mercy. The man was a beast, as there are many beasts today. We live in a time of uncertainty and insecurity. Lately Christmas is about the baby Jesus. But these are all things have not been going well in the world. Some of the external matters. Once again Christmas reminds me of things that bother me most this Christmas? There is the my own sins and sinfulness. Never mind Putin or ISIL, it constant Russian provocation in the Ukraine. Mr. Putin is amazing that the Son of God was willing to take upon seems to be building another empire. The “cold war” is himself my curse. To do this he came as the baby Jesus, heating up. starting where we all start: in the womb and through the There is the ferocious fighting in the Arabic world. difficult procedure of birth. ISIL does not hesitate to brutally murder thousands of Okay. But when we read Psalm 2 we do receive a more men, women, and children. In Africa Al Shebaab kidnaps complete picture. The manger-child is no longer a cooing hundreds of girls and ambushes others. Palestinians are baby. He has been elevated to kingship. He has received all firing rockets at Israelis. The Israeli Defence Force strikes power in heaven and on earth. back. Synagogues are killing floors. Psalm 2 has been called a “coronation” psalm, There is widespread concern over the spread of Ebola. commemorating the enthronement of David as Israel’s king. Thousands of people have already died from this illness. We find a clear indication of this in the verses 6 and 7, “I Many others are infected with the Ebola virus. There is have installed my King on Zion, my holy hill. again hunger in the Sahel area. Because of brutal fighting in I will proclaim the decree of the Lord: He said to me, ‘You the Sudan millions of people have fled their homeland and are my Son; today I have become your Father.’” are congregated in unsafe refugee camps. No refugee feels This does not mean that before Jesus birth in protected. It seems that the world is caught in a death spiral. Bethlehem and the enthronement in Jerusalem Jesus was In this kind of a world we celebrate Christmas. not God’s Son or that God was not his Father. But it means that especially then when David ascended to the throne, What is Christmas about? God officially and publicly ordained the eternal Kingship of Should you ask most people what Christmas means, the Jesus, David’s Son and Lord. answer would probably be: Christmas? That’s when the baby In the New Testament Christ’s coronation is evidenced Jesus was born. It is true. Our Lord came into this world in in his resurrection. Paul said, “We tell you the good news: the weakness of human flesh, subject to all the conditions what God promised to our fathers, he has fulfilled for in which every baby is born. He became completely like us, us, their children, by raising up Jesus. As it is written in except without sin (Heb 5:15). the second Psalm, ‘You are my Son; today I have become Do you think that Russian soldiers and Islamic Jihadists your Father’” (Acts 13:32, 33). The great coronation and care about the baby Jesus? What effect can the birth of a enthronement on the throne in heaven came after our Lord little baby born in poverty and laid in a dungy manger have Jesus Christ rose from the dead and ascended into the glory

672 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE of his Father. We have a King in heaven who is coming to are easily given: Stalin once kissed Putin, and called him judge the living and the dead. a “Doerak.” Check that word out. But that kiss was only to Kiss the Son seal a conspiracy. KGB stuff. In the world of dirty politics much kissing is hypocritical, pro forma. Such kisses lead to The baby Jesus is a baby no more. He is a full-grown the Lord’s anger and to destruction. We sometimes tend to Lord who lives in glory and is preparing the day of his forget that the Son’s “wrath can flare up in a moment” (Ps coming, the great Day of Judgment. The Psalm tells us that 2:12). It does not mean that the Lord has a bad temper. He is the nations conspire and the people plot in vain. All their long-suffering. But he is no longer the baby Jesus. He comes power and cunning is useless. Psalm 2 –as all other Psalms- teaches us to recognize the glory of the Son. There lies the as judge of all. Beware of his wrath. true value of the Psalms: they are all perfectly Christological. The kiss that we must give is the kiss of joyful How ought we to prepare for and expect the coming recognition. It comes with an exuberant embrace. Our kiss of the King, Jesus Christ? Psalm 2 has only one way: “Kiss is not pro forma but pro rege. In the fear and chaos of the the Son.” What’s this about kissing? Not every kiss is the Day of Judgment, “blessed are all who take refuge in him” same. Judas tried to betray the Lord with a kiss. Kisses (Ps 2:12c).

Ebenezer

The Lord, our salvation and light, For so many mercies receiv’d, The guide of our strength and our days, Alas! what returns have we made? Has brought us together to-night, His Spirit we often have griev’d, A new Ebenezer to raise: And evil for good have repaid, The year we have now passed through, How well it becomes us to cry, His goodness with blessings has crown’d, “Oh! who is a God like to thee? Each morning her mercies were new, Who passest iniquities by, Then let our thanksgivings abound. And plungest them deep in the sea!”

His Gospel, throughout the long year, To Jesus, who sits on the throne, From Sabbath to Sabbath he gave; Our best hallelujahs we bring; How oft has he met with us here, To thee it is owing along And shown himself mighty to save? That we are permitted to sing: His candestick has been remov’d Assist us, we pray, to lament From churches once privileged thus; The sins of the year that is past But though we unworthy have prov’d, And grant that the next may be spent It still is continu’d to us. Far more to thy praise than the last. John Newton

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 673 The History of Contact Eric Kampen Minister of the Between the Canadian Canadian Reformed Church at Orangeville, Ontario Reformed Churches and the [email protected] Orthodox Presbyterian Church (3) The struggle to live in ecclesiastical fellowship

Second thoughts papers written over the previous twenty years. Further, it mandated the committee to focus discussion on the The previous two articles described the long two points of the agreement, “as amended by Synod and arduous history that led to the establishment of Fergus 1998.” By doing this, the 2004 synod hurdled ecclesiastical fellowship between the Canadian Reformed backward over the 2001 synod to 1998, to the amendment Churches and the Orthodox Presbyterian Church in that had proven to be an obstacle to moving the 2001. That this did not result in a scenario of the two relationship forward. churches living happily ever after is evident from the acts This leap back to 1998 shows second thoughts about of the synod held in 2004. It had to deal with a number the relationship, which is reinforced by the way the synod of appeals. Some went so far as to call for rescinding the of 2004 stated that “the goal of these discussions should decision to enter into ecclesiastical fellowship. Other be to determine whether this unity of the faith regarding appeals took issue with the way the 2001 synod had the church, the covenant and the sacraments is adequately rejected the words added to the agreement about the and faithfully expressed in our confessional standards. . . .” supervision of the Lord’s Table by the 1998 synod. The overall impression of this decision is that the OPC The synod denied the appeals and maintained continued to be under the scrutiny of the CanRC. The the relationship, but the relationship did not receive a unity of faith was still an open question. wholehearted endorsement. This is evident in the mandate given to the committee, prompted in part its own report. Being consistent In its report to the synod, the committee indicated it saw The report submitted to the 2007 synod contained no point in just a general discussion on differences, as the requested synopsis of the discussions. It is found in they had been discussed extensively over the years and the appendix to the acts of that synod. The committee many position papers had been prepared. It suggested itself recommended that this synopsis serve as the basis discussion should focus on the fencing of the Lord’s Table for further discussion with the OPC. The synod, however, and confessional membership. put a stop to this, exposing the inconsistency with the The 2004 synod deemed it beneficial if the churches fact that ecclesiastical fellowship had been established. would receive evidence of these many discussions and It indicated that the mandate of Synod 2004 to continue their outcomes. Accordingly, it mandated the committee the discussion with the OPC on the existing differences to publish a synopsis on the various issues and position “cannot be repeated because it does not take into account

674 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE the decision of Synod Neerlandia (2001) to establish of the Lord’s Supper “in a purposeful and vigorous way.” ecclesiastical fellowship with the OPC. The establishment Another submission charges that the OPC has not changed of ecclesiastical fellowship means that unity of faith is its approach and practice and that there is no evidence recognized.” It indicated that there were many other that the committee discussed these matters. Rather than issues facing the churches that needed attention. The interact with such suggestions, by pointing to the direction matters of supervision of the Lord’s Table and confessional set by the 2007 synod, the 2013 synod allowed a cloud of membership should be pursued where appropriate, but suspicion to hang over the relationship as it leaped all the should not dominate. By this, the synod of 2007 put the way back to 2001 and mandated the committee to give relationship in proper perspective, stepping away from the “particular attention … to the functioning of the 2001 narrow focus that had dominated the relationship for so agreement.” It is rather remarkable that the 2013 synod many years. allowed the comments from two churches, out of fifty-five churches, to dictate the public face of the CanRC towards Remaining cloud over the relationship the OPC. It gives the impression that the supervision of Anyone who peruses the reports to the 2010 and 2013 the Lord’s Supper and confessional membership is all the synods by the committee that looks after contact with the CanRC either think or care about, and implies, without OPC will see there is a flourishing relationship of mutual evidence that the OPC is deficient in these areas as long as trust and appreciation. Committees meet annually to they do not exactly imitate CanRC practices. share and discuss what is happening in their respective churches. The acts of these synods, however, indicate there Conclusion continues to be a cloud over the relationship from the side The history of contact between the CanRC and of the CanRC. There is a push by some to keep issues of OPC has travelled a long and arduous road. There was a the past front and center. The synod of 2010, for example, sparkle of light after fifteen years from the first time the considered that, while issues like supervision of the Lord’s matter appeared on the agenda of a general synod, when Table and confessional membership should not be labelled the synod of 1977 finally explicitly stated what had been as “outstanding divergencies,” and it was not proper to explicitly assumed, namely, that in the OPC the CanRC belabour these issues, nevertheless felt they should be met fellow faithful churches. It took another twenty-four discussed “purposefully and vigorously.” This language years, filled with internal dissension and discussion did not reappear in the actual mandate, but it cast a cloud and critiquing of the brotherhood in the OPC, before over the relationship. The word “purposefully” suggests the OPC finally called the CanRC to task and Synod there is some goal that should be achieved before the 2001 responded in humility, admitting past faults and discussions can stop. The history of contact suggested the working out the implication of recognizing the OPC as goal was uniformity. The word “vigorously” seems quite a true church, by entering into ecclesiastical fellowship. inappropriate for a meeting between brothers, implying The years following that decision have seen many that the one side should use strong terms to bring the positive developments in the relationship, but it labours other to agreement. This does not reflect the atmosphere under a cloud of suspicion coming from the CanRC of ecclesiastical fellowship where brothers meet as equals side. It is to be hoped that future synods will not let the before the Lord. There is no sense of considering others cloud of suspicion continue to set the agenda for the better than oneself. relationship but allow the relationship to function for This cloud reappeared at the 2013 synod. One its intended purpose, namely, that of mutual support, submission interacting with the report of the committee accountability and encouragement. After more than that has contact with the OPC draws attention to the fact fifty years of interaction, in which the OPC has shown that there is no evidence that the committee discussed tremendous patience and love with the CanRC, it should the matters of confessional membership and supervision be clear we are dealing with a true sister church.

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 675 CLIPPINGS ON POLITICS AND RELIGION

Cornelis Van Dam

Israel not on the Map Professor emeritus of Old Testament at the Canadian Reformed Theological Seminary in Hamilton, Ontario [email protected]

A fact unknown to many in the Western world is that Such an incident is quite sobering and shows that the pervasive Arab propaganda against Israel and its very even to recognize the existence of Israel is considered existence means that Palestinian maps do not include the intolerable in the Arab world, including the upcoming state of Israel. This means that school children learning younger generation. As the Gatestone Institute stated their geography are not taught that there is a legitimate on their website: “If a powerful TV network such as country called Israel. Rather the strong impression created MBC was unable to face pressure and intimidation and as they grow up and hear and learn of Israel’s existence had to remove Israel from its map, how can anyone is not a legal state and must disappear. It’s not on their seriously expect that Arab leaders will be able to win the map. It doesn’t belong in the Middle East. Indeed, the backing of their people for an initiative that talks about elimination of Israel is the stated and well advertised aim ‘establishing normal relations’ with Israel? And how of groups like Hamas and the chairman of its “parent” can anyone seriously expect that if Israel pulled back the Muslim Brotherhood. Israel must go! Small wonder to the pre-1967 lines, the Arab world will consider the that there has never been a successful peace deal with IsraeliArab Conflict over?” The reality is, as articulated Israel. The willingness on the part of the leaders in the in the website of the Palestinian Media Watch, that “the Palestinian Authority is simply not there to recognize Palestinian Authority makes no attempt to educate its Israel, let alone make a peace treaty with it. people towards peace and coexistence with Israel. On the All of this was underlined this fall when a popular contrary, from every possible platform it repeatedly rejects Arab television program broadcast from Saudi Arabia’s Israel’s right to exist, presents the conflict as a religious MBC TV featured Israeli Arab citizens, Manal Moussa, battle for Islam, depicts the establishment of Israel as twenty-five, and Haitham Khalailah, twenty-four, as an act of imperialism, and perpetuates a picture of the contestants on its Arab Idol program. The sin of this Middle East, both verbally and visually, in which Israel station in the eyes of many of the hundreds of millions who watched it was that it showed a map with Israel on does not exist at all. Israel’s destruction is said to be both it as the country of origin for their guests. The media inevitable and a Palestinian obligation.” reported that within minutes there was a tremendous So, one small step necessary for any real peace spontaneous uproar and protest, not just from talks to succeed is for Arab leaders to put Israel back Palestinians, but from the entire Arab world because of on the maps used in the classrooms of their schools. this transgression. Israel should not even be mentioned! The next generation needs to be taught that Israel is a It should not be on the map! Because of the vigorous legitimate state and should be recognized as such. Such protests and threats of future boycott, the station was a simple and honest step would indicate a willingness forced to apologize and claimed that showing a map by Palestinians to recognize Israel. If that step is not with Israel on it was a “technical error.” The country of taken the prospects of any meaningful peace between origin was quickly called Palestine, and the singers were the descendants of Jacob and Esau are extremely dim identified as Palestinians, even though they hold and Israel will remain a thorn in the side of the Islamic Israeli passports. Middle East.

676 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE Hearts, Legs, and Lungs Leah Aasman on Fire?

In the middle of a monthly ROOTS meeting about a pouring into the church and year ago, a comment was shared by a participant to a team soon the whole auditorium was member that they really enjoyed participating in ROOTS filled! It would quite something events and would love to see more events happening in to enjoy an evening of singing between the two big conferences that we organize every with around three or four year. This triggered one of many brainstorm sessions by hundred youth who came from the team, resulting in the idea that we would try something all over Ontario to hear about new: we decided to host events on the last Sunday of each how “Love Is Patient.” month where we could meet as Christian youth, sing At the end of the evening, together, listen to a short speech, and foster continued we made an announcement relationships within the communion of saints. We coined that we were looking for other churches who would be these evenings “Hearts on Fire” and picked out the theme willing to host Hearts on Fire. During the refreshment time of 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, focussing each speech on a different after closing, we were flooded with youth group leaders aspect of love and how to improve our love to better reflect who really enjoyed the evening and were excited about the the love of our Father. prospect of hosting an event that requires relatively little But I suppose I’m getting ahead of myself and should preparation or stress. first explain who and what ROOTS is. The ROOTS team is Over the next year and a half, we hosted Hearts on Fire a group of ten young adults in the central Ontario area who on the last Sunday of each month in different churches all seek to “encourage and support the growth of a community around Ontario. Each evening took on a similar forum, of young people as they increase in love for Jesus Christ,” starting with a few songs, followed by a twenty minute as stated in our mission statement. We are all professing speech, some more singing, closing, and announcements, members of Canadian and United Reformed churches who and finished with some fellowship and refreshments. We work collaboratively with youth groups around Ontario sang a variety of songs from the ROOTS song book, which we to organize events throughout the year that gather youth picked through carefully to ensure all songs have appropriate to grow together in the service of our God, to train in theological content, in addition to a variety of songs from leadership, to encourage community service, and to foster a the Book of Praise and the Psalter Hymnal. The speeches sense of community within the younger demographic of the each focussed on different facets of love, as outlined in 1 communion of saints. These events include two big weekend Corinthians 13:4-8, starting with “Love is Patient,” followed by conferences, community service days, Youth Leadership “Love is Kind,” all the way until “Love Never Fails.” Symposiums, Hearts on Fire, and a variety of other fun Since we finished up in September with 1 Corinthians events, under the supervision of the Fellowship Canadian 13:8, “Love Never Fails,” we hope to focus the next few Reformed Church of Burlington. The name “ROOTS” came months on the Beatitudes from Matthew 5. out of Colossians 2:6-7 which encourages us to “continue to Please join with us in encouraging youth to grow live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the together in the Lord by spreading the word about Hearts faith you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” on Fire, attending the events yourself, or volunteering with We set up the very first Hearts on Fire evening, quite your youth group to host Hearts on Fire. If you have any unsure of what to expect or if anyone would be interested in questions about Hearts on Fire that were not addressed, coming out. But as it came closer to 7:30, people kept please feel free to email us at [email protected].

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 677 Celebration: Elaine Prinzen Forty Years of Covenantal Education at Timothy Canadian Reformed School in Hamilton

“Continue in what you have learned and believed, knowing from whom you learned it and how from childhood you have been acquainted with the sacred writings, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” 2 Timothy 3:14,15

The crowd slowly gathered to the smell of bacon, sausages, and pancakes in the early morning of Saturday, June 7, 2014 to share in the celebration. After many pounds of bacon, countless links of sausage, a power outage, and too many pancakes flipped to count, everyone was ready for the formal part of the morning. Timothy’s doors have been open for forty years of Christian education, and the Timothy community gathered And our children are full of that wonderment. What a together in thanksgiving and praise to our heavenly Father blessing it has been to have been able to speak and to teach to commemorate this milestone. about the handiwork of a joyful Creator who enjoyed creating The board chair, Ed Vanderlaan, opened the program and having his world repeat the same delightful things over with prayer and praise and remarked on the blessings the and over again. For forty years our God has given us the school has been given over the years. freedom to assist parents to present his wonderful world to Judy Kingma, principal from 1977-1985, reminisced his covenant children at Timothy.” about her time at Timothy, the changes and growth seen Henk Plug, our current principal highlighted some of over her years as principal of the school. A few things she the changes, the steady growth in enrolment, the “heat” highlighted were: the story telling full of the great deeds day in September (and to find out later there was air of the Lord, school devotions with the entire student body conditioning in the school), the dodging of rain buckets in one room, singing the praises of the Lord, skating on with any amount of rain, the graffiti problem at the current a frozen field by the first school building, and forts in the building until cameras were installed, the unwanted school bushes at recess time. “pets” that made themselves at home, etc. Henk Nobel, principal from 1985-1997, focussed on Timothy opened in 1973 out in the middle of farmers’ the wonder of our created world. Have you ever seen a fields, with a student population of fifty-one in four bull fly, or pizza grow on trees? Would these be any more classrooms, with three full-time teachers. By 1997, the amazing to see than watching an eagle fly or acorns grow farmers’ fields were Guido’s sports field and Timothy on trees? “And then there’s the wonder of living things. building and yard were crowded, so a move was made to

678 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE Queensdale Avenue. Little did we foresee that Timothy has remained the same, to educate the children in the fear would be blessed with many more covenant students, and of the Lord in every subject through work and play, so they this building would only suit our needs for ten years. In could move on with a firm foundation in knowledge and the middle of the 2006/2007 school year, after months love for the Lord and their neighbour. of cleaning/painting/renovating done by an army of Our building’s cornerstone has traveled with us from contractors and volunteers, everyone and everything the previous school building and was fittingly (finally) laid was moved again, into our current building on East 25th and unveiled at the celebration, a testament and reminder street. We had SOOOO much room! We would never run to the Lord’s faithfulness. out of space!? So we thought. After only six years in the It is this foundation of God-given freedom that links the new school, we had to add four portable classrooms to Timothy of yesterday to the Timothy of today and tomorrow. accommodate increasing enrollment. Mr. Nobel ended his speech with a charge to the school Three different school buildings, scores of students, community going forward: “Marvel at creation, and then and several hundred different staff members have praise your Creator also through the wonderful avenue marked the years since Timothy opened its doors. Along with them, many challenges and changes came as well; of the schools we are allowed to maintain. Keep alive that technology being introduced into the classroom, new Bible joy and wonder in your heavenly Father, the creator of all and Book of Praise versions, resource program expansion, things, at this wonderful school, Timothy. As you enter teacher research and development programs. There have the next forty years and beyond, glorify this God been countless volunteers, bus drivers, board members, as school society; glorify this God in your classrooms; committee members, too numerous to count. Yet the focus glorify this God by holding up his amazing creation before your students; glorify this God when we speak of his wondrous works in our daily interactions with each other.” We thank God for all the blessings that he has given over the past forty years, and move forward in his grace and with the words at the end of Psalm 104 on our lips: “May the glory of the Lord endure forever. I will sing praise to my God while I have being. May my meditation be pleasing to him, for I rejoice in the Lord. Bless the Lord, O my soul! Bless the Lord!”

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 679 Geraldine Salomons

Toronto Welcomes Photo credit Gerald Boot Her New Pastor

After being without a pastor and teacher for nearly two and half years, there was much excitement in the air on October, 5, 2014 in the Bethel congregation. We had once again, with the blessing of the Lord, and in his time, been able to receive another minister of the Word. We received the exciting news that Candidate Bruintjes had accepted the call we had extended to him in July, as we were celebrating our sixtieth anniversary as the Toronto congregation. However, we still had to patiently and prayerfully wait until Candidate Bruintjes sustained his peremptory examination, which with God’s blessing he did.

Ordination Dr. A.J. deVisser led the installation worship service paid for. Isaiah, in a vision sees the Lord on his way, and chose for his text Isaiah 40:9-11 using as his theme: returning to Jerusalem, victorious. However, God’s people The herald of good tidings is sent to call God’s people. are still despondent and Isaiah prophecies that they need Isaiah 40 is the second part of the book of Isaiah and a herald, someone to bring the Good News to his people. often referred to as the Book of Comfort. The first part of Zion and Jerusalem are called to be this herald. Jerusalem the book of Isaiah, chapters 1-39 are referred to the Book is where the priests and Levites lived. They were called to of Judgement. Now in chapter 40 God instructs Isaiah instruct God’s people in the doctrines of salvation. So also to speak words of comfort to his people. The Babylonian today, the ministers and elders have the same calling. He captivity would come to an end and her sins had been encouraged Pastor Gerrit to proclaim the Word of God from the pulpit, in our homes, but also to “others whom God calls.” Just as the Lord gathered his people back to Jerusalem, so also now, even though the work of a Pastor may involve struggles and resistance, Pastor Gerrit must always “be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power” (Eph 6:10). He must strive to be Christ-like and shepherd the flock so that none are left behind. After the form for ordination was read and an affirmative answer received, we as congregation once again were able to witness the “laying on of hands” in which our most senior member, Rev. VanBeveren, was able to participate. Following the service, the Chairman of Council, Gerald Boot, welcomed the Bruintjes family to our congregation.

680 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE but always walk in the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Pastor Gerrit encouraged us, as he begins his ministry in our congregation, “Take care that Christ always remains front and centre.”

Welcome evening The following evening we could welcome our new Pastor and his family in a less formal way and encourage him to “Consider yourself at home.” This theme was carried through a number of the presentations made by the Teen Club and as whole congregation as Annet Selles read a story introducing most of the members of our congregation to our new pastor. . . this included everyone wearing a hat and tipping it to our pastor when instructed He thanked our Heavenly Father above all, who during to do so. The Men’s Society presented the Bruintjes the last two and a half years of vacancy blessed us with with gifts representing the various vocations in our the faithful preaching of his Word each Sunday again. congregation. We were also entertained by Jeopardy hosted Opportunity was also given to those delegates present, both by the Young Peoples. The choir also sang the beautiful on behalf of Classis as well as other congregations wishing song “I Will Serve Him All My Days.” The pastor was also to offer their words of encouragement. Letters were also challenged on his knowledge of the Scriptures, of which received and read. some of the answers surprised him. One of the questions In the afternoon service, our new Pastor used as his was: Who was the greatest lawbreaker in the Bible? Moses theme: In Jesus Christ there is no decay! God had fulfilled – he broke all Ten Commandments at once. his promise that he had made so many years ago by sending Following all of the presentations Pastor Gerrit thanked his Son Jesus as the Messiah and, having raised him from everyone for making them feel at home. We sang “Great is the dead, our Saviour would never decay. The reason God Thy Faithfulness” and closed the evening with prayer. A had given this promise was because of our fall into sin. time of fellowship was enjoyed in which opportunity was We must flee to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ for given to personally speak to Pastor Gerrit. All praise and forgiveness from all our sins. We are called to cling to Christ thanksgiving goes to our Heavenly Father for once again and abide in his grace. We may not rely on our own strength blessing our congregation in such a wonderful way!

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 681 New Pastor for Kerwood! Phyllis Tamminga

This year at Thanksgiving we in Kerwood have much After the signing of the papers, there were many to be thankful for! As well as gathering with family letters of congratulations on behalf of the local and and friends and enjoying the autumn colours; we were surrounding churches. especially grateful to witness the ordination of our “rookie” pastor, Rev. J. Poort. After successfully passing his classis Welcome program exam, Jeff Poort was ordained as Minister of the Word Following the afternoon service on November 2, a during the morning service of October 19, 2014. Rev. R. program was organized to welcome the Poort family. He Bredenhof, from London Pilgrim Canadian Reformed was welcomed with much singing and presentations from Church had the honours of installing our tenth minister the various study societies and clubs. But first a poem was after two and a half years of vacancy. read that was written by Judy Lenting. I wish I had the In the afternoon service Rev. J. Poort preached to us space to print it all, but unfortunately that is not possible. his inaugural sermon from Isaiah 55:6-13. The theme It began as follows: was “The Invaluable Invitation.” We are to seek the Lord through his Word of salvation, because of its height, its We are gathered here today power, and its result! He reminded the congregation that it To celebrate in a special way, is not by any shepherd’s ability that the word has any effect, To welcome our new pastor and his wife, it is by God’s will and through his power. The Word always As they begin a new chapter in their life. accomplishes the purposes for which God sends it out. We We are so happy that you came can therefore be eager and excited to accept the invitation We hope you feel the same, to come and be fed and nourished by God’s Word every We hope you like our little town Sunday again. And that soon you may settle down, Just as ministers are also instruments of God, so Rev. From Parkhill to Inwood, Wyoming they come J. Poort has been entrusted to guide our church. Therefore As well as Strathroy, Watford and then some. Brother B. Dokter could joyfully officially welcome Rev. Judy then went on to give a delightful poetical excerpt Poort and his family on behalf of Council and church. about all the families in the congregation. Next our small but hearty Young People came up and read a “homemade” poem also. This was done in a clever manner by rhyming it all with Poort: They welcomed Rev. and Mrs. Poort and portkins, they promised to keep it short, none the less they are very important, Kerwood is no holiday resort, yet our hospitality no one can thwart. We are the sort that grows on you like a wart, yet we always lend support, from tech to child support, We will challenge you in any sport, from the volleyball court to the tennis court. We hope we don’t fall short of your expectations. But we are very happy we imported you Family Poort. And I may add, as we all are.

