APRIL 2021 THE BANNER.ORG

The Gifts The Sundays of

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36897 Loan Fund Banner Ad.indd 1 8/10/17 3:03 PM VOLUME 156, NUMBER 4

BY THE NUMBERS WHAT’S ONLINE FEATURES

The Christian Reformed Church in North Looking for more? Here are just a few of the America got its start in 1857 when about stories you’ll find online at TheBanner.org. 130 families separated from the Dutch (Try typing the headlines into the Reformed Church. After World War II, search box.) tens of thousands of Dutch Reformed Church Worldwide: U.S. Supreme Court immigrants joined the CRCNA. Below is » Ruling Lifts Ban on Indoor Services, the growth in the number of churches California Houses of Worship Mixed on in Canada by provinces with more than Regathering 10 one church. Next month we’ll show Picture book: Harlem Grown, by growth patterns in the U.S. » Tony Hillery The Gifts of Sundays Music: On Faith, by Rachel Zylstra

Growth Spurts ScotiaNova »

Manitoba Lorilee Craker // How to dwell in Podcast: “The Jamie Grace Podcast” » resurrection living. 200 British Columbia 150 Alberta 100

32 50

Praying with Jesus in Solitude Churches Ontario Denise Posie // Find the time and

1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 the space.

Based on data from Heritage Hall at Calvin University. Heritage Hall is the archive for the CRCNA, Calvin Theological Seminary, and Calvin University.

36

The Other Six: The Body and Blood of Motherhood Kendra Broekhuis // The weight of parenting can point to the weight Christ bore for us.

Cover: Taking a weekly Sabbath is meant to be a gift from God, not a joyless burden. // Photo by Xavier Mouton / Unsplash

APRIL 2021 4 THEBANNER.ORG CONTENTS

NEWS OUR SHARED MINISTRY 14 Alberta Church Plans Second Drive-in Easter Editor Kristen deRoo VanderBerg, Service Director of CRCNA Communications and Marketing 16 Council of Delegates Cancels Synod 2021, Discusses Ministry Share Pledges, Governance 20 Classis Watch: Winter 2021

COLUMNS 7 Editorial: Resurrection Hope Shiao Chong // It’s been a tough year. But there is hope. 22 8 Reply All Growing in Diversity and Unity 9 Vantage Point: The Trauma of Bullying Cassie Westrate, Victoria Veenstra // A glimpse of CRC congrega- Andrea Meszaros // I felt broken and unlovable. tions and agencies working toward this goal 12 Big Questions 26 The View from Here: The Beautiful and Do I take a new job or keep the one I have? Diverse Family of God 31 Discover: The Armor of God Colin Watson // With great diversity comes great challenges. Rachel Lancashire // Some animals are always armored up.

35 Faith Matters: The Great Renew Frank DeVries // We all are familiar with death.

38 Mixed Media: The Surprising Presence of Jesus in Persian Poetry Lorilee Craker // A Christian Reformed elder from Iran reflects.

40 Cross Examination: Was the Resurrection of Jesus a Myth? Shiao Chong // Three reasons the answer is “no.” The Banner is the magazine of the Christian Reformed Church

41 Word Play Editor Shiao Chong Associate Editor Sarah Delia Heth 45 In My Shoes: Finding Points of Connection News Editor Alissa Vernon Adam Vanderleest // Young people aren’t growing up in the same Mixed Media Editor Lorilee Craker world their parents did. Art Director Dean R. Heetderks Designer Pete Euwema 46 Still: The Agony of a Son Contact Us 1700 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids MI 49508-1407 [email protected] Habib Steele // A poem of suffering. Address Changes and Subscriptions 800-777-7270 or visit TheBanner.org Classified Advertising 616-224-0725 [email protected] Display Advertising 616-224-5882 [email protected] Correction Editorial 616-224-0824 [email protected] The article, ‘”Loaded Words” (January 2021) should have said that News [email protected] throughout the Old and New Testaments the Bible is clear in its Published monthly (except August). Periodicals postage paid at Grand Rapids, Mich. Postmaster, send address changes to: The Banner, 1700 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids MI call to do justice. 49508-1407. Canadian publications mail agreement #40063614. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: The Banner, 3475 Mainway, PO Box 5070, STN LCD 1, Burlington ON L7R 3Y8. Copyright 2019, Christian Reformed Church in North America. Printed in U.S.A. The Banner (ISSN0005-5557). Vol. 156, No. 4, 2021.

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APRIL 2021 5 THEBANNER.ORG CHRIST JOINING THE GOOD WORK BEGUN IN

We are on a journey together. As Christian Reformed people, we aspire to become congregations and communities that:

Grow in diversity and unity by seeking justice, reconciliation, and welcome, sharing our faith as we build relationships with and honor the cultures of our neighbors and newcomers.

Learn more about this and 3 other ministry “milestones” at crcna.org/OurJourney EDITORIAL

Resurrection Hope

When we look at the WE HAVE LIVED through a difficult when Christ comes again at the end and stressful year. We had an ongo- of human time, he will overcome all world today with all ing pandemic resulting in thousands barriers to God’s kingdom, includ- of deaths, hospitalizations, and social ing systemic barriers. Paul contin- its problems, from restrictions. There were protests about ues, “Then the end will come, when racial injustice in the U.S. and Canada he hands over the kingdom to God wars and racism in the wake of George Floyd’s murder. the Father after he has destroyed all A divisive U.S. election culminated dominion, authority and power. For to abortion and with an insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. he must reign until he has put all Christians, including those in the his enemies under his feet” (1 Cor. climate change, Christian Reformed Church, have been 15:24-25). caught up in the tension and disputes According to renowned biblical we are tempted to arising from all of these events. From scholar Kenneth Bailey, the original debates over masks and worship gath- Greek words translated in the New despair. erings to Black Lives Matter to Donald International Version as “dominion, Trump and Christian nationalism, authority and power” are not rare Christians find themselves arguing words, but “standard words used for with each other. In the CRC we are also governments and earthly rulers” (Paul arguing about same-sex marriage and Through Mediterranean Eyes, p. 445). denominational restructuring, among These were the same words Paul used other things. to speak of the governing authorities in Romans 13. “The apostle,” Bailey It seems as if everyone’s stress is concludes, “as much as announces heightened. We have become overly that one of the goals of the resurrected sensitive; our fuses are much shorter. Christ was the setting aside of eternal For many, the lack of in-person social Rome (the empire)” (p. 445). connections due to pandemic restric- tions has only made these quali- Christ’s resurrection is the “firstfruits ties worse. of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Cor. 15:20). It is also the firstfruits of When we look at the world today with the renewal of the world, the usher- all its problems, from wars and racism ing in of God’s kingdom, and the defeat to abortion and climate change, we of all that wages war against God. are tempted to despair. Every step Animosity will be defeated. Lies will forward seems to be met with several be defeated. Racism will be defeated. steps back. Viruses, illnesses, and suffering will be defeated. Even death, the last Shiao Chong is editor- But, thank God, we have Easter. in-chief of The Banner. Christ’s resurrection gives me hope. I enemy, will be defeated (1 Cor. 15:26). He attends Fellowship strongly believe that Jesus was truly At times it might not look as if God Christian Reformed resurrected from the grave (see my Church in Toronto, Ont. will triumph, but looks can be deceiv- article “Was the Resurrection of Jesus ing. Easter reminds us that God has Spanish and Korean a Myth?”, p. 40). And because it’s true, triumphed and will triumph again. translations of this I have steadfast hope not only for an Glory to God! editorial are available eternal life for me and my loved ones, at TheBanner.org. but also for the renewal of the world. Watch for our annual appeal in your 이 기사의 한글번역은 mailbox or inbox. Please consider TheBanner.org/korean The apostle Paul wrote that “Christ has . indeed been raised from the dead. … a donation so we can keep the 에서 보실 수 있습니다 For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all conversation going. Thank you! Este artículo está will be made alive” (1 Cor. 15:20, 22). disponible en español en SUPPORT THE BANNER TheBanner.org/spanish. This resurrection also means that

APRIL 2021 7 THEBANNER.ORG honest discussion?” Her reply, “It begins by repenting on behalf of the church,” falls short. Cook misses an important REPLY ALL step. First, find out if the church is right or wrong. Cook’s advice would have Jesus repent because he caused the rich young Truth Will Win committee, the result was preordained ruler to go away sad. I pastored a church all along—sort of like holding an election Your excellent editorial about the chal- for 42 years and presently attend the CRC where only one political party is allowed lenges you face from readers of differing in Guam. I can say without any doubt that to vote and then being shocked by the commitments made me ruefully laugh at not everyone who is hurt by church, or outcome. The Christian Reformed Church myself (“Truth Will Win,” January 2021). a (specific) church, is hurt because the deserved better than this. At 74 years old, I hold with considerable church did something wrong. Sometimes Valerie Terpstra Van Kooten // passion some views which I would have » people are hurt because the church does Pella, Iowa opposed with equal passion 50 years ago. what is right. I’m convinced that the Spirit has guided » Howard Merrell // Guam me on that journey. That gives me a bit of Narcissism in the Church patience with those who don’t yet hold The exclusively psychological perspec- Infant Baptism the “correct” opinions that I do! tive of this article suggests that Christian Kathy Smith’s answer to the question » Syl Gerritsma // St. Catharines, Ont. spirituality has little to offer this partic- about child dedication (“Big Questions,” ular malady. What psychologists call February 2021) covers some well-trod but Same-sex Relationships narcissism today our spiritual forebears seldom-examined ground. The argument I am glad you are so directly addressing once called vanity, vainglory, and pride. that “a helpless infant demonstrates the issues of same-sex relationships in It was one of the seven deadly sins. The the truth of baptism—that God chooses advance of the important discussions cure for vainglory was humility culti- us—in a way that is less apparent when ahead in 2021. In two of the past issues, vated in community, and the process of adults are baptized because it may seem though, I noticed what appears to be use arriving at humility was self-knowledge. from adults’ testimony that they, not of terminology that is not congruent with Self-knowledge was a process of prayer- God, are the primary actors in their salva- commonly used descriptives (November fully looking into one’s heart as with a tion” would be a powerful one, except and December 2020). You use “same-sex mirror, and it was marked by such things that Scripture never makes it in relation attraction” (SSA) to describe people in as the opening of the soul, disclosure of to baptism. Rather, the emphasis is on clearly defined homosexual identities thoughts, watchfulness, and attention to the faith of converts who bring their fami- and long-term relationships/marriages. oneself. lies into the church by baptism. Besides, Same-sex attraction is clinically defined » Ron Klok // Edmonton, Alta. adults are saved by grace just as much as emotional and/or sexual interest. A as children are, and their testimonies fairly large percentage of people in our December Issue can and should reflect that. The most North American context have experi- Whoever gets their hands on The Banner egregious assumption is that all that enced SSA or have ongoing SSA. A much first in our household dog-ears the pages is needed is “to disciple people toward smaller percentage move through a of their favorite articles. Your December understanding and affirming infant process from SSA to sexual orientation issue had all the pages (except the ads) baptism.” In some (perhaps many) cases (an enduring pattern of attraction based bent over. Compliments to the contrib- this will help, but there are those who on desire) or identity (the process of uting authors and your editorial staff. understand the arguments perfectly well labeling oneself). Well done! and still reject them. » Jeff Kreiser, M.A. in educational » Russ Vandergraaf // Langley, B.C. » J. Cameron Fraser // Lethbridge, Alta. psychology // Folsom, Calif. Hurt by the Church Are We Evangelicals? Sexuality Report On page 12 of the January edition (“Big I would add this to the article (“Are We Why would anyone be surprised by the Questions”), therapist Judy Cook replies Evangelicals?” March 2021): whatever report on human sexuality? When only to a question about family members Christians may decide to do in terms members who adhere to the 1973 synodi- hurt by the church. “How can I engage of embracing or rejecting or divorcing cal statement were allowed to be on the my family members in a sensitive but themselves from the word “evangelical,”

APRIL 2021 8 THEBANNER.ORG VANTAGE POINT

The Trauma of Bullying

politicians of today will use the term (as I GREW UP FEELING like I was an When I left school, a praise or as a condemnation) for the outcast, ugly, friendless, no-good sole purpose of attracting some voters person—at least, that is how I felt at the bullying and denouncing others. And sadly, what school. At home I just felt invisible politicians do with the word will have because my parents didn’t know what stopped, but the a greater effect on its definition in the was going on at school. minds of the broader population than effects did not. what those who actually are “evangeli- From elementary school until I gradu- cals” claim for the word. ated from high school, I was subjected » Doug Vande Griend // online comment daily to taunting and teasing from my peers. I was called ugly and stinky. I trusted my pastor enough to share White Privilege Kids said I had cooties and wouldn’t with him about the bullying I endured play with me. I was pushed around in I read the article “Hobbit Heroics and the growing up. After I shared, he led me the hallway. A group of boys ganged Responsibility of Privilege” (January 2021) in a healing exercise where he had me up on me and shoved me in a closet. and found that it piqued my curiosity. I imagine I was in a safe place and Jesus Another time I was locked in my am wondering what it practically looks was with me. As Jesus was hugging locker. These are just a few of the like to destroy white privilege as the arti- me on my bed, he said to me, “You are things that happened so often they cle suggests. Many of the ideas are a little loved; you are safe; you are accepted.” broke me. abstract and idealistic in my mind yet. I This was about two months ago, and suppose the main question I pose is: what I believed the lie that I was not deserv- still Jesus’ words resonate with me. would it look like to practically live up to ing of physical and emotional safety. I They are becoming my lifeblood. Every what the article suggests? believed I was nothing. time I have a negative thought, I try to » Caleb Kamerman // online comment The trauma of bullying affected my bring my mind back to those words: physical and mental health. Daily “You are loved; you are safe; you are READ MORE ONLINE in high school, I had stomachaches, accepted.” I couldn’t concentrate on my school The Lord heard my cry and, in his work, and I started to suffer from perfect timing, he answered me. And suicidal ideation. as time goes on he will continue to heal When I left school, the bullying me until I meet him face to face and all stopped, but the effects did not. my sorrows will be gone.