682 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE Rev. and Mrs. J. Poort

Next Irene VanGorkum came forward and spoke on behalf of the Women’s Society, who meets every Wednesday morning at 9:30. She gave a brief comical history, based on the minute book, of how they started in 1957. Their first purchase was new carpet for the church. It was a very busy time with lots of babies so they also purchased a playpen for the nursery. The first function (one of many!) was organizing a welcome evening for Rev. Vanderwel. She continued to tell of many other current activities that they were involved in and hoped Mrs. Poort would feel welcome to join them. Teen Club was next on the list. They meet once a month to study God’s Word. They then involved Rev. Poort in a game in having to guess the teens’ names, ages, and Then, new to Kerwood, was our Welcome Committee who their parents were. As Rev. Poort started to scratch Quartet! Consisting of Don VanGorkum, Tracy VanBerkel, his head, his wife quietly came up to assist him! William Dokter, and Ineke Haan, they serenaded the This was followed by a delightful presentation from Poort family (and the congregation) with a welcome jingle Sunday School and Kids Club. It was directed by Tracy all about KER-WOOD! We decided this quartet would be VanBerkel and they entertained us by singing “Trust and thoroughly enjoyed by the residents at the nursing home, Obey” and “Father I Adore You.” which we visit the second Sunday of the month. Now from the opposite of the spectrum, the EverGreen Mike Janssens then came forward and presented the Club; the seniors of the congregation. Or as Mr. Smid so minister with a map to find where everyone lives, since nicely put it, the “Old Folks!” But he continued to say they some tend to live a little far away. And even though we are still very young at heart. They meet every other Tuesday seem to be a smaller congregation, we should warn you Morning at each other’s homes, sing their favourite songs, that changes drastically in the summer when people come study Scripture, and reflect on the faith and love that they receive from their Heavenly Father. to visit “our” famous provincial campground, the Pineries. It may be due to our awesome hospitality. You never have to drive back between services. The host family will always find you an eager family to take you home and feed you some delicious baking and a bowl soup. They will even entertain you with a game of bocce ball or euchre if it is pouring rain. The evening ended with a delicious meal provided by members of the congregation and an opportunity for everyone to socialize and get better acquainted with the Poort family. I would like to close this report with the ending of Judy Lenting’s poem: “We thank God you’ve come here, to bring God’s Word loud and clear. May he bless you in all you do, to be faithful, trustworthy, and true. May it be our heart and aim, to bring glory to God’s name.”

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 683 From the Publisher

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

Unrest editors Dr. J. Visscher, Rev. P.H. Holtvlüwer, Ours are times of unrest. This past year has Rev. E. Kampen, Rev. K. Stam, and Dr. C. seen war break out again in Israel and Gaza, the Van Dam, and copy manager, Mrs. Laura brutal rise of the Islamic State, and provocative Veenendaal – in the past year. Thank you for Russian military action. Nations such as Iran and supplying and coordinating excellent content North Korea continue to be a danger to their for another year! neighbours and the world. Closer to home, we Others regularly contribute by way of were recently shocked by the murders of two writing articles or coordinating our regular Canadian servicemen, and the firefight inside columns. Mr. Arthur Kingma coordinates Centre Block on Parliament Hill. Education Matters, and Mrs. Patricia Gelms coordinates Ray of Sunshine. We also thank We know that such unrest is the result of Mrs. Corrine Gelms, who for some time has sin, and we know it personally, too. Our lives helped her with this column. Rev. W. den are often marked by unrest. We can carry Hollander receives and responds to a wide heavy burdens because of our broken world variety of questions in You Asked. Thank you! and our own corrupted and restless hearts. Special thanks are due to Rev. R. Rest Bredenhof, who has coordinated Treasures New and Old for the last seven years, and What good news our Lord Jesus brought to Dr. W. Bredenhof, who has contributed in his ministry on earth. He said to those many articles and reviews to Clarion over the burdened because of sin: “Come to me all who years. We wish you both a blessed and fruitful labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you ministry in Australia! rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from To our faithful subscribers and advertisers: me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you thank you! Your continued support is much will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, appreciated, and is essential to the publication and my burden is light.” of Clarion. In the midst of an unrestful world, may we joyfully take the easy yoke of our Lord, and Greetings receive his promised comfort and rest. Warm greetings and best wishes for the coming year during the Christmas season and Thank you in the coming year! May we all look forward This good news of our Lord Jesus Christ to receiving the blessing of complete and is the focus of Clarion. It has again been a eternal rest. pleasure to work with our editorial team – W.J. Gortemaker

684 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE Guido Commencement Calvin Wieske 2014

The morning of September 27 dawned cool, crisp, and clear. As the sun stole over the horizon and the final Mr. Vanderhoeven drops of dew leapt into the sky, the doors of Guido de Brès opens the ceremony were thrown open to welcome the graduating class of 2014 one last time. While teachers and parents entered the gym to peruse the scrumptious luncheon buffet, students wandered about, snapping photos with friends and stealing a final wistful glance at Guido’s hallowed halls. After a cup of coffee, a bite of lunch, and a chat with friends it was time to bid Guido a fond farewell and head to Hamilton Place for the main event. As Alanna Weilink performed a musical prelude, the gowned graduates trickled in to the auditorium to take their seats. Mr. J Vanderhoeven welcomed all on behalf of the board, opening the ceremony with a reminder that throughout life’s many changes, God’s faithfulness is After a stirring rendition of The City Harmonic’s constant and unchanging. This is why we are called to live Strong by Reuben Aasman, Hannah Boyko, Dan Hordyk, a life of service to God, for the benefit of our neighbour. Salva Kasweka, Charlotte Spanning, Tyler Vanderlaan, and Principal Roger Vanoostveen stood up to speak a Alyssa Vandervelde, Reverend Paul Aasman addressed the few words concerning our life as God’s people. Drawing graduating class with a powerful message on “Uncommon on David’s experience in the caves of Adullam he asked Courage.” Drawing examples from courageous characters the students, “Is your growth like that of David’s mighty in classic literature, Rev. Aasman showed that we naturally men?” Principal Vanoostveen further encouraged the admire uncommon courage. He explained that Jesus’ life graduates to make learning, growth, and development a and death was the ultimate story of courage, illustrating how lifelong process in order to “become the mighty men and we are not strong in ourselves, but in the encouragement women you are called to be!” of faith, as “courage springs from faith.” We were

Class of 2014

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 685 especially exhorted to ask God directs our paths in both good times and bad. Brad for this courage in the loss drew our attention to Trevor Nordeman as an example of of Trevor Nordeman, a dear how we should live in faith, as a witness in the world even friend, brother, and son who through difficulty and hardship. The speech concluded on was called home this past year. a lighter note with some tongue-in-cheek reflection on the He urged us to have faith that four years spent at Guido highlighting anecdotes that were Trevor’s passing was not an both “meaningful because they were enriching. . . and end to life but the beginning enriching because they were meaningful.” of a new and fuller life with Rev. P. Aasman delivers In memory of Trevor Nordeman, fellow students Christ! The audience his address to the responded to this message graduating students Nathania Dehaan, James Moore, Bethany Vanderveen, and with the singing of Psalm Alanna Weilink performed When It’s All Been Said and 27, “God is my light, Done by Jim Cowan, professing to God, my refuge, my salvation. Whom shall I fear? The Lord When it’s all been said and done comes to my aid. He is my strength in all my tribulation. There is just one thing that matters Of whom shall I then ever be afraid?” Did I do my best to live for truth At this point, the graduates rose to receive their Did I live my life for You. diplomas, to the applause of all present, followed by After the audience responded with the singing of How the singing of “Lo What a cloud of Witnesses.” After Deep the Father’s Love for Us, Mr. J. Joosse closed in the graduates were seated, the recipients of the various prayer. The audience rose to sing our National Anthem, scholarships, participation awards, volunteer awards, followed by the recessional postlude performed by Bethany governor general’s academic medal, and student-of-the-year award were called forward to accept recognition for the VanderVeen as the newly minted graduates exited to be diligent use of their God-given talents. congratulated by friends and family. Finally, Brad Schouten stood up to present the Congratulations Guido graduates of 2014, and may valedictory address. He reminisced about some of the God continue to bless you and make you a blessing in the highs and lows of the past four years, and reminded us that years ahead!

AWARDS The Governor General’s Academic Medal Guido de Brès Scholarships Corrine VanWoudenberg Jennifer Boerema Kristen Buist Jeremy Buist Gabrielle Vanderbrugghen The Guido de Brès Christian High School Corrine VanWoudenberg Nadia Wieske Participation Awards Hannah deHaan Subject Specific Scholarships Marc Joosse Kyra Vanderwoude The Arts Brenna Knegt Humanities and Social Sciences Danielle VanderVegte The Lieutenant Governor’s Community Languages Kendra VanderLaan Volunteer Award for Students Mathematics Brad Schouten Aiyanna Hoogsteen Science Michaela Blokker The Dr. F.G. Oosterhoff Academic Athletics Scholarship Student-of-the-Year Award Diedric VanBarneveld Hannah deHaan

686 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE Graduating Class of 2014

Reuben Aasman Alexander Jeremy Jagt Morgan Jane Stegenga Thomas Jordan Alkema Michelle Heather Jansema Kevin Tyler Tamminga Jessica Hilary Bartels Marc Clarence Joosse Sara Marie Tenhage Arin Auke Bergsma Michael Andrew Kalte Lucia Joanna Terpstra Michaela Breeann Blokker Jasmine Paige Kampen Samantha Hermina Togeretz Tyson John Blokker Jessica Lindsay Kampen Erin Cole Henry Turco Jennifer Pauliene Boerema Monga Salva Kasweka Laura Kathleen VanAndel Sarah Margaret Anne Boeringa Brenna Leigh Knegt Diedric Jan van Barneveld Mitchell Benjamin Bouwman Melissa Alexa Krikke Melanie Alicia VanDasselaar Matthew Jonathan Boverhof Matthew Marten Ligtenberg Leah Kaitlyn Vandeburgt Hannah Lauren Boyko Joshua Leonard Linde Calvin Zachary Vandenberg James Bert Breukelman Taylor Roslyn Lodder Gabrielle Adria Vanderbrugghen David Jonathan Buikema Mark Andrew Ludwig Justin Vanderbrugghen Jeremy John Buist Matthew Ryan Ludwig Kendra Lynn Vanderlaan Kristen Alyssa Buist Bradley John Mans Tyler Wayne VanderLaan Corey Benjamin Jacob Buitenwerf Randal Lee Muis Jason Andrew VanderVeen Suzanna Lynn Bultena Kailey Rebecca Nicholson Marisa Sharon VanderVeen Kaitlyn Jayne Crewe Spencer Cole Nordeman Danielle Dawn VanderVegte Caleb Alexander Datema Malcolm Jacob Oliver Alyssa Jane vanderVelde Chanelle Jennifer DeBoer Rachelle Justina Petter Connor John VanderVelde Colin DeBoer Katherine Elise Pilon Kyra Maaike Vanderwoude Devon John DeBoer Nicole Kelly Poort Jason Tyler VanEgmond Joshua Daren DeBoer Aaron Matthew Post Jodi Diana VanEgmond Elizabeth Mary DeBoer Jesse Hendrik Post Robert John VanGoolen Veronica Maria DeBoer Taylor Jane Post Brett Matthew VanLuik Hannah Arianne de Haan Rebecca Geraldine Prinzen Benjamin Shawn VanRootselaar Zachary Thomas Dekker Lauren Aubrey Ravensbergen Corissa Nicole VanWoudenberg Tarissa Dawn DeRuiter Jessica Nadine Schenkel Corrine Carolin VanWoudenberg Anita Grace Draaistra Jonathan Tyler Schoon Tara Michelle Veenstra Amanda Marie Gracey Bradley Robert Schouten Alekzander Bastiaan Verwey Brandon Joshua Groen Kirsten Gertrina Schutten Jason Leonard Werkman Scott Isaac Groenwold Rosalie Jayne Schutten Kimberly Nelene Werkman Kaitlyn Breanna Haining Michael Frank Selles Amy Michelle Wieske Lubertus Johannes Heemskerk Katrina Ainsley Sloots Nadia Rose Wieske Aiyanna Joy Hoogsteen Owen Wesley Sloots Rebecca Judith Wolsley Daniel Harrison Hordyk James Martin Smeding Jessica Amber Jager Charlotte Tina Anne Spanninga

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 687 Emmanuel Arthur Kingma Christian High School Graduation 2014

Jakob Faber delivering his valedictorian October 3, 2014 in Fergus, ON address At 5:30 pm, after all the graduands, parents, board members, and staff had arrived, the festivities began. Once the chatter and laughter that had filled the hall died down, Mr. Gerald Alkema welcomed all, especially the forty-seven graduands, led in devotions, thanked our heavenly Father for this joyous occasion, and then gently urged us to enjoy the generous bounty of food that the present grade 12 moms had prepared. Between the main course and the dessert, the staff shared a jeopardy game that highlighted special characteristics or unique events of many graduands. Delicious food, delightful entertainment, of the board, opened the evening. After singing, Bible and a blessed reason for celebrating boosted the spirits and reading, and prayer, he offered words of welcome and bolstered the anticipation for the big ceremony, especially congratulations to the graduates, one being his own among the grads. They, having been apart for a few daughter. He then called the keynote speaker, Mr. Jim summer months, and having started new educational or Menken, to address the grads and the audience. Mr. career paths, could catch up with one another, complement Menken, a former teacher, and now a woodcarver, built one another on clothing, hairdos, and “you have grown his address on Isaiah 40: 28-31. After telling us that his taller over the summer,” and then, under the specific favourite thing to carve is an eagle, he developed several instructions of the principal, put on their gowns and analogies between eagles and grads. As eagle parents memorize procedural directions to ensure that everything build nests for their young, so do Christian parents. As will go well during the ceremony. eagles teach their young to fly, so do Christian parents. Attendants assisted drivers in parking their vehicles. As eaglets must learn to fly, so must Christian youth. Over 600 guests walked down the atrium, received a As eaglets must extend wings out fully to soar, so must program from the ushers, and found their seats in the Christian youth. He warned the grads not to tuck in the auditorium. Those who arrived early were treated to wings, nor to let vain philosophies clip the wings, but screens that displayed various slides of the grads in some to soar in hope and boldness that God provides: “For I sort of action during their former years at school. Ten know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to minutes before the grads would enter and take their seats, prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope a former grad, Kailey VanVeen, took her place behind the and a future.” And he concluded, “So grads, we want you keyboard, preparing the audience for the grand arrival. to eventually leave the nest, to soar, to keep your eyes By 8:00 pm, the graduands arrived. Mr. Nobel ensured focused on Jesus, to always return to your Master, to live good order, while Mr. Andrew Wildeboer, the chairman godly lives and to remain humble.”

688 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE PRESENTATION OF THE AWARDS Honours Achievement Award Sheri Bouwers, Stephanie Breukelman, Jacqueline Brouwer, Zach Brouwer, Rachel Eygenraam, Rebecca Horsburgh, Natasha Jansen, Laura Kottelenberg, Madison Lodder, Lyndsey Menken, Danielle Nijenhuis, Shae Nijenhuis, Nick Nobel, Laurissa Sikkema, Evan VanGrootheest, Jamie VanSydenborgh, Maria Vanwoudenberg, Brianna Wildeboer Post Farm Structures Award Natasha Janssen Mr. Nobel then gave his parting words to the grads Royal LePage RCR Realty Business before handing out the diplomas. He connect Mark Twain Excellence Award to Philippians 4:8. How? Mark Twain writes: “What a wee little part of a person’s life are his actions Danielle Nijenhuis and words. His real life is led in his head, and is known to L. Martin Toet Memorial Athletics none but himself.” Our real life is our thought life. Then Scholarship Philippians 4:8 ends: “. . .think about these things.” So our Laura Kottelenberg, Nick Nobel real life, which is our thought life, should be filled with all the positive things described in Philippians 4: that which is Governor General’s Academic Medal true, noble, right, pure, lovely and admirable. Where do we Rebecca Horsburgh find all these positive things? In the God-breathed Word. And logically, if our thought-life is filled with good things, Jordan Hutchinson Memorial Academic our actions and words will be too: “The reality of Jesus Christ Proficiency Award will shine in you, and you’ll be a living example to others.” Madison Lodder The Lieutenant Governor’s Community Volunteer Award Randy Sipkes Citizenship Award Rachel Eygenraam Stewardship Award Madison Lodder Golden Eagle Award Nick Nobel, Laurissa Sikkema, Serena Van Ommen Jeannette receiving her diploma

Mr. Nobel, along with the chairman of the board, then proceeded to give the diplomas to all the grads. When Jeannette Wierenga came up to receive her diploma, Mr. Nobel announced to us all that it was also Jeannette’s birthday, so we all heartily burst out into a melodious “Happy Birthday, dear Jeannette” song. After the formalities, clapping, pictures, and thankful reflections, the grads returned to their seats.

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 689 The last part of the ceremony included the traditional teacher and remind them that each one had an impact on awards ceremonies. After several awards and bursary our lives. Teachers don’t only instruct; they also motivate. scholarships were awarded to students (see side bar), Jakob What they tell their students can shape our futures.” Faber delivered his untraditional valedictorian speech. He A graduation evening brings students, teachers, parents, peppered his speech with fake nervousness, sports and car and the whole supporting community together. I was able to stories, accidents, lab experiments gone awry, confessions, find a vantage point to see everyone: how beautiful it is that reminders of things not yet done but should have been, God provides for Christian education and that we can celebrate and a special goodbye to Mr. Dave Nienhuis, who left to it. It’s an amazing gift! True, not everything that was taught, teach in Immanuel Christian High in Winnipeg. Despite learned, or done was without sin, but we, as a whole Christian all the untraditional things mentioned, Jakob ended with community, may prosper in hope. May God continue to more traditional words: “As crazy as it sounds, school is a prosper Christian education and his covenant youth. May our place to learn. For this I would like to thank each and every thought-life be filled with thanksgiving and praise.

Graduating students

690 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE Patricia Gelms Ray of Sunshine

Liz Koning HELLO! My name is Liz Koning. 17 HENRY DRIEGEN will be 59 I am fifty-three years old, born #19-31450 Spur Avenue, Abbotsford, BC V2T 5M3 on January 2, 1961. I have seven siblings, four brothers and three 17 GRACE HOMAN will be 59 sisters. Five live with their families c/o Anchor Home in other places, (two in Langley B.C., 361 Thirty Road S., RR 2, Beamsville, ON L0R 1B2 one in Vancouver, one in Calgary, and one in Angola). I’m so glad that 19 EDWIN SCHUTTE will be 31 I have my Mom, one brother, and 844 Bowman Road, Abbottsford, BC V3G 1S9 one sister and her family living close 19 JANINE SMID will be 45 by me here in Edmonton! 141 Kittridge Avenue E., Strathroy, ON N7G 2A9 Since 1998 I’ve been blessed to live in a group home run by Rehoboth Christian Ministries. I used to go out to a day 26 KATHERINE NIJENHUIS will be 49 program, but now I’m “retired.” I still go on outings with 598 Walker Street, Fergus, ON N1M 3J3 my housemates and our staff. The house I lived in for sixteen years was called “Five 30 TYLER HOEKSEMA will be 26 Gables.” The staff there was always amazed with how 6755 Lorne Drive, Sardis, BC V2R 2G3 many birthday cards I received. In June, 2014, I moved to “Mayfield Home” and I hope the workers in my new home Congratulations with your birthday! I hope you have a lovely will also be impressed with how many birthday cards I get. day celebrating with family and friends. I wish you the I LOVE getting them! Lord’s blessing in this your new year and may you have all My new address is 10905-163 St, Edmonton, Alberta, you need to live to the glory of our great God. T5P 3P7. Thank you and may God bless. (Many thanks as well from Liz’s Mom and family.) Happy Birthday January

2 LIZ KONING will be 54 10905-163 Street, Edmonton, AB T5P 3P7

6 JASON HERREWYNEN will be 41 A NOTE TO PARENTS AND CAREGIVERS “Parkway Crossing” #8 633 Park Road, N., Brantford, ON N3R 8B6 If there are any address or other changes that I need to be aware of please let me know as soon as possible. 7 CHRISTINE BREUKELMAN will be 43 Patricia Gelms 2225-19th Street, Coadale, AB T1M 1G4 5080 Airport Road East, Mount Hope, ON L0R 1W0 [email protected] 14 STEPHEN DYKSTRA will be 32 905-692-0084 Box 3573, Smithers, BC VOJ 2NO

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 691 You Asked

William den Hollander

Do children get punished for the sins of their father? Minister emeritus of the The NIV translates Exodus 20:5 as “punished the children Bethel Canadian Reformed Church of Toronto, Ontario for the sin of the parents,” while the RSV says “visiting the [email protected] iniquity of the fathers upon the children.” What is the difference? I think it should be visiting but I may be wrong. I think that if the parent wasted all the income Q so that the children go hungry then that is not a punishment, for the children didn’t do anything wrong, but it is the result of the sin of the parent or the visiting of the sin of the parent. Ezekiel (18:4) and Jeremiah (31:29) are quoting a saying that was popular in their days, which seems to draw the conclusion from the sanction of the 2nd commandment that the children are punished for the sins of the parents, but these prophets have to correct it by saying: “Everyone will die for their own sin.”

Beginning with the matter of their own sinful and self-designed ways which they saw in translation, it is clear that the their fathers and followed without discerning the wrong of Hebrew word used here can be such ways). So either way, in his love the Lord is intimately translated differently depending involved in the life of his people (first commandment) and on the context. The connotation in the manner of worship and service of his people (second of “visiting” denotes that the Lord commandment), and he responds to it in a covenantal A knows the situation, paying close way with blessing (to those who love him and keep his attention (Exod 3:16; 4:31). commandments) or curse (i.e. punishment, chastisement; He examines the ways of the fathers and sees the effect on thus he requites the sins of the fathers in the generations)! the children, so that he becomes involved in it (positively). Indeed, sometimes there is the reaction, “It’s not He does so in his love! This same love, however, shows fair that the Lord punishes the children for the sins of in his jealousy when he observes a manner of worship the parents.” However, that’s not what it means. You can which does not give him the first and foremost place in see that in Ezekiel 18, for instance, as the questioner the life and worship of his people (as expressed in the correctly notes. No, what it means is this: “The Lord first commandment), but rather do their own thing. Then follows up on the self-willed rebellion in the children, in he sees the wrong, the iniquity of the fathers, quite often the grandchildren, and in the great-grandchildren, if they also in their children, even in their grandchildren and hate me” (i.e. if they also are unfaithful to me). The Lord great-grandchildren; namely in that their offspring doesn’t does not punish the innocent, but if the children continue love him anymore either but “hate” him (i.e. they’re also in the sins of the fathers the Lord will punish them too. putting themselves first, designing their own ways, setting He doesn’t do so automatically (as also the blessing of the their own standards in service and worship, instead of covenant isn’t an automatism), but only if and when the showing their love in a life of obedience to the Lord). Then children do not turn away from the sin of their father but the Lord visits them too (negatively), coming against them, consciously and/or intentionally persist in it. The children, chastising them (i.e. in the way of punishing them, but for then, remain personally responsible for their way and

692 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE manner of worship and service to the Lord! At the same so will be the children. If parents tend to be sloppy in the time, the fathers in the families should be fully aware Lord’s service so will be the children. When the parents of the significance for him and his descendants of them decide that you don’t have to go to church twice, the parents’ turning their back on the Lord to practice idolatry and self- attendance ends up being sporadic and the children won’t willed religion. go anymore, while the grandchildren won’t know a thing When parents don’t take their covenantal faithfulness, about the Lord and his service any longer! When the parents service, and worship in love to the Lord seriously anymore, consider the living preaching of the gospel too heavy, too taking it easy, developing their own ways and standards, it long, and too serious, asking too much of the flesh, a real should not surprise us that it affects the relationship of the miracle has to happen to make the children hunger and children with the Lord and their personal service to him. thirst for the bread and water of life. Then we must observe Of course, then the children may not blame their parents among the members, the families, too, that those who for their own unfaithfulness, yet their upbringing has a have will receive more, but those who do not have the right decisive influence on their life which the Lord characterizes attitude, the right submission and love for the Lord, even as iniquitous. If parents are self-indulgent and permissive, what they have will be taken from them.

Is there something you’ve been wanting to know?

An answer you’ve been looking for? Ask us a question!

Please direct questions to

Rev. W. denHollander [email protected] 23 Kinsman Drive, Binbrook, ON L0R 1C0

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 693 Letter to the Editor

RE: “Christians face the most Persecution” on my parents. Paying for education for twenty-two years, by Cornelis Van Dam at times in both elementary and high school separately, undoubtedly puts a strain on your finances. I would deem (Clarion Vol. 63, No. 19, September 26, 2014) that as a sort of persecution. I go to a Christian high school and to me it is an invaluable and most rewarding blessing. The following letter was submitted as a school Daily, I am able to thank God for the opportunity, and that assignment. my parents are willing to put the money in to allow me the chance. When a government denies aid in providing Christians are undoubtedly the world’s most quality education and respectable staff to students due to persecuted people. Take ISIS for instance. The harms their religion, it is a form of suffering and thereby a form they inflict on our fellow believers are so dreadful and of persecution as well as a denial of the right to freedom the terrors they endure; so unimaginable. Cornelis Van of religion. Consider the aspect of persecution that does Dam did an excellent job describing and outlining violent not involve being tormented physically and remember that injustices done to Christians. As he states in his article: God will reward us for our struggles and persecutions we “80% of all acts of religious discrimination are directed endure here on earth. at Christians.” He also points out some statistics found Take comfort reading from the Belgic Confession, at the Centre for the Study of Global Christianity that Article 37 where it states: “Therefore, with good reason estimate approximately 100,000 Christians being killed the thought of this judgment is horrible and dreadful per year. If math is not your strong point, that rounds out to wicked and evil people. But it is very pleasant and a to about eleven Christians dying per hour. What the article fails to mention is that Christian persecution does not great comfort to the righteous and elect, since their total refer solely to physical persecution. In fact, persecution redemption will then be accomplished. They will then can be defined as: “To pursue in such a way as to afflict, receive the fruits of their labor and of the trouble they have to harass, or to cause to suffer because of belief.” Upon suffered; their innocence will be openly recognized by all; reading and reflecting on that definition we can conclude and they will see the terrible vengeance that God will bring that even the government refusing to fund our Christian on the evil ones who tyrannized, oppressed, and tormented education is a form of persecution in itself. When dealing them in this world. The evil ones will be convicted by with such a topic, it is impossible for me to not analyze the witness of their own consciences, and shall be made my own family’s position regarding Christian education immortal – but only to be tormented in “the eternal fire in the process. As one of six children I am easily able to prepared for the devil and his angels.” recognize how much of a financial burden that has placed Megan Baron

Letters to the Editor should be written in a brotherly fashion in order to be considered for publication. Submissions need to be less than one page in length.

694 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE Press Release

Classis AB of October 14, 2014 convened by Rev. Pontier, fraternal delegate from the URCNA Edmonton Immanuel Canadian Reformed Church brought greetings and words of encouragement. Rev. Roukema responded in kind. On behalf of the convening church of Immanuel The following reports were received. 1) Classis Treasurer CanRC, Rev. W.B. Slomp opened the meeting and report, 2) Audit of books of the Classis Treasurer. invited the assembly to sing Hymn 24:1, 2, 5. He then Question period according to Article 44 CO was held. read Colossians 1:1-19 and led in prayer. Welcome was All the churches but one answered the first two questions extended to all, including Candidate Tyler Vandergaag in the affirmative and the last question in the negative. and Rev. Pontier from the Neerlandia URC. Some matters Classis appointed the church of Edmonton Providence of memorabilia were noted. After the credentials were to convene the next classis on December 9, 2014, with examined and found to be in good order, the classis March 10, 2015 as alternate date. The suggested officers was declared constituted. The officers suggested by the are: Rev. J. Kalkman, chairman, Rev. J. D. Louwerse, vice- previous classis took their respective positions: Rev. R. chairman, and clerk, Rev. R. Aasman. RCUS – Kalkman, Aasman, chairman, Rev. A.B. Roukema, vice-chairman, Roukema; URCNA – deferred to Classis Pacific West. and Rev. J.D. Louwerse, clerk. After some modifications Personal question period was held. the agenda was adopted. Censure according to Article 34 CO was not necessary. Candidate Tyler Vandergaag delivered his sermon The Acts were adopted and the press release was approved. proposal on Matthew 14:22-33 and was examined on various We sang from Hymn 85:1 and Rev. Aasman led in areas of theology. Classis decided that Br. Vandergaag had closing prayer. sustained his examination and, with concurring advice from the regional deputies, he was granted permission to be For classis, ordained as a minister of the Word. A.B. Roukema (vice-chairman e.t.)

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 695 Year-End Review James Visscher Minister emeritus of the Canadian Reformed Church at Langley, British Columbia [email protected]

Abide with Me always the same as well. “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Heb 13:8). There is a well-known classic Christian hymn Abide So what? How does this help us? The hymn gives us with Me which includes this memorable line, “Change and the answer. It says that because he does not change, he decay in all around I see; O Thou who changest not, abide can always abide with us, stay with us, stand beside us, with me.” How fitting, especially at this time of year as we surround us, and support us. It means that he remains the experience the change of the seasons and the end of another same person as far as his personality is concerned: eternal, year. Change is in the air. invisible, wise, just, sovereign, good, loving, forgiving, Indeed, change is always in the air. We look in the compassionate, and merciful. It means too that he remains mirror and we see it. We look at our children and we see it. We look around in the world at large and we see it. Change the same as far as his works of deliverance are concerned. is everywhere. His agenda does not change. His program does not get For most of us this is an unsettling thought and reality. altered. His salvation in Jesus Christ is a constant. You can Of course, if you are young you may be looking forward count on it. You can build your life and hopes on it. to change and the passage of time. “I can’t wait to get my Who of us knows what the year 2015 will bring? No driver’s license. I can’t wait to leave home and explore the doubt a lot of changes will come our way and some will even world. I can’t wait to get married.” Such are the hopes and buffet us, but one thing will never change. Our God and his aspirations of the young. glorious redemption in Jesus Christ will remain the same, Still, I suspect that most of us do not view change so now and forever! He will abide with us! positively. “Who wants to leave a cosy home and move to an Churches and pastors unknown city? Who enjoys having to retire from a well-paid job? Who looks forward to facing life as a widow It is with this comforting thought in mind that we or widower?” begin our tour of the churches. This time we turn our And then if you add “decay” to the mix, the attention first to the West. apprehension only grows. “Change and decay” – what a British Columbia and Washington formidable duo! If “change” makes us uncomfortable, then In British Columbia and Washington there is not much “decay” infuses us with disgust. No one likes decay. It is an to report about either churches or pastors. When it comes enemy. It is a most unpleasant reality. We detest rust on our to vacancies, all of the churches in this area now have cars, wrinkles on our skin, holes in our socks, mould on pastors. The last church to receive a new one was the church our food. Why? It is because decay reminds us of death and at Langley. It welcomed a second pastor in the person of the end of all things. The popular saying is, “Nothing lasts the Rev. Doug Vandeburgt who came from Ontario in the forever.” How true! late summer months. He joins Pastor Ryan deJonge in Or is it? The hymn just mentioned would have us believe, shepherding the largest church in the federation. and sing, that this is not totally true. There is One who does not change. The Lord our God does not change. Isn’t that Alberta what he tells us in the last book of the Old Testament? “I the In the province of Alberta next door, there is more Lord do not change” (Mal 3:6). He does not change as far to report. For some time all of the churches there had a as his person is concerned. He does not change his mind or pastor but 2014 brought some changes. Rev. Dirk Poppe will or heart. He is always the same. And he has a Son who is of Coaldale accepted a call to the Free Reformed Church

696 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE of Southern River, Western Australia. Since his departure Barrhead Canadian the Coaldale church has begun calling but thus far without Reformed Church success. In the meantime, the ministers of the neighbouring United Reformed Church in Lethbridge, the Revs. Hank Van der Woerd and Wybren Oord, have been found willing and able to assist with the preaching. To the east the church at Taber also saw its minister depart, as the Rev. Marc Jagt left for Fergus, Ontario. Meanwhile, the Taber church called Candidate Tyler Vandergaag, who accepted the call, passed his classical exam, and should, the Lord willing, be ordained into office by the time you are reading this issue. Heading north we come to the church at Calgary. Its minister, the Rev. Hans Kalkman, came down with health issues and was granted time off to recuperate. He is back in Ontario and Michigan the saddle now but will soon be riding off into the sunset as 2015 will mark his retirement year. Moving on to Ontario and Michigan we see a part of Further north the Immanuel Canadian Reformed the continent that, as far as our churches are concerned, Church of Edmonton knows what this is all about as its has the highest number of vacancies. In that regard perhaps pastor, the Rev. Bill Slomp, reached a certain age and retired the biggest surprise was that at around the same time the from his normal duties in the congregation. Some times Bredenhof cousins both decided to accept calls to Australia. when a minister retires we say that he has left “active” service, The Rev. Reuben Bredenhof, who is serving the London but that is hardly accurate as he, and others who share his church, said “yes” to the call of the Mount Nasura Free status, often remain active in the areas of preaching, teaching, Reformed Church and the Rev. Wes Bredenhof, who is counseling, visitation, and missions. working in the Providence church at Hamilton, said the same Our most northern congregations reside in the town of thing but then to the Free Reformed Church of Launceston, Barrhead and the hamlet of Neerlandia. The former church is Tasmania. Their departures, however, may take some time as hard at work constructing a new church building which they there is a lot of immigration red tape to plow through. hope to occupy some time in 2015. The latter church is not in At the moment the largest concentration of vacant the building mode but they are in the “what shall we do next” churches can be found in the Burlington area. In that part of mode as the membership continues to increase and their the province the Flamborough church, the Ebenezer church, building becomes too small. There has been some talk about and the Waterdown church are all without pastors. Calls have starting a church plant in Westlock (which would be great) been issued but thus far without success. or it may be that some members who live closer to Barrhead Further afield the church at Grand Valley joined the will request their attestations to that church once their new ranks of the vacant when the Rev. Peter Feenstra felt called to building has been completed. go to the Emmanuel Canadian Reformed Church of Guelph. Still, all is not as bleak as it seems. A number of pastors Manitoba and Colorado either came to or shifted places in Ontario. In addition, the Until recently the Manitoba and Colorado churches were arrival of some new ministers also augmented the pastoral also in the enviable position of each having a pastor; however, ranks. The churches at Fergus-Maranatha, Toronto, and the departure of the Rev. Rolf den Hollander changed that. Kerwood all received newly-minted pastors. The church at He left the Grace Canadian Reformed Church of Winnipeg Grassie welcomed Rev. den Hollander from Grace Winnipeg. and accepted a call to the Grassie church in Ontario. And then there is the church that may well have the most Meanwhile, the calling work has commenced but without to be thankful for, namely, the church of Fergus North. Not success thus far. only did they welcome a new pastor in the person of the Rev.

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 697 Marc Jagt, but they are also in the process of completing Tyler Vandergaag the construction of both a new church building and a new Gerrit Bruintjes manse. New preacher, new pulpit, new parsonage - how is Jeff Poort that for an ecclesiastical triple play? Finally, in the latter part of 2014 Classis Ontario Southwest gave the green light for the institution of a new church in the Hamilton area called “Blessings.” This church will be composed of members coming from the Cornerstone Church that for some time has been experiencing growing pains. It plans to commence operations in the new year and will bring the total number of Canadian (and American) Reformed Churches in the federation to fifty-five.

The Canadian Reformed Theological Seminary The departure of some students was balanced out (CRTS) with the arrival of three new students meaning that the enrollment at CRTS remained steady at eighteen students. The month of January is always a busy month at the Of course, the question that is always being asked has to do Canadian Reformed Theological Seminary in Hamilton, with whether or not this is enough. In one sense it is never Ontario, not because so many lectures are being held, enough as the harvest is still plentiful and the workers but due to the fact that it is filled with conferences and remain few. A quick look at the needs at home and on the seminars. In that regard the year 2014 was no different. In various mission fields indicates that more is always better. the first half of the month special seminars were organized At present, if one includes those who have accepted for the students. calls, new churches, and mission postings, there remain From January 16-18, CRTS hosted a conference about a dozen vacancies in our Canadian Reformed called “Correctly Handling the Word of Truth: Reformed Churches. To that one needs to add a number of Hermeneutics Today.” The speakers at this conference approaching retirements, unforeseen developments, as came mostly from CRTS, the Theological University in well as the fact that not all of the students are Canadian Kampen, The Netherlands, and Mid America Theological Reformed. Hence one can see that the demand is barely Seminary in Dyer, Indianna. Their papers illustrated being met. The need for more students remains a constant. that the subject of hermeneutics or biblical interpretation Committed and bright young men, the Lord still wants you remains a challenging field, also in Reformed circles. While to step up and into his service! there was considerable agreement in some areas, there were In the meantime, the daily work of instructing the some pronounced differences in others. Whether or not this students continues to go well. Having spent some time conference resolved any of the outstanding issues remains to there last year, I can testify to the fact that it is a great be seen. Our readers can catch a glimpse at what was said by place in which to teach and learn, research and grow. The reading a book that has come out bearing the same title. atmosphere is stimulating as a most able faculty consisting At the annual convocation in September, CRTS once of the Profs. Arjan deVisser, John Smith, Jason VanVliet, again presented a crop of new students for the churches to Ted VanRaalte, and Gerhard Visscher challenge the students consider and call. In due time Candidate Gerrit Bruintjes and as a diverse, inquisitive, and capable bunch of students was called and accepted to the Bethel Canadian Reformed digest and debate what they are being taught. Church at Toronto, Cand. Tyler Vandergaag accepted to the At the same time the support staff consisting of Taber church and Cand. Jeff Poort to the Kerwood church. Margaret Alkema, Leanne Kuizenga, and Catherine All have since been ordained and, together with their wives Mechelse keeps on doing an excellent job. and children, are adjusting to their first charges. May a All in all the churches may be thankful for what they good relationship develop between these churches and their have at CRTS. It ranks among the best little seminaries rookie ministers. anywhere in the world!

698 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE Book of Praise Will that change? I suspect that as we move further into 2015 we will see more and more churches opting for the Unlike 2013 the year 2014 was not a synod year. This ESV. Still, in listening to the voices out there it would appear means that there is not as much to report on the broader that the situation is far from one of complete happiness. federation front. Still, there are a number of things that Some churches have already decided to keep on using their should have our attention. The first is that the work on old NIVs until they wear out. They have grown accustomed the Book of Praise has at long last reached completion. In to this translation and are reluctant to spend a considerable November the churches were presented with the new and amount of money to equip the pew with new Bibles. Others final product. In all respects it is a beautiful piece of work. The have been reading the ESV and find its style rather wooden design supplied by Compass Creative (Jason Bouwman) is and hard to get used to. In short, the jury will be out for clear and attractive. The layout and type font by Premier some time as to whether or not the ESV will become the Printing make it conducive for singing and reading. Even translation of choice in the churches. the electronic edition is well done. It is easy to navigate, to Voting in the churches search, and to carry. Do not be surprised if you see an ever- increasing amount of iPhones, iPads, and Android devices Since we are dealing with decisions of Synod 2013, we being used in the worship services. may as well touch on the matter of voting in the churches, Of course, in all especially women voting for office bearers. This matter too of this final is never continues to have the attention of any number of churches really final. No doubt as appeals are currently being prepared against the decision this edition will serve of Synod 2013 and are sure to find their way to Synod 2016. the churches well for a number of years. The Reformed Churches in The Netherlands Nevertheless, the call for On the inter-church relations front, 2014 has proven some better Psalm tunes to be an eventful year, especially when it comes to the and for additional hymns developments taking place in our sister churches in The will not go away. Is that Netherlands. As previously mentioned, the year began something to complain with a hermeneutics conference in Ancaster hosted by about? On the one hand, CRTS. There it was quite obvious that a disconnect exists it has an unsettling side between the theological faculties of Hamilton and Kampen to it. Yet, as I said in my in particular and between European and North American opening remarks, change theological scholarship in general. and decay are hallmarks of this present age, and we might Back in The Netherlands the Reformed Churches as well come to grips with that. As for changelessness, it is a were continuing to meet in their general synod. Later in hallmark of God and of the age to come. the year these churches hosted a foreign delegate’s week at their synod. Sometime after that week was over, this synod The English Standard Version decided not to accept a report that recommended that all of Along with a new Book of Praise, Synod 2013 also gave the offices in the church be opened to women. us a new recommended Bible translation in the English Some breathed a sigh of relief; however, that proved to Standard Version. I say “recommended” to remind our be premature as later the same synod decided to continue readers that in the Canadian Reformed Churches we do to move forward with merger plans with the Netherlands not have an “authorized” version. The decision concerning Reformed Churches (NRC), a federation that some time ago which Bible translation to use in the worship services opened all of its offices to women. remains in the freedom of the churches. Currently in our A special committee appointed by our synod to discuss midst the following translations are in use: New American our concerns with the RCN went there and had a number Standard Bible, the New King James Version, the New of frank and open meetings with their Dutch counterparts; International Version, and the English Standard Version. however, it appears to have had little positive result.

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 699 One additional development that needs to be mentioned From the reports received from those present, the has to do with the departure of Prof Dr. J. Douma from the discussion went very well. There appeared to be no major RCN. For many years he served as a minister of the Word and differences of opinion on the matter. More than a few as an ethics professor in these churches. He was also involved observers even remarked that it was obvious that what unites with the influential church magazine, De Reformatie. His us is much more than that which divides us. literary output then, as well as now, remains impressive. He As a result, it is hard to blame this meeting on covenant was in all respects a leadership figure in the RCN. theology for what happened the next day. The more obvious But no more! In the middle of the month of November, explanation is that there remains within the URC a good deal he announced that he and his wife were leaving the RCN of reluctance to merge with the CanRC. This reluctance is and joining a small break away federation called the especially present among URC churches in the United States. Reformed Churches Netherlands (also RCN but with the In some ways this was confirmed later in the year when “in” missing). For him the ongoing attempts to merge with Classis Pacific NW, now a completely American classis, the NRC in particular, but also developments relating to decided to send an overture to the next URC synod calling continued liturgical experimentation, the acceptance of for an end to merger talks altogether. It all brought to light homosexual and co-habitation lifestyles, and the lack of that there appears to be a preference among any number of church discipline proved to be too much. Broken hearted - URC churches for our two federations to simply recognize he departed. A sad development indeed! one another as sister churches, and leave it at that. So where do we as Canadian Reformed Churches go Is that good enough? In some ways, it is not; however, from here? Ultimately Synod 2016 will have to decide on perhaps it is time for those of us in the CanRC to take a step how much longer we keep walking down the road with our back as well. It seems as if in our history we are the ones Dutch sister churches. Will it be until such a time as they who are always pushing for church boundaries to come make a clear decision on this matter, or has the time arrived down and for union to take place between churches of the to sever the contact? The choice will not be easy. same confession and practice. At the same time the RCN will also be faced with a hard Such a conviction rightly emerges out of our reading of John choice: either join with the NRC and risk saying “farewell” 17 and Ephesians 4, as well as the theological teachings to the sister churches in Australia, Canada, and South of Dr. Klaas Schilder. Nevertheless, it takes two willing Africa, or vice versa. Should they opt for the former, we may partners to make this happen. With respect to the URC, it well end up being “motherless.” Needless to say, that will be would seem that many are not willing and, if that is true, it traumatic, especially for many of our older members, as it is will only be an exercise in futility for us to keep on beating never easy to sever the ties with mother. the merger drum. Let us then live together side by side as sister churches, continue to pray for unity and union, build The United Reformed Churches our relationships, especially in Canada, even stronger, and The year 2014 was also a synod year for one of our leave the rest to the Lord. North American sister churches, namely the United Reformed Churches in North America. It met in Visalia, The western ministerial California from June 3-5. Noteworthy for our readers is the One way to build that relationship is through on going fact that this synod decided to put the merger talks with the contact. In that connection it was good when in early Canadian Reformed Churches on hold. The night before November over thirty CanRC and URC pastors from Western this decision was taken a public discussion took place Canada and the USA, together with some of their wives between two Canadian Reformed theologians, namely Profs. and a number of children, met for several days in Sumas, Ted VanRaalte and Jason VanVliet, and two professors who Washington. The speeches by Mrs. Marcia Vanderbos on are members of the United Reformed Churches, namely counselling and by Prof. John Smith on various OT topics Profs. W. Robert Godfrey and Cornel Venema. The topic was were well received. The debate by Prof. John Smith and Rev. covenant theology. Ralph Pontier on Matthew 24 was instructive. The facilities

700 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE were better than ever. The food was good. The fellowship was Outreach in northern BC great. Indeed, the ties forged by this annual event keep on getting stronger. So if anyone doubts that CanRC and URC pastors can get along, and get along well, they should drop in for a visit, the Lord willing, next year.

North American Presbyterian and Reformed Council (NAPARC) The 2014 meetings of NAPARC were held this year also in November in the Grassie Canadian Reformed Church. On the night before the meeting a prayer service was held at which Prof. Dr. Gerhard Visscher preached the sermon. The subsequent meetings, at which delegates were present from many faithful Presbyterian and Reformed Churches in It should also be mentioned that along with these North America were present, went well and even wrapped efforts, an evangelism course called Christianity Explored up ahead of schedule. is being used in the churches of Abbotsford, Cloverdale, and Langley. Especially the last church has had it efforts Outreach in BC blessed as a number of new members could be welcomed The year 2014 also saw a lot of attention being directed into the congregation. at reaching out to people who do not know the gospel. In Outreach in Alberta northern BC the Rev. Jim Witteveen continued to work diligently as a home missionary. The church there is In the Neerlandia area discussions are under way about continuing to grow in faith and number. Several families and the possibility of doing a church plant near or in the thriving individuals in the area have expressed interest and others are town of Westlock. Having driven through that part of the moving into the city from other parts of the province. It is province not too long ago, it would appear to be a place with hoped that over time a church may be instituted. potential. It might also solve a little of the overcrowding in In the south the church at Willoughby Heights the Neerlandia church and save some members a long drive continues to spearhead attempts to bring the Reformed every week. faith to the Burnaby area. The latest efforts involve finding In the Edmonton area use is being made of an ESL a location for and setting up a Reading Room. As such program to bring the gospel to the unchurched. Some of our this type of evangelism has been underway for some years churches that are willing and able might do well to explore in Brazil and has met with considerable success. In the that option as it represents a great way to sow the seed past Christian Science used to have such Reading Rooms among new immigrants. sprinkled around North America and different parts of the Further to the south the Coaldale church is also actively world. Of course, the aim is to imitate their approach but pursuing outreach among foreign students at the Lethbridge not their theology. Experimental Station, the local community college and the Not too far from Burnaby the Chinese Reformed University of Lethbridge. The result is that every week a Church is still meeting in the Cloverdale church building sizable number of people are brought by bus to the Coaldale every Sunday. Under the leadership of the Rev. Frank Christian School for Bible study and fellowship. Some of Dong, and its office bearers, it keeps on growing in faith them have also become members of the Coaldale church. and number. At present five people are enrolled in its new Seeing that many of those who attend are of Chinese members class. Soon the numbers will be such that a move extraction, plans are underway to increase the contact will need to be made from the Catechism Room to the between the members of the Chinese Reformed Church in Fellowship Hall. BC and those who attend the Coaldale Fellowship.

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 701 Outreach in Manitoba Radio broadcasting continues to happen too in Ontario and elsewhere. The program The Voice of the Church can For some time now the churches in southern Manitoba be heard on many local stations. Listeners receive an have been working hard to establish a mission post in their opportunity to call in or to submit their comments in area, especially in Otterburne. As a result, a number of writing. As well contacts are made, and local churches are ministers and candidates have been called, but thus far none engaged in follow-up. have answered the call. Still, the dream lives on and the efforts continue. Hopefully, one day soon the Lord will see Youth camps fit to bless this project. In both British Columbia and Ontario, associations Outreach in Ontario organized by church members run summer camps for A different kind of outreach is being done in the city young people. In BC Camp Stepping Stones operates for at of Hamilton, Ontario. As in most of Canada’s cities, the least five weeks during the months of July and August in downtown areas are places where the poor, the addicted, and the mountains near Deroche. The same applies to Campfire the mentally ill live. In the past churches moved out of these in Ontario. This youth camp has been around longer and parts and relocated in the suburbs. But now the suburbs operates on a larger scale, as well as for a longer time in are re-connecting with the city centres. In addition, an ever- the summer then the camp in BC. It also operates out of a increasing number of committed Christians see it as their beautiful property near Markdale. calling to move into these formerly forgotten areas and let In both places many organizers, camp workers, their light shine. and counsellors put their shoulders to the task and give In part this is also what is happening with Streetlight hundreds of young people a most memorable experience. Ministries. For more than ten years it has been doing They also make a lasting impact on those young people who outreach work in one of Canada’s poorest neighbourhood. come from un-churched homes. Finally, it is not too much It is hard work; nevertheless, that has not deterred the to say that any number of our present church leaders owe a Rev. Paul Aasman and his band of helpers and volunteers. good deal of their commitment to a life transforming and In some small way they are doing what they can to bring affirming camp experience. the comfort of the gospel to a world that only seems to know suffering. Through Bible study, Lord’s Day worship, Foreign outreach life skill classes, counselling, and other efforts, they are The churches continue to support the work of foreign making a difference. As such they deserve our respect, outreach in such places as Brazil, China, Indonesia, Papua prayers, and support. New Guinea, and South Africa. In the Brampton area Word and Spirit Ministries, an Brazil initiative of the local church there, continues to let its light shine. Unlike Streetlight, this is not inner city work The mission work in Brazil has the attention of sending as much as it is evangelism through education. Currently churches in both the East and the West. In the eastern part they are offering what are called “Life Renewal Sessions” of Canada, the Cornerstone Canadian Reformed Church of and are thereby trying to make an impact in a society Hamilton, with the support of some churches in Ontario, where there is so much brokenness in marriages, families, remains active in the city of Maceio. At the end of 2012 and individual lives. a church was instituted. It continues to receive support In many places in Ontario, as well as across the land, from Hamilton and its missionary, the Rev. Bram deGraaf, senior citizen homes have the attention of local evangelism although he is no longer assigned to that church. committees. The result is that brief but special worship In the western part of the country the church at services are organized regularly in these places and Aldergrove, supported by almost all of the churches in fellowship is extended to seniors, many of whom live lonely Western Canada, leads the mission efforts in such places and forgotten lives. as Recife, Sao Jose, Marigogi, and elsewhere. Currently

702 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE it supports two missionaries, namely the Revs. Julius He also coordinates all of the teaching teams that VanSpronsen and Ken Wieske. Inquiries are being made as are sent abroad to Asia and leads a good number of them to whether or not the supporting churches are prepared to in person. He edits the work of the translation team. He stand behind the calling of a third missionary. is responsible for the day to day working of the China During 2014 much of the work fell on the shoulders Reformed Bible College. On top of that, he also acts as the of the Rev. Julius VanSpronsen as his colleague and co- pastor of the local Chinese Reformed Church. Needless to worker, the Rev. Ken Wieske, came down with a severe case say, he is a super busy man. of burnout. Thankfully there appears to be improvement Thankfully though he has the support of a very and Rev. Wieske is hoping to return to Brazil in the month able board. He also works with a very capable full-time of December. translation team composed of the sisters Jean (co-ordinator), Once the missionary team is re-united the pace will Maple, and Helen, as well as a qualified band of translators no doubt pick up when it comes to both seminary work at home and abroad. Together they make sure that the and supporting work in the churches. Thankfully the work website receives a steady stream of new material. of teaching new students could continue throughout the In addition, Rev. Dong is also not afraid to call on year. Rev. VanSpronsen, who leads the charge on this front, his colleagues across the country for advice, and they are continues to be in good health. As well, he has been assisted more than willing to assist him in any way they can. They wholeheartedly support what he is doing and see it as an by teachers who have come from Canada and other parts of honour to lend a helping hand. the world. As a result, the work of the online Bible College could At the same time the list of churches needing help and continue and expand to thirty-four students in 2014. Some new churches making inquiries has not slowed down. In a of these students are in their introductory year, others are in country such as Brazil where the hunger for the Reformed their first and second years of study. All of them are extremely faith keeps on growing, our missionaries will need to hard working and some show great promise for the future exercise their self-control and learn to balance labour and expansion of the work. Indeed, some are already taking what leisure. So easily the work can overwhelm the workers. they have just learned and are spreading it far and wide. Thankfully, there are other resources as well that are Hence the work at home in Canada and in China of great help. I think here of Brother Chris Boersema, our advances; but, it does so not without set back. You can read mission aid worker, who takes some of the pressure off the more about this is in the latest edition of Mission Matters. It missionaries and supervises the local support work. In this highlights the fact that on his last trip to China the Rev. Dong he is also be assisted by Brother Shawn Raap, who moved was picked up and interviewed by the religious authorities down to Brazil for a time and has been helping out on a and given some very stern warnings. What the consequences part-time basis. of this will be for the work remains to be determined; China however, it does mean that greater care will need to be taken in the future. Your prayerful support is needed. In a vastly different part of the world the Canadian Reformed Churches of Cloverdale and Langley, with the Indonesia support of the Free Reformed Churches of Kelmscott Far to the south of China one can find another large and Mount Nasura, are hard at work. China, the most and populated nation, namely Indonesia. Here the Rev. populous nation on the face of the earth, is the object Edwer Dethan is hard at work in Kupang, Timor, where he of their attention. These outreach efforts are led by is in charge of a large and growing college and seminary. the missionary, the Rev. Frank Dong, who spends a His work is also multi-dimensional as he has to be in turn good deal of his time online and on site counselling a preacher, a teacher, an administrator, and counsellor. He church leaders, settling disputes, giving guidance, and also has to make do at times with limited resources, in a providing instruction. region where there is much poverty and limited opportunity.