I continued to suffer deep shame about Andrea Meszaros lives in what had happened. I felt broken and Newcastle, Ont., and is a unlovable. Even when people accepted member of Rehoboth CRC in me, I doubted their sincerity. Bowmanville. She was a partner missionary with I cried out to the Lord over and over Resonate Global Mission in again to heal me. My prayers seemed Budapest from 2008-2018. She is currently a secretary to fall on deaf ears. As I Was Saying for her public school board. Find the latest posts from our award- Looking back, I now realize that God winning blog online at TheBanner.org. did hear those cries; the healing was just slower than I wanted. Slowly, » Reflections on a Christian I have learned to trust people. I’ve Insurrection seen several counselors who have » The Right Work for the helped me. Right Season I finally came to a place in my journey » Abraham Kuyper and the where I could hear the affirmation American Coup the Lord has been saying to me since I started crying out to him.

APRIL 2021 9 THEBANNER.ORG Photo by Xavier Muton / Unsplash The Gifts of Sundays

By Lorilee Craker

was lounging on the couch Musing, leafing, lounging—these to legalism, adding artificial ingredi- one Sunday with a pile of leisurely states of being are unique ents and rules to the day set apart from cookbooks, leafing through to Sundays. The week with all its work and works. The earliest follow- an old church cookbook from anxieties, stresses, and cares can be ers, says Tim Foley in his book Rest—For our beloved Grandma Finney, snapped shut by the golden clasp. The the Rest of Us, piled all sorts of things my husband’s late grand- Sabbath, which was changed by early on top of the original commandment, Imother, looking for recipes by her and Christians from Saturday to Sunday “Remember the Sabbath day by keeping other family members. Though the because the resurrection of Christ it holy” (Ex. 20:8). only recipe I could find of hers in that took place on a Sunday, is like a mini “They (added) over 600 rules of no and particular book was for “Health Salad,” Easter every week because we cele- don’t, which supplanted the simple list a quivering Jell-O creation featuring brate the resurrection every Sunday, of do: finding delight,” Foley says. In mandarin orange slices and shred- first at church and then in our practice our own faith tradition, I have heard ded carrots, I relished the browsing of Sabbath. some “don’t” story doozies. There anyway. It was like time travel to muse was the old man who, as a boy, on hot, Weekday habits of drivenness and about the lives of church ladies, now in humid Sundays at his parents’ cottage, deadlines are fastened, put away. It is Glory, with their old-fashioned recipes was allowed to dip only his feet in time to dwell in the spacious place of and pithy little sayings. the water, not submerge his body, resurrection living, of rest, relaxation, because swimming was not allowed Sayings like “Sunday is the golden and relationship, to receive with open on a Sunday. And the child who clasp that binds together the volume hands the gifts of Sunday. was chastised for reading National of the week.” This particular maxim Geographic on a Sunday. “You should The Gift of Freedom sits at the bottom of the yellowed page, read something more appropriate below recipes for rhubarb jam and Sunday is a day of freedom, not confine- on a Sunday,” he was scolded, “like mock raspberry preserves—though ment or restriction. But resting one the Bible.” Though many of us might why raspberries need to be mocked in day per week is easier said than think of Sunday as a dreary day of “you this way I will never know (the recipe done. We are a restless people, given can’t,” it’s meant to be a freeing “you calls for pureed green tomatoes, sugar, to doing rather than being. And from don’t have to” day. That shift changes and raspberry Jell-O). ancient days we have also been given everything.

APRIL 2021 10 THEBANNER.ORG The Gift of Slowing Down doing” and try a little “human being.” One of my favorite ways to make This means shutting down even Sunday slow and easy is to throw a It is time to anxious thoughts of the week ahead. beef roast or a pork loin in the slow When I have a worrisome thought cooker the night before. Slow-cooked dwell in the insinuating itself, I say, “Nope, that can wait until Monday.” Medical bills, food is perfect for a day that is meant spacious place worries about loved ones, and worka- to be just as easygoing. “The Sabbath,” day stresses can all wait until Monday, writes Alan Fadling in his book An of resurrection when a new volume will be written in Unhurried Life, “gives us an unhurried my life and yours. one-in-seven rhythm woven into the living, of rest, very fabric of creation.” On Sunday, Sunday is also a prime excuse to we can slow down, relax, and take a relaxation, and disconnect from social media and much-needed deep breath, especially screens. Unless something major has if we don’t have to be anywhere at any relationship. just happened, like my son’s wedding, special time. It’s a day to dawdle, to I have made it a rule not to post and

Photo by Xavier Muton / Unsplash laze and loaf. It’s a reminder to live definitely not to mindlessly scroll and beneath what Fadling calls “the easy possibly get snagged on someone’s The Gift of Relationship and well-fitting yoke of Jesus, a yoke political post. Because I am an author that isn’t burdensome or exhausting.” “Sunday is a day of rest, re-creation, building my platform (mainly on It feels just right. and relationship,” Pastor Dave Instagram), it is tempting to check and preached in a long-ago sermon. see how a post of mine is doing. When I stick to my guns and don’t even peek, The Gift of Delight Recreation and relationships on Sunday were new ideas to me, but I am refreshed, my (hopefully) soft Back to those unfortunate boys who Pastor Dave was right. Beyond fellow- addiction to my phone broken, at least were rebuked for reveling in God’s shipping with the saints at church, for one day of the week. creation: their parents robbed them of on Sunday there is just more time for delight, one of Sunday’s brightest gifts. This is God’s gift to us: When we people. Undistracted by the machinery Their parents were like the Pharisees, embrace Sabbath values of relax- of the week, I can tune in to my favor- obsessing over Sabbath laws and ation, play, worship, and just being, our ite humans, and they with me. I can making sure everyone followed them resurrection lives are recovered; we play games with my family, converse are renewed. When we slow down and to the letter. “What was lost in all over a leisurely Sunday lunch, or drive enjoy our rest, we become more grace- this was the fact that God created to the lake together. I can call my son ful, stronger, more resilient, holier. the Sabbath as a day of delight for his in Kansas, my mother in Manitoba, or Our good works—our best works— creation,” Foley says. “It was no longer my college roommate in New Jersey. will grow out of that rest. In short, we enjoyable and turned somewhat into become more of everything God has a day of dread.” Dread is definitely not Monday through Saturday, I am always made us to be, because of his golden the point of Sunday; neither is bore- trying to get something done for work, gift of Sunday. dom. Enjoying Sunday means leaning post a blog, or pay the bills, but Sunday into what delights and re-creates you, is “measured not by productivity but whether that be gardening, hiking, by relationship,” Foley says. If an activ- Lorilee Craker, a native of ity—or no activity at all—increases Winnipeg, Man., lives in or playing in the waves on a sticky Grand Rapids, Mich. The summer day. “It’s about spending time your most important relationships, it’s author of 15 books, includ- delighting in God, first in worship a good thing. ing Anne of Green Gables, My and then in other ways,” said David Daughter and Me, she is the Mixed Media editor of The Beelen, my now-retired pastor. “If I do The Gift of Reset Banner. Find her at that best in a kayak, then that’s what I Sunday, the golden clasp, shuts off lorileecraker.com or on should do. I also love cutting the grass the past week and allows for recovery, Instagram @thebook- and painting because they are restor- recalibration, and reset as we exist in sellersdaughter. ative works for me.” What restores and the healing spaciousness of the day. delights you? Here we can stop with the “human

APRIL 2021 11 THEBANNER.ORG BIG QUESTIONS

Digital Life Am I the only one annoyed by group emails?

Just as there are appropriate times The for Illustration Banner Bohórquez Gisela by for someone to stand at the head of a and make sure everyone you’re about The CRC has been aware of those table, wait for silence, and make an announcement for all to hear, there to send it to will welcome it. concerns but also recognizes that not every situation with a former pastor are times for emails (or texts) to be I know this isn’t a big deal in the grand goes sour and believes that rules sent to groups of people. But most of scheme of things, but if we all do our should not prevent people from flour- our lives don’t require that kind of part, the global irritation index will drama—especially the time we spend ishing in the churches that best suit certainly decline. in an office. Why do we do it? them, their families, and the church. Dean Heetderks is co-director of Ministry Like so many parts of our digital lives, Synod addressed this matter in 2009 Support Services of the Christian Reformed the speed at which we can do some- Church and art director of The Banner. in response to an overture that raised thing is swift, and the cost to us is Wondering about any part of the digital these concerns. Synod did not create often nil. That’s part of the problem. side of your life? Tell him about it at specific rules but did adopt guide- [email protected]. lines for pastors and councils who More often, I think, it’s because we are not respectful enough of other need to discern a healthy approach Church/Bible/Doctrine people’s time. to this kind of situation. The guide- When a pastor of long- lines recognized the potential benefits Research suggests that when we’re standing service in a and hazards of the ongoing presence focused, an interruption such as a of a former pastor. Some of the bene- group email that doesn’t directly congregation retires, does the fits include continuity of relation- relate to us makes us lose an average ships, pastoral care assistance, and of 11 minutes as we regain our focus. Christian Reformed Church wisdom that could be shared from one That would be problem enough, but recommend that she or he pastor to the next—perhaps the kind unless people are careful to reply only mentor the incoming pastor for of mentoring this question suggests. to the original sender, everyone gets Hazards include a lack of boundar- all of the responses. And just when you a period of time? ies, a congregation too attached to the think it’s finally over, Tricia in market- Some denominations do not allow former pastor, or an undermining of ing gets back from her honeymoon and retired ministers to remain members the new pastor. restarts the process by responding to of the church they last served, know- the original group email. ing that all too often problems can The CRC’s guidelines recommend a Might I suggest a simple solution? ensue. Either congregations cannot signed agreement to manage the rela- Before sending or replying to an email, give up their reliance on or affec- tionship and to ensure that the new take a quick look at the address list tion for the former pastor, or retired pastor is well supported. In this agree- ministers have difficulty letting go of ment, former pastors pledge to support the involvement and influence they the new pastor, not undermine their enjoyed, or subsequent pastors are ministry, and agree to officiate in unable to establish themselves while formal acts of ministry only with the facing the constant presence of the approval of the council. All requests former pastor—or sometimes all of for pastoral care should be referred to the above! the new pastor.

APRIL 2021 12 THEBANNER.ORG BIG QUESTIONS

Back to the original question: the CRC relationships with God, your family, or We should remember that the church does not recommend that a former another community. is not the only arena that counts. It is pastor mentor a new pastor. It could be easiest for us to grasp that activities There can be a lot of pressure to take a a wonderful opportunity, but it might within the context of church life are job, especially if it pays well. Proverbs not work in all situations. Where and a form of worship. A proper kingdom teaches us that it is good to be finan- when possible and beneficial for all, it theology, however, understands that cially responsible, but we can also run sounds like a good thing! all uses of God’s gifts are a form of the risk of living as if our own efforts worship, regardless of where or when Rev. Kathy Smith is senior associate director save us. It is helpful to wonder how we they are expressed. of the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship, might use the gifts God has given us, adjunct professor of church polity at Calvin recognizing these gifts also include The upshot is that we should seri- Theological Seminary, and adjunct professor of ously consider how our gifts and abili- congregational and ministry studies at Calvin the freedom of youth and limited University. She is a member of First CRC in responsibilities and even having ties can benefit the community and Grand Rapids, Mich. others to help with financial stability. offer them cheerfully as appropriate. There are, to be sure, other consider- Vocation As you continue to wonder, know that ations that come into play. If our gift or sometimes the answer to your ques- How do I decide whether to talent is a significant part of our daily tion comes from the Spirit’s gentle work such that we are immersed in take a new job or keep the one nudging, and sometimes it comes its expression, Sunday may be a place I have? through the encouragement of your of refuge, respite, or sabbath from our community. And sometimes we simply daily work. A band director or guitar It is a blessing to be able to choose need to step forward in faith, trust- instructor is not demonstrating poor whether to take or keep a job. Paid ing that God will make the best of stewardship because they would work is one way God provides for us: our choices. prefer not to lead the praise band it allows us to pay bills, take care of on Sunday. loved ones, and even enjoy the good May God give you hope and wisdom as things of God’s creation. Jobs also you navigate this situation. In a similar vein, some people might provide a way to contribute in a mean- find the attention that comes with ingful way to society. It is cause for Brenda Kronemeijer-Heyink is the Christian public expression of their talents sorrow when people cannot experi- Reformed chaplain at the University of Toronto. to be unwelcome, causing anxiety ence this because of unemployment or and discomfort. A sensitive church Stewardship underemployment. community will not force people into the public eye when such attention To help you decide, ask how this posi- If people have talents in music, might be damaging. tion might allow you to love God and writing, hospitality, technology, love your neighbor. Will this job allow or some other area that could Rolf Bouma is an ordained pastor in the you to honor God with work by devel- Christian Reformed Church who teaches reli- oping your gifts, growing your skills, benefit the church community, gion, ethics, and ecology in the Program in the and using your time and energy to do they have an obligation to Environment at the University of Michigan. care for the world? Will it provide you serve? with helpful experience and opportu- nities to connect with others? Does it God-given gifts and talents are, as a help you to promote justice and care general rule, to be used for the “bene- for those who are suffering? fit of church and kingdom,” as we like to say. As with other things of value, It’s also helpful to ask what harm these are not private possessions to the job might cause. Would taking be hoarded, but a part of the common- this job mean participating in work wealth of the community. Note, that harms the environment or hurts however, that they are for the benefit Got a Big Question for any of our others? Does it get in the way of other of church and kingdom. panelists? Email it to editorial@ important things you ought to be thebanner.org with “Big Questions” in doing, like studies or helping family? the subject line. No job is worth the cost of losing your