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 703 Thankfully his work continues to receive a great deal of construction of orphanages. Both brothers and their assistance from the sending Canadian Reformed Church at families are mission members of the Canadian Reformed Smithville and its supporting churches. The Mission Board Church of Langley. there works hard to see that the needs of its missionary and In addition the Canadian Reformed Church at its mission field are being met. Abbotsford has also expressed an interest in setting up a Part of Rev. Dethan’s work also has to do with the mission post in that area. Towards the end of 2014 this planting of new churches and the mentoring on new church decided to send the Revs. Karlo Janssen and Jim pastors. Thankfully the Reformed presence in that part of Witteveen to Mexico to investigate the possibilities and to the world is growing and exerting a positive influence. draft a report. Papua New Guinea The Philippines The same can be said in a neighbouring nation, namely Another part of the world that is attracting attention that of Papua New Guinea. In the city of Port Moresby, is the Philippines. Currently the Providence Canadian the Revs. Cornelis Kleyn and Henry Versteeg from the Reformed Church of Hamilton and the Free Reformed Canadian Reformed Churches, together with the Rev. Alan Church of Baldivis, Western Australia, are sending teaching Douma from the Reformed Churches in New Zealand, are teams to that nation. The Revs. Wes Bredenhof and Stephen hard at work training men for the ministry of the gospel. t’ Hart have been there, as has the Rev. Carl Vermeulen As with so much foreign mission work, the focus has from Darling Downs. Efforts are also being made to co- shifted. It used to be that missionaries were sent out to plant ordinate future mission work with the United Reformed churches in foreign countries. Now missionaries are more Churches of North America who also have a missionary and more being sent out to teach local young men to become presence in the region. missionaries and church planters. At present it is hard to predict where all of this will It just makes so much better sense in a number of go. Still, the reports coming back indicate that in the ways. Usually it takes years for a foreigner to learn the local Philippines too there is a great hunger for the gospel and the language well. Added to that, it may take decades, perhaps Reformed faith. It is a strange but true situation in our day even a lifetime or never, before they really understand the that while many in the West are busy resisting the gospel, culture. In such a situation, how much more effective it is many in Africa, Asia, and Latin America are hungering for from a talent, time, and money perspective to train it. May the Lord see fit to use us in some small way to feed local people. Mention also needs to be made of the fact that some that hunger. distance from Port Moresby there is another Reformed Middle East Reformed Fellowship (MERF) mission presence. It is situated in the city of Lae where some One agency that is trying to do that is called MERF. Canadians namely, Revs. Ian Wildeboer and Tim Sikkema, Located in Cyprus and operating under the leadership of are working on behalf of the Free Reformed Churches of the Rev. Victor Atallah, this organization seeks to spread the Australia and the Armadale church in particular. In that gospel through the Middle East in countries that adhere to work they are supported by Chris and Nicole Steenhof as mission support workers. the Islamic faith. By means of radio broadcasts, literature distribution, Internet teaching, leadership training in Mexico Larnaca, onsite theological instruction, and diaconal aid Going east across the Pacific one comes to another work, it seeks to make a difference in the religious climate large country, Mexico. At present the Canadian Reformed of the Middle East. Churches do not have a mission post in that country. As a result of this noble aim, it receives both prayer and However, they do have a presence in the northern area financial support from many of our churches and members. where two brothers are hard at work. Brothers Jeremy The Canadian committee of MERF located in Burlington VanBeelen and Duane Visscher are both doing mission does outstanding work and the Rev. Jan deGelder continues aid work as they are involved in the administration and to serve on the board of MERF.

704 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE Adoration Christian Centre. In Nicaragua, we have Nathan Children of Light school in West Timor and Kim Boersema doing what they can to raise educational standards in that country. On a much broader scale we also have the Canadian Reformed World Relief Fund (CRWRF). It collects monies from the churches and distributes it to worthwhile aid projects in Africa and Asia. It also dispenses assistance whenever a disaster strikes somewhere in the world. Much of the same type of work is being done by the Word and Deed organization also located in Ontario. The prime difference between them is that while the former is entirely staffed by volunteers, the latter uses a combination of paid staff and volunteers. Mercy and Auxiliary Work The Canadian Reformed Missions Association As Reformed believers we have always insisted that it is the whole man that needs to be ministered to. While the (CRMA) soul is vital, the body needs attention as well. After experiencing some teething problems in its early As a result, mission work goes together with mercy or years, this organization is steadily maturing and finding its mission aid work. place in the ever increasing mission and mission aid work Currently and as mentioned above, Brother Chris being done by our churches. At present all mission calling Boersema is directing the mission aid work in Brazil. churches and mission aid organizations are members. The Supported by the Mission Aid Brazil Committee in BC only exceptions are the Ancaster church which supervises and monies coming from the church members in Western Streetlight Ministries and the Smithers church which Canada, he distributes funds, identifies worthwhile projects, oversees the Prince George work. oversees various efforts, and does what he can to promote The annual meeting of the CRMA is usually held in the living conditions of the brothers and sisters in Brazil. the month of September in the Hamilton area. This year, In Indonesia, Sister Femmie Dethan, although not a upon special request, it was decided to hold the meeting designated mission aid worker, is doing orphanage work in Langley, BC. Once the delegates assembled business as she involves herself in the New Hope Orphanage. In matters were quickly dealt with. A number of churches that same country the Children of Light organization, now and organizations brought the members up to date on new under the Word and Deed umbrella, remains hard at work. developments. Attention was paid to the new website being Originally this organization supported the Rev. Yonson launched. During coffee breaks and intermissions, there Dethan and his wife Mary-Lynn who founded a large school was a lot of re-connecting going on and a great deal of of 1200 students. Today it encompasses a K-12 school, a information being shared. trade school, a computer school, as well as a theological high The main speaker this year was brother Mark Bube, the school. Recognition should also be given to Brother Andy Director of Foreign Missions for the Orthodox Presbyterian Vandenhaak, who together with his wife Gerda, started Church. Mark is a lawyer by trade but a missionary at heart. Children of Light, but was taken home by the Lord in 2014. For many years now he has been the face of OPC missions to In Mexico, as previously reported, we have the the world and every year he travels the globe keeping contact VanBeelens and Visschers doing the same type of work. with the men and women in the field. Based on his wealth of In Papua New Guinea we have Hugo and Erica Feunekes experience, he gave some very inspiring presentations about hard at work for Mission Aviation Fellowship. He is in charge both the theology and methodology of Reformed missions. of the MAF airplane maintenance and repair facility. Any number of the attendees were busy making notes of In Haiti, we have Randy and Karen Lodder using the things they learned. No doubt they planned to take this their talents in the areas of education as they operate the wisdom back home to their local churches and committees.

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 705 Christian education Speaking of wisdom, we should not overlook all of the prayers, donations, and labours that go into our school network. On the whole the Canadian Reformed community in Canada is rather small and easily overlooked. Nevertheless, a closer look reveals that the Lord has richly blessed not just our churches but also our schools. Perhaps it is also good to remind everyone that our schools, unlike Roman Catholic schools and some others, are not parochial schools. This means that they are not operated and controlled by the churches. Ministers and elders, consistories and church councils do not run these schools and give teachers their marching orders. No, our schools are parental Christian schools. The parents in the church are responsible for them. They elect a board and that the future of Christian schools generally. Many of the board hires teachers on their behalf, determines educational inter-denominational schools have gone under the public philosophies and policies, as well as sets budgets and school umbrella for funding purposes and this has raised oversees physical plants. a considerable amount of concern about the future of these Local school news schools. The result is that some of the parents in United Reformed circles are re-examining their options and As for school news in 2014, it may be reported that sending their children to Canadian Reformed schools. our schools in the Fraser Valley have been struggling to Moving on to Ontario, the big news there in 2014 has co-ordinate future growth and development. At present to do with Fergus, Ontario. If you happen to be visiting the the William of Orange School is shrinking in size, while area and approaching Fergus from the south you cannot Credo Elementary and John Calvin Elementary are both miss a large, beautiful stone structure on your right as you experiencing growing pains. A joint plan to address this enter the town. For years it sat abandoned, but no longer matter was developed, presented, voted on, but it failed to as the local Canadian Reformed school society, together garner enough support. with lots of neighbouring support, decided to purchase this While this matter was under discussion, the members building, renovate it and turn it into a new regional high of the Credo Christian Elementary School in Langley school site. decided to support the construction of an addition to their It is quite an ambitious project and will cost millions. school, as well as to renovate the entire structure and the Thus far, however, the money appears to be coming in and playing fields. Meanwhile the John Calvin School in Yarrow the plans are proceeding. One can only hope that there is looking at some major building plans as well. will not be a lot of unforeseeable expenses (old buildings Further east the small Christian school in Vernon keeps often hold costly surprises) and that in due time a new high on growing and gaining support. The members recently school will give new life to an old building. If all goes as made a decision to buy a neighbouring piece of property. planned, I will go out on a limb and say that Fergus will They plan to renovate the home on that property and to have one of the most beautiful high schools in the country. move their new portable on to it as well, thereby creating In the Burlington area the subject of Christian space for future expansion. schooling has also been in the news. If I have my facts right In Alberta, the board of the Coaldale Christian School (and that’s always a challenge when you live 8,000 kms held a drive and raised more than 1.6 million dollars for a away) then it has been decided to sell the old John Calvin major addition to the school. This money, I am told, came School property, to either sell or renovate the Covenant from both Canadian and United Reformed families in the Christian School, and to build a new school in the area. As area. Apparently there is some controversy in Alberta over always this will have been and may continue to be a painful

706 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE process for some. Whether it is a matter of selling a church be in Surrey, Langley, Abbotsford, Edmonton, Carman, or a school, or doing away with a school near an existing Winnipeg, Brampton, Grimsby, Shelburne, Fergus, or church, it is never an easy decision. Still, there are times Waterdown. In addition, new homes are under construction when tough decisions need to be made, or they will in time all the time. At present our church members are looking at be made for you. Whether that is the case in Burlington or new homes in Aurora, Burlington, and Lethbridge. not, is a matter best left to the readers in that area. Along with senior homes, we also have an ever-growing In the Hamilton region schooling was also in the news. number of special care homes. Currently, Anchor Homes The Guido de Brès High School needed a new roof but the for the handicapped has purchased another home in the work could not be completed on time. The result was that Hamilton area to augment existing ones in Beamsville, the students had their summer holidays extended. I am sure Burlington, Dunnville, Fergus, and Grimsby. In other parts that many of them did not mind. As for their parents? of the country similar facilities are available whether they Well, that is most likely another story. are called Bethesda, Rehoboth, or something else. The continued growth of the Timothy Christian School in Hamilton has the attention of parents and ARPA board members alike. There is some discussion about the Thankfully our members have not bought into some Glanbrook church being bought and turned back into a of the two kingdom views that are out there and that would school. Should that happen then the church will no doubt undermine our attempts to bring the gospel to bear on try to build (zoning permitted?) on some nearby property the social, economic, and political areas of life. As a result that they own. the Association for Reformed Political Action (ARPA) CCRTS continues to receive good and growing support across the country. Its two leaders Mark Penninga and Andre Going back to Hamilton, the Covenant Canadian Schutten spent a great deal of time in Ottawa this year and Reformed Teachers’ College (CCRTC) continues to train around the country drumming up support. As a result of students to become good teachers. A capable staff, under the their efforts and the input of many, inroads could be made. leadership of Dr. Christine VanHalen-Faber, is committed One thinks of the new prostitution law in Canada that will to providing an education that is at least on par with and in especially target the people who buy sex and the pimps that many ways superior to other forms of teacher training. sell it. One thinks too of their intervener status in the legal A challenge remains, however, in the area of accreditation. Living as we do in a society that champions cases dealing with assisted suicide and parental authority pluralism but does not truly practice it, this is an uphill in education. battle. Still, the Lord is mighty and also in this case there One thinks of the attention paid to the plight of is a need to petition his throne and to plead with him to the unborn. ARPA, together with the WeNeedaLaw move mountains. organization fronted by Brother Mike Schouten, are making a difference. Let us all pray that these steady and Special homes persistent efforts will one day bear fruit and turn our While many of our senior members live in their own nation into an abortion-free zone. homes, there are any number that have either chosen to Closing move into care homes or who needed to move into such homes. For some of them the choice was an easy one but for I realize that there is much, much more that can be said others it was a most difficult step to make. Still, once it is and written about the year of our Lord 2014 but it is time to made many of them will acknowledge over time that it was a bring this long tale to a close. If I missed anything major, good and necessary thing to do. please forgive me and drop me a line at [email protected]. No doubt one of the reasons that make it good has to For the rest, I wish our readers every blessing during do with the quality of many of these homes. In our midst the upcoming festive season and hope that you will be on we have been blessed with some great homes whether they the receiving end of God’s many gifts and graces in 2015.

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 707 ADVERTISEMENTS

Announcements of Weddings, Anniversaries (especially those with an Open House) should be submitted six weeks in advance.

BIRTHS 60TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised, and his greatness is unsearchable. Psalm 145:3 1955 ~ January 21 ~ 2015 With thankfulness to the Lord, we announce the arrival of For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord another daughter, whom we have named endures forever. Praise the Lord. Psalm 117:2 RACHEL ANNA JOHN and BAUK VANDENBOS Born September 16, 2014 We are joyful that our parents and grandparents will be Thankful parents: celebrating their 60th Wedding Anniversary, D.V., and thankful Neal and Alisa Gelderman (nee Krabbendam) that the Lord has allowed them to reach this milestone. Little sister for: We pray that God will continue to bless them Matthew, Elizabeth, Rebecca, Lydia, Nathaniel, and Samuel and cause them to be a blessing to those around them. Another grandchild for Their thankful family: Albert and Sylvia Gelderman and Michael and May Krabbendam Henk and Annette Nobel 36236 Shadbolt Avenue, Abbotsford, BC V3G 3C4 Diana Nobel Jaclyn Nobel Kevin and Kathryn Hutten Know that the Lord, he is God; Neil and Sylvia Nobel It is he who has made us, and not we ourselves; John Nobel and Danielle Sikkema we are his people and the sheep of his pasture. Psalm 100:3 Nick Nobel and Stephanie Breukelman With thankfulness to the Lord who made all things well, Hannah Nobel we joyfully announce the birth of Jack and Teresa Van Duyn GERRY BENJAMIN John and Dawna Van Duyn on August 13, 2014 Robert VanDuyn Henry and Leanna Lanting Janel VanDyun Sophia, Theressa, Garrett, Adrianne and Jeana Ron and Marcy Vandenbos Gerry is the 27th grandchild for Geert (Bert) and Theressa Lanting Jeremy and Sandra Vandenbos and the 14th grandchild for Gerry and Sophia Schuller Seth, Charissa, Spencer and Damien Daryl and Jaqueline Vandenbos, Amie, Ashtyn and Jillian Mike and Laura Visscher, Kaden, Darin, Connor and Lexi ANNIVERSARIES Steve and Colette Schouten Vincent, Kyla, Justin, Danielle and Megan th 40 Wedding Anniversary Marc and Jessica Vandenbos, Treyden and Aria 1974 ~ December 28 ~ 2014 Ryan Vandenbos Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Rhonda Vandenbos Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who Stan and Shelley Vandenbos seek the Lord rejoice. Psalm 105: 2-3 Fred and Sharalee Dewit, Kendra, Cameron and Quinton With thankfulness to the Lord we joyfully announce the Jonathan and Marion Vandenbos, Randall 40th Wedding Anniversary of our parents and grandparents Christi Vandenbos GIJSBERT and ANNIE NEDERVEEN (Bouwman) Jeff and Rachel Poort, Josiah and Gideon We pray for many more years of health and happiness, and that David Vandenbos God will continue to guide and bless you in the years to come. Kim Vandenbos and Tyler Mans Leonard and Bernice Wubs Hamilton, ON: Michael and Amanda Nederveen Jayden, Daniel 34-261 Stone Church Road East, Hamilton, Ontario L9B 2X3 Edmund Nederveen An Open House will be held, D.V., Saturday, January 24, 2015 Burlington, ON: Andrea and Jonathan Bax 2-5 p.m., at Cornerstone Canadian Reformed Church Megan, Brody 353 Stone Church Road East, Hamilton 3089 Woodward Avenue, Burlington, ON L7N 2M3

708 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE 50TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY TEACHING POSITIONS

1964 ~ December 26 ~ 2014 The board for the Tyndale Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, Christian School Society for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. II Thessalonians 2:16-18 of Calgary invites applications for the following positions TED and SONJA HARLAAR (nee Broersma) We give praise to our Lord God for his rich mercy and grace FULL-TIME PRIMARY and in blessing our parents with 50 years of marriage. SECONDARY GRADES TEACHER We pray that our heavenly Father will continue to guide and Tyndale Christian School is a Reformed K-12 school with bless them in the years to come. an enrollment of 83 students. We offer a supportive school With much love, their thankful children and 19 grandchildren: community, enthusiastic volunteer base, and competitive wages Tanya and George VanderDeen and benefits. We are seeking energetic individuals who are Megan, Ian, Devin, Morgen, Brayden, Lucas committed to the Reformed Faith and to Christian education. We Jasper and Jane Harlaar are specifically looking for a high school teacher (all disciplines Rachel, Zachary, Seth, Rebekah considered) as well as a teacher for a combined grade 1/2 class. John and Jackie Harlaar Bryan, Kelsey, Alexis A Bachelor of Education is a requirement for these positions. Nicholas Harlaar† If you would like further information about the opportunities, Hannah and John Linde school operations, or living in the beautiful Calgary area; Olivia, Annalies please contact the board chairman: Jacoba and Kevin Leyenhorst Samuel, Teo, Paul, Joseph Mr. Bart Ludwig Home: 403-936-8616; [email protected] 23160 88th Avenue, PO Box 563, Fort Langley, BC V1M 2R9 Or the principal: Mr. Ed Hoogerdyk Home: 403-285-4680; [email protected] Applications can be sent to: OBITUARIES Joey Schouten, Secretary of the Board 933 West Chestermere Drive, Chestermere, AB T1X 1B7 November 15, 1947 – September 29, 2014 [email protected] For we know that if the tent that is our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. 2 Corinthians 5:1 Dufferin Area Christian School in Orangeville Ontario, Promoted to Heavenly Glory our beloved brother, is inviting applications for a brother-in-law, uncle PRINCIPAL-TEACHER GERT JOHAN STIEVA DACS is an established K-8 school serving the Canadian Brantford, ON: Connie Stieva Reformed congregations of Orangeville and Grand Valley, and is Beamsville, ON: Eric and Grace Stieva blessed with about 120 students, a pleasant atmosphere, Geraldine Stieva and a great spirit of cooperation. Burlington, ON: John and Marj Stieva We are looking for a candidate who is excited about showing Vineland, ON: Andy and Helen Stieva leadership in a Reformed school and has the qualifications to Nieces and Nephews take it on. If you would like to inquire about using your talents Predeceased by brothers Len, Kees and Peter in educating covenant children at DACS please contact Mr. Jason Kottelenberg For the promise is for you and your children, and for all who are far (Chairman of the Education Committee) off, for everyone whom the Lord our God calls to Himself. Acts 2:39 519-925-3698; [email protected] , or Mr. Steve Brouwer (Chairman of the Board) The Lord called to his eternal home, our son, His covenant Phone: 519-942-9918; [email protected] child, shortly before his birth Please send your résumé with references, your statement of TANNER JOSIAH TENHAGE perspective on Reformed Education, and application to the November 10, 2014 DACS Hiring Committee c/o [email protected]. Jason and Linda Tenhage Duties are to commence for the 2015-2016 school year. A brother to Owen, Zach, Noah, Logan, Dylan, Ashley If invited for an interview, applicants are encouraged to bring their A grandson to Bert and Jane Tenhage and professional portfolio. Albert and Nelly VanSydenborgh Applicants must be a communicant member of a Canadian/ 7688 Reg. Road 20, RR 1, Smithville, ON L0R 2A0 American Reformed Church or a church with whom we have [email protected] ecclesiastical fellowship.