APRIL 2021 13 THEBANNER.ORG Alberta Church Plans Second Drive-in Easter Service

“It was beyond anything we could have imagined,” said Pastor Ryan Pedde of a 2020 NEWS outdoor Easter Sunday service that saw about 800 people in For more news and longer 242 vehicles worship in the stories about the churches Dow Centennial Centre park- and ministries of the Christian ing lot and had another 3,000 Reformed Church, visit people tune in online. TheBanner.org. Or get the free Bridge Church, a Christian app by searching for “CRCNA Reformed church plant in Fort Banner” in your app store. Saskatchewan, a small city 25 kilometers Cars gathered for an Easter Sunday drive- Follow The Banner on (16 miles) northeast of Edmonton, Alta., in worship service in Fort Saskatchewan, social media: planned to repeat the event for Easter Alta., April 12, 2020. » Facebook.com/crcbanner 2021 because the COVID-19 pandemic » Twitter @crcbanner continues to make gatherings without There was an opportunity during the physical distancing a risk for transmis- service for individuals to text the word Got a news tip? sion of the virus. Know of a noteworthy event “hope” to a specific number “if today or accomplishment in the life “There is a great deal of talk these days you’ve decided to follow Jesus.” Twenty- of a CRC member? about a ‘new normal,’” Pedde said. “One five people did so. Send your news tip to of the advantages of a church plant is that “We are intentional about trying to reach [email protected]. we are so young that there is no estab- people through multiple avenues,” Pedde lished ‘normal.’ Church plants are ideally said. One of those people who reached out tooled toward innovation and change.” by text last Easter, he said, “was plugged Last year’s service included a snowfall into online discipleship classes. He came and worshipers participating from their for the first time physically in the fall and cars. They saw Pedde on a large screen was baptized! It was a dance between and tuned in to the audio on an FM multiple avenues of engagement.” radio channel. Classis Alberta North (a regional group of “The honking (of car horns) as a way of churches) and Resonate Global Mission saying ‘amen’ or ‘yes’ was pretty cool,” contributed funds toward insurance said Bruce Gritter, who was pastor of costs, the rental of LED screens, and other Edmonton’s The River Community CRC needs to make the service possible. at the time and was involved in the 2020 service. —Janet A. Greidanus

Crosses Stand as a Witness in Iowa

Each year before Easter, members of Ocheyedan (Iowa) Christian Reformed Church’s Cadet club (a club for boys in first through eighth grades) help assemble three crosses on a mound at the edge of town in Osceola County, Iowa. Cadets Andrew, Alex, and Jonathan raised the crosses

Photo by Chris Slagter March 30, 2020.

APRIL 2021 14 THEBANNER.ORG NEWS

Photo Project Helps IN MEMORIAM IN MEMORIAM Church Members ‘Journey to the Cross’

Rev. Garrett (Garry) Rev. Philip J. Kok H. Stoutmeyer 1941-2021 1932-2021 A faithful servant of God with a With a gift for memorization and pastor’s heart and a gift for public oration, Garry Stoutmeyer lived his prayer, Phil Kok died Jan. 23, 10 passion for preaching, teaching, and months after receiving a diagnosis counseling. He died Jan. 5 after a brief of Stage IV lung cancer. illness. His daughter, Cynthia, died 10 Born and raised in Grand Rapids, days later from lupus. Mich., Kok was part of a family Graduating from Calvin College of pastors, with two uncles, two (now University) and Seminary brothers, and a son all serving in the ministry. After working and ordained in 1958, Stoutmeyer in the food and print industries served Prospect Park (N.J.) Christian and serving honorably in the Reformed Church; Calvin CRC (now National Guard, Kok returned to Foundation Church), Holland, Mich.; Photos by Sue Contant school, attending Dordt College Elmhurst (Ill.) CRC; New Hope Journey to the Cross photo gallery (now University) and then Community, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; at Willoughby Church. Calvin Seminary. Faith CRC, Grand Rapids, Mich.; Coopersville (Mich.) CRC; and Bethany In preparation for Lent in 2020 (the 40 days plus After graduation and ordination Sundays leading up to Easter), the visual arts team at CRC, South Holland, Ill. In Holland, in 1971, Kok served the following Willoughby Church in Langley, B.C., invited congre- Mich., he was the minister of the daily churches: First Christian Reformed gants to contribute to a photography gallery titled radio program “At the Master’s Feet.” Church, Sioux Falls, S. Dak.; Living Faith Community, San Diego, “Journey to the Cross.” Stoutmeyer served the denomina- Calif.; East Leonard CRC, Grand tion on the boards of Calvin College Members responded with over 50 images of crosses Rapids, Mich.; First CRC, Lynden, and World Missions (now a part of found in nature or set in landscapes and architecture Wash.; and Almond Valley CRC, Resonate Global Mission), as a dele- from within homes and local neighborhoods or trav- Ripon, Calif. els abroad. gate to several synods, as synodical deputy, and as stated clerk in multiple After retirement in 2006 he served Ryan, 11, was the youngest photographer, with an classes. He also obtained certification nine churches in Iowa, Michigan, image he called “Stick Cross.” Ryan said: “I just saw in Clinical Pastoral Education. and California as an interim pastor. two crossed twigs in the grass when I was delivering He concluded his ministry by After retirement in 1997, the (news)papers.” returning to Almond Valley CRC as Stoutmeyers enjoyed 17 winters in The photographs, which were printed and mounted pastor of visitation until his illness Haines City, Fla., where Stoutmeyer on the walls of the church’s front foyer in March of prevented him from continuing. preached at Lake Alfred Ministry and 2020, ended up remaining there for all of 2020. The Central Park II Chapel, which he and Kok was an avid golfer and enjoyed church returned to the theme for the 2021 Lenten his wife founded. going out for dinner and playing season, asking once again “for photograph submis- card games with close friends. sions depicting a cross anywhere in nature, technol- Stoutmeyer loved flowers and, if not a ogy, architecture, etc. … We hope that these photos preacher, would have been a florist. He is survived by his wife, Joyce; will assist you in meditating on the cross of Christ as five children and spouses; and 11 He is survived by Barbara, his wife of we journey towards Easter.” grandchildren. 66 years; two children and spouses; See the individual photos at instagram.com/ 10 grandchildren; and 21 great- —Janet A. Greidanus willoughbychurch. grandchildren.

—Jenny deGroot —Janet A. Greidanus

APRIL 2021 15 THEBANNER.ORG NEWS

Council of Delegates Cancels Synod 2021, Discusses Ministry Share Pledges, Governance

When the Council of Delegates of the Christian Reformed Church met by video conference Feb. 17-19, it discussed Synod 2021, new ministry share pledges, ongoing governance restructuring, and more. The 53-member Council meets three times a year to conduct the work of the CRC’s synod between those annual meetings.

Council chair Paul DeVries reminded dele- gates, as they convened on the first day of Lent, that as servants of Christ, their first responsibility is not to the material things of meetings.

“The truth is that the powers and the prin- cipalities of this dark world seek to use the material stuff—national divisions, arguing about institutions and func- Members of the Christian Reformed Church’s Council of Delegates met by video confer- tions—... to divide and conquer brothers ence Feb. 17-19, joined by staff of CRC ministries and other guests. and sisters in Jesus Christ. And we are not exempt from some of those arguments, The decision to cancel was not easily In the past, budgets were created first, hurts, and pains.” made. Several delegates said there could and then churches were asked to remit a

DeVries noted, “We want to take our time be a way to convene some form of synod certain amount to meet that budget. without bringing everyone together during our meetings to be sensitive to Delegates heard updates from staff on in one place. One suggestion was to the spiritual temperature in the room,” current pledges and the planned process allow Canadians to gather in one loca- and he encouraged delegates to break at to allocate the funds (see “Ministry tion and Americans to gather in another. times for prayer, specifically around spiri- Share Pledges Low, But New Churches However, other delegates noted that in tual warfare. Contributing,” p. 18). Canada, travel across provincial borders Synod 2021 Canceled is not currently allowed, and in some Governance Restructuring provinces people are discouraged even Weighing responses to a survey of stated from moving between municipalities. Continues clerks of classes (regional groups of With vaccination rollouts unlikely to be During the three days of Council meet- churches), the opinions expressed in completed by June, it is highly unlikely ings, delegates alternated between letters, and the current cross-border that restrictions will ease before then. meeting as a full Council and meeting travel restrictions, the Council decided to concurrently in the two corporations Delegates voted 38-10 in favor of cancel- cancel the Christian Reformed Church’s that make up the two-nation Christian ing. The CRC’s synodical services Synod 2021 due to the ongoing COVID- Reformed Church of North America. That announced the decision to staff and 19 pandemic. The Council also decided practice began at last February’s meet- guests to Synod 2021 shortly after the that synodical discussion of the Human ing, when the Council was informed that vote Feb. 19 and published some clarify- Sexuality Report will wait until 2022. the Canadian delegates (collectively, the ing questions and answers online (see CRCNA Canada Corporation) had received Instead of synod, the Council will host crcna.org/synod/FAQ). legal advice indicating changes were a special meeting in June to deal with needed to comply with Canadian tax laws. items that cannot wait a year, such as Ministry Shares Reimagined approving candidates for the ministry For the first time in the denomination’s The Structure and Leadership Taskforce, and budget matters. That was the same history, the budget for the coming fiscal assigned to finalize a proposed orga- process followed when Synod 2020 was year (starting July 1, 2021) will be based nizational structure as well as new job canceled. on what churches pledge to contribute. descriptions for senior denominational

APRIL 2021 16 THEBANNER.ORG NEWS

staff in the two countries, presented a to be, and we’ve got to stop this.’ We’ve verbal progress report to the Council. got to be a light in society that ends this,” In other actions, SALT’s full report is expected in May Watson said. the Council: (see “Governance Restructure Causing Interviewed and confirmed as Confusion, Angst,” p. 19). Senior Executives’ Retirements » Delayed new director of Candidacy Susan Mercy and Justice Staff Report LaClear (David Koll, the current The Council heard that Watson and John director of Candidacy, retires Escalating Intimidation Bolt, the CRC’s director of finance and this summer). CRCNA executive director Colin Watson operations, have agreed to delay their Noted that ReFrame Ministries Sr. reported to the Council that there has planned retirements by one year. Watson » (formerly Back to God Ministries been an an increase in offensive online had already delayed his by six months. International) is ending its French- comments as well as racist social media With governance restructuring taking language project in Haiti after posts referring to the work of the CRC’s longer than expected, the delayed retire- more than a decade. Resources Office of Social Justice, and that staff ments allow continuity of ministry. have shifted to Burkina Faso, have received threatening communica- Watson became the executive direc- the center of ReFrame’s French- tion in the mail, leaving them concerned tor in February 2020 after then-director language ministry. for their safety. Some of the communica- Steven Timmermans suddenly resigned. Received the final report from tions were concerning enough to report Until then, Watson had been the CRCNA’s » the Ad-hoc Committee for the to the police. In reviewing the comments, director of ministries and operations. Prevention of Abuse. It noted DeVries told delegates several came from Some of the tasks he had in that role that the Office of Dignity and officebearers in the CRC. were given to other denominational Respect, created as part of the A letter and some unsigned postcards leaders over the past year, but many denomination’s plan to prevent with disturbing images were mailed responsibilities stayed with him, leav- abuse of power, has been changed directly to Mark Stephenson, currently ing Watson shouldering two jobs. To help to “Dignity Team,” a group to director of the CRC’s OSJ and Race alleviate that overload, the CRCNA U.S. “foster a culture of full respect Relations as well as of Disability Concerns. Corporation (the American delegates on for all persons as equally called Stephenson responded to delegates’ the Council) at this February meeting by God to contribute to the life of authorized Watson to appoint a deputy to questions and expressions of concern. the church.” the executive director with responsibil- “It’s extremely upsetting,” he said. ity for U.S. ministry operations, effective » Noted that churches are using the Delegates prayed for staff affected by until at least June 2022. Challenging Conversations Toolkit this situation and discussed practical from Pastor Church Resources In Canada, interim staff appointments matters of security and how to respond to discuss the Human Sexuality put in place more than a year ago have to those known to be behind the threat- Report, now slated to be on the been extended until June 30, 2022. The ening messages. agenda of Synod 2022. CRCNA Canada Corporation at a Feb. 13 Watson told the delegates that he appre- meeting extended the appointments » Noted that the Canada ciated their prayers, and encouraged of Darren Roorda, Canadian ministries Corporation adopted new bylaws. them, “As we go about our daily minis- director and acting executive direc- try, if we even hear someone speaking tor; Terry Veldboom, interim director of in a derogatory manner about anyone finance and operations; Kevin DeRaaf, else—regardless of race, regardless of interim director of Resonate Global class—I would just ask that we please Mission; Peter Elgersma, interim director confront this. of congregational services and advance- ment; and Maureen Beattie, interim “As Christians, I do believe that we can director of human resources. be different, be the salt and light God wants us to be. Please, as you hear folks —Gayla R. Postma and denigrating others, if we could all just Alissa Vernon, news editor stop right there and say, ‘This is not Christian. This is not what God wants us

APRIL 2021 17 THEBANNER.ORG NEWS

Ministry Share Pledges Low, But New Churches Contributing

Congregations are pledging to contribute less funding for shared denominational ministries than what was received in previous years, but many churches that have never contributed are now prom- ising support. The contributions, called ministry shares, support the Christian Reformed Church’s administration, missions, seminary, and congregational service ministries.

The CRC’s Council of Delegates received the pledging update at its latest meeting. (See more meeting details on p. 16.)