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 709 TEACHING POSITIONS

Cornerstone Christian School, EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST FOR located in beautiful Lynden, Washington TEACHING VACANCY IN NEW ZEALAND seeks candidates to fill potential The Reformed Christian School Association in TEACHING OPENINGS Upper Hutt, New Zealand (elementary and high school) is seeking expressions of interest from teachers interested in for the 2015-16 school year. teaching in our small Christian School which covers levels 1-11. Our school has approximately 120 students in grades 1-12, Our aim is to develop a biblically consistent world and life view in thirteen full or part time teachers, excellent staff relations, our students based on the Reformed faith. a beautiful and functional facility, and enjoys a high level of We believe this Reformed faith to be the most accurate community support. expression of biblical Christianity. Lynden enjoys a thriving church and school community, and is Members of the Reformed Christian School Association are nestled right between the Cascade Mountains and the Pacific members of the Reformed Churches of New Zealand. Ocean. While rural in character, Lynden is also conveniently Applicants must be committed to the Reformed faith and to close to the thriving metropolitan areas of Seattle, WA and Christian education. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of Vancouver, B.C. a small covenant school, and we look forward to your application. Interested parties who are committed to serving in the field of Reformed Christian Education and who submit to Scripture If you have any questions or would like more information as confessed in the Three Forms of Unity are encouraged to please do not hesitate to contact us. contact the school principal for more information: Please forward your C.V. or any questions you may have to: Mr. Darryn Kleyn [email protected] Email: [email protected] Phone: 360.318-0663

The vision of the Board of Covenant College is to be the Due to growth in student population, the definitive source for Reformed teacher training, and includes Canadian Reformed School Society of Edmonton, operating planning for succession, distance education, and inservice Parkland Immanuel Christian School, support. To this end, and in anticipation of pending retirement invites applications for the 2015-2016 school year for the of current faculty members over the next several years, we are following potential positions: looking to expand the full-time instructional team for the 2015-2016 academic year and beyond. FULL TIME ELEMENTARY TEACHER If you are interested in joining the faculty as a FULL TIME HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER FULL TIME FACULTY MEMBER Parkland Immanuel Christian School operates a reformed K-12 we invite you to contact us as soon as possible to discuss school that offers a supportive school community, competitive options and possibilities. wages, and a collaborative and professional environment that encourages and supports excellence in teaching. The school Persons interested in this position will, among other things, has a population of 300 students and is experiencing a time of demonstrate a deep love for Reformed education, be willing to significant increase in enrollment. provide educational leadership at multiple levels, be interested in exploring curriculum theory, and display a healthy level of Applicants must be a professed member in good standing of a intellectual curiosity within biblical bounds (Prov. 1:5). Canadian Reformed, United Reformed, or sister church, and The candidate will be a communicant member of a must have the necessary post-secondary qualifications to teach Canadian Reformed Church, or of a Church with whom in Alberta. For further information please contact the Principal, we maintain ecclesiastical fellowship, will hold at least a Mr. John Jagersma Masters Degree preferably in the area of education, and will Phone: 780-444-6443 (school); 780-489-6659 (home) have teaching experience in either, or both, elementary or [email protected] secondary school settings. Applications should be directed in writing to the school: For additional information, contact Mr. Jonathan Smeding Dr. Christine van Halen-Faber, Principal Chair of Personnel Committee, at 905-385-0634 or at c/o Parkland Immanuel Christian School [email protected] 21304 35 Avenue, NW, Edmonton, AB T6M 2P6 www.covenantteacherscollege.com

710 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE

WALINGA, INC. Has an immediate opening for the Serving Families following position: Protecting Loved Ones SALES REPRESENTATIVE Duties consist of managing existing dealer network and expanding the market for Walinga pneumatic products. In addition, duties include direct sales in areas without dealers and ensuring satisfaction of existing customers. Must be willing to travel throughout Alberta and parts of Saskatchewan. Dignity, Respect and Caring for each member of your family and loved ones. Understanding of grain handling or farming background would be an asset. Vehicle and travel expenses are provided. We understand your needs and we will We offer an excellent remuneration and honour your traditions and values. complete fringe benefit package. Applicants please contact: Richard Kobes Tom Linde Pre-Need Funeral & Cemetery Consultant [email protected] [email protected] Phone: 519-823-3265 cell 604.378.9122

Escarpment Realty SERVING THE FRASER VALLEY AND SURROUNDING AREAS

Independently Owned and Operated Woodlawn Mt. Cheam Henderson’s Chilliwack 370 Wilson Street East Funeral Home Funeral Home John van Andel Ancaster, Ontario L9G 4S4 45865 Hocking Ave. 45901 Victoria Avenue Sales Representative Chilliwack, BC V2P 1B5 Chilliwack, BC V2P 2S9 Bus: 905-304-3303 604.793.4555 604.792.1344 Fax: 905-574-1450 www.woodlawn-mtcheam.ca www.hendersonsfunerals.com Res: 905-648-7705 Email: [email protected]

serving Ancaster, Dundas MEMBER FOR RENT

Hamilton and surrounding areas 100% CLUB Country Retreat available for short term rental. Fully furnished three bedroom home with sunroom. Come enjoy a stay in this home that comes with all dishes, DAIRY FARM POSITION AVAILABLE linens, towels. This home is situated in the Ancaster/Hamilton area and is within an hours drive of Haywood, Manitoba Toronto and Niagara Falls. We are looking for a reliable, detail-oriented person who is For more information or rental booking, please call familiar with dairy cattle and their care, John/Angeline at 905-679-8937 including feeding, bedding, treating, calving, care of newborn calves, etc. We milk our cows with robotic milkers. Farm machinery experience is required. If interested, please send a resume with references Come Hear My Song and a cover letter, outlining your suitability for the position to: Aart Blokhuis has been writing poetry for [email protected] more than 20 years. "Come Hear My Song" is just a small American Reformed Fellowship sampling of his work. This compilation Palmetto, Florida includes his musings on his faith and family, Sunday Services 8:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. observations about people and nature, and plenty more. Location: Palm View First Baptist Church Corner US 41 and 49th Street East You'll find humor, sorrow, introspection and keen observation, Ministers: all in one collection. Rev. Julien (November 2014 and April 2015) This book will make a great Christmas gift, and will provide Rev. A.W. Renkema (December 2014 through March 2015) hours of enjoyable reading. Parsonage: 941-721-4519 • Information: 941-723-6898 Available at www.lulu.com

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 711 Got what it takes to join an award winning team? A prominent landscape company serving the Maranatha Homes, located in south Burlington near Golden Horseshoe area is looking for many amenities, is a place where Christian seniors can enjoy independent living in community with others.

NEW TEAM MEMBERS • Reasonable rent rates at $821 per month in its • Newly renovated units CONSTRUCTION and MAINTENANCE DIVISIONS • Award winning architechtural design • Well maintained building and grounds We want to meet you, if you: • No condo fees or utility bills. • Are high energy, and love working with people All this and more make Maranatha Homes an attractive and • Enjoy working with your hands in the outdoors affordable accommodation for seniors. • Take pride in the quality of your work • Want to build on your skill set, and enjoy learning For further information contact: new things Rosanne van der Woerd • Love to deliver great results for clients 109-3260 New Street, Burlington, ON L7N 3L4 • Value being trusted to take on responsibility 905-681-0311 • Like being part of a creative process Email: [email protected] • Love to see a job through from start to finish You’ll want to meet us, if you are looking for: • A team oriented company • A workplace that is organized, and established, offering A gift a benefits package to full-time employees • An employer that values health and safety for its with dividends. employees • A company that stakes its reputation on the quality of its work • A career where you are appreciated by both your employer AND clients • A team that prides itself on being friendly, professional and respectful. So, what’s next? If we sound interesting to you, email your resume with references to CONTACT US: [email protected] 410 Crerar Drive (Resumes received without references will not be considered) Hamilton, ON L9A 5K3 DETAILS HERE: www.harvestfoundation.ca http://mapleridgelandscapes.com/ SUPPORTING FUTURE exciting-job-opportunities-at-mapleridge.html GENERATIONS OF Will Havenaar REFORMED EDUCATION Executive Director

Assurance|Accounting|Taxation|Advisory

P e o p l e w h o k n o w , k n o w B D O. SM

Scott Swaving Bud Arnold, CPA, CA, MAcc Senior Accountant Senior Accountant, Tax [email protected] [email protected]

512 Woolwich Street, Guelph ON N1H 3X7 519-824-5410 www.bdo.ca

712 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY TR ANSLATOR (Religious) (NOC: 5125) Positions Available: 1 Type: Full-Time, Permanent Salary: $29/Hourly Terms of Employment: Permanent, Full-time (can involve weekend or weekday) Location of work: 17473 60th Avenue, Surrey, BC V3S 1T9 (1 vacancy) Work Hour and Benefits: 32 hours per week; 2 weeks paid holiday per year Minimum Education: Master's Degree Skill Requirements Education: Master Degree in Theology, must be recognized by the Canadian Reformed Churches in North America; knowledge of world history, Chinese history or Subscribe to Chinese Literature would be a great asset. Experience Minimum 2 years in religious translation of theological books and/or Christian materials/literatures from English to Chinese (simplified version). Languages: Speak, Read, Write English Work Setting: Religious Charitable/Church organization Language Pairs: English/Chinese, Mandarin/English www.clarionmagazine.ca Translation Specialization: Biblical, faith-based, Christian Reformed church theological terminology. Security and Safety: Basic security clearance Own Tools/Equipment: Computer, Cellular phone Work Conditions and Physical Capabilities: Attention to detail Work Location Information: Urban area Transportation/Travel Information: Own transportation Work Sample: Example of completed work Other Language: Mandarin COVENANT Canadian Reformed Teachers College Essential Skill: HAMILTON, ON Reading text, oral communication, problem solving, ADMISSIONS SEPTEMBER 2015 critical thinking, significant use of memory, computer use, The Board of Covenant College invites applications from writing, working with others, finding information. prospective students for the 2015-2016 academic year. Other: Admission Requirements: As this job specializes in faith-based translation from English to For the 1 - year Diploma of Education Program: Chinese, both fluency in English/Chinese as well as strong Biblical knowledge and understanding of the Reformed theology and a suitable university degree denomination are necessary. For the 3 - year Diploma of Teaching Program: Employer: a grade 12 diploma with university entrance equivalence. Canadian Reformed Church of Cloverdale, BC Prospective candidates are invited to contact the College for Business Address: 17473 60th Avenue, Surrey, BC V3S 1T9 more information and/or to obtain an enrolment package. Apply by email to: [email protected] Students are encouraged to apply before March 31, 2015. Those who plan to seek admission in the year 2016-2017 are also encouraged to contact the College as soon as possible. FOR RENT Visit our website: www.covenantteacherscollege.com 2 bedroom bright and spacious basement apartment just outside of Covenant Canadian Reformed Teachers College Hamilton. CA, CV, gas fireplace, private entrance, common laundry. Address: 410 Crerar Drive, Hamilton, ON L9A 5K3 Utilities included. No smoking or pets. Telephone: 905-385-0634 Fax: 905-385-8409 Contact: [email protected] or 905-692-9096 E-mail: [email protected]

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 713 NEW PUBLICATION Romans - Light and Way into the Scriptures by Ingrid VanderGaag This guide takes the Bible student on an in-depth exploration of the riches to be found in the Letter to the Romans. Questions drive you to explore points of doctrine and then to reflect on how these apply to your personal and church life. Through the many questions, using references in the Bible and our Confessions, this guide shows how Martin Luther’s words are true: The Letter to the Romans is “a light and way into the whole Scriptures.” 17 Sections / 77 Pages Order today ilpb.ca Order at www.ilpb.ca or email: for only Inter-League Publication Board [email protected] $6.00 Publishers of Reformed Study Material

Burlington Garden Supplies is seeking a committed, loyal individual to carry out the duties of a YARD MANAGER The ideal candidate will come with some experience operating heavy machinery and a management background. He or she will have: • Exceptional communication skills • Strong interpersonal skills • A business background with high standards for customer service • An inclination to mechanical issues and solutions • Ability to adapt to a changing work environment • A minimum Class G license with a class D or D-Z preferred (drivers abstract will be required) The position is full-time with a busy season in the spring and summer months. Salary to be negotiated based on level of experience. Please apply with a resume and cover letter by e-mailing it to [email protected] or faxing it to 905-689-9760 Please note, only candidates qualified for an interview will be contacted.

714 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE Management and Staff:

OFFICE PRODUCTION BINDERY Alan DeWit Tom Bennett Brittney Barth Bill Gortemaker Brian Bruinsma Mike Brazeau William Gortemaker Peter DeBoer Pauline Lawrence Cathy Smith Ken DeWit Dan Lemoine Megan Toet Jessica Gortemaker Alinda Mulder Steve van Delden Theodore Gortemaker Paul Mulder Michael Kuik Tyler Scheper SALES Andrea Tiel Karl Schneider Ken Doornbos James Torrance Aaron Slater Darryl Heintz Ryan Veldman Howard Slater Ron Raap Phil Versteeg Jim Smith Mark Romas Ron Werkman Dustin Smyth Glen Tiel Harry Ste. Marie PRESS Remi Toupin CUSTOMER SERVICE Todd Bennett Alex Vandehoef Ken Carbone Phil Calverley Bruce Edge Bryan van Delden Brian Fonseca Heidi van Delden David Gortemaker Glenn McLaughlin Dennis Klowak Bill Vanderlinde Danny Miller Arthur Teitsma Remmie VanderVegte Dan Schmidt Rebecca Tellier Peter Verhelst Ray Schreyer Al Vincent Kevin Torrance PREPRESS Al Veenendaal Lillian Blunt VALLEY FASHIONS Peter Wlock Tina Harke Dan Coates Larry Kowalski Jeremy Dacombe SHIPPING Rachelle Painchaud-Nash Sarah Gensorek-Lylyk Kari Douma Bill van Beek Darnley Gibbs Edward Gortemaker John Vandenberg Kevin Hurrie Ed Harke Brandi Hutlet Mark Hordyk Brant Nobel Andy Kanis Calvin Nobel Mac Talay Mikayla Teitsma Jennifer Vogt Premier Maria Welfing Printing Ltd. TriVan TRUCK BODY

Wishing you the Lord's blessings in 2015!

Jan Kottelenberg Cason Van Driel Marty Van Driel Ryan Van Driel

Mark Veldman John Deboer Henry Klos Heidi Van Driel

Rick Demooy Bob Lodder Jason Van Driel Jeremy Faber

Aaron Van Driel Harry Veldman Michael Faber Andrew Van Driel

Kam Veldman Bob Johnson Ayden Van Driel Jared Wielenga

Henry Veldman

Manufacturing specialty vehicles since 2003 Ferndale, Washington | www.trivan.com

716 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE KEES and JEAN SELLES ALDERGROVE – British Columbia JOHN and RENEE VANDEBURGT Aldergrove Canadian Reformed Church SHAWN and ZWANETTE VANDERGAAG, Aaron, Koraziah, Jaxon, Zahrina The Aldergrove Canadian Reformed Church and the KLAAS VANDERLINDE following brothers and sisters wish all of our brothers REUBEN and ROSEANNE VANLAAR, Braiden, Zachary, and sisters a blessed Christmas and a prosperous New Tristan, Tanaya Year under the guidance of the Lord. MRS. I. VANOENE GEORGE and HILLY VANWOUDENBERG JACK and WILMA MARISSEN PETE and COBY VELDMAN HENRY and JEANETTE VAN DELDEN ALBERT and ROSA WITTEVEEN CASEY and RIA VANVLIET JOHN and RENEE ZIETSMA, Mikiah, Ezra, Nadia, Jamin HENRY and CLASINA KLOS STEVE and AUDREY LEYENHORST, Chelsea, Ashley, Isaac, Austin, Silas, Cason HAROLD and TINA LUDWIG AUBREY and JANE VANDERGAAG and family CHILLIWACK – British Columbia REV. JULIUS and KAREN VANSPRONSEN and family Chilliwack Canadian Reformed Church REV. KEN and TAMARA WIESKE, Chaim, Kyrie, Natália, Micah, Isaiah, Zoë Wishing our brothers and sisters abroad the Lord’s blessings for this holiday season and his guidance in the New Year ahead.

ABBOTSFORD – British Columbia The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and give you peace. Abbotsford Canadian Reformed Church Numbers 6:24-26 Wishing all our brothers and sisters a blessed Christmas CASEY and CYNTHIA ADMIRAAL and God’s gracious blessings in the year 2015. OEDS and HENNIE BRANDSMA BYRON and MELISSA BREDENHOF, Sidney, Jodee, Troy, KAILEY BERENDS Corbin TONY and ELENOR BIKKER NORMAN and HELEN BYSTERVELD and family MIKE and RIFKA BLOKKER, Noah, Samuel, Brooklynn BOB and CLARA DEHAAN PAULETTE BOSCH JIM and MARGARET DYKSTRA JEAN BREUKELMAN RALPH and SINA FENNEMA CARL and JOPPA BYLENGA GORD and ALISA GELDERMAN, Benjamin, Melissa, HARRY and MARIAN DEBOER Deanna, Carolin, Zachary, Joshua ED and FLO DE HAAN JOHN HOFSINK RACHEL M. DEHAAN LEONARD HOOGERDIJK HANK and GRACE DERAAD JOHN and JENNIE DEKKER GARY and RITA HOVIUS HERMAN and JANE DRIEGEN, Cheryl, Shannon, Karen KLAAS and MANNIE HUTTEMA HOEGE and JOHANNA DRIEGEN, Henry TEUNA JAGERSMA JANNY HANSMA HERMAN and MARTHA KOBES DUANE and LAURIE HOMAN, Brandon, Larissa, Jordan, ART and HANNA LENGKEEK Rylan, Addison HENRY and ANN SUPÉR KARLO and ANNET JANSSEN, Roy, Yannick, Kylian, Nyls, ANTHONY and MARY-ANN VANDERGUGTEN, Lorien, Sophy, Yesper Perrin JAKE and GRACE KOBES and family ARNOLD and MARIAN VANLAAR and family FENJE KOBES GEOFF and ASHLEY VANLAAR, Camron, Alivia, Abigail, TINA KOBES Tara BERT and RUTH KUIK STEVE and SARAH VANOENE, Abigail, Juliana, Lydia, HARRY and JENNIE PELLEBOER Alexa, Carmen PETE SCHUITVLOT JACK and ELLA VANWOUDENBERG

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 717 Season’s Greetings HARRIS AUTO WRECKING LTD. Casey and Ineke, Leo and Jackie, Kathy, William and Melanie, Kyle and Emily, Nolan, and Brody Wishing you all a Merry Christmas TOWING USED AND REBUILT and a AUTO PARTS Blessed New Year

WILLY VANDERGAAG

BABINE LAKE ROAD JOHN BAKKER BOX 462 AND STAFF SMITHERS, BC PHONE: 250-847-2114

TOLL FREE 1-800-663-8157 1076 Main Street – Box 2680 Fax 250-847-1445 Smithers, BC V0J 2N0 [email protected]

Merry Christmas from beautiful Chilliwack, BC

Wishing you God’s blessings for the New Year.

Cynthia & Richard

Serving the Fraser Valley HomeLife Glenayre Realty Chilliwack Ltd. 8387 Young Road, Chilliwack, BC V2P 4N8 Ph. 604.795.2955 / Toll Free 1.800-795.2955 [email protected] / chilliwackListings.com

718 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE CLOVERDALE – British Columbia LANGLEY – British Columbia

Cloverdale Canadian Reformed Church Langley Canadian Reformed Church

Greetings to our brothers and sisters in the Lord. May He Wishing all our brothers and sisters in Christ a Joyous graciously guide us and care for us in the year ahead. Christmas and the Lord’s continued blessings in the New Year. Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among

Psalm 90:1 those with whom he is pleased! Luke 2:14 KENT and BELINDA DYKSTRA, Maria, Willem, Carlina, Melody, Kendal RICH and BETTY KLAVER ANITA BINNENDIJK HERES and FRIEDA SNIJDER, Vincent, Christopher KEN and PAULINE BULTHUIS, Cason, Kimberley, Evan, ADRIAN and SHEILA VAN DELFT, Paige and Bryan, Kelian, Quinton Katie and Gavin, Madison, Cassidy WILFRED and HELEN BULTHUIS, Ashley, Derek, Jodi AREN and MARY VAN DYKE HANS and ANNIE BUMA JOHN and MARGARET DEBOER RON and SHIRLEY de HAAN JOHN and DINY deHAAS PASTOR RYAN and RUTH DEJONGE, Matthew, Samuel, Timothy, Abigail HOUSTON – British Columbia FRANK and MARIJKE EZINGA, Michael Houston Canadian Reformed Church IRENE HOEKSEMA HENK and MINNIE HOOGSTRA Extending to all our brothers and sisters in Canada and MRS. GERDA HUISMAN abroad, our hope that the Lord will guide and keep you HAROLD and ANNETTE LEYENHORST in His care in the New Year. JOHN and DEBBIE LOF, Jenae, Justine, Tyson, Krista Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! HARRY and MARTHA MOES Philippians 4:4 WES and CHARMAINE POL, Skylar, Chase ARCHIE and JEAN BRIENEN MATT and SUE SCHOUTEN, Carly TIM and MICHELLE DYKSTRA, Owen, Morgan, Jase PAUL and SHELLEY SIKMA, Ethan, Eric, Kasen, Tyler, DANIEL and NADINE HANSMA, Jayden, Carter, Kenley Bruce, Shayla HENRY and CLAUDIA HANSMA, Andrea MIKE and SHAUNA STAM, Devon, Jaylene, Alisha, Kari, EVERT and RENEE JASPERS Mikayla, Hailey ANDREW and ARLENE LEFFERS, Brendan and Ryan HARRY and SISKA STEL RICK and KATHY LEFFERS, Max PASTOR DOUG and KAREN VANDEBURGT and family ALY MEINTS JAMES and MICHELLE VANDEBURGT, Noah, Ryan, Sara ANDY and JAN MEINTS, Marcel, Ashlee, Kyle, Travis COLIN and ALICE VANDELFT, Josh and Jill, Esther, Micah, ANDY and SANDRA MEINTS Aidan, Levi, Anna, Helena, Asher, Sophia, Jude AUKE and FENNIE MEINTS DARRYL and JULIA VANDELFT, Luke JACK and REGINA MEINTS, Brett, Byron, Cody MAARTEN and JENNIE VAN DRIEL JANE MEINTS AREN and DEANNA VAN DYKE, Ethan, Maria, Jonathan, ERIC and BRENDA ONDERWATER, Kierra, Darren, Eva, Markus Sheldon, Nadia VINCE and JOYCE VANSPRONSEN MARTIN and DIANE ONDERWATER PASTOR JAMES and WILLY VISSCHER NELSON and CRYSTAL PETERS, Casey RALPH and GRACE VISSCHER REV. CARL and LISA VAN DAM, Rachel, Martin, Carrie, KEITH and JESSICA WILDEBOER, Chelsea, Travis, Heather and Daniel Levi ANN VANDENHOEK TOM and GRETA WILDEBOER

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 719 WATSON LAKE

Dease Lake 40 Mile Flat Iskut Tenajon Tatogga

Bob Quinn

Bell II

Meziadin Junction Stewart

SMITHERS TERRACE To Prince George Freight service between: & Vancouver • Vancouver Babine Truck • Prince George • Smithers and Equipment Ltd. • Terrace • Dease Lake • Watson Lake Stopping at points all Smithers along Highway 37 North to Watson Lake 3364 Hwy 16 Prince George www.bandstra.com Box 265 9341 Rock Island Road TERRACE SMITHERS (HEAD OFFICE) PRINCE GEORGE RICHMOND Ph: 250-847-3981 Ph: 250-562-7422 Ph. 250-635-2728 Ph. 250-847-2057 Ph. 250-562-5483 Ph. 604-270-4440 Toll Free 888-847-3981 Toll Free 877-888-7422 Fax 250-635-7197 Disp. Fax 250-877-0107 Fax 250-562-8908 Fax 604-273-8534

BNDSTR 2779c (Bandstra ad).indd 1 22/11/2010 10:04:47 AM Precision Metalworks Inc. Personal: Home, Auto, Life CUSTOM MACHINING & FABRICATING Commercial: Business Ins. Solutions Season’s Greetings and Best Wishes for 2015 Harry and Cynthia Hordyk and family 6 Iroquois Trail, Grimsby, ON Tel: 905-945-0202 Canada L3M 5E7 Fax: 905-945-8181 www.precision-metalworks.com Email: [email protected] Toll free: 1-877-501-4646

VANDERGAAG CONSTRUCTION LTD.

COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL • RESIDENTIAL PETER VANDERGAAG Merry Christmas and Happy New Year From Lee, Kathy, Karleen, Lance and Mitchell 7154 HORLINGS ROAD OFFICE 250-847-3488 SMITHERS, B.C. FAX 250-847-2225 Burlington, Ontario V0J 2N2 CELL 250-847-0991 www.handydamservices.ca

720 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE WILLOUGHBY HEIGHTS SURREY – British Columbia – British Columbia Maranatha Canadian Reformed Church Willoughby Heights Canadian Reformed Church The following brothers and sisters of Maranatha We wish all our brothers and sisters the Lord’s blessing Canadian Reformed Church at Surrey, B.C., wish all the for 2015! brothers and sisters in Christ a blessed Christmas and a prosperous New Year. “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” BILL and BEP BISSCHOP Luke 2:11 RICK and CHRIS EENKHOORN and family ANTHONY and MICHELLE DYKSTRA, Raelynn ALLAN and CORRIE FABER and family MARITHA DYKSTRA WILL and GLORIA FABER, Aleana, Ethan, Matthew, CORY and EMMA FLOKSTRA Peter, Nadia, Madilyn BERT and JENNY KONING FRED and JANE KLEINE-DETERS PAUL and RITA SCHOUTEN ALBERT and COBY VAN DER HEIDE ANTHON and ANNETTE SOUMAN, Esther, Judith, David, KEES VAN DRIEL Nathan, Joshua, Timothy, Jason REV. BEN and DANIKA SCHOOF, Daniel, Ethan CONRAD and DINAH VANDERHORST, David, GEORGE and DICKY WENDT Kyle and Nadia, James and Rebecca, Laura, Yan Picard DICK and ALIDA VANDERHORST BILL and JOANNA VANDERPOL MIKE and MIRJAM VANTIL, Jaime, Jake, Amber, Claire HARRY and FREEDA WERKMAN PRINCE GEORGE – British Columbia Canadian Reformed Church

Christmas greetings from BC’s Northern Capital. VERNON – British Columbia Vernon Canadian Reformed Church BRITTANY BARENDREGT JOSH and JESSICA BERGEN, Malakai, Shandelle, Solomon We wish all the brothers and sisters around the world MARK and BELINDA CARRICO, Calvin, Baillie, Geneva, Season’s Greetings and the Lord’s blessings in 2015! Lydia, Grant JEAN and LOUISE DEVEAULT DICK and MARY AIKEMA JESSE FENNEMA PETE and GRACE AIKEMA TERESA and MIKE GROUNDS, Megan, Madison, Brooke, DIANE DALHUISEN Luke, Thomas BAS and ALICE DEHAAS MANDY and NEIL JASWAL, Micah, Carsen, Xander JOHN and PLONY DEJONG DANIELLE KERBRAT EBBEL and MAUREEN KAMPEN MORLEY KYTE RON and DIANE KLEEFMAN, Katrina, Janelle LUKE ONDERWATER DIANE KLEINE-DETERS SONIA and KEN PETERSEN BEN and NANCY MEERSTRA RICHARD SENFF RANDY and LORENE R A A P, Blakely POLLY TEN BRINKE, Asjia TIM SLAA JOHN VANDERLINDE CHUCK and NATASHA TENBRINKE, Jordan, Dillon SOPHIE and YOGI VANDERLEEST BRANDON and KATIE VANDENBRINK CORNELIUS and JOHANNA VANSPRONSEN LEON VERHELST REV. AREND and RENAE WITTEN, Jacob, Marni, TRAVIS and NATALIE WIERENGA, Mason, Carter, Marcus Annalise PASTOR JIM and NALLELY WITTEVEEN, McKinley, TESFALEM WOLDEAB Ashton, Jesse, Destiny, Duke, Rosie

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 721 Best wishes from the staff at Smithers Lumber Yard, and may God bless you in 2015

Email: [email protected]

Thanks be to God for his Joy to the World indescribable gift 2 Corinthians 9:15

May the Lord bless you and your loved ones with a joyous holiday season. Garry & Rita Hovius ConsideringConsidering a move a move to the to Fraserthe beautiful Valley? Fraser Valley?