For the first time in the denomination’s history, the budget for the coming fiscal year (starting July 1, 2021) will be based on what churches pledge to contribute. In the past, budgets were created first, and then churches were asked to remit a Potential Cuts and operations (Canada). “The 70/30 certain amount to meet that budget. split, which approximates the ratio of CRC In preparation for the new way of budget- members in the USA and Canada, respec- Moving to a pledge system is all part of ing, ministry leaders were asked to list tively, has been used as a general rule of the CRCNA’s Ministry Shares Reimagined, what programs could be scaled back or thumb for the cost sharing of joint minis- a program begun in 2019 because eliminated if the money received was less tries and synodical activities,” he said. churches were routinely giving less— than the previous year’s budget. Perhaps sometimes considerably less—than the hardest hit are congregational services Distributing the Pledged requested amount. Denominational ministries: 70% of their budgets depend Amounts budgets were based on rough estimates on ministry shares. of anticipated giving. Now, congregations, Also new is how the received minis- in conversation with their own classis Some of the suggested service cuts try shares will be allocated. In the (regional group of churches), pledge to include but are not limited to: past, allocation proportions have typi- send in a specific amount, with budgets Reduced faith-formation resources, cally rolled over from year to year, with then set accordingly. » affecting catechism resources and ReFrame Ministries (formerly Back to CRCNA executive director Colin Watson funds for Christian school partnerships God Ministries International) receiving Sr. reported that with pledges from 928 12%, Calvin Theological Seminary receiv- An 8% reduction in the budget for Dwell of the denomination’s 1,031 churches, » ing 10%, Resonate Global Mission receiv- church-school curriculum financial commitments in the U.S. total ing 31%, and Congregational Services sharing 23%. (The remainder goes to about 15% less than funds received in » Reduced faith-formation coaching and denominational services and a special 2020 and in Canada about 5% less. consulting assistance fund.) “We are grateful that in a number of » Fewer worship resources cases, churches that previously did Under Ministry Shares Reimagined, not participate in the ministry share » Reduced continuing education grants ministry leaders will together decide on process are now opting to participate. from Pastor Church Resources allocation annually, looking more intently at the various joint ministries and initia- This is especially true in some smaller While money received in Canada is kept and ethnic minority churches,” Watson tives in terms of strategic priority, accord- separate from funds received in the U.S., said. “We praise God for this new level of ing to Veldboom, who noted that those most denominational ministries are commitment.” strategic priorities might not be the same jointly operated and rely on combined in Canada as in the U.S. funding from both countries, according to Terry Veldboom, director of finance —Gayla R. Postma

APRIL 2021 18 THEBANNER.ORG NEWS

Governance Restructure IN MEMORIAM Causing Confusion, Angst

CRT, COD, ESL, SALT, CRA. The myriad of To help find a way through the process, in acronyms in play is only the beginning of February 2020 the Council created the the confusion that has marked the Christian Ecclesiastical, Structural, and Legal Team Reformed Church’s governance restructure (ESL). That team presented recommenda- conversations of the past year. tions that each country have its own execu- Rev. W. Wayne Leys tive director and suggested an ecclesiastical The CRC’s Council of Delegates heard an 1944-2021 officer could provide a bridge between the update on the progress at its meeting Feb. two and oversee ministries that are not coun- During 40 years of ministry, 17-19. A final report should come to the try-specific, such as the candidacy commit- Wayne Leys made discipleship Council in May. tee and the denomination’s seminary. Having a priority. Kind and hospitable, A year of meetings, including some closed received the ESL’s initial work, the Council he loved taking people out for listening sessions, has shown tensions that disbanded that group and appointed people breakfast and hearing about their surfaced last year continue (see “Still Bumps in both countries to write job descriptions lives. “My dad was an amazing in the Road for CRC’s Restructuring,” June for the three proposed positions. In October listener whom God equipped to 2020). Two Canadian classes (regional groups 2020, SALT was created to find a way to shepherd people into a deeper of churches) have asked the denomination’s appropriately align the proposed job descrip- relationship with Jesus,” said one synod to put the proceedings on hold, with tions. SALT’s report was due in February, but of his children. Leys died Jan. 30 one citing a violation of the Church Order. its mandate was extended to May 2021 so after several years of living with (Church Order is the record of rules the members could consider new legal advice. Alzheimer’s disease. congregations of the CRC have covenanted Working concurrently with all this is the Leys graduated from Calvin together to follow; it governs the functioning Canadian Restructure Team (CRT), which is Theological Seminary and was of the denomination.) proposing substantial changes to Canadian ordained in 1969. He pastored Further complications include a range of legal ministry. That is causing some to question Cragmor Christian Reformed opinions that the Structure and Leadership whether the changes being made to comply Church, Colorado Springs, Colo.; Taskforce (SALT) has been asked to take into with the Canadian tax rules are unnecessar- Elmhurst (Ill.) CRC; New Hope account (see “Council of Delegates Convenes ily expanding. Classis Toronto, in asking for Church of Dunwoody, Atlanta, ‘Special Listening Session,’” February 2021) a halt to restructuring, referred to a letter Ga.; Ridgeview Hills CRC, Littleton, and the absence of input from synod, which it received from CRCNA Canada Corp. that Colo.; and Community Life CRC, has been canceled two years in a row due to said, “As we thought about restructuring to Lockport, Ill. For almost two the COVID-19 pandemic. achieve compliance, we realized there was a decades he served as chaplain of larger opportunity here. That is, since we are the Will County Detention Center The move toward restructuring began more in need of restructuring moving into 2021, it in Illinois. He retired in 2009. than a year ago after Canadian delegates is best to consider how so that a number of received legal advice that changes were needed considerations are kept in mind: ongoing Leys served on former boards to comply with Canadian tax laws regarding effectiveness, a desire to ‘reduce the foot- of the CRC, including the Board charitable organizations—particularly, to print’ of the denomination, connecting whole- of Trustees, with three years as ensure that direction and control of resources heartedly to the local church, all the while not president, and the board of Home designated to a charity remain in Canada. simply becoming a mirror to the CRCNA in the Missions. He liked to jog while U.S. but rather be built for the most effective memorizing Scripture. People About 70% of the Council delegates are from contextual approach to ministry in Canada.” around Zeeland, Mich., where the U.S. and 30% from Canada, reflecting the he lived, knew him as the man percentages of church members on either CRCNA Canada Corp. received the CRT jogging while flipping through side of the border. report Feb. 13. While appreciating the work his cards. presented, it declined to endorse that Delegate John Lee, Classis Iakota, is SALT’s report even in principle until the joint work Among those who will miss his chair. He noted in the meeting that while the of SALT was done. Delegate Melissa Van love and laughter and the twinkle presenting issue was tax compliance, there is Dyk, Canadian at-large delegate, wondered in his eyes are Christine, his wife much more history involved. “There is a history if creating separate documents like the CRT and partner in ministry for 54 of not living into decisions we’ve made. There’s report is “creating more anxiety in the system years; three children and spouses; a historic wound and frustrations surrounding than (there) actually needs to be.” and 13 grandchildren. that,” he said. “There is also a contemporary desire for contextualized ministry.” —Gayla R. Postma —Janet A. Greidanus

APRIL 2021 19 THEBANNER.ORG NEWS

Classis Watch: Winter 2021

Two or three times each year, Christian classis, were Bryan Branderhorst (Greater due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many of Reformed churches send representatives Los Angeles); Erik Pluemer (Southeast these actions were taken before that deci- to their classis, a regional group of churches. U.S.); Enrique Esber (Southeast U.S.); sion was made. Anthony Vander Laan (Chatham); Mike Many of the actions taken by classes are Classis Chatham is asking synod to clar- Brummel (North Cascades); Aaron DeBoer governed by the CRC’s Church Order, the ify “categories of synodical pronounce- (North Cascades); Matt Hochhalter rules that govern denominational life. ments/decisions/reports/positions/ (Holland); and Ben Snoek (Holland) Here are some of the actions by classes in advice and the extent to which they (Church Order Art. 23). the past several months (up to Feb. 8): bind the churches.” Rudy Gonzalez (California South) and Seminary graduate Derek Ellens was Classis Zeeland requests that synod Barry Foster (Illiana) were granted welcomed into ministry in the appoint a committee in loco “to deal Christian Reformed Church (Church commissioned pastor emeritus status. directly with Neland Ave. CRC on this Order Article 10). New Ministries and Ministry public matter that affects our whole denomination.” Such committees are Ministers released from a congre- Changes delegated by synod to address a situation gation (Church Order Art. 17a): Revs. on a local level. (For example, Synod 2005 Heather Stroobosscher, from Calvary CRC An emerging (unorganized) church does not appointed a committee in loco “to investi- (Wyoming, Mich.); David Prince, from At have its own council and is under the care gate the position of the council of First CRC, the Crossroads Ministries CRC (Britt, Iowa); of a council of a neighboring CRC. An orga- Toronto, regarding persons living in same- Bruce Gritter, from The River Community nized church has its own council (Church sex committed relationships and seek CRC (Edmonton, Alta.); and Tom Kragt, from Order Art. 38). a response” Acts of Synod 2005, p. 744). Evergreen Ministries (Hudsonville, Mich.). Iglesia Misionera Renacer, Monterey Park, Zeeland also asks that synod “declare that Kragt is a minister with the Reformed Calif., and Iglesia Todas Las Naciones, Neland has six months from the close of Church in America. His credentials are held Hudsonville, Mich., were recognized as synod to repent for breaking covenant by Great Lakes City Classis of the RCA. emerging. and publicly depose their deacon or begin the process of disaffiliation.” Classis Leaving Ministry in the CRC Name change: Cornerstone Church in Holland requests that synod “instruct Classes may end a pastor’s ordained minis- Pella, Iowa (formerly Second CRC of Pella). Classis Grand Rapids East to instruct try status, guided by Church Order articles the Council of Neland Avenue CRC to 14 and 17. Other Matters rescind its decision to ordain a deacon in Classis Southeast U.S. formed a commit- Designations of release (reflecting the a same-sex marriage, thus nullifying this tee to, among other things, “clarify ... how manner and spirit in which the minister deacon’s current term.” synodical reports function within the life acted during the time leading up to and of the local Christian Reformed congre- Several classes are sending requests including resignation from office) are gations and whether those reports have or communications to synod about honorably released, released, dismissed, or the denomination’s human sexuality in the status of one deposed (Art. 14). any binding power over decisions made by Neland Avenue CRC.” In June, Neland report, which now won’t be deliberated Timothy Howerzyl was honorably Avenue CRC, in Grand Rapids, Mich., until 2022 (see p. 16). Classis Holland released. appointed to the office of deacon a woman asks synod to adopt the report and its recommendations. Classis Red Mesa is Ronald Smeding (October 2019) and Josh who is in a same-sex marriage. In its expla- sending a communication to affirm Benton were released. nation of that action, Neland’s council wrote in an August congregational letter, the report’s recommendations to David Jeltema was deposed. “Our understanding is that all synodical declare the church’s teachings on sexual immorality to already have confessional Ministers retiring (granted emeritus reports and decisions related to homosex- status and to “declare that Church Order status): Revs. Pablo Canche, Kenneth uality have been pastoral advice given to Article 69-c (‘Ministers shall not solem- deBoer, and Charles Kooger (retired the churches (1973, 2002, and 2016).” nize marriages which would be in conflict March 2019) (Church Order Art. 18). Synod with the Word of God.’) is to be inter- preted in the light of the biblical evidence Commissioned Pastors These actions connect to synod, the broader laid out in this report.” Approved as commissioned pastors, assembly of the Christian Reformed Church. called to specific roles within their While Synod 2021 has been canceled —Alissa Vernon, News Editor

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APRIL 2021 21 THEBANNER.ORG OUR MINISTRY

Growing in Diversity and Unity

APRIL 2021 22 THEBANNER.ORG OUR MINISTRY

By Cassie Westrate and Victoria Veenstra

he Lord is transforming the Christian Reformed during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the church jumped “ Church from its origin of a predominantly white into action to work within the current health and safety denomination to more of a mosaic portrait of guidelines. what God really intends,” said Reggie Smith, the “When the family arrived,” VanArragon said, “we were CRCNA’s director of diversity. T required to provide transportation from the airport in sani- In fact, one of the denomination’s Our Journey 2025 ministry tized vehicles that were large enough to allow for appropri- priorities is to “grow in diversity and unity by seeking justice, ate distancing.” reconciliation, and welcome, sharing our faith as we build relationships with and honor the cultures of our neighbors The church also worked to provide temporary housing and and newcomers.” supplies for the two-week isolation period required for those entering the country during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, as people move throughout the world and various Refugees such as this family from Somalia have experienced cultures collide, the denomination has an opportunity to trauma and hardship. They often arrive with few belong- worship God and seek God’s shalom together as a diverse ings and resources. This requires sponsors to work hard and family of Christ. But that work is sometimes easier to talk be flexible, but as CRC congregations welcome and support about than to do. It takes intentionality. such newcomers, they have the opportunity to be examples Here’s a glimpse of how some CRCNA congregations and of Christ to those who need to experience his love and peace. agencies are working toward that vision: Growing Through Church Plants

Welcoming Refugees One of the fastest ways the CRCNA is growing, both in “Diversity has taken on all kinds of meanings,” Smith said. numbers and in diversity, is through ethnic minority church “I’m defining diversity in terms of people groups and nations plants. Resonate Global Mission partners with more than 15 and the biblical theme of God’s kingdom. God’s kingdom is ethnic minority church plants and more than 10 multiethnic big; it’s wide; it’s vast; it’s spacious.” church plants in the U.S. and Canada.

One of the ways the CRCNA is growing is by welcoming people Ethnic minority church plants are uniquely equipped to from different countries, including through refugee sponsor- provide meaningful faith communities for people to worship ship. World Renew, the Centre for Public Dialogue, and the and learn about God in their own culture and language. Office of Social Justice work to provide better support and a “The most important thing is a sense of belonging,” said better welcome for refugees moving to Canada and the United Eric Sarwar, pastor of Artesia City Church in Artesia, Calif. States. Several CRC congregations are involved in this minis- “When you are an immigrant, you don’t know the language. try too, and some, such as New Life CRC in Guelph, Ont., even You don’t know the system. You don’t know who is going to serve as sponsors for refugee families. help you or not.” New Life has been sponsoring refugees for more than 20 years. They consider it a long-term commitment. Currently, Artesia City Church is a faith community of first- and second- the congregation has three active applications for sponsor- generation immigrants from India and Pakistan. Moving ship underway with the Canadian government—but that to a new country can be isolating, and India and Pakistan doesn’t mean the process is smooth sailing. In one case, both have cultures that are more community-focused than they’ve been waiting for two years for an application to be the individualistic cultures in Canada and the U.S. Sarwar reviewed and approved. planted the church after moving to the U.S. from Pakistan and struggling to find a church where he could worship in “It is not clear when that processing will occur,” said his own language and culture. Gary VanArragon, a member of New Life’s refugee spon- sorship team. Artesia City Church has grown rapidly. Sarwar and a few people originally started meeting for worship in a home. The most recent family that New Life sponsored arrived Within three months, the house was crowded, and Trinity from Somalia via Yemen and Turkey. The family arrived CRC offered space in its building so the church plant could meet and welcome more people. New Life CRC in Guelph, Ont., helped to sponsor refugees from Somalia. Pictured (from left) are newcomers Abdulkadir, Dhuba, One member is a young man who moved alone from India. and Mana with co-sponsors Aisha and Abdi. He didn’t know anyone in his new community and was,

APRIL 2021 23 THEBANNER.ORG OUR MINISTRY

among other challenges, struggling with the immigration workshop. Yolanda Vega, senior academic and career process. But then he learned about Artesia City Church. Not adviser at Hope College, regularly offers the experience to only was this man able to worship God in his own language her students. and culture, but he found a spiritual family. “In a day and age where immigrants are often vilified in “Living in a foreign land, when you are away from your the media, it was important to me that the students have biological or blood relatives, you find your spiritual bonding accurate information and an understanding of the realities with the church,” said Sarwar. “You find family who speak surrounding legal immigration,” Vega said. your language, share in your culture, (and) know the chal- The workshop has been helping students better understand lenges you face.” the challenges immigrants face. After a recent Zoom meet- Artesia City Church is just one example. In Wyoming, ing, Vega asked students to reflect on what they had learned. Mich., another church plant is providing a faith commu- Most of them knew little to nothing about the process or nity for the growing population of Spanish-speaking people pathways of legal entry to the U.S. from throughout Latin America. Comunidad Cristiana “They didn’t know about the parameters limiting each path- Internacional (International Christian Community) was way, nor did they realize how difficult and complicated the planted by Robert Garcia with support from Resonate, system is,” Vega said. Classis Grand Rapids South, and Community Christian Reformed Church. That’s one of the most common pieces of feedback the OSJ hears from churches, schools, and other ministries who “We are working together in a single vision to reach the have participated in Churches Between Borders. Hispanic community,” said Garcia, who is from Venezuela. The church plant has welcomed individuals and fami- “As Christians called to love our neighbors,” Utter David said, lies from the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Argentina, “it’s important to back up and look at how the immigration Mexico, and other countries. Many people who connect with system really works so that we can work toward immigra- Comunidad Cristiana Internacional are not Christians, but tion justice.” through the church plant, they’re able to learn about God in their own language. Several people have accepted Christ Resources to Help and are continuing to grow in their faith. This is just a glimpse of how the CRCNA’s churches and Planting and supporting church plants for communities of ministries are growing into the vision of God’s kingdom all cultures and ethnicities in Canada and the U.S. require in Revelation 7:9—“a great multitude ... from every nation, support from across the denomination. It also provides the tribe, people, and language.” entire denomination with new opportunities to listen and “It’s important to be hospitable to the new thing that God is learn from other Christians. up to,” Smith said. “It has to do with how we share power, how we share resources, how we share decision-making, Growing in Unity how we share the gospel. Unity doesn’t mean assimilation ... As people from throughout the world are finding a home in (and it) doesn’t mean uniformity. It means that we all bring the CRCNA, working to better understand immigration poli- gifts to the table. We all have a small slice of what God’s cies and procedures is one way the denomination is striving kingdom is.” to better welcome and support people from all cultures and The ministries of the CRCNA have many resources available countries. to assist you in your journey to grow in unity and diversity. Learn more at crcna.org/OurJourney. “There’s a lot of misinformation floating around about our immigration system (in the U.S.),” said Kendra Utter David, the Office of Social Justice’s immigration and justice special- ist. That’s why many Christian Reformed churches and community members are participating in the OSJ’s Church Between Borders workshop.

Churches, colleges, universities, and other ministries in the U.S. are developing their understanding of how the immi- gration system works through the interactive three-part

APRIL 2021 24 THEBANNER.ORG OUR MINISTRY

More Than We Can Handle

AS ADIE JOHNSON reflected on her Through the fellowship and care of past year as a chaplain at St. Joseph fellow chaplains, hospital staff, the Hospital in Denver, Colo., she noted the Christian Reformed Chaplaincy & many times she was confronted with Care Ministry, and the surround- the saying “God will not give you more ing community, Johnson said she felt than you can handle.” supported, valued and never alone during what was one of the hardest “I firmly believe that is neither true nor years of her life—a year when many biblical,” Johnson said. “We often get faced more than they could handle. more than we can handle.” Over the years, Johnson has learned The past year has proven that. Johnson to anchor herself with 2 Corinthians vividly remembers the fear, disorien- 1:8-11 when someone expresses the tation, and confusion she and others opinion that “God won’t give us more felt as the hospital shifted to deal with than we can handle.” the COVID-19 pandemic. “Paul flat-out says their experiences “At first, due to the personal protective were far beyond their ability to equipment shortage, we chaplains endure—in fact, they thought they were asked not to go into COVID rooms, were going to die!” Johnson explained. even at a death,” she said. At the time, “But I love even more what he learned not even patients’ family members from that experience of getting more were allowed to visit. Adie Johnson, seen here with a than they could handle—that God ‘has delivered us … and he will deliver us “Some patients were still conscious therapy pony, serves as a chap- again.’ They set their hope on him, and as they were dying, and to have no lain at St. Joseph Hospital in so should we.” family with them injured all the staff Denver, Colo. to watch,” Johnson recalled, noting The CRCNA has 150 chaplains serving that watching someone die alone in hospitals, military settings, prisons, understaffed, nurses were quitting, was traumatizing and painful, espe- and other places around the world. and we as chaplains could hardly keep cially for those trained to walk along- Please continue to keep them in your up with the deaths.” side patients and families during prayers. these times. But even in these times of having too —Kristen deRoo VanderBerg, much to handle, Johnson could see CRC Communications Eventually, a nurse or chaplain was God at work. permitted to go into a COVID room to hold an iPad so a patient could see “God was active in the little acts of their loved ones. Later, visitors could kindness, sacrifice, and caring I be in the room at the end of a patient’s witnessed, from the housekeepers life, but Johnson said the trauma of who went in to clean COVID rooms and those early days scarred her and other interacted with patients with deep staff. The stress of serving those in attention, to physicians racking their need during an escalating crisis for brains for ways to help these super-ill patients,” she said. months on end was also trying and stressful. “God was present in the support from the community that came as cards, “By far the most horrendous time for meals, masks, musicians outside the us here at St. Joe’s, beyond that initial front of the hospital, and chalk draw- shock wave, was the first week of ings on our sidewalks.” December,” Johnson said. “Our (infec- tion) numbers were skyrocketing again, everyone was exhausted, many staff were getting sick, the ICU was

APRIL 2021 25 THEBANNER.ORG OUR MINISTRY

The View from Here The Beautiful and Diverse Family of God

After this I looked, and there before I have learned In the same way, as we embrace me was a great multitude that no one greater diversity in our families, could count, from every nation, tribe, that God’s ways communities, congregations, and people and language, standing before denomination, it is important that we the throne and before the Lamb. They of blessing and make space to learn about and from were wearing white robes and were each other. We can’t rely only on the holding palm branches in their hands. working are familiar or traditional ways of worship And they cried out in a loud voice: or of being church. “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits also diverse. So let’s rise to this challenge and on the throne, and to the Lamb.” — embrace this opportunity. Let us open Revelation 7:9-10 ourselves to where God might be at WHEN I BECAME A MEMBER of 110 are multiethnic congregations. work in the diversity of our commu- Madison Avenue Christian Reformed Moreover, as we look at where our nities. Let’s take time to listen to and Church in New Jersey in the early denomination’s recent growth has learn from each other, especially those 1980s, that congregation was quite been happening, we expect growth in who come from different backgrounds diverse in terms of age, race, and the near future will come from these than our own. And let’s strive for the ethnicity. I think it is fair to say that types of communities. We praise God goal laid out in the denomination-wide this was an anomaly within the for this reality and for our movement ministry plan, Our Journey 2025, that denomination at that time. toward God’s Revelation 7:9 vision. our congregations and communities “grow in diversity and unity by seeking Today, however, multiethnic congre- With great diversity, however, come justice, reconciliation, and welcome, gations are becoming more and more greater challenges. We all know our sharing our faith as we build relation- commonplace in the CRCNA, and own stories of God’s blessing in our ships with and honor the cultures of the denomination also has more lives, and it is easy to assume that our neighbors and newcomers.” congregations representing specific, others experience God in exactly the non-white, non-Dutch immigrant or God’s idea of diversity is so much same way. Yet I have learned that language groups.” bigger than ours, yet he calls us to be a God’s ways of blessing and work- significant part of it. May we recognize Today’s CRCNA is made up of 1,025 ing are also diverse. We can see this and embrace how God is weaving a congregations in Canada and the clearly as we reflect on God’s work in tapestry unlike anything we have ever United States. More than 210 of those the Bible. Jesus’ way of healing was seen or experienced. are congregations primarily consist- not formulaic; sometimes he touched, ing of ethnic minorities, and another sometimes he spoke, sometimes he Colin P. Watson Sr. is the was up close, sometimes he was at executive director of the a distance. God’s vast creativity is CRCNA. He is a member of unfathomable. Madison Square Christian Reformed Church in Grand Rapids, Mich.

Spanish and Korean transla- tions of this article are avail- able at TheBanner.org.

TheBanner.org/korean 이 기사의 한글번역은 . 에서 보실 수 있습니다 Este artículo está disponible en español en TheBanner.org/spanish.

APRIL 2021 26 THEBANNER.ORG OUR MINISTRY

Calvin Seminary Launches New Doctor of Ministry Program

Aaron Einfeld Danjuma Gibson Geoff Vandermolen

A KOREAN-AMERICAN PASTOR serv- Gibson, co-director of the new The program offers a combination of ing in the Philippines, a denomina- program and professor of pastoral personal reflection, spiritual forma- tional leader, a pastor from Northern care at CTS. tion and development, elective Ireland, and a retired Church of God coursework, and directed doctoral “A lot of people in ministry are second- in Christ minister seeking new ways studies. Students will write a disser- career or bivocational,” he said. “Ours of education for his denomination are tation to round out their coursework is a deeply Reformed program serving members of the first cohort of students and research. the global church. We see Reformed in Calvin Theological Seminary’s new theology, with its high view of “I can’t wait to see and hear what they Doctor of Ministry program. Scripture, as very important.” come up with to help serve the church,” Years in the making, the program said Vandermolen. Aaron Einfeld, director of admissions, launched in the midst of the COVID- added, “The seminary is trying to A large portion of the work will take 19 pandemic in the fall of 2020 as place in conjunction with CTS faculty provide a wider range of options for students tuned in online to meet in the students’ pastoral settings. In people in the church. We want to be with one another and begin their addition, students will spend time on serving more folks.” course work. campus twice a year. This is a program in which students— Taking between three to five years “We will meet for a week, and then all of whom must be currently work- to complete, this program of study is students will go back out to their ing in ministry—and faculty will work an alternative to a Doctor of Ministry pastoral settings,” Gibson said. program for which a pastor must have together to identify and fulfill the the means and time to spend several desires and goals that students bring Scholars and practitioners from Calvin years on a campus working toward the to the program. Essentially, students University and perhaps other insti- degree. Those programs have devel- will focus on issues they want to tutions are likely to be part of the program, interacting with students in oped over time, but CTS had the oppor- address in their ministries. their areas of focus. tunity to start from scratch, adapting “We are inviting a plurality of lead- its program to the realities of who ers to be part of the program,” said “We want to help students to be the makes up congregations, how congre- Geoff Vandermolen, co-director of scholars they want to be and the gations worship, and how pastors pastors they want to be and to do that the program and director of voca- function today. with a broad Reformed expression,” tional formation at CTS. “We are Vandermolen said. “We have structured the program to asking, ‘What kind of person, leader, reflect a global church that is diverse scholar, and pastoral presence do you —Chris Meehan, in many respects,” said Danjuma want to be?’” CRC Communications

APRIL 2021 27 THEBANNER.ORG OUR MINISTRY

A Wall of Temptation

FROM ALCOHOL TO SMOKING to pornography, the temptations that Gastón faces growing up in Burkina Faso, West Africa, aren’t any different from those in most North American contexts.

But the stakes are higher for him.

Some of Gastón’s boarding school classmates will sneak out at night, climbing over the school’s security wall to join the local party scenes.

“I often followed them over that wall and joined in,” Gastón said. Still, as a Christian living in a Muslim-majority country, every time Gastón made that climb, he knew he was hurting not only his own image, but Christ’s.

For some of Gastón’s friends, he might Gastón (right) offers video testimony with English subtitles at have been their only personal connec- ReFrameMinistries.org/Easter. tion to the Christian faith. So every time Gastón chose to go over the wall, he missed an opportunity to share Ministries is the new name of Back to While traveling home one day, Gastón what it means to follow Christ. God Ministries International.) was in a terrible motorcycle crash that left him in a coma. Wide-reaching Stories Gastón regularly follows these programs, and they have helped him “After coming out of the coma,” Gastón Gastón isn’t alone in his struggle. He grow in his faith every day. In fact, he shared, “for three months straight has peers everywhere in his coun- recently shared his own testimony in I couldn’t even form a complete try—peers who love Christ as much a new video from ReFrame’s French sentence. But one day, while I was in as he does. Working with ReFrame ministry team. my hospital bed, I heard this inner Ministries’ French ministry team, voice saying, ‘If you believe, you will young Christians are sharing their Now when Gastón faces temptations, see the glory of God.’” stories online to reach French speak- he repeats a few words to himself: ers across West Africa. (ReFrame “You’re a child of God, and you have to That time of suffering became a turn- set a good example. You have to leave ing point for Gastón. He now wants to a mark on your generation, to leave a live every day for Christ alone. mark on those around you.” The Christian Reformed Church’s work through ReFrame helps young A Turning Point Christians like Gastón know they are In addition to talking about tempta- not alone in their faith journey and in tions he faces, Gastón also shared the struggles that can come with it. his story of a near-death experience. “I would like to thank you for giving us this opportunity to take part in this program,” Gastón said.