Chilliwack Harrison Hot Springs – 2 bedroom rancher – 2 bedroom condo – 5 pc bath – top floor, end unit – workshop – immaculate – gated, 45+ $196,000 $134,000

SUTTON GROUP SHOWPLACE REALTY Garry – Realtor 9240 Young Road, Chilliwack Cell: 604-­‐793-­‐3404 Office: 604-­‐793-­‐9900 Rita – Associate

722 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE

Thanks be to Garry - Garry & Rita Hovius God Realtor Chilliwack for his Joy-­‐ 2 bdrm to the World Harrison Hot rancher indescribable Springs -­‐ 5pc bath May the Lord bless you & your loved ones-­‐ 2 bd rwithm con ado joyous holiday -­‐ workshop -­‐ top floor, end -­‐ gated, 45+ unit

-­‐ immaculate

GERRY and HETTIE VANDERGAAG, Leanne SMITHERS – British Columbia RICK and LUDI VANDERGUGTEN Smithers Canadian Reformed Church DICK and ZINA VANDEVELDE GLEN and IVY VANDEVELDE, Sarah, Jethro, Myca, Tyrel, Wishing all our brothers and sisters in the family of Jesus Joel Christ the Lord’s blessing during this holiday season and MRS. DOROTHY VANGROOTHEEST throughout 2015. ED and CHRISTINA VERHELST, Jamie, Bradley, Michael, Mark ED and MARJ WIERENGA, Alana, Kyle, Caitlyn, Erin, DICK and RENA BANDSTRA Kevin PHIL and KAREN BANDSTRA, Danielle and Graham, Erin LARRY and JENNY WIERENGA and Kyle, Katie RICK and LORI BANDSTRA, Sam, Anna, Elyse, Thomas ANDREW and JANE BARENDREGT CASEY and INEKE BARENDREGT DAN and WENDY BARENDREGT, Dawson, Taylor, Sydney, YARROW – British Columbia Myah Yarrow Canadian Reformed Church BRIAN and EMILY BERENDS, Breanna, Tyler, Nathan, Zachary, Kendra Wishing all our brothers and sisters in the Lord, a joyous GARRETT and WENDY BERENDS, Ashley, Amber, Cody, Christmas and the Lord’s blessings in 2015. Dustin DOUG BOERSEMA MARY BOEVE BILL and JEAN DEVRIES, Byron, Daryl, Jolene, Benjamin, JOHN and FLORINE BREUKELMAN, Jordan Esther, Deborah DICK and JENNY BYKER GERRY and BETH DEVRIES, Daniel, Lindsey, Jeffrey, HARRY and MARTHA DEGELDER Jillian, Jodi, Aiden, Abrielle HANS and JANET DELEEUW WARN and JENNY DEVRIES CLARENCE and MARGARET DEVRIES HANK and KARIN DOORNBOS, Matthew, Cassidy, Jordan, PEARL DEVRIES Aaron, Krista, Reuben KEN and ALANA DYKSTRA, Makenzie, Kloee MRS. MARTJE DYKSTRA RICHARD and HENDRIETTE EIKELBOOM RICK and CHELSEY EWALD ALBERT and SYLVIA GELDERMAN, Amber, Mark, WALLY and AUDREY FOEKENS and family Olivia JOE and BERNICE HAMELINK, Korey Meints, Riley Meints NEAL and ALISA GELDERMAN, Matthew, Elizabeth, FRED and PLOON HOFSINK SR., Nelena Rebecca, Lydia, Nathaniel, Samuel, Rachel FRED and JUDY HOFSINK, Fred D., David DAVE and DEB OOSTERHOFF, Brianne, Jake, Jasmin, GEORGE HOFSINK Mack MANDY HOFSINK DARRYL and KARINA PELLEBOER, Treyson, Asher, ROBYNN HOFSINK Kade WILLIE and RITA HOFSINK, Justin, Robert, Erica JOHN and JACKIE VANDERWEL, Casey MARK and ANNEMARIE MOES, Joshua, Ivan, Megan JOHN and LYNN VANKAMMEN, Nadia, Owen, Kiara STEVE and CYNDI ONDERWATER, Luke, Seth, Aleasha, JAKE and LIZ VANLAAR Joshua, Bethany, Leah, James GREG and WENDY WINKELAAR, Gilbert, Jenoah, RALPH and CLARA PAIZE Hudson, Frazer DAVE and DANA PENNINGA, James, Chelsea, Amy, Thomas HENRY and ANN PENNINGA TIM and CLARINDA PENNINGA, Ian, Skyler, Craig, Olivia SPENCER RAAP LEIF and ELIZABETH SCOTT, Georgia, Lauren PASTOR JAMES and MIRIAM SLAA, Daniel and Natasha, Timothy, Matthew, Hannah, Calvin, Sarah, Guido BILL and MARTINE VANASSEN, Jonathan, Cameron, Andrea, Nicole, Claire, Lauren AREND and MINKE VANDERGAAG

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 723 Greetings from management and staff of Intercontinental Truck Body Coaldale, Surrey, Winnipeg

INTERCONTINENTAL TRUCK BODY www.itb.ca

We wish all our brothers and sisters and Customers a blessed Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.

724 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE LORRAINE van OOSTERHOUT CALGARY – Alberta KEVIN and IRENE VAN TIL, Austin Calgary Canadian Reformed Church ERIC and NATASHA VEENENDAAL and family WES and ROLENA VERSTEEG, Jacob, Caitlyn, Caleb The members of the church of Jesus Christ in Calgary, DEAN and KARIN WALLACE and family wish all our brothers and sisters in North America and DARCY and PAM WERKMAN, Braxton, Dominique, Kaiyen, abroad, the blessing of the Lord for A.D. 2015 with the Naveya words of 1 Peter 5:7.

ALLAN and JUDY BERGSMA, Raelene, Rynell, Laura, Denise, Jocelyn NEERLANDIA – Alberta BOB and NANCY BOERSEMA Neerlandia Canadian Reformed Church GERALD and ANNETTE BOES, Jordan, Jackson, Adam KEN and TAMMY BOESSENKOOL and family We wish all our brothers and sisters in the Lord a joyous BRIAN and TONYA BRUEKELMAN, Josette, Elise, Dominic Christmas and a blessed New Year. SHAUN and DEBORAH CHIN, Emily, Nathaniel, Leah HANFORD and PAULINE DEGLINT, Ava, Nadia, Samuel The Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and MIKE and EUNICE de GROOT, Katarina his faithfulness to all generations. RICHARD and GWENDA de HAAS, Tyler, Justin, Ian, Connor Psalm 100:5 ALICE de JONG BILL and JACKIE DEKKER ED and ELAINE AIKEMA, Bryan TONY and ALYSSA DEWIT, Aiden, Natalie, Beclan MATTHEW and KERRY BREUKELMAN, Levi HANS and MARIANNE DUIKER RICHARD and KAREN BOUWMAN, Kendra, Linnea RICHARD and DEBORAH FEENSTRA and family ED and JOANNE DERUITER, Dyllan, Cara, Janelle, Bradley JACOB and JESSICA HANSMA, Jade, Leah, Taylor, Kate KEN and MARIA HAMOEN, Justin, Meaghan, Keaton, ED and CAROLIN HELDER, Aidan, Caitlin, Micah Garnett, Natalie GARRETT and KIMBERLEY HOEKSEMA, Clark LIES HAMOEN ED and ALICE HOOGERDYK, Zachary KONROY and CHRISTINA KIPPERS, Tyrone, Mason, DEWEY and DIANA JONGBLOED and family Alyshia, Kiersten, Keagan, Chelsea PASTOR HANS and GERDA KALKMAN LEE and KATHY KIPPERS, Zachary, Adam, Colton LYNDON and DINY KOK, Erika, Lydia, Emma, Laura JOHN and ANNET LOUWERSE, Joel, Liselle, Annesa JOYCE KATMANGA TREVOR and GWEN MAST, Jacob, Kirkland, Jordyn, Kade KARINA KUIPER ROSANNE OLSON DANIEL MOEDT BERNICE PETERS RAY and MELINA NOOT, Victoria, Matthew, Alexandra, JOE and FREDDIE PETERS Benjamin JOSH and DEBRA PETERS, Alyssa ALIDA OOSTENBRUG MARVIN and EVELYN PETERS HENRY and ANN OSTERMEIER, Hannah, Jonah, Emily RICHARD and FETTIE PETERS, Jeremy, Benjamin, Neil SCOTT and MIRANDA PARSLOW GERT and MARIE STEENBERGEN, Pieter, Randy, Tara, RALPH and ANN PENNINGA Lucas CURTIS and FAY PETERS and family REINDER and TINEKE STEENBERGEN JOEY and BECKY SCHOUTEN, Brandon, Kaylee, Emma, Sara DAVE and GERRIE TERPSMA STEVEN and COLETTE SCHOUTEN and family IVAN and SARAH VAN ASSEN DAVE and TAMMY SCHRIEMER, Deanna, Brent, Chloe, JOHN and RITA VAN ASSEN Cassidy, Haley NETTY VAN ASSEN AWADIA SONGA and family BERT and CINDY VANDERIET, Martina, Julia, Tessa MARTIN VAN BOSTELEN ALBERT and SONJA VANLEEUWEN, Natasha, Laura RAY and SHARON VANDEBURGT and family WALTER and ANGELA VANLEEUWEN, Morgan, Niomi, DARYL and JACQUELINE VANDENBOS, Amie, Ashtyn, Tristin, Summer, Hope, Weston, Emma Jillian ARNOLD and MELISSA VIERSEN, Aliyah, Seeley ERIC and CAROLYN VANDERVEEN, Mike, Dani JAMES VIERSEN and ASHLEE MEINTS NEIL and JUDY van ELLENBERG STAN and IRENE VIERSEN, Peter, Ben CRAIG and KAREN van ELLENBERG and family CAROL WERKMAN GRANT and DANIELLE VAN KAMMEN and family JAKE and IRENE WERKMAN

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 725 Season's Greetings

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726 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE GERALD and NELINDA DERUITER, Nathan, Cody, CARMAN – Manitoba Mitchell, Kylie, Josie Canadian Reformed Church – Carman East PAUL and NEL DERUITER RON and LUCIE DERUITER and family Wishing all brothers and sisters in the Lord his blessing ARNO and ALICE LINDE for 2015. AL and Anita VanderVeen Yet as the law must be fulfilled or we must die GLEN and NANCY VANDERVELDE, Tiffany, Stephanie despairing, Christ Jesus came, God’s wrath he stilled, RON and DEBBIE VANDERZWAAG our human nature sharing. The law he has for us obeyed and thus the Father’s vengeance stayed which over us impended. O Triune God in heaven above, who hast revealed thy ST. ALBERT – Alberta saving love, thy blessed name be hallowed. St. Albert Canadian Reformed Church Hymn 28:4 and 7b BoP The members of St. Albert Canadian Reformed Church wish their brothers and sisters across Canada and JUERGEN and JOYCE BEICHTER and family abroad the Lord’s blessings for the year 2015. BRENDAN and MICHELLE BERGSMA, Gianna, Kayla, Anika, Janoah, Kinsley Lord, you have been our dwelling place DERRICK and ROSALYNN BERGSMA, Josiah throughout all generations. ERIC and LISA BERGSMA Psalm 90:1 TONY and NINA BERGSMA, Troy WAYNE and FINA BERGSMA GORDON and JENNIFER CAMPBELL, Samantha, Liam, HARWIN and JOLENE BOUWMAN, Roxanne, Tonya, Eva Conrad JACK and PAULINE DEHAAS PIETER and ELSIEN NIJENHUIS JOHN and SHIRLEY DEHAAS, Curtis, Craig, Janessa, WILLIAM and RICKI SCHEPER Trevor, Jason CHARLIE and JOANNE TERMEER and family STUART and MARGARET DE JONG THEO and MARGARET VANDASSELAAR NICK and LYNETTE GEUSEBROEK, Joshua, Benjamin REV. STEVE and CECILIA VANDEVELDE, Evan, Emily, PHIL and REBECCA GEUSEBROEK, Shawn, Ryan, Daniel, Eliana Kaitlyn GERRY and MARRY VAN DIJK, Myron MARTIN and JENNIE HOOIMEYER GERRY and ELSA VANLAAR and family WIEBRAND and TJEERTDIE JAGER ARIE and ALICE VEENENDAAL, Devin JOHN and ANGELA KIPPERS, Lucy, April GUS and FREDDIE VEENENDAAL PETER and LORRAINE LINDHOUT JOHN and MIRANDA VEENENDAAL, Tanner, Jared BILL and RHEA MUIS TERRY and ANNA VEENENDAAL KEVIN and ROSE NOOT, Lydia HENRY and WILLEMIENE VELDMAN WALTER and DIANA NOOT HANK and JACKIE VERSTEEG HANK and IDELLE PETERS RON and EVELYN ROOK, Bryton, Seth and Danika, Darian HARRY and VAL SLAA, Dylan, Grant, Griffin, Levi ARON and SUSAN VAN DELFT, Seth, Pierce, Alex CARMAN – Manitoba BERNIE and BARB VAN RAALTE Canadian Reformed Church – Carman West JOHN and INGRID VANDERGAAG SHAWN and LAURA VEENENDAAL, Mya, Chloe, LEEN and ANGELA BLOK, Joshua, Luke, Elise Graham, Hannah ANDY and ARLENE BOUWERS, Brittany, Emily, Todd, Megan, Jared, Mark HENRY and BETTY BREUKELMAN RYAN and JESSICA BREUKELMAN, Reuben, Kenton, Jamie, Ian KEES and ALICE BROUWER

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 727 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.' Matthew 2:10 KJV

May you experience the joy of our Lord’s blessings during this Christmas season and throughout the coming year.

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Season’s Greetings and the Lord’s blessing in 2015!

728 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE HANS and KAREN KLAVER LYNDEN – Washington, USA CATHY KUNTZ Lynden American Reformed Church HARRY and GRACE NOOT JAKE and ANITA OUSSOREN We wish all our brothers and sisters in Christ, the Lord’s HENK and AAFKE REININK blessings and guidance for 2015. HILDA STIKSMA, Jean Glory to God in the highest, and on earth TENIE STIKSMA peace to men on whom his favor rests. MATT and ASHLEY TIGGELAAR, Mason, Lochlin KELVIN and MARJ VAN DASSELAAR Luke 2:14 BRAD and HANNAH van DELDEN, Taylor HENK and JOANNE BERENDS MRS. A. VANDERZYL OTTO and JEANETTE BOUWMAN and family BRAM and JOANNE VEGTER, Jessamy RAY and HANNAH BUITENBOS and family GARRY and CATHY VISSCHER WAYNE and ANTINA CHASE and family JOSH and PAULINE WATSON, Caleb, Efrim IAN and ANGELA DAVIS, Allison, Kayleigh, Emma, Lucas HENNIE WEESSIES JACK and ADRIA DEMOOY JOHANNA WERKMAN RICK and DEBBIE FABER, Laura, Kelsey, Kristi JOHN and FRIEDA WIERSEMA MR. and MRS. RIEMER FABER TIM and LYDIA FABER, Kristina, Austin, Emily BOB and DEBBIE JOHNSON, Christina, Joanna, Annemarie GRAND RAPIDS – Michigan, USA MRS. BERT KUIK American Reformed Church DARREN and KARLA LEYENHORST, Shawn, Aaron, Shanna, Alayna, Jill, Thomas We wish all our brothers and sisters in the USA, Canada, TERRY and KARI VANDIEST, Dallas, Carter, Lincoln, and abroad a blessed 2015. Sydney Be strong and of good courage. CASON and HELENA VANDRIEL, Jason, Aaron, Jaymie, 1 Chronicles 28:20a Julia MARTY and FAITH VANDRIEL, Andrew, Ayden, Heidi, JOHN and GRACE BUITENBOS Rachel PETER and JANET KINGMA, Chantelle and Ralph, RYAN and MICHELLE VANDRIEL, Joel, Tyler, Dylan Mitchell and Sarah, Joshua HARRY and KATHY VELDMAN REV. KEN and BRENDA KOK, Edwin, Megan HENRY and SHIRLEY VELDMAN JOHANNES and BEVERLEY KOOISTRA KOLIN and SHARON VELDMAN, Alexa, Desiree, Jaymie, TERRY and RITA MEDEMBLIK, Patrick, Olivia Jessie, Chase DIRK and RIA RIEDSTRA MRS. MARTIN VREUGDENHIL DEREK and REBECCA TENHAAF, Sophia MARVIN and BERNICE VREUGDENHIL and family DIRK and KATHRYN TENHAAF, Anthony, William, Alexandra, Victoria HARRY and LYNN TENHAAF MARK and STEPHANIE TENHAAF, Jaiva, Bauer, Creed MATT and MELANIE TENHAAF, Caleb, Noah, Gabrielle, EDMONTON – Alberta Landon Immanuel Canadian Reformed Church MICHAEL and CHRISTINA VANBEEK, Christian, Lincoln RICK and TAMMY VANBEEK, Nathan, Samuel, Madelyn, We wish all our brothers and sisters in Canada and Micah, Kenton abroad the Lord’s blessing and his guidance for 2015. DIRK and MARIA VAN DIJK, Simon, Miriam, Benjamin, Hannah, Sarah BEN and KAREN de JONG, Shaun, Riana, Amy, Evan JOHN and MARTHA VANMIDDELKOOP and family FRED and RIA de JONG MR. G. VELLENGA DOANE and VALERIE de WITT, Adrian, Deandra, Bethany, MR. and MRS. MARTIN VERHEY SR. Naomi, Isaiah MARTIN and HENNIE VERHEY, Kimberley MRS. H. DYKHUIZEN PAT and LINDA WILLIAMS, Sierra, Savannah, Lucas JERRY and SANDRA DYKSTRA ANDY and SHIRLEY WYNGARDEN, Andrew, Raymond, TONY and JANE HOEKSEMA David, Jennifer, Joseph, Sara

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 729 P.V.&V. Insurance Centre Ltd. P.V.&V. Financial Centre BUSINESS • HOME • FARM • AUTO • LIFE • GROUP • FINANCIAL Trust our Tel: 905.632.6192 • 1.866.694.7276 EXPERIENCE www.pvv-insurance.com

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Wishing730 | CLARION YEAR-ENDall the ISSUE Lord’s Blessing in 2015 REV. BERT and DIANNE TIGGELAAR BARRHEAD – Alberta BRENDAN and TARA TIGGELAAR, Mikaela, Bailey, Barrhead Canadian Reformed Church Dakota, Porscha JORDAN and JESELINA TIGGELAAR, Kingston, Mayer, Roman We wish all our brothers and sisters in Canada and CASEY and JANINE TILLEMA abroad the joy and peace of the Christmas season and the LOREN and NELLIE VAN ASSEN and family Lord’s blessing and guidance throughout the New Year. DARRYL and LEANNE VAN DASSELAAR, Chloe, Easten, Taryn Glory to God in the highest, and on earth HARRY and ALIE VANDELDEN peace to men on whom his favor rests. JOSHUA VANDELDEN Luke 2:14 MATTHEW and CHRISTINE VANDENHOVEN, Levi, Liam, DEAN BARENDREGT Lyncoln DIRK and TANIA BARENDREGT, Maddisyn, Ava, Judah DANIEL and KYLA VANDERDEEN HERMAN and MARIANNE BARENDREGT, Kyla and Brogan, JOHN and VALERIE VANDERDEEN, Miriam and Patrick, Seth, Ray, Keri Jonathan, Bethany, Lydia, Aaron HARRY and GEZINA DEBOER and family MICK and MARCELLA VANDERLAAN, Mikenna, Brayden PASTOR CALVIN and JOLENE VANDERLINDE, Elijah, Paul RICK and STEPHANIE DEVINK, Blake, Cohen RYAN and KIM VANDERMOOREN, Landon, Nolan RIEKS and JANNA DEVINK ARLENE VANDERSLUIS LOUIS and TENA DYKSTRA KEITH and JESSICA VANDERSLUIS, Aurora, Ezra YVONNE DYKSTRA, Kevin JOHN and ROBERTA VANDERVEEN RIKIE FERINGA STOFFER and BIEUWKE VANDERVEEN CASE and DINIE HAMOEN KEVIN and SHERRY VANGROOTHEEST, Keira, Ian QUINTON HARTHOORN BRAD and MARNY VANLEEUWEN, Dawson, Carter, Jayden GERRIT and MENNIE HELMUS, Emily, Clarence, Winston, JOSHUA and DANA VANLEEUWEN, Brooklyn Dawson SHAUN and BERDIEN VANLEEUWEN, Talis, Jax MARINUS and ALJA HELMUS, Berenda, Jessalynn, HERMINA VAN RAALTE Harrold, Alysha THADDEUS and ANITA VEGTER, Declan, Laila, Skye, Clay AMY HOEKSEMA BILL and ALIE VOGELZANG MELVIN and JANE HOEKSEMA and family GEORGE and JENNY WEMEKAMP JELTE and IRENE JAGERSMA and family JOHN WEMEKAMP JOHN and HELEN JISSINK BERT and TENA WIERENGA HERB and SANDY KOBES HAROLD and REGINA WIERENGA KEN and LINDA KOOPMANS STEPHANIE WIERENGA GREG and CLAIRE LARSON and family ARLENE ZUIDEMA MRS. JEAN MARISSEN JAMES AND KIM MEINEN, McKenna, Barrett, Cadence, Brynn, Griffin ALAN and FAY MUL, Ryan, Andrea TABER – Alberta KURTIS and HELENA OLTHUIS, Amy, Laura Canadian Reformed Church FIANNE OTTEN RIEKJE OTTEN We wish all our brothers and sisters in the Lord a blessed ERWIN and HELEN PETERS, Matthew, Jeffrey and Kayla, Christmas and the Lord’s blessings in the New Year. Danielle and George, Joseph, Melissa JORDAN and MELISSA PETERS Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace MARCEL and JESSICA PETERS, Brittney, Kameron, to men on whom his favor rests. Kaylee, Conner Luke 2:14 TRAVIS PETERS and BONNIE VANDERMEULEN MARION and JEANETTE BAREMAN KEN and ALICIA SCHOUTEN, Nadiya, Noah, Delaney, ANDY and FELICIA BIJLSMA, Seth, Tristan and Rowan Maguire, Meclayne STUART and DARLENE BOEVE, Denise, Esther, Jody, BAUCINA SELLES Kristen and Jason ALBERT-JAN and LOUISE STEENBERGEN, Lennix ANNO and CAROLA BYLSMA, Dianne, Siebe, Frederick, BERT and DARLENE STEENBERGEN, Tyson, Jenna Rebecca and Emmy HENRY and HETTY STEL PAUL and KINSKE DEVOS, David and Nicholas

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 731 CORK - LAMINATE - HARDWOOD - CERAMIC - VINYL - CARPET Do you know how your

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732 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE JOHN and JANET VANDENBERG WINNIPEG – Manitoba LANCE and BETH VANDER VEGTE Grace Canadian Reformed Church REMMIE and LINDA VANDER VEGTE, Scott, Kenny ED and JANNI VERSTEEG, Sonya The following brothers and sisters of Winnipeg wish all KEVIN and SUZANNE VERSTEEG, Blake brothers and sisters in Christ, in Canada and abroad, God’s PHIL and DEB VERSTEEG, Logan, Mya, Nathaniel, Emma blessing at Christmas time and throughout the New Year. WAYNE and CAROLYN VERSTEEG DAVE and SARAH WELCH, Alexis, David, Blake KRIS BROUWER CHRIS and JACQUELINE BUFFINGTON, Ryder, Skye RICHARD and LIZ BUIST, Glenn and Bev, Eric, Marjorie DOUG and JULIETTE DEWITT and family BILL DE WIT COALDALE – Alberta KEN DE WIT Coaldale Canadian Reformed Church JEFF and EVELYN DYKSTRA, Elissa, Steve and Jenelle, Chris, Kevin MANCE and MARY BREUKELMAN and family ED and TINA HARKE DIRK and WILMA DEVRIES MARK and SACHA HOFSINK, Jordan, Cody, Brett, Jaydyn, LEON and RACHEL DIEK, Matthew, Meaghan Jesse ANDREW and TINEKA DOEVE, Ashlyn, Joel JOHN and MARGARET HOOGERDIJK, Matt and Victoria, JOOP and JANNY HARTHOORN, Nicole and Julian Miriam HENK and MAGGIE HOFSINK CLARENCE and JESSICA JONKER, Taryn, Joshua, Leah DIRK and MARY KOK FERNAND and ANGIE JONKER, Ben CORNELIUS and JENNIFER LEFFERS, Sophia, Darek, TYSON and TERA KAMMINGA, Leighton, Brandon Kylie, Travis, Evan ROBERT and FRANCINE KOTTELENBERG, Russell, Caleb JOHN and JANE LEFFERS ARDIS KUIK GUS and CORNELIA VANDASSELAAR BONNIE KUIK, Aynsley, Shania ITE and JANE VEURINK JORDAN and CAYLE LUTZ, Alyvia, Elyse JIM and ESTHER VEURINK, Chaisson, Krisna, Jamie, HENRY and BRANDI MOESKER, Hannah, Mathew, Julie, Brayden and Carrie Natalie, Evan RICHARD and AMIE VELDKAMP RICK and TESSA MOSTERT and family CHARLENE VOORHORST PAUL and ALINDA MULDER and family JOHN and JENNY VOORHORST SCOTT and DEBBIE SCHRIEMER, Taylor, Sierra, Hunter, NIC and JOLENE VOORHORST Damian, Darius, Veronica, Mason VIC and GRACE SCHRIEMER DARRYL and ALI SHPAK, Eden DAVE and ELLEN SHPAK SHELDON and CHRISTINA SLAA EDMONTON – Alberta ART and SHARON TEITSMA, Mikayla, Shaylene, Providence Canadian Reformed Church Destaney, Summer, Jasmine DENNIS and ANNIE TEITSMA May we, one and all rejoice in the year of our Lord 2015. JAMES and JOANNE TEITSMA, Michael, Melannie, Megan, Matthew, Marissa RICHARD and JOANNE AASMAN NATHAN and AMANDA TEITSMA and family NATHAN and TRACY BOS, Josiah and Natalia RIKKI TEITSMA MRS. ANNE DOORTEN DUANE and JULIA TOET, Cooper, Shiloh, Hudson RON and MICHELLE DOORTEN, Peter, Luke, Rachelle, JACK and WILMA TOET Julia JOHN and AUDREY TOET MRS. J. NOOT TIM and JANET TROMMEL, Chloe, Emma, Ivan FLORY VAN ORIZANDE RALPH and MARGARET VAN GOOR and family SIEBREN and ALICE STIKSMA GILBERT and LINDA VAN LEEUWAN, Stacey and Ruurd, DERK and MARTJE VANDERVEEN Emily, Thomas WES and JULIE VANHILL, Briar CASEY and MARTHA VAN SETERS CORKY and MENNIE VELDKAMP ALEX and DIANA VANDEHOEF, Alicia, Chelsea, Janelle GERDA ZELDENRUST

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 733 Merry Christmas! Blessings to You and Your family from

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734 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE DAVE and TERESA GORTEMAKER, Joel, Alexis, Brooklyn, ANCASTER – Ontario Kaelynn Canadian Reformed Church TED and VANESSA GORTEMAKER, Nicole, Dylan, Leanne WILL and SHAWNA GORTEMAKER, Rachel, Megan Greetings to all our brothers and sisters in Canada and EVERETT and BRENDA GRITTER, Darren, Ryan abroad! RANDY and JANINA GUNNINK, Kennedy, Paige Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, ANDY and MICHELLE KANIS and family bless his holy name! FENNY KUIK GERRY KUIK Psalm 103:1 JAKE and RITA KUIK ADRIAN and KERRI BARTELS, Paiton, Blake, Jemma, DARREN and EMILY KUIK, Noah, Tianna Carter, Finnley BILL and HENRIETTA RAAP BEN and INGRID BARTELS RON and ELSJE RAAP and family BILL and ANNEMARIE BARTELS SY and JENNY RAAP DARREN and ANNA BARTELS, Reuben, Eden, Isaac, HENRY and FRANCES SLAA Thomas, Joel HENRY and JUDY SLAA, Tyson, Riley GEORGE and MARTA BARTELS MRS. F. TIGGELAAR JOHN and WILLIE BARTELS TRAVIS and JAYSA TOET PAUL and IRENE BOERINGA, Denver, Angela LAWRENCE and MARILYN TOET, Megan and Doug, Shayna EWOUT DEGELDER LEN and JANNIE TOET PROF. J. GEERTSEMA BRYAN and MIRISSA VAN DELDEN, Julie, Deanna, STEPHEN and JACKIE KAMPEN, Rhone, Keira, Azhure, Nathan, Erin Xander HENRY and FENNY VAN DELDEN REV. JOHN and ESTHER LUDWIG, Rachelle, Jonathan, BILL and BONITA VANDERLINDE and family Timothy FLOYD and MARYNE VANDERMEULEN, Aveline, Samuel, LOUIS and IRMA OOSTERHOFF, James Fenton, Kyler BRYAN and CATHERINE STIEVA, Zac, Eleanor, Jacob JAMES and MARY-ELLEN VANDERMEULEN, Andrew JOHN and IRENE VANANDEL, Nathan and Victoria, Laura PETER and TRUDY VEENENDAAL, Regan PETE and CHANDRA VANDERBOOM, Vanessa, Justin, JAMES and TERI VANDERLINDE, Joshua, Caleb, Jacob, Melanie, Matthew, Stephanie Isaiah, Elizabeth JOHN and NELLIE VIS JANNES and CATHY WIERSEMA, Debbie and Daniel BILL and JOANNA WIESKE and family DALE and JANE WILLSIE, Courtney GARY and CINDY WIESKE and family JUSTIN and BRITTNY WILLSIE JACK and TERESA WIESKE, Meagan, Amy, Erin, Micah, Luther BRAMPTON – Ontario Grace Canadian Reformed Church WINNIPEG – Manitoba Wishing all our brothers and sisters in the Lord a blessed Redeemer Canadian Reformed Church New Year and hope you will all visit us in our new MRS. MARGARET BARON church building this year. WALTER BARON THEO and MELANIE BEIJES, Timothy, Katie, Addison, ARCHIE and RIA BAX Maxwell WILMA JAIRAM GARRY and CHRISTINA BOERINGA, Daniel, Valerie JOHN KLEINE-DETERS DICK and TINEKE BYZITTER HENRY KOK KEN and ALISA DEBOER, Jared, Nadia, Tyson, Ethan, Gavin MRS A. NIEUWENHUIS-JELSMA MRS. J. DE VOS DERK and BEP DEWITT CHRIS and CAROL NOBELS ROB and ANNIE DEWITT, Jeff, Robyn JOHN and MARG SCHOON, David ROD and JESS DEWIT, Kieran, Kelsey RAY and JENETTE SCHOON and family ALLAN and JESS GORTEMAKER HARRY and ANNE VANBODEGOM BILL and GRIETJE GORTEMAKER REV. MATTHEW and GERTIE VAN LUIK PETER GORTEMAKER RON and HENRIETTA WILLIAMS, Megan, Aaron

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 735 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Romans 15:13

This holiday season we are thinking of all those missing a loved one. May the message of the Gospel give you comfort and hope this Christmas.

CMYK

100/60/0/10

70/40/0/0

50/30/0/0

5/35/75/0

0/0/0/0

It’s comforting to come home. Rick Ludwig Garnet van Popta Diane Vanderwoude

1-800-737-8275 | kitchingsteepeandludwig.com/faithlink

CLARION COMPASS CREATIVE STUDIO INC TITLE: 736 | YEAR-END ISSUE KSL_Logo_Rev_CMYK 201-1040 south service rd CLIENT: Kitching, Steepe, and Ludwig stoney creek, on L8E 6G3 DATE: July 2014 www.compasscreative.ca DESIGNER(S): Joel Reynolds HENRY and LEANNA LANTING, Sophia, Theressa, Garrett, ATTERCLIFFE – Ontario Adrianne, Jeana, Gerry Attercliffe Canadian Reformed Church MR. and MRS. G. B. LANTING SARALYN LOW Wishing our brothers and sisters the Lord’s richest blessings WAYNE and JANE OOSTERHOFF and family throughout this joyous holiday season and always! SHAWN and ANDREA SCHUTTEN, Dawsen, Zoe, Blake, Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, Sullivan so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and EDWARD and MARIANNE SLAA, Fraser and Hannah, Kenton, Raelene established in the faith, just as you were taught, JAY and DENISE VANDER HOEVEN, Kendra, Tianna, abounding in thanksgiving. Madelyn, Latara, Jabin Colossians 2:6-7 ED and JENNIFER VANDER VEGTE, Ed, Danielle, Kim ED and WILMA VANDERVELDE WIM and Joanne AALBERS, Danielle, Tyler, Connor, JACK and MARLENE VANROOTSELAAR, Eddie, Nick, Darryl Tinielle, Ben BILL and ANNETTE BARTELS and family REV. JOHN and CAROLIN VANWOUDENBERG and family AL and DEBBIE BETHLEHEM and family ANDY and DEBBIE BLOKKER, Michaela and Spencer, Natassje MRS. DINI DEBOER and family HERMAN and JOLENE DEHAAN, Kaitlyn, Samuel, Jacob OTTAWA – Ontario WARREN and MARY ANNE HOEKSEMA, Christie, Kayley Jubilee Canadian Reformed Church REV. and MRS. J. HUIJGEN and family KEN and LIZ JAGER, Stephen, Sean, Jacob We wish all our brothers and sisters in Canada and DAVE and ANGELINA JANS, Brent, Mitchell, Slater, Vivian, abroad, the Lord’s blessing and guidance for the Kinslee coming year. BRYAN and KAREN JONGBLOOD, Hailey, Brayden, Joel, Kaitlyn, Sean, Caleb, Ethan GUY BISAILLON LLOYD and FENNY KINGMA, Juditha, Aren MIKE and ALISHA BOERINGA, Jonny KEN and TINA LINDE PETER and ELLIE BUIST MRS. D. (Beatrix) LOF RICHARD and EMMA BUIST, Peter, Evan JAKE and LIZ LOF CAROL BUTLER JOHN and SHIRLEY LOF, Chantal, Shayna, Annika, TREVOR and LINDA DEVRIES, Matthias, Keylin, Emily Kaelyn, Moriah, Keziah, Brinley PATRICK and ZWANY HAVENAAR, Devon, Kyle, Lindsay, TRACEY VANDERVELDE Steven REUBEN and IRENE HELDER HENK and SUSAN HOLTVLUWER HENRY and RIA JANS and family EDWARD and SARA LUDWIG, Jurgen, Mathias, Thomas, DUNNVILE – Ontario Johan Dunnville Canadian Reformed Church FRED and EVELYN NIEUWENHUIS, Samuel, James, Sofia, Arwen JOHN and ANITA BREUKELMAN, Justin, Natasha, Levi EBEL and JANNY POL JEFF and TRICIA DEBOER, Stephanie, Ryan HENRY and NANCY SCHRIEMER and family ED and LORRAINE FEENSTRA, Kaleb and Kaileigh ANDRE and KAREN SCHUTTEN, Gabriel CORNELL and WILMA FEENSTRA ANDREW and CARRIE VANDERVEEN, Lily VALERIE GRIT PASTOR GEORGE and DORA VANPOPTA HENRY and ANNELIES HOMAN REUBEN and JODI VANPOPTA, Hannah, Rebecca, Sarah, ANDREW and KERRI JANS, Jakob, Nathanael, Mika Simeon HENRY and LINDA JANSEMA, Rachel, Michelle and Laura MALCOLM and CINDY WILDEBOER, Ronda, Sjanie, JAMES and RACHEL KINGMA, Lucas, Elisabeth, Lilia, Naomi, Anna, Olivia, Callum Ayanna, Shiloh, Judah ALETTA WYNIA

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 737 Wishing you a Blessed New Year Season’s Greetings from

An Independent Dealer

Paul and Kinske deVos 403-223-0663 CHEVROLET • CORVETTE [email protected] “The People’s Choice” MARTY MUIS Sales & Leasing Consultant

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TEL: 905-560-2020 FAX: 905-560-3800

Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year from Gary and Alnita Post

Wishing you a Blessed Christmas and a Prosperous New Year

Email: [email protected]

738 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE LINCOLN – Ontario MARNIX and ANNE-MARIE SIKKEMA and family Vineyard Canadian Reformed Church BERT and HENRIETTA TENHAGE, Deanna and Will, Esther God’s continuous blessing and guidance for the year REV. CLARENCE and THERESA VANDERVELDE, Nicolette, 2015 is our wish to our brothers and sisters in Canada Garret and abroad.

Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. LONDON – Ontario Psalm 90:1 Pilgrim Canadian Reformed Church JOHN and HENRIETTA BEINTEMA JERRY and RICKI BLOKKER DIRK and ANNEMARIE BERGSMA MARK and HEIDI DE BOER, Keira, Teagen, Austin ALAN and ANNETTE JANSSENS, Kyle, Connor, Lucas, RAY and AGNES ELLENS Logan JOHN and JENNY HORDYK, Simon ART and LISA PIETERMAN and family HENNY MANS JACK and RENNIE PIETERMAN JAKE and GRACE OOSTERHOFF FRANK and GRACE POOL WILLY and LYDIA SCHULENBERG NELLIE PLOUFFE ERIC and GRACE STIEVA RINY SALOMONS GERALDINE STIEVA TED and LYNDA SCHOUTEN and family BRIAN and MARION VAN DEN OEVER, Levi, Lani, Kali, BILL and CATHY SLAA Arli KEITH and TERRY TEMPLE WAYNE and HELEN VAN SYDENBORGH, Micheal GERALD and KELLY WATTEL and family BILL and CORRIE VAN WOUDENBERG JANNY WILDEBOER JANE VISSER

ORANGEVILLE – Ontario ELORA – Ontario Orangeville Canadian Reformed Church Canadian Reformed Church We wish all our brothers and sisters around the world the MARTEN and MARGRIET BIJLSMA, Haaye, Sacha, Hailey, Lord’s blessing and guidance for the coming year. Aldrik, Waylon GERRY and HENNY BROERSMA Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men MICHAEL and DIANA BROERSMA, Hadassah, Nethaneil, on whom his favour rests. Micah, Christian Luke 2:14 PAUL and GERALDINE DEBOER, George, Tara, Dianne, Gavin, Julie, Hansen RON and INA BERENDS WIM and SAAKJE FEENSTRA MRS. GERRIE DOEKES BERT and DINAH HUTTEN, Joanna and Henry (Sikkema) JOHN and RETA ENDEMAN JERRY and CLAIRE HUTTEN PAUL and MARGARET JANSSEN, Natasha and Nathan, HANK and MARG JAGER, Ashley Tim and Laura, Daniel, Matthew WILMA JANSEN, Jeff BERNIE and JOANNEKE KOTTELENBERG, Caleb, DICK and DINA LODDER Rebecca, Josiah, Seth, Hadassah, Isaiah, Levi, BRIAN and NANCY-JO NIEZEN, Alyssa, Caleb, Joel, Levi, Jesse, Joanna Brenna, Shaina JOHN and WILHELMINA KOTTELENBERG ANDY and JEANNETTE NIJENHUIS JEREMY AND KAREN LINDE, Joseph, Isabella, HENRY and CHRISTINE PIEFFERS Madelyn JOHN and ENA POST MRS. HILDA OVERBEEK JOHN and SONYA POST, Leah, Ethan, Kaileigh, Caleb, JOHN and HANNA VANBODEGOM Reuben ALBERT and NELLY VANSYDENBORGH

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 739 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13

Wishing all the Lord’s Blessing in 2015

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740 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE CHATHAM – Ontario ROB and JANET VANDERVEEN and family ANDREW and DARCIE VEENEMA, Jack and Owen Eben-Ezer Canadian Reformed Church DANIEL and NICOLE VEENEMA, Hudson HANK and WILMA VEENEMA Greetings from your brothers and sisters of Chatham, JOHN and WANDA VEENEMA Ontario – who wish you the Lord’s blessings now and in MIKE and ASHLEY VEENEMA, Amelia the New Year! JENNY YTSMA But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from KERWOOD – Ontario of old, from ancient times. Grace Canadian Reformed Church Micah 5:2 CHARLIE BEINTEMA MRS. W. BLOEMENDAL DOUG and KAREN BEINTEMA, Abigail, Olivia and BILL and LINDA DOKTER Madeline LOUIE and CAROLYN HAAN LOUIS and MARG BEINTEMA MRS. ALIE JANSSENS PETE and TERESA BERGSMA JIM and JACKIE JANSSENS DARREN BOS MIKE and SARA JANSSENS, Landon, Savaya, Anica, Braxton JOHN and CAROL BOS JACOB and GRACE LENTING RALPH and ANITA BOS RICK and DEANNA LENTING, Jayden, Gavin, Marissa, JIM and YVONNE BULTJE, Amy, James and Erica Keira, Allana, Brennan JOHN and ANN BULTJE REV. and MRS. POORT and Family GEORGE and TRACY BULTJE, Edward MAYNARD and SUSAN SMID, Janine PHIL and JANICE BULTJE and family ADRIAN and MICHELLE TAMMINGA and family REV. DAVID and ANNETTE DEBOER, Katie, Alex, Josie MRS. B. TAMMINGA and Ethan CHRIS and REBECCA VEENEMA, Lydia, Kara, Rozlyn, ERIC and KATHLEEN DEBOER Zachary JOHN and LISA DEBOER, Mike MR. LEIN WATTEL MEL and DONNA DEBOER, Samantha MIKE and ANN DEBOER RICK and DEB DEBOER, Evan MRS. JULIE DEKKER OWEN SOUND – Ontario HENRY and JUDY HEYINK Owen Sound Canadian Reformed Church ANNIE HOUGH ADRIAN and IETIE KOSTER Greetings to our brothers and sisters in the Lord. May He BOB KOSTER bless you with peace in the coming year. KEN KOSTER MARK and JACKIE MALOTT, Sarah, Stephen, Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

Rachael and Ryan Psalm 119:105 LENA SIKKEMA AREND and WILLA DALE SMID CHRIS and IRENE BARON, Bradley, Megan, Chantal, HILCO and ANN TAMMINGA, Jodi, Josh, Kyle, Lauren, Andrew, Adam, Karina Nathan and Annika GEORGE and MARGARETHA DIEK TALO and JITSKE TAMMINGA REV. JACK and CHRISTINA MOESKER JERRY and IDA TILLEMA SHANE and BECKY PIETERMAN, James, Jacob, Anna, BILL and ANGY VANDERGAAG Kyra, Nina GERALD and NANCY VANDERGAAG and family AVA SANDINK ANDY and SANDRA VANDERVEEN, Matthew and Gregory JEFF and CATHY SCHEPER, Shannon, Lauren, Kimberly, BARBARA VANDERVEEN Ryan, Derrick JIM and RENSKJE VANDERVEEN, Amanda, Denise, Roy, ALEX and RACHEL SIKKEMA, Arianne, Lauren, Liam Sabina and Ava KLAAS and AUDREY WERKMAN JOANNE VANDERVEEN BILL and SHAWNIE WILDEBOER

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 741 Insurance & Financial Planning Specialists Since 1989. Serving Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario & British Columbia.

Celebrating 25 Years

from all of us at C.V. Benefits

John Voorhorst Nic Voorhorst Leon Diek Le Liu

734 - 13 Street North, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1H 2T1 1-800-565-4434 - www.cvbenefits.com

742 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE GLANBROOK – Ontario TINTERN – Ontario

Trinity Canadian Reformed Church Spring Creek Canadian Reformed Church

Brothers and Sisters, we wish you all a joyous Christmas BRIAN and ALICIA BRATCHER, Zoey, Adelaide season, and God’s rich blessings as we serve Him in HENK and SIENA BREUKELMAN 2015! Come Lord Jesus, Maranatha! DON and MONICA BOS, Anna, Joseph, Benjamin, Reuben, Beth, Simeon For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he BILL and THERESA HEEMSKERK will stand upon the earth. REV. PETER and ERICA HOLTVLÜWER and family JIM and JOHANNA KOOLSBERGEN, Maria K. and Job 19:25 David de Boer DAN and TRACY AASMAN, Lily, Brock, Nash CARL and MONICA OOSTERHOFF, Timothy, Samuel, ED and LISA BAKER, Josh, Simon, Katrina Micah WAYNE and HILDA BARTELS, Jessica, Jamie, Kenton, JAKE and NELL OOSTERHOFF Karly, Lorissa, Rebecka LEO and CHRISTINE ROZEMA CLAUDE and TERESA BOISVERT, Samuel, Jacqueline GERALD and TRACY SCHULLER, Erin, Tara, Myles, DAVID and HEATHER BOSMA, Nathan, Rachael, Jessica Ethan, Meghan, Tanya and Jaelyn GIL and WILMA BUIKEMA, David, Russell, Lauren PETER and INGRID SCHULLER, Frank, Garrett, John, ARIE and TAMARA DEN HOLLANDER, William, Lucas, William, Wyatt, Natalie Abigail, Esther, Jonathan ROB and JOYCE VAN AMERONGEN, Robert and Jamie, REV. and MRS. W. DEN HOLLANDER Thomas, Colin, Katherine, Joel, Evan ANDREW and EMILY DYKSTRA, Lydia, Charlotte, Vivian, JACK and JENNY VANDERVEEN Jasper KARL and EILEEN VAN ES, Arie, Aaron, Amy HENRI and PATRICIA GELMS, Sheldon, Mitchell, Kaylee, GORD and GELINDA VAN WOUDENBERG, Corissa and Amy, Cason, Alaynia, Benjamin Ben, Justin, Tim, Loretta, Derek JOHN and WILMA GROENWOLD, Sara and Nate, Nadia, JAN and KITTY VAN ZANTEN Krista BRIAN and BARBARA HARSEVOORT, Bethany, Jeremy, Zachary, Joshua, Caleb, Micah, Benjamin, Esther THEA HEYINK TIM and ELLY HUTTEN, Esther, Nathan, Calvin FLAMBOROUGH – Ontario HARRY and GAIL JANS, Kaitlyn, Darren and Kirsten, Flamborough Canadian Reformed Church Sean, Jarod, Blake DEREK and TINA LANTING, Sarah, Terissa, Lydia, Albert, Greetings from the following brothers and sisters of John, Hannah, Owen, Elaina, Ian Flamborough! We wish all brothers and sisters in Christ DUSTIN and DANIELLE LUDWIG, Simon, Patrick, Oliver a joyous Christmas season and the Lord’s blessing and PETER and JOANNE OSTERMEIER, Tianna guidance throughout the New Year. JUSTIN and MARY-LYNN SCHUTTEN, Kyle, Brayden, Natania MIKE and WILMA BEIJES, Jordan, Rachel, Jessica FRANK and KAREN SCHUURMAN and family JEFF and EILEEN BREUKELMAN and family GARY and JACKIE SMID and family ROB and CONNIE HOFSINK, Aaron, Holly, Naomi, PETER and GRACE SMID Jonathan, Luther DR. JASON and JANET VAN VLIET, Curtis, Hannah, Ruth, HERMAN and JOANNE JANS, Darryl, Sarah, Devon, Trent Abigail, Philip, Joelle, Jared JOB and DONNA SCHENKEL, Shannon, Jordan, Tristan, RICK and JENNY VANDENBOS and family Connor, Dylan STAN and SHELLEY VANDENBOS, Christi, David, Kim MARC and MARG SCHUTTEN and family and Tyler PETER and LORI STEGENGA, Dustin, Karissa, Ashley, FRITS and LIEKE VANDERBRUGGHEN and family Tyler ALBERT and CAROLYN VANDERWOUDE, Teagan, Kenton HENK and CHRISTINE VAN HALEN WILMA VANDERWOUDE, Mitch and Allie, Kyra, Jaymee, GARY and JONI VIS, Benjamin, Brandon, Nicole, Gary, Tamryn, Gavin Devon, Ava

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 743 Blessings of the Season to Clients and Friends from HERMAN FABER, J.D., LL.M. HAROLD OLIJ, LL.B. BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS & NOTARIES PUBLIC

IN HAMILTON VanderWoerd & Faber & BURLINGTON: 1025 Waterdown Road, Burlington, Ontario L7T 1N4 Phone: 905-681-7800, Res: 905-524-2203, Fax: 905-681-7814, Email: [email protected] IN SMITHVILLE: Olij & Faber 128 St. Catharine Street, PO Box 38, Smithville, Ontario L0R 2A0 Phone: 905-957-7240, Res: 905-562-1834, Fax: 905-957-4635, Email: [email protected] Thank you For Your Continuous Support and Patronage.

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM EVERYONE MMEERRRRYY CCHHRRIISSTTMMAASS AT MOJOH EXCAVATING LTD. FFRROOMM EEVVEERRYYOONNEE AATT MMIIKKEE’’SS LLAANNDDSSCCAAPPIINNGG IINNCC..

SSEERRVVIICCEE DDRRIIVVEENN SSIINNCCEE 11995577 EXCAVATION DEMOLITION EARTH WORKS GRADING

Wishing all the Lord’s blessings for 2015

MARCON CONSTRUCTION LTD. • ADDITIONS • RENOVATIONS 1309 HAZELTON BLVD., BURLINGTON, ONTARIO L7P 4V5 Phone: 905-332-9834 Email: [email protected] Mark and Mary DeBoer family and staff

744 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE BERT and DIANE NIEZEN FERGUS NORTH – Ontario MRS. JOHANNA STIENSTRA Canadian Reformed Church LARRY and JOYCE TENHAGE, Brittany, Megan JEAN VANDERMEULEN Greetings to our brothers and sisters abroad and wishing TONY and JOANNE VANTOL and family you all the Lord’s blessing in 2015! MRS. D. WALINGA REV. THEO and LIDY WIERENGA, Ryan, Jeanette, Corina, JAKE and ANITA BOUWMAN, Kenton, Matthew, Nathan, Jared, Shawna Patricia CHARLES and LINDA WESTRIK, Nicole, Ryan, Colin, JOHN and HEATHER BROERSMA, Justine, Heather, Gared Joshua, Danielle JOHN. D and TRUDY GANSEKOELE LIGHTHOUSE (Anchor): Bryce Berends, Terence Berends, Cameron Dantuma, Jack Dieleman, Lindsay Kottelenberg, Marsha Moesker, HAMILTON – Ontario Dave Van Veen, Frank Zegers Cornerstone Canadian Reformed Church TIM and AMY LINDE, Chloe, Kate ERIC and TRISH SMITH, Mark Let the miracle of Christmas fill your hearts with joy, WILLEM and ROELIE SMITH peace and love. KEN and DEBBIE SWAVING and family BEN and JO-ANNE VANDERZWAAG Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in KEVIN and ANDREA VANDERZWAAG, Emily, Seth, all circumstances; for this is the will of Joshua, Nicholas, Lilyan, Leah God in Christ Jesus for you.