—Brian Clark, ReFrame Ministries

APRIL 2021 28 THEBANNER.ORG OUR MINISTRY

The Questions Strangers Ask

THE MASKS WE WEAR to slow the spread of COVID-19 hide the smiles that once helped us acknowledge strangers. But in the hamlet of Neerlandia, in rural Alberta, Canada, members of Neerlandia Christian Reformed Church donned masks to welcome a stranger.

Ayan was that stranger—and not just a stranger, but a refugee: Ayan and her four children arrived in Neerlandia in August 2020, in the midst of the pandemic.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, which is Canada’s Blended Visa Office-Referred program, identifies refugees and connects them with private sponsors for resettlement in Canada. IRCC and private sponsors share the costs of supporting refu- Ayub (14), Ayan, Omar (5), Abyan gees for one year. World Renew’s refu- (11), and Aniso (12) in front of gee program provides support and their new home. guidance to private sponsors such as Neerlandia CRC to sponsor families like Ayan’s. reassured them the animals are harm- Ayan fled Saudi Arabia as a political less. “Why is it so cold in the house?” refugee and found asylum in Malaysia. Ayan needed instructions on how to “Women have no rights in Saudi use the thermostat. Arabia,” she explained. Sadly, as a refu- After the quarantine ended, the refu- gee she also had no rights in Malaysia, gee committee members continued to and she lived in constant fear that visit, and the family soon welcomed she’d be detained by police. the faces behind the masks as friends. Omar playing in the snow. As the family prepared to resettle in The children started school and made Canada, Ayan’s children questioned friends there too. And as the family her: “Where will we go to school?” became more accustomed to their new family. They bring diversity into our community. It’s so great to learn None of the children had been thriv- life, another question was answered: (about) a new culture.” And for the ing in the Malaysian school. “Will we they saw snow! like Canadian food?” In Malaysia, the refugee committee that has spon- family often did not have enough to On a chilly December day, Ayan smiled sored four BVOR families since 2015, eat. “Will we see snow?” as her son Omar played in mounds of one question remains: “When will we snow. “Snow is fun!” Omar yelled. “I welcome another family?” Once the family arrived in Neerlandia, like snow! I like Canada!” masked refugee committee members —Laurisa O’Brien, World Renew delivered food during the mandatory Ayan and her family are not the only 14-day quarantine period and commu- ones who have gained from this nicated with the family via WhatsApp. connection. One member of the refu- The children had more questions: “Are gee committee admits, “I love this there wild animals in the bushes?” The refugee committee members

APRIL 2021 29 THEBANNER.ORG RESONATEGLOBALMISSION.ORG/GLOCAL

APRIL 2021 30 THEBANNER.ORG DISCOVER

The Armor of God

GOD IS A MASTER DESIGNER. God If you looked at one of these scales up made everything (from nothing!), and close, you would see growth rings just he not only knew what to make but like a tree has. how to make it. And God’s amazing handiwork is inspiring! Scientists and The Armor of God engineers often study structures in When you think of armor, you might nature for ideas. One example is the think of things that protect your body design of protective gloves, vests, and from being hurt. The armor of God helmets. Many animals have armor is different. The armor of God can that protects them from the environ- protect you from things like tempta- ment and from predators. tion and lies. In Ephesians 6:10-17, we read that the armor of God is the belt Armored Animals of truth, the breastplate of righteous- In Spanish, “armadillo” means “little ness, the gospel of peace, the shield of armored one.” The bony plates that faith, the helmet of salvation, and the cover its body are loosely connected sword of the Spirit. When we study so that the armor is flexible (the three- God’s Word and trust in Jesus as our banded armadillo can even roll itself Savior, God protects us against tempta- into a ball!). This armor protects the tion and lies. armadillo from thorny shrubs.

A pangolin will also roll into a ball when threatened. Its name comes from a Malay word that means “roller” or “one who rolls up.” Instead of the armadillo’s bony shell, however, pangolins are covered in scales made from keratin—the substance our hair and fingernails are made of.

Turtles, tortoises, and terrapins have shells that are permanently attached to their spine and rib cage. Their armor isn’t flexible, but some turtles can pull their heads into their shells. You can learn more about turtle shells here: tinyurl.com/udq8qg5f.

Shrimp, lobsters, snails, and oysters have something called an exoskel- eton, or an outside skeleton. These exoskeletons aren’t made of bone, but they support and protect these crea- tures’ bodies. Rachel Lancashire is a Barghigiani freelance writer with Reptiles, including snakes and lizards, an educational back-

by Anita have scales made from keratin. Their ground in wildlife. She scales protect them from the weather grew up in the Christian Reformed Church and allow them to live in dry places by and currently attends slowing water loss from their bodies. Gilmour Memorial Baptist Church Fish also have scales. In some types of

Illustration for The Banner for Illustration in Selwyn, Ont. fish, the scales grow as the fish grows.

APRIL 2021 31 THEBANNER.ORG Praying with Jesus in Solitude

By Denise Posie

Very early in the morning, while it was We can be inspired by Jesus’ example joy fill the room, and she begins to still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and of finding quiet time with God. The serve her guests. The news about her went off to a solitary place, where he gospel of Mark describes how Jesus healing travels. prayed. —Mark 1:35 and his disciples are on the move from one place to another. In the synagogue Later that evening, Jesus heals all the t is not unusual for me to hear at Capernaum, people identify Jesus sick and demon-possessed who come someone say, “I’m struggling as one who teaches with authority to him. The night was long and drain- with finding time to be alone and who, more surprisingly, casts out ing. The rhythm changes, though. with God in prayer.” I believe an impure spirit from a man on the many Christians have this Sabbath. Jesus’ reputation grows, and Jesus probably got some sleep, but there same struggle. Perhaps you so do the crowds following him. was something far more important on have said this yourself. Finding time is I his mind. He enjoyed being with people, a significant barrier to spending time His disciples James and John accom- but not always. The voices of people in prayer. It is not always easy to sacri- pany him to their next stop, Simon questioning his power and author- fice and give up something else. Most and Andrew’s home. Within moments ity, of the sick expecting to be healed, people have busy lives filled with so of their arrival, Jesus is told that and of the disciples faded away. Mark many meaningful activities involving Simon’s mother-in-law is sick in bed family, work, ministry, and personal with a fever. describes Jesus finding an opportune matters. This is a reality of the 21st This next part makes me smile: Jesus time to leave the house and go to a quiet century. However, many of us desire goes to her, takes her hand, and helps place to pray. Up to this point, Jesus had to see something different for our her up, and the fever leaves her. The been responding to others’ needs. Now current prayer practices. atmosphere changes as gratitude and he attends to his own needs.

APRIL 2021 32 THEBANNER.ORG The outer work of ministry and inner For this to happen, our family, work, work of soul care is propelled by his and school responsibilities must be relationship and oneness with the covered by someone else. Hopefully Father. Jesus prays in solitude, an a relative or close friend will see the essential part of his life. During these value of this time away and graciously meet our needs. There are two other instances when Mark describes Jesus withdrawing times of Our laptops and cellphones must be from his disciples and the crowds to powered off and out of sight—no peep- talk with God in solitude. quietness, ing on social media or reading the news. We do not need to feel guilty Before feeding the 5,000, Jesus invites we grow in about “unproductiveness” or doing his disciples to “come with me by your- what seems to be nothing. selves to a quiet place and get some knowing God rest” (Mark 6:31). He invites us today When I was pastor at Immanuel CRC to do the same. After teaching and and ourselves. in Kalamazoo, Mich., our council went feeding the crowd, Jesus went up on a away for a one-and-a-half-day plan- mountainside to pray (6:46). ning retreat. For some it was a chal- lenge. Several of us worked a full Just before his arrest, late at night, day before arriving at the Hermitage Jesus meets alone with God in Community retreat center in Three Gethsemane (Mark 14:32-41). Mark this experience would be. Since then, it Rivers, Mich., in time for a 5:30 p.m. describes how challenging it was has become a regular part of my life. dinner together. for the disciples to stay awake and pray nearby. When is the right time to pray alone? As the retreat facilitator, I asked every- Some faith traditions practice morn- one to practice silence from dinner- In Mark 1, he purposefully leaves ing, midday, and evening times of time until our first meeting the next while the disciples are asleep. We note prayer. It takes time to figure out what morning. The intent was to give us the importance of alone time with God. works best for your lifestyle. There is time to disconnect from our busy Little is known about what happened no set format. schedules and to have time alone in these moments of solitude and with God. prayer, but I believe it was critical for Different seasons of the year or life Jesus’ well-being and mission to regu- rhythms require schedule adjust- When told about this arrangement, larly set aside his public ministry to ments. Jesus prayed for hours at a time one person was upset. This person worked in a critical care environ- get away to pray. He left the regular and sometimes all night. Some individ- ment and was looking forward to great routine of things behind. uals spend a few days or even longer at conversations at the dinner table and a retreat or monastic center, seeking We can learn from Jesus’ example. It late into the night. But we followed the God’s face using labyrinths, libraries, begins with a desire to get away for original plan. bird-watching, and nature trails. some time alone with God in prayer. The next morning all of us gave testi- In my travels, sometimes I choose to My first retreat experience occurred monies about how we needed this stay at a monastic center instead of when I was in seminary: a one-day time of solitude. The person who was a hotel. If a retreat center is not an respite from the typical routine of initially upset was now grateful. option, a long walk at the lake or some attending classes and studying. We In her book Sacred Rhythms: Arranging received an optional prayer guide other safe, secluded place can be a Our Lives for Spiritual Transformation, with biblical themes and Scripture good space to meet God in prayer. Ruth Haley Barton talks about getting passages. I had access to my Bible, a in touch with what’s true about us. hymnal, a journal, a prayer shawl, and How to Get Alone Time with God a prayer rug. There was also a prayer The thought of being alone might not “Most of us are more tired than we tower available on campus. (These be easy if we do not like to be alone. know at the soul level,” she writes. “We types of dedicated places for prayer are teetering on the brink of danger- Being alone with God means we must are becoming more common on semi- ous exhaustion, and we really cannot temporarily disconnect from our nary campuses.) do anything else until we have gotten family, friends, and coworkers, our some rest.” Retreatants were told not to interact ordinary situations, and our posses- with each other, but to practice silence. sions. Some people put in their calen- We do not easily disconnect from At the beginning of the day, I could not dar an event called “Meeting with God” patterns and practices that have imagine how fruitful and fulfilling or “Quiet Time.” become so much of our life. But

APRIL 2021 33 THEBANNER.ORG purposefully connecting with God— These matters might influence the 22:44). Jesus rested in knowing his speaking, listening, and being silent intensity of how we pray and what we Father’s will. in God’s presence—can be an adven- pray for. It is God’s will for us to make time to turous, reverential, and liberating Being alone in prayer might mean be alone with him in prayer. We might experience. being in a position of vulnerability in struggle, but it will not be a struggle God does not communicate with every- which we open ourselves to God. We one day when we least expect it. Our one in the same way. God connects get real with God about what we think struggle will become a longing to with us through Scripture, circum- and feel without mincing our words. be with our God, who loves us and stances, and the Holy Spirit. We must God knows what is in our hearts and whom we love. intentionally engage God’s Word minds. We carry our thoughts, experi- May God help each of us, our families, and place ourselves in a position or ences, pain, and emotions with us. Life and our churches to make room for posture to receive. can be hard at times. There is value regular quiet times in prayer. in bringing our reality to the Lord Jesus prayed during in-between times in prayer: of a typical day of ministering to Denise L. Posie is a diversity, others and teaching the disciples; he “Praise be to the God and Father of equity, and inclusion disci- intentionally went off by himself to our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of pleship coach at Calvin Theological Seminary in pray. He was free at the moment! We compassion and the God of all comfort, Grand Rapids, Mich. She is must trust the Spirit and do the same, who comforts us in all our troubles, the author of Consider a showing up before God as we are. We so that we can comfort those in any Greater Purpose: Esther, need not worry about anything; it is a trouble with the comfort we ourselves Vashti and the Courageous Women Who Followed. safe place. receive from God” (2 Cor. 1:3-4).