I Thessalonians 5:16-18 BRAD and DEB ALKEMA, Lauren, Brie, Cole, Naomi FERGUS – Ontario HANS and COBY BARTELS Maranatha Canadian Reformed Church BOB and PEGGY BEINTEMA MRS. A. BLOKKER Greetings to our brothers and sisters in the Lord, May He BRYAN and TOBI BOS, Chloë, Cohen, Lily, Joely graciously guide us and care for us in the year ahead. CORNELIUS and MINDY BROERSMA, Chloe, Joel DAVE and MARLAINE BUIST, Kelsey Lord, you have been our dwelling place SHAUN and KAREN DEJONGE and family throughout all generations. ARJAN and INGE DEVISSER, Marise, Lennart and Hannah, Psalm 90:1 Arjaan JOHN and Hilly BEUKEMA, Jordan FRED and SHARALEE DEWIT, Kendra, Cameron, Quinton CORNELIS and RENA BOOT MRS. W. FABER HARRY BOUWMAN CARL and JANET GROENWOLD JEANNETTE BOUWMAN GEORGE and SHARON HOFSINK, Geoff, Kaylee, Kelvin, COR and IRENE BULTENA, Marsha Benjamin, Kara HAROLD and JOANNE BULTENA HAROLD and SHARON MEERVELD ALBERT and BAUKJE DE WITT MIKE and AMANDA NEDERVEEN, Jayden, Daniel ROD and JANINE DYKSTRA, Tyler, Jaydelle, Kenzie MICHAEL and MEAGHAN OOSTERHOFF RICHARD and MARGARETH HOEKSEMA and family MRS. JENNY POST DUSTIN and NICOLE HUTTEN, Kaden, Ethan, Mariah, RUBY ROZA Alexander JACK and ELLY SCHUTTEN JOHN and JOANNE HUTTEN, Jesse and CarolAnn, Allen, CLARENCE and MARGA STAM Christina and Calvin, Michaela, Leah CASE and JANNY VANANDEL HENK and NATASHA HUIJGEN, Leah MIKE and BARB VANDENBOS MARTEN and DIETJE JANSEN BRIAN and LISA VANDERHOUT and family JOHN and TERESA JONGSMA and family ED and HENRIETTA VANDERLAAN, Robert, Tyler, ARTHUR and BETSY KINGMA, Laurence, Bradley, Jonathan Calvin and Christina, Martin, Sheldon, Bryant RALPH and TERESA VANDERLAAN BOB and TRUDIE LODDER MRS. MARGARETHA VANDERWOERD JOHN and INA MEDEMBLIK DR. ART and EBELIEN WITTEN

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 745 Best Wishes for 2015 from

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Phone: 905-335-8066 • Fax: 905-335-7080 John and Tetje Hordyk - Founder Email: [email protected] John and Connie Hordyk and family Website: www.exotic-woods.com Mel and Nancy Hordyk and family

746 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE BURLINGTON EAST – Ontario RON and ANNE JAGER and family LEO and DIANE KAMPEN Ebenezer Canadian Reformed Church BERT and INGRID KNOL, Chantelle and Evan, Celine and Jon, Christopher, Stephanie, Tyson The following brothers and sisters of Burlington East, CONRAD and ASHLEY LODDER and family Ebenezer, wish all brothers and sisters in Christ, friends HARRY and IRENE MALDA, Kaitlyn and acquaintances in Canada and abroad, God’s BEN and DIANE OOSTERVELD blessing at Christmas time and in the New yYear. ELIZABETH REDWOOD, Elisa MIKE and JOANNE REDWOOD and family ANJE AIKEMA WILBUR and MARIA SIPKEMA GERALD and CATHY BOSSCHER, Ryan, Sarah, Andrew, GARTH and ALIDA SPANNINGA, Sara, Noah, Julia, Rebecca Nadia MENNO and CLARY DEGROOT CHRIS and BONNIE SUTHERLAND and family WILLIAM and CATHARINA DEJONG HELEN VANHUISSTEDE GERRY and PAULINA DENBOK REV. JOHN and BONITA VANPOPTA JOHN and LINDA DOUMA DAVID and GERALDINE VANRAALTE and family RALPH and JOANNE ELZINGA, Brad HERMAN and MARGARETE EVINK ALBERTA HARKE JOHN and PATRICIA HOFSINK HAMILTON – Ontario HENRY and LIMMY HULLEMAN ALICE HULST Providence Canadian Reformed Church GERRY and JANNIE JANS We share in the joy of the birth of our Saviour. To all ANN JELSMA MRS. D. MALDA, Rose our brothers and sisters across Canada and abroad, the REV. and MRS. GIJSBERT NEDERVEEN Lord’s blessings for 2015. BILL and LIZ OOSTDYK MR. JOHN REIMER Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host ALBERT and HELEN SMOUTER appeared with the angels, praising God and saying, TRUDI TERPSTRA “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men CORNELIS and JOANNE VANDAM on whom his favor rests.”

ANNE VANROOTSELAAR Luke 2:13-14 BETSIE VANSIJDENBORGH BERT and JEAN BLOKKER STEVE and JACKIE BLOKKER, Madison, Luke, Robert, Naomi, Joelle BURLINGTON SOUTH – Ontario JANE GROENWOLD Fellowship Canadian Reformed Church DEBBI HOFSINK PAUL and MARSHA LEISTRA, Rachel, Alexandra, Mark, We wish all our brothers and sisters a blessed Christmas Joel and the Lord’s guidance in the New Year. STEVE and ROSLYN ONLAND, Ayden, Ethan, Jonah, Denia How good and pleasant it is when brothers HERMAN and CHRISTINA SCHUTTEN live together in unity. RYAN and ALANA SCHUTTEN, Tysen, Silas, Wyatt, Psalm 133:1 Avery CHRIS and RITA BOSCH JOHN and DARLENE SMITH and family JOHN and EDITH BOSSCHER and family HERMAN and JANICE VAN BARNEVELD, Jaclyn and Warren, HENK and JANNY BUIST Diedric, Seth AUDREY DEGELDER ADRIAN and WILMA VANDERLAAN, Corey, Jordan, HERMAN and JO-ANNE FABER and family Nicholas, Brendan, Mikayla DAVE and CRYSTAL HEIKAMP TED and CHRISTINE VAN RAALTE and children JOHANNA HORDYK BERT and ANNE VANSTRATEN HARRY and JOANNE HUTTEN and family REV. and MRS. WIESKE

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 747 r Van Egmond & Pete Sons Wishing you a Blessed Christmas and God’s blessing for a Prosperous New Year

Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

Matthew 5:16

TOTAL HOME IMPROVEMENTS SINCE 1969 – John and Anita Poort – Shaun and Rebecca Poort – Ben and Anita Poort – Alicia Vos – Ralph and Lisa Buitenhuis – Peiter and Megan Stulp – Steve and Nicole Buitenhuis – Greg Ludwig – Jason and Laura Poort – Tanya Poort

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748 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE FRED and RIKI WESTRIK GUELPH – Ontario JOHN and ROBIN WESTRIK, Matthew, Marty, James, Emmanuel Canadian Reformed Church Jason, Alexander We wish our brothers and sisters in Canada and abroad the Lord’s rich blessings in the New Year 2015! TORONTO– Ontario For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures for ever, Canadian Reformed Church and his faithfulness to all generations.

Psalm 100:5 We share in the joy of the birth of our Saviour. To all our brothers and sisters across Canada and abroad, the ANNE BOERINGA Lord’s blessing for 2015. GERRIT and FREDA BOS, Colin, Adam, Elissa, Kelsey HAROLD and JOCELYN BOUWMAN, Alyssa, Kennedy, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace Ryan to men on whom his favor rests. MRS. RIKA BOUWMAN Luke 2:14 KLAAS and JANNY BOUWMAN JOHN and RACHEL BROEKEMA, Seth ANDREW and MARIANN BAARTMAN, Ed, Brent IAN and ADALIA CULLEN GERALD and THERESA BOOT, Steven, Kimberly DALE and ANNIE DALLINGA JOHN and HETTY BOOT WENDELL and MARJORIE DALLINGA, Dylan, Ian, Aimee, GREGORY BOUWMAN Samantha SARALYN BOUWMAN LEE and ADA DAM, Coby PASTOR GERRIT and ANNIE BRUINTJES, Peter JOHN and HENNIE HELDER BRUCE and HELENA DEBOER, Veronica, Edward, Luke, HENRY and KIM HUTTEN, Natasha, Brenden, Hunter Delaney, Cari, Jacquelyn, Melissa, Zachary MRS. SHIRLEY KNOT DICKY DEBOER DAVE and EMMA KUIZENGA, Karys, Stefanie, PAUL and KRYSTLE DEN HOLLANDER, Mackenzie, Asher ELISABETH DE ROO Nicholas WIM and AGAATH GRIFFIOEN GEORGE LODDER and GRACE KNEGT-LODDER GERRY and FRANCIS HEIKENS JACK E. and FRANCINE LODDER JACK and EVELYN HERES JACK and JOSEPHINE LODDER JOHN and JANE HUIZING and family KEITH and AUDREY LODDER ANDREW and YVONNE KAMPEN, Trevor, Evan JOHN and JEANNETTE MEIJAARD, Jenny BRAD and SANDRA KAMPEN, Jessica, Spencer, Taylor, KLAAS and DARLENE NIJENHUIS, Danielle, David Jordyn PIETER and TINEKE NIJENHUIS, Meagan, Riley, Krista, FRANK and JENNY KAMPEN Courtney, Evan FRED and ANITA KAMPEN, Robyn, Madison, Colin, Levi CORNELIS and MARY POPPE HANK and MARY KAMPEN ERICA TOET, Johnathan, Thomas, Sean, Davin, Kailynn FRED and MARILYN PILON, Derrick, Katherine, JOHN and BRENDA VAN AMERONGEN, Michaella, Michael Austin and Brittany Reid, Ethan WILLIAM and GERALDINE SALOMONS, Willem and Sarah, LUKE and JACQUELINE VANDERGAAG, Drew Joshua, Jesse, Scott, Jeremy BERT and GRACE VANDERWOERD JOHN and ANNETTE SMID, Leanna, Christina, Myko, KEITH and ANN VAN LEEUWEN Theo LLOYD and JOANNA VAN LUIK, Rachelle, Hein, Laurissa, MIKE and JEANETTE TEL, Micheline, Elijah, Andréa, Courtney Abigail, Zoë, Kaiya, Arwyn PETE and ANITA VAN ROOTSELAAR BERNICE VAN HOF KASPER and SHERRI VAN VEEN, Kassia and Reuben, IZAK and LINDA VANDEREE Cailey, Samantha, Lori, Isaac, Tessa JOHN and ELAINE VANDYK, Melanie, Jodie, Jennifer and NEIL and LIZ VAN WEERDEN, Dianthé, Emma, Garnet, Jordan, Shannon Levi, Holly, Gloria ART and JOANNE VANHALTEREN, Monique, Janelle, GERRY and HEATHER VAN WOUDENBERG and family Tara, Annemarie ANDREW and THERESA WESTRIK, Julia, Aaron, Tiana, KARL and HETTY VELDKAMP, Rachelle, Harrison, Riki, Loraya, Audrey Olivia

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 749

“I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob….” Numbers 24:17a

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750 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE RANDY and NIENKE VANRAALTE, Amanda, Roy, GRAND VALLEY – Ontario Jeremy Grand Valley Canadian Reformed Church ANTHONY and KIM VIS, Nicole, Laura, Deanna, Tracy, Courtney, Eric May God be our guide and keeper as we enter the New ANDREW and JANET WILDEBOER, Brianna, Willem, Year of our Lord 2015. Josiah, Jenna, Summer GREG and SHERI WILDEBOER, Leah and Henk, Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without Alicyn and David, Thomas, John wavering, for he who promised is faithful.

Hebrews 10:23

BILL and GRACE BACH, Christina SMITHVILLE – Ontario JACK and TANYA BOUWERS, Cassandra, Jayne, Ellen, Hollie Smithville Canadian Reformed Church JACOB and NELLEKE BRAKKE, Henk and Leah, Rosalie We wish all our brothers and sisters in Canada and ALLAN and SABRINA BALCH, Gabriel abroad, the Lord’s blessing and His guidance in the BERT and ANDREA DEHAAN, Anita, Erica, Albert New Year. MEL and WILMA BROUWER and family BRANDON and NELENE BOUWMAN JOHN and TINA BARTELS and family JEFF and HETTI ENDEMAN, Lauren, Wyatt, Jude, Reegan, JAKE and WINNIE BOS Ava, Leah JOHN and DIANE BOS, Trevor CHRIS and REBECCA FEENSTRA, Mackenzie, Taylor, LIZ BOS and CINDY BOS Zachary, Gavin, Liam REV. CLARENCE and ARLENE BOUWMAN and family DUCO and JOYCE FEENSTRA and family EVERT and JOHANNA BREUKELMAN and family MENZE and SYLVIA FEENSTRA, Christina, Nicholas, COR and DEBBIE DEBOER, Crystal, Chanelle, Timothy, Julia, Benjamin, Matthew, Esther, Levi Kory REV. PETER and JEANETTE FEENSTRA GERRY and NELLIE DEBOER REUEL and SANDRA FEENSTRA KONNY and ANN DEBOER DOUG FREEMAN MRS. SINA DEHAAN JOHN and MARIANNE HULST, Breanne, Jon, Darien PETE and SHEILA DERUITER, Tarissa, Jeremy, Jordan, JOHN and DIANE JONKER and family Juanita KEVIN and SHERYL KAMPHUIS, Letisha, Caiden, Cohen CASE and ANN HEEMSKERK WES and CHELSEY KAMPHUIS JOHN and RENNIE LINDE IAN KRUIZENGA ZWANY LINDE ED and KATHERINE NIEZEN, Miranda, Claire, Tim, Mark, PETER and ALICE LOF Wesley ARIE and LOIS MUIS SAM and MARIAN OKKEMA, Shelley, Taylor, Scott ALBERT and TRACY NORDEMAN, Lauren, Nicole, JOHN and FRAN PENNINGA, Kerrisa, Karlena, Darren, Lindsay, Kyle Danelle GERARD and JOHANNA NORDEMAN LUTE and SHIRLEY PRINSEN, Deanna, Kevin, Natasha JESSE and DOROTHY OOSTERHOOF, Kristi BILL and WILMA SCHEPER PETER OOSTERHOFF DAVID and JANNEKE VAN AMERONGEN RICK and DANIËLLE RAVENSBERGEN, Maria, Nathan, STEVE and CRYSTAL VANDERVEEN, Titus Stephen, Amy, Julia, Leanne, Thomas DAVE and MARG VANOMMEN, Nick and Laura, Serena, ED and WILMA SALOMONS, Spencer Curtis, Marissa ANKO and THERESA SCHOLTENS SHAWN and SARAH VANOMMEN, Jacob ERNIE and JANE SCHULENBERG JOHN and HELEN VANDERWOERD, Jocelyn MIKE and BETH STEL, Russell, Geneva JUSTIN and ELIZABETH VERSTEEG FRED and MIENEKE STOFFELS CLARENCE and RYMA VANRAALTE JOHN and THERESA VANDOODEWAARD FRANK and KELLY VANRAALTE, Jordan, Ashley, Jessica, JOHN and MARY VANEERDE Taryn, Riley KEITH and SUZANNE WIELINK, Alanna, Taylor, Lukas, JIM and AUDREY VANRAALTE Tristan

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 751 It's Simple. It's Service.

SEASON'S GREETıNGS & BEST WıSHES FOR 2015

A Blessed Christmas and a Prosperous New Year

to all!

From our Home to yours, Have a Joyous Christmas & a Blessed New Year DUTCH TOKO European Deli & Gifts Bert & Judy Vanderheide

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752 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE GUELPH – Ontario SCOTT and CHELSEA NIENHUIS NADINE NIJENHUIS Living Word Canadian Reformed Church NICK and EMILY NIJENHUIS, Aaron JACLYN NOBEL Blessings to all our brothers and sisters in the Lord for JAMES and LATAUNYA PENNINGA, Myka, Taya, Judah the year 2015. GERALD and MCKENZIE REININK, Preston, Gideon KOR and TARA REININK, Nora, Wade The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you. . . and give you peace. LAMBERT and SHARLENE REININK MATT and KELLY SCHARRINGA, Wyatt, Brent Numbers 6:24-26 GREG and JESSICA SLAA, Emerson JUDITH SOUMAN REV. DOUWE and LIZ AGEMA, Ben, Hannah TALO and DINEKE TAMMINGA ALEX ALLEN CHRIS and JOLENE TOGERETZ, Sophie BUD and PATRICIA ARNOLD, Brian, Luke MIKE and ELIZABETH VANDERGAAG, Jayla, Amber, JOHANNA BOERINGA Megan, Kelsy WAYNE and KAREN BREUKELMAN, Stephanie, Reuben, COR and NICOLIEN VANDERPOL Sean, Lucas, Liam TREVOR and CATHERINE VANDERPOL MEAGAN DATEMA KENDRA VANDERVELDE RENE and MARIAN GAGNE ANGELA VANDERWOUDE, Jordan, Bronte, Kennedy, BRIAN GROENEVELD Tierra PETE GROENEVELD BRAD VANDERWOUDE MR. MIKE GRUTTER JOLANDA VANDIJK and BEN, Simon, Danita, Lenno JASPER and JANE HARLAAR, Rachel, Zachary, Seth, HOWARD and TERESA VANESCH, Caleb, Aaron, Daniel, Rebekah Sam, Hannah FAYTHE HELDER COR and YOLANDA VANLEEUWEN, Casey, Jonah, Ryan, LINDA HOLTLAND Nathan JOANNE HOPMAN, Kelvin, Fiona, Alexis, Sheldon GREG and DANIELLE VANLEEUWEN, Seth, Madisyn, CALVIN and KLAARISSA HUTCHINSON Kierra KIM HUTTEN MRS. MIEN VAN WEERDEN TIMOTHY HUTTEN PETER and BRIANNA VLAAR DARRYL and SHANNON JAGER, Braeden, Quynn, Gavin DUANE and DIANNE WESTRIK, Spencer, Reuben, Sophia JONATHAN and HEATHER JANSSENS, Gabe, Maggie MENCO and JANICE WIESKE, Lenora, Kelly, Jonathan, JASPER and CHRISTINE JONKER, Lucas, Ella Amanda, Rachel JOHN and DIANE JONKER TINUS and CAROL ZANDBERGEN GARY and EMMA KROEZEN, Craig, Daryl, Tyson, Zachary, Jayden COBUS and JUDITH LANDMAN, Susan, Elana, Thelma, Chris, John ROGER and CATIE LEISTRA, Silas, Asa, Sullivan, Seth DENVER, Colorado, USA HARRY and DEANNA LINDE, Thea, Harlen, Rielle, Ila Emmanuel American Reformed Church WEIMING and YAN YAN LIU, Daniel, David, Rebekah KEEGAN and LAURA LODDER, Gavin With our Canadian brothers and sisters we join in the LEO and AFKE LODDER heavenly chorus of praises to the King of Bethlehem, NATHAN and LEANNE LODDER, Hailey, Leland, Luke who lives and reigns today in the hearts of his people. TIM and CARA LODDER, Nolan, Ella, Parker, Mason May Christ our Lord bless us in this season and in the SAMUEL and LAILE MANYORO, David, Jacob, Michael, Waro year to come. BENJAMIN MEINEN Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host GREG and JOURDAN MEINEN appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, MRS. AKKE METZLAR HOLLY and WAYNE MILLS, Nick, Alicia “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men JAMES MOESKER on whom his favor rests.” ANDRE and MARTIE MOOLMAN Luke 2:13-14

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 753 Wishing you a Blessed Christmas

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754 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE GRASSIE – Ontario BURLINGTON/WATERDOWN – Covenant Canadian Reformed Church Ontario We wish all the brothers and sisters around the world Rehoboth Canadian Reformed Church Season’s Greetings and God’s blessings in 2015! We wish to extend season’s greetings to all our brothers and sisters in Christ. We pray that He will continue to HENRY and DOROTHY BEIJES, Scott guide and bless us all in 2015. RON and JENNIFER BOVERHOF, Kyle, Matthew, Andrew Rejoice in the Lord always, I will say it again, Rejoice! ALBERT and GRACE BULTJE Philippians 4:4 ALAN and MELANIE DATEMA, Meaghan, Caleb, Noah, Naomi EVE BAARTSE ANDREW and JoANNE DeBOER, Kurtis, Kristen, Leanne, SUSANNA GROENWOLD Melissa JAN HARKE JOHN and JOANNE DEBOER JOHN and SUSANNE HUTTEN, Dennis, Jennifer, Deanna, REV. ROLF and LIZ DEN HOLLANDER, Jakob, Micah, Jared Ethan DENNIS and MARG MUIS, Taylor, Dawn, Randal, Lee, BEN and HILDA DEVOS Dean, Ember, Evan, Raven ADRIAN and JOANNE DIELEMAN MATT and NADIA POORT, Cohen, Alexia, Bennett, Isla, BILL and ELISABETH DYKEMA Levi PETER and MARGARET FEENSTRA and family BRUCE and JANICE SCHWANTZ, Nicole, Helena, Patrick, JOHN and CORINNE GELMS, Wes, Nicole, Natalie, Gregory, Amanda, Violet Jordan LOUIS and NANCY SIPKEMA BEN and RACHEL HELDER, Emmalyne, Isaac, Daeton, JACK and LINDA VANDERHORST, Sara Addison, Kingston PEARL JAGER GARY and BETTY JANSEN JOHN and DIRKJE KOSTER YUL and COBY KRIKKE Churches in Western Australia ALIDA LEISTRA Free Reformed Churches of Western Australia STEVE and SOPHIE LENTING, Jacob, Mattheus, Caleb, Samuel DARRYL and CORRIE LOF, Jenna, Hailey, Lauren HENDRIK and KRISTEN ALKEMA, Avery, George, MARION OVERBEEK Judah, Emily PETER and DENISE RAVENSBERGEN, Kierra, Kaden, JOHN and HANNA BRUNING (nee Hutten), Esther, Luke, Ezra, Elias, Asher James, Nathan GERRY and SOPHIA SCHULLER IVAN and JOLENE BYL, Nadia FRED and JEANETTE TAMMINGA, Sarah, Kevin MICHAEL and ANNA DYKSTRA JASON and LINDA TENHAGE, Owen, Zach, Noah, Logan, ED and BERNICE EIKELBOOM, Duane and Jodi, Dylan, Ashley Shauna and Dave, Lorette, Kaitlyn, Aleesha JEFF and ANNETTE TENHAGE, Lucas, Brett, Levi, Timera, REV. and MRS. W. HUIZINGA and family Davis, Blake, Jodine JOHN and FRANCES JANSSEN, Marlene, Jeanette STAN and ANGELA TENHAGE and family JAMES and MARIA KOBES GORD and ESTHER VANEGMOND, Jodi, Justin, ATIE VANDERVEN Rachel PETE and MARG WITTEN PAUL and SHARON VAN SYDENBORGH, Warren, Denise, Joel, Dean, Beth, Paige DAVE and JOKA VAN AMERONGEN KEN and TRISH VANANDEL, Devon, Riley, Shaelan, Natasha MARK and HELEN VANANDEL BERT and JANET VANGOOLEN and family BERT and HELENA WANDERS

CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 755 Wishing you a Blessed Christmas and Prosperous New Year

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CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 757 Wishing you a Blessed 2015

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758 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE | 759 Season's Greetings

Mrs. Ruth Kuik Mrs. Sheila VanDelft Mrs. Ryma Van Raalte Mrs. Margaret Janssen Abbotsford, BC Cloverdale, BC Grand Valley, ON Orangeville, ON Mrs. Tina Ludwig Mrs. Jenny Voorhorst Mrs. Linda Tenhage Mrs. Susan Holtvlüwer Aldergrove, BC Coaldale, AB Grassie, ON Ottawa, ON Mrs. Anna Bartels Mrs. Vi van Otterloo Mrs. Robin Westrik Mrs. Ava Sandink Ancaster, ON Denver, CO Guelph-Emmanuel, ON Owen Sound, ON Mrs. Tracey VanderVelde Mrs. Jennifer VanderVegte Mrs. Dianne Westrik Mrs. Monica Oosterhoff Attercliffe, ON Dunnville, ON Guelph-Living Word, ON Spring Creek, ON Mrs. Ingrid Dekker Mr. Harry Noot Mrs. Sharon Hofsink Mrs. Marj Wierenga W. Australia Edmonton-Immanuel, AB Hamilton-Cornerstone, ON Smithers, BC Mrs. Dianne Tiggelaar Mr. Douwe Postma Mrs. Jackie Blokker Mrs. Diane Bos Barrhead, AB Edmonton-Providence, AB Hamilton-Providence, ON Smithville, ON Mr. Ken Hanko Mrs. Wilma Jansen Mrs. Claudia Hansma Mrs. Barbara Van Raalte Blue Bell, PA Elora, ON Houston, BC St. Albert, AB Mr. John Schoon Mrs. Heather Broersma Mrs. Sara Janssens Mrs. Corrie Faber Brampton, ON Fergus-North, ON Kerwood, ON Surrey, BC Mr. John Hofsink Mrs. Diane Niezen Mrs. Carol Vandeburgt Mrs. Darlene Boeve Burlington-Ebenezer, ON Fergus-Marantha, ON Langley, BC Taber, AB Mrs. Marie Sipkema Mrs. Joanne Jans Mrs. Geraldine Stieva Mrs. Geraldine Salomons Burlington-Fellowship, ON Flamborough, ON Lincoln, ON Toronto, ON Mrs. Eve Baartse Mrs. Tamara DenHollander Mrs. Lynda Schouten Mrs. Diane Kleine-Deters Burlington-Waterdown, ON Glanbrook, ON London, ON Vernon, BC Mr. Martin VanBostelen Mrs. H. Verhey Mrs. Helena VanDriel Mrs. Wenda Sikma Calgary, AB Grand Rapids, MI Lynden, WA Willoughby Heights, BC Mrs. Marry Van Dijk Mrs. Carol Werkman Mrs. Sacha Hofsink Carman-East, MB Neerlandia, AB Winnipeg-Grace, MB Mrs. Nancy VanderVelde Mrs. Annie Dewitt Carman-West, MB Winnipeg-Redeemer, MB Mrs. Debbie DeBoer Mrs. Jackie Vanderwel Chatham, ON Yarrow, BC Mrs. Ashley VanLaar Chilliwack, BC

From your

Correspondents

760 | CLARION YEAR-END ISSUE Best Wishes and the Lord’s blessings in the year 2015 to all our readers

Dr. J. Visscher, editor Rev. P.H. Holtvlüwer, co-editor Rev. E. Kampen, co-editor Rev. K. Stam, co-editor Dr. C. Van Dam, co-editor Mrs. L. Veenendaal, copy manager Season’s Greetings

THE CANADIAN REFORMED MAGAZINE Year-End 2014 From all of us at Premier Printing Ltd. CLARION YEAR-END 2014