Purposefully connecting with God In Psalm 63:1-8, David describes his might involve going alone to a partic- times of trouble in the wilderness. ular place that has meaning for you, He is thirsty and longing for God in such as a lake, a nature trail, a moun- a barren place away from his home tain, or a retreat center. I live about 45 and place of worship. Yet he seeks and minutes from beautiful Lake Michigan. depends on God. Sometimes I am drawn to the lake— even in winter!—because it is one of During the COVID-19 pandemic, we my quiet places to meet our God. might have felt depleted, tired, alone, and unable to go to our place of If you decide to stay at home, you worship. We went to secret closets might choose a comfortable chair, or quiet places, seeking comfort and your crafting corner, a designated assurance of God’s help. prayer closet, or somewhere else for a private time in prayer. None of God’s people are exempt from hard times. The key is knowing to During these times of quietness, we whom we belong and from where our 1. Have you struggled to find time to grow in knowing God and ourselves. help comes. There are some things in be alone with God? If yes, why? If not, When we struggle with something, life no one but God knows about, and how do you find the time and sustain or when illumination or conviction God is the only one who can turn the the practice? happens based on a recent sermon situation around. Thanks be to God! we heard, the Spirit might prompt us 2. Share your experiences of prayer to pray. Dallas Willard describes it Jesus faced his most vulnerable and retreats or what you know or have this way in his book The Spirit of the intimate moments in Gethsemane, heard about them. Disciplines: Understanding How God a familiar, quiet place to be on his 3. Are you comfortable with silence? Changes Lives: “In solitude, we confront knees, alone with Abba, his Father, in Why or why not? our own soul with its obscure forces hope of another way. He “prayed more and conflicts that escape our attention earnestly, and his sweat was like drops READ MORE ONLINE when we are interacting with others.” of blood falling to the ground” (Luke

APRIL 2021 34 THEBANNER.ORG FAITH MATTERS

The Great Renew

If you and I walk “SEE, FRANS? HERE. SEE IT?” my father we’ll suddenly experience! And how asked, outlining the letter “M” in the could we possibly miss the overall feel- in the ways lines on the palm of my right hand. ing of anticipation not unlike that at “And here is the other one,” he said, a great celebration where the guest of the Lord, tracing the same letter in my left of honor is expected at any moment? hand. “Two Ms. They stand for the This, of course, is because of the wait God will make Latin phrase memento mori, meaning for the great resurrection event at the ‘remember someday you will die.’ God end of time, a topic much discussed everything new. put them there so you would never in Scripture. One example is found in forget that!” This is how, at the age of John 11. When Martha hears Jesus was about 8, I became acquainted with the coming to see Lazarus, who had already concept of death. been dead for days, she is annoyed and confronts Jesus with, “If you had We all are familiar with death. When been here, my brother would not have family members have died, we usually died.” Jesus replies, “Your brother will like to think of them as having gone to rise again,” to which Martha in turn heaven. We have a vague notion that responds, still a little tartly, “I know he heaven is somewhere “up there,” but will rise again in the resurrection at the more likely it is located well outside last day.” Of course, when Jesus reminds of our sense of space or even time. her of who he is, Martha quickly and Sometimes we wonder what heaven is humbly acknowledges his authority. like. Through two separate accidents In the revelation John saw when he we lost our daughter, Margaret, and was in exile on Patmos, God gave him a our 13-year-old son, Ronald, a student vision of what soon will be: in my own eighth grade class, and I well recall the unrealistic yet press- “Then I saw ‘a new heaven and a new ing need to peek around the corner of earth.’ ... And I heard a loud voice from heaven to make sure they were OK. the throne saying, ‘Look! God’s dwell- ing place is now among the people, ... Although Scripture has little informa- and God himself will be with them and tion about heaven, we have been given be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear some pretty good hints about it. In from their eyes’” (Rev. 21:1-4). Luke 23:42-43 we read that one of the crucified criminals begged of Jesus, If you and I walk in the ways of the “Remember me when you come into Lord, God will make everything new. your kingdom!” to which Jesus replied, There will be no more death or mourn- “Truly I tell you, today you will be with ing, crying or pain. me in paradise.” Jesus likens heaven Instead there will be singing, dancing, to “paradise.” We also know that, once and making music, and we’ll be doing there, we will have transformed yet the things we liked to do, but now real bodies like Jesus’. (Remember doing them perfectly. And for all eter- Thomas’ interaction with the resur- nity our lives will be lives of joy. rected Jesus in John 20?) Other passages in Scripture point to this too. In Praise! Praise! Praise! Praise! Revelation 22 some are even described Frank DeVries enjoys as wearing robes, and Job asserts, “In 1. What do you think heaven is like, reading, writing, my flesh I will see God“ (Job 19:26). or how have you heard it described? making up songs, and being with his wife, In heaven, everything is perfect and 2. What biblical passages can you Celia. He attends find that tell us about heaven? Fleetwood Christian good. In God’s immediate presence, Reformed Church how else could it be? How struck READ MORE ONLINE in Surrey, B.C. we’ll be, too, by the all-pervading joy

APRIL 2021 35 THEBANNER.ORG THE OTHER 6

The Body and Blood of Motherhood

Even though I RECENTLY GAVE BIRTH to my fifth and daily motherhood, this is the way baby, and my body knows it. My soft Jesus chose to come to us. The labor Jesus is the Savior middle remembers the way it slowly pains that ripped through his moth- stretched to accommodate the lives er’s body were the same as the pains of the world, that grew inside it. The little red mole women experience today. Even though above my lip sprouted while carrying Jesus is the Savior of the world, he was he was nursed, my first child, and I have four simi- nursed, probably scraped his knees, lar markings from my other children. and definitely made dirty diapers. His probably scraped I’ve had to learn how to cope with and daily life involved the same hunger medicate a roller coaster of hormones and fatigue shared by all human his knees, and that have resulted in seasons of post- beings. And his death that we closely partum depression. Even my knees examine during this season of Lent definitely made testify to multiple pregnancies with was excruciatingly physical too. the stretch marks they wear. And that dirty diapers. is just the short list of long-term side The Weight of the Cross effects I’ve personally experienced When I was in middle school, my during childbirth. teacher read out loud an in-depth description of how Roman floggings The Weight of Motherhood and crucifixions took place. It was There is a certain weight to being a the first time I heard the words “Jesus parent, and that doesn’t apply only died on the cross” and listened with to those carrying extra pounds from more than spiritual ears. My entire pregnancy. The physical toll of nurtur- body cringed. What I’ve read in the ing life lasts long after a newborn cries Bible is enough to grasp the big idea out with their first breath, whether of salvation, but learning historical or not someone gave birth to the kids context has helped the physical cost of they are raising. There are babies to my salvation sink deep into my heart. bounce, diapers to change, toddlers to For example, it’s enough to know that chase, and spills to wipe up. There are “Pilate took Jesus and had him flogged” muddy pants to launder, peanut butter (John 19:1). Still, it’s impactful to learn and jelly sandwiches to prepare, and that Roman soldiers used whips games of pretend to play. There are made of leather tipped with pieces of sibling fights to break up, discipline lead or bone to tear the skin along a victim’s shoulders, back, and legs. I to carry out, and “owies” to kiss. By 7 knew Jesus’ death involved torturous o’clock most nights, my body is tired, pain and blood loss, but I didn’t know and there is a large spot of spit-up on that while hanging on the cross Jesus my shoulder. couldn’t breathe. I don’t always carry this weight well. In As the crucified hung from the nails moments of self-pity, I want to scream in their wrists, the muscles in their that I’m tired of working a 24-hour job Kendra Broekhuis lives chests were paralyzed and unable to while only being paid in my children’s in Milwaukee, Wis., push air out of their lungs. They had and is a member of City bodily fluids. My attitude is worse to push against the nails in their feet— Reformed Church. She when my kids act out or seem ungrate- rubbing against nerve and bone—in is a mom of five and ful. I want to show them the stretch the author of Here Goes order to lift their bodies up the cross marks and moles and hours of sleep Nothing: An Introvert’s beam so their chests could compress I’ve lost and say, “Can’t you see all that Reckless Attempt to and their lungs could exhale. Their Love Her Neighbor. I’ve sacrificed in order to give you life?” You can find her on legs would severely cramp as they Facebook and Instagram Although it’s not considered polite to held their body weight, forcing them @kendrabroekhuis. describe the gory details of childbirth to give up and hang by the nails in

APRIL 2021 36 THEBANNER.ORG conclusion: look at all he sacrificed in order to give us life! The beautiful thing is that, unlike the exasperated way I sometimes approach my chil- dren, Jesus’ goal isn’t to keep score. In fact, when he showed his disciples the nail marks in his hands and the place where the spear pierced his side, he said, “Peace be with you!” (John 20:19).

This truth doesn’t make me less tired as a mom, but the way Jesus endured a heavy cost in order to give me life helps me frame the physicality of motherhood with eyes of purpose instead of martyrdom. Jesus’ blood motivates our bodies. Love costs us, but at the same time we rejoice that the sacrifices we make are for the sake of building up the church (Col. 1:24). Our bodies are indeed wasting away, but our grief and everyday trials are “achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” (2 Cor. 4:16-17).

The physical nature and death of Jesus matters. As the Heidelberg Catechism reminds us in Q&A 16, Jesus had to be truly human (and truly righteous) because “God’s justice demands that human nature, which has sinned, must pay for sin; but a sinful human could never pay for others.” This physi- cality also matters because it reminds us that the obedience God asks of Photo by Larry Crayton for Unsplash us in our daily lives does not consist their wrists again. These movements apart, his nervous system tortured, his only of activities seen as “spiritual,” up and down the cross in order to bones disjointed, his muscles cramped, such as reading the Bible and attend- breathe became less frequent as the his thirst enraged, his lungs slowly ing church. victim’s body wore out. Their oxygen suffocated, his heart literally broken. The mundane moments of our days levels would fall, and their hearts All because Jesus chose to carry the that only God sees are opportunities would become so compressed that weight of our sins. to worship him too. When we kneel they could no longer pump blood down to pick up cereal from the floor through their bodies (paraphrased The Weight of Glory or change diapers, we are bowing to from the online article A Physician’s Jesus as we care for the most vulner- The physical sacrifices of parenting View of the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ, able among us. are not equal in any way to the sacri- by Dr. C. Truman Davis). fice Jesus made on the cross. However, Pilate “handed (Jesus) over to be cruci- the weight we bear as caregivers fied” (Mark 15:15), but it’s hard to stom- points us to the weight Christ bore ach that this meant Jesus endured for us. As his children, we can exam- more than six hours of his flesh ripped ine his scars and come to our own

APRIL 2021 37 THEBANNER.ORG MIXED MEDIA

The Surprising Presence of Jesus in Persian Poetry

Editor’s note: Recently I read the best- from my church in Iran. Mirzaei is now selling book The Stationary Shop, by 103 and lives in Canada. His genuine Marjan Kamali. Set in Tehran, the book love for Jesus Christ and for Persian centers on a shop selling not only pots poetry inspired him to spend many of jewel-toned ink, but also volumes years gathering the poems in this of poetry by the great Persian poets. book, which I hope and pray will one Reading this gem opened my eyes to the day be translated into English. wonder of Persian poetry, and a few He gathers 280 poems by the best- days ago I spotted this golden quote loved Persian poets. Each poem The Enneagram for from Hafiz on Instagram: “Fear is the reflects upon different aspects of Jesus’ cheapest room in the house. I would like life: the miracles of his birth, healing Spiritual Formation: to see you living in better conditions.” the sick, and bringing the dead back to How Knowing That Hafiz is quoted in this long-ago- life; his crucifixion; and, most signifi- Ourselves Can Make planned article by Sylvie Charliekaram, cantly, his resurrection from the dead. an Iranian Canadian and Christian The love, compassion, humility, and Us More Like Jesus Reformed elder, is the icing on my simplicity of Jesus’ earthly life, and By AJ Sherrill Persian poetry cake. I hope you will above all the life-giving breath and be as touched and inspired as I am by miraculous work of the Holy Spirit, are Reviewed by Lorilee Craker Sylvie’s revelations. woven throughout these poems. In this wise and insightful AS A CHRISTIAN WOMAN growing How meaningful for me to describe book, AJ Sherrill offers read- up in Iran, I was always fascinated how the love and ministry of Jesus ers an advanced course in that the name of Jesus Christ was Christ have profoundly influenced the Enneagram, a personal- mentioned in many poems by famous the work of many Persian poets in an ity theory with ancient roots classical poets in Persia (Iran). At Islamic country! By the work of the that includes nine different school, we used to study many of them Holy Spirit, these references to Jesus personality types. He goes as part of our Persian literature class will continue to touch many more beyond the basics to unlock and memorize the poems to be recited hearts in the future. new ways of viewing iden- in front of the whole class. After so tity, personality, discipleship, One poem by the world-renowned many years, I can still recite many of evangelism, and the Bible. Persian poet Hafiz has always inspired those poems from memory. me to live by the fruit of the Holy Spirit One of the most fascinat- ing and helpful aspects of Iran is a land rich with culture and and seek his guidance even through the book is how Sherrill traditions that date back thousands the darkest and most discourag- connects each type to a bibli- of years, an ancient civilization with a ing experiences of my life. The verse cal character, for better or long history of art, literature, and poetry says, “And if the grace of the Holy Spirit for worse. Every personal- rooted in the very existence of its being. guides us once more, others would also perform what Jesus did.” ity has a healthy, bright side Many Persian poets are well known and a darker, more problem- to the Western world. Famous To him be all the power and atic side. We are all fallen Persian poets such as Rumi, Ferdowsi, glory. Amen! creatures. Sherrill helps us Saadi Shirazi, Hafiz Shirazi, Attar “excavate” our darker sides Neishaboori, Nezami Ganjavi, Nasser Sylvie Charliekaram was to reveal more and more Khosrow, and Omar Khayyam have born in Tehran, Iran. An of our true identity as chil- been translated into English and other elder at Willowdale CRC in dren of God. “To be made Toronto, Ont., Charliekaram languages. Their influence on litera- in God’s image,” he says, “is is a senior manager at the ture has traveled far and wide. nonprofit Working Women to be agapetos—beloved.” Community Centre. She is (Brazos Press) Jesus Christ in the Literary Works of the cofounder of Spiritual Persian Poets is a book in Farsi, the Growth Ministry, ministering Persian language, by Rev. Allahiar to Farsi speakers in Toronto and beyond. Mirzaei, one of my beloved pastors

APRIL 2021 38 THEBANNER.ORG MIXED MEDIA

The Lowdown Posting Peace: Author Douglas S. Bursch offers practical ways to model online peacemaking and reconciliation. (IVP)

The Princess and the No Stupid Questions President: A friend- A Black Women’s The Pilgrim’s ship forged in war is History of the United Progress: A Poetic (Podcast) beautifully portrayed States (Audiobook) Retelling of John Reviewed by Kristen Parker by Kyle MacLachlan as U.S. President Franklin Which gets you further: talent By Diana Ramey Bunyan’s Classic Tale Roosevelt and Swedish or effort? Is optimism a luxury star Sofia Helin as Berry and Kali Nicole By Rousseaux or a good? How much do your Norwegian Crown Gross, narrated by Brasseur, illustrated friends affect your future? All Princess Martha in of these questions and more Janina Edwards by Katja Longhi Atlantic Crossing, based are talked about on the No on a true story of passion Reviewed by Michelle Reviewed by Sonya Stupid Questions podcast. Loyd-Paige VanderVeen Feddema and politics. (April 4, PBS) Author Stephen Dubner Godzilla vs. Kong: It’s the Did you know that Isabel de In 1678, John Bunyan wrote (Freakonomics) and research showdown we’ve been Olvera, a woman of African The Pilgrim’s Progress, an alle- psychologist and author waiting for since 2014’s heritage, explored much of gory depicting the Christian Angela Duckworth (Grit) use Godzilla. Director Adam North America in the early life. Since then, the novel this podcast to create an Wingard helms this 1600s as a free woman? That has been translated into environment in which they climactic entry in Warner was news to me. I didn’t know more than 200 languages can ask each other anything, Bros.’ MonsterVerse there were women explor- and has never been out of because there are “no stupid series. Who will win ers in the 1600s, let alone print. In this poetic retelling questions.” Their casual when the giant ape takes free Black women explor- of Bunyan’s work, Rousseaux conversations are interwoven on the lizard king? (PG-13, ers. Most of my classes on Brasseur makes the tale with intellectual insights. Black U.S. history started accessible to a young, modern Warner Bros., March 31) with slavery. But we were not audience. The narrator, No Stupid Questions leaves Malcolm Gladwell’s always slaves. Christian, experiences trials the listener feeling like a fly Latest: In The Bomber and temptations as well as on the wall listening in to two This book is a history of Mafia, Gladwell ponders companionship and refresh- people chatting over coffee. the U.S. from the 1600s to how technology and ment on his journey from It can be found on Apple 2000—but one in which Black people’s best inten- the City of Destruction to the Podcasts, Good Podcasts, women and their contri- tions collide in the heat Cross and then to the heav- Spotify, and other podcast butions are on full display. of war while examining enly City of Glory. The book streaming services. Each Janina Edwards’ narration the bombing of Tokyo is recommended for chil- episode is under 40 minutes. is arresting and comfort- during World War II. dren ages 8-12. Its allegorical ing, whether she is narrat- (April 27, Little, Brown content and spiritual mean- ing the brutality of slavery and Company) ing will be better understood or the wonder of discovery. I and appreciated with adult see God’s hand of grace and guidance. Katja Longhi’s mercy on the lives of Black bright, animated illustrations women in the United States. enhance Brasseur’s rhym- (Not recommended for young ing couplets. (Harvest House listeners. Audible, 10 hours, Publishers) 2 minutes)

APRIL 2021 39 THEBANNER.ORG CROSS EXAMINATION

Was the Resurrection of Jesus a Myth?

Jesus’ resurrection THERE HAVE BEEN ALLEGATIONS Furthermore, although most ancient that Jesus’ resurrection was a myth, Jews were not clear as to what resur- story went against a story the apostles and gospel writ- rected bodies might look like, many ers invented to support their claims drew from Daniel 12:3 and believed conventional that Jesus was the Son of God. Let me those new bodies would be glorious, give you three reasons why I think the shining like the stars. But the gospels ancient Jewish resurrection of Jesus was not made up make no mention at all of a shining by early Christians. body. Jesus’ resurrected body was resurrection beliefs. First, if the gospel writers made it up, transformed, but not shining. So if the why did they make women the first disciples made up Jesus’ resurrection, eyewitnesses to the empty tomb? these unconventional factors might In that first-century world, women make their account less believable. were regarded as less-than-credible Finally, if early Christians made up the witnesses. From ancient Roman law resurrection of Jesus, why did their to Jewish rabbinic law, women’s testi- religious opponents not produce Jesus’ mony was treated as unreliable. Yet body to refute their story? It’s easy all four gospels consistently described to prove Jesus did not rise from the women as the first eyewitnesses. In dead: just produce the body—unless our day, this would be like using the the Jewish religious authorities didn’t testimony of a drunk person to back have a body to show. up claims of a miracle. That’s not very smart if I want people to believe Matthew’s gospel describes how the my story. Similarly, it wouldn’t make religious leaders bribed the soldiers sense for the apostles to use women who guarded the tomb to spread a lie as primary witnesses to the central that the disciples stole the body (Matt. event of Christian faith unless it was 28:11-15). Yet people still believed the true, as embarrassing as it might have resurrection story. been for them. Perhaps those who knew the disciples Second, Jesus’ resurrection story went knew they were not likely to over- against conventional ancient Jewish power a group of fully armed soldiers resurrection beliefs. Most first-century to steal a body. Jews believed that bodily resurrec- tion only happens on the last day, on Furthermore, even if they did steal Judgment Day. That is what Martha Jesus’ body, why would they take time assumed Jesus was talking about in to unwrap it before taking it away? their conversation outside Lazarus’ The gospels note that the linen used tomb in John 11. As Martha said, “I to wrap the body was left in the tomb know he (Lazarus) will rise again in (Luke 24:12; John 20:5-7). It doesn’t the resurrection at the last day” (v. 24). make sense to unwrap the body first This Jewish belief means that every- if you are in a hurry to steal away. body altogether will be resurrected It’s an unusual bit of storytelling at the end time—a large-scale resur- detail, isn’t it? rection. Nobody thought the Messiah Given these facts—and more I haven’t was going to be resurrected first, all mentioned—it seems unlikely Jesus’ Shiao Chong is editor- by himself, many years or even centu- in-chief of The Banner. resurrection was simply invented by ries before Judgment Day. In fact, most He attends Fellowship his disciples. Christian Reformed Jews weren’t expecting the Messiah to Church in Toronto, Ont. die, let alone be resurrected!

APRIL 2021 40 THEBANNER.ORG WORD PLAY

Find the answers to the crossword clues in this issue of The Banner. See the solution in the next issue!

Down: 1. The CRCNA has 150 of these serving in hospitals, prisons, the military, etc. 2. New Life CRC has been sponsoring these for over 20 years 4. The Persian poet who said “Fear is the cheapest room in the house” 5. Sometimes we must disconnect with family and friends to ______with God 6. The “L” in SALT 8. With greater ______comes greater challenges 10. “Sunday is the golden ______that binds together the volume of the week” 11. There is a physical toll and an emotional weight to this 15. Isabel de ______, a free Black woman explorer in the 1600s

Across: 3. What Christ’s resurrection gives us 7. ______vs. Kong, a cinematic showdown between giant ape and lizard king 9. God will make everything ______12. A missing body is just one proof that this is real 13. Fort ______, the city where an Alberta church hosted a drive-in Easter service 14. Ministry ______Reimagined 16. This can leave trauma that doesn’t easily go away

17. Photo exhibit “Journey to the ______” Answers to the 18. Where Synod 2021 was to have taken place March 2021 puzzle

Free Family Faith Formation Resources

5 WAYS TO 5 WAYS TO HELP YOUR FAMILY 5 WAYS TO 5 WAYS TO BRING CHILDREN’S WONDER WITH KIDS GROW IN FAITH MINISTRY HOME 5 WAYS TO RETELL A BIBLE STORY Family faith formation is a journey, not a destination. 5 WAYS TO Here are five ways to grow in faith together with kids. WITH KIDS Encouraging curiosity in kids helps them want to learn more. A sense of Kids participate in children’s ministry programs for just a few hours each PRAY WITH KIDS wonder is an important part of their faith development too! Here are five ways 1 EXPLORE GOD’S STORY month, but those hours can be valuable stepping stones to a lot of growth for A great way for kids (and adults!) to remember God’s story and to experience to promote curiosity and wonder in your family life. HELP KIDS WORSHIP If it’s hard to gather the whole family for after-dinner devotions, find other ways and times to your family. Here are five ways to build on what your child learns at church. it more deeply is to retell it in ways that engage their head, heart, and hands. explore God’s story together. Read a Bible story at bedtime or while enjoying a special snack. Prayer is an anytime and anywhere conversation with God—no fancy words Get inspired with these easy ideas for retelling a Bible story. Ask your child to tell you about one person, place or thing from their weekly Dwell take- anything. But 1 1 WIN BY DOING A HARD THING required! The five ways to pray listed below are easy and meaningful to do. SLOW DOWN “Children learn through observation, but they learn best through participation. home resource. Pick up a pack of the excellent Walk at your child’s pace and try to physically get on their level when possible. See the and use them as discussion starters. Let’s be honest: it can be really hard to commit to regular attendance at 1 BUILD We take them to church so that being part of a church family and gathering God’s Big Story Use them with your family to encourage ongoing conversations with God. world through their eyes and wonder together at the things they’re experiencing. Use a cards (FaithAliveResources.org) participating in weekly worship and children’s ministry helps kids meet the God who loves Use building blocks or play dough to recreate scenes from the story. Work together or build magnifying glass to look even closer at God’s amazing creation. regularly to worship God in community with others becomes part of the fabric 2 them, see how God’s salvation plan unfolds through the Bible, develop solid faith habits, and scenes individually and then show and tell each other about what you’ve made. SHARE YOUR STORIES 1 KEEP A PRAYER JOURNAL Sharing faith stories with each other reminds us that God is at work in our lives every day. build friendships. That’s a win-win-win-win. (So is asking your children’s ministry coordinator 2 of their lives” (Karen DeBoer, Home Grown Handbook for Christian Parenting, 2 ENCOURAGE QUESTIONS To get the ball rolling, ask questions like these: to save extra take-home papers for you when you do miss a week.) Write prayer concerns in a notebook, on a calendar, or on paper “leaves” that you hang DRAW Faith Alive Christian Resources, p. 187). Here are five ways to help kids worship. from a branch in a vase. Then go back and look at the ways God answers those prayers Questions are a good thing! They come from a place of curiosity as children try to make There are lots of ways to use art to tell stories: Have each person draw a picture of a different • Where did you see God today? 2 BE A DETECTIVE over time. sense of day-to-day life. Try your best to react positively to questions, even if you’ve part of the story; then put the pictures together and tell the story again. Pick a word from the 1 • Tell about a time when you felt that God was really close to you. Ask your children’s ministry coordinator to share with parents the list of Bible stories your already answered hundreds of them today. BE POSITIVE 2 story and illustrate it. Make a cartoon strip. Sketch pictures of what you’re imagining as the • What is your favorite Bible story, and why? child will be exploring each week. Knowing the story topic ahead of time makes it much easier TRY CIRCLE PRAYERS story or text is being read; then compare your thoughts. Instead of saying, “We have to go to church” say “we get to go to worship.” Teach your kids 3 EMBRACE THE UNKNOWN to talk with your kids about it. Hold hands and take turns praying one sentence at a time for each “round.” You may find that worship isn’t just a place we go, it’s something we do with God’s family, and when we’re 3 CELEBRATE MILESTONES 3 If your child asks you a question that you don’t know the answer to (and can’t look up it helpful to focus your prayer by using this kid-friendly version of the “ACTS” model, SING not there, God’s family isn’t complete. Baptisms, birthdays, graduations, and personal “firsts” such as learning to ride a bike, 3 LET YOUR KIDS BE TEACHERS online), admit that you don’t know. Wonder along with them what the answer might be replacing Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication with these prompts: Make up a tune (or use one that’s familiar), and turn the story into a song. Or look for a losing a tooth, and completing a project at school, are all milestones that families can mark Kids may feel like they’re on the “hot seat” if you grill them one-on-one about what they and remind them that part of the mystery of God is that we don’t know all the answers. 2 TAKE ALONG WORSHIP TOOLS • “God, you are . . . ” version of the story that’s already been recorded, and learn it together. (We love the Bible story together in ways that point to God. Include in your celebration a prayer of thanks and a learned in Sunday school. But if you talk about the story as a family, you give kids a chance Rain for Roots.) • “I’m sorry for . . . ” songs written and recorded by 4 Bring along tools that will involve your children in worship rather than simply keep them conversation about God’s faithfulness in the life of your child and family. to teach what they have learned. Set aside time each week to look through and talk about DEVELOP EMPATHY • “Thank you for . . . ” busy. Some ideas: a children’s storybook Bible, a small notebook and colored pencil for the take-home resources your child receives in church. Mark “Storytime” on your calendar in 4 ACT Wondering is a great way to help your kids walk a mile in other people’s shoes. When • “Please . . . ” drawing/writing questions, impressions, and prayers. 4 FIND YOUR “FAITHFUL FIVE” advance as a reminder. something amazing or difficult happens, ask questions like “I wonder what she thought Use puppets (socks, dolls, or utensils will do!) or yourselves to act out the story. Consider Your extended family, your friends, and your church family can have a profound impact on 3 when that happened 3 LET KIDS CHOOSE THE SEATS 4 meaning of the story, BUILD YOUR PRAYERS taking photos of each scene and printing them as a book or comic strip. Another fun idea is to . . . ?” or “I wonder how that made her feel your children’s faith. In fact, according to the folks at Fuller Youth Institute, the involvement ASK ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS . . . ?” Have each person create a shape that represents what they’d like to pray about. LEGO assign readers to read the dialog and/or assign sound effects to particular words, and to reread 5 Parents with young children often sit toward the back of the worship space so they won’t be of at least five nonfamily adults is key to kids’ faith formation. Who are (or who could be) After you read the story together, ask questions that get at the ™ the story together. PAUSE AND REFLECT WHEN EXPLORING GOD’S STORY content. You can ask questions like these: bricks, play dough, or pipe cleaners work well! Then pray about those things. embarrassed by their children’s behavior and can exit easily. But often children prefer the your kids’ “faithful five”? not just the Take time to wonder together about the people, places, and events in the Bible stories front because they can see, hear, and participate better. 5 WONDER your child hears in children’s ministry. Ask your child, “What do you wonder about this • What does this story tell us about God? 4 TAKE PRAYER WALKS 5 REACH OUT • What does this story tell us about people? Ask open-ended questions that have no “right or wrong” answers. For example, story?” Their answer will give you insight into their thinking, and it will probably deepen 4 BE A “CHURCH WHISPERER” Name and pray about the things and people you see while walking in your neighborhood. . . . ? Weave service and hospitality into your family life. Volunteer together for causes you care • What do you wonder about this story? your own understanding too. Broaden your child’s sense of community by also praying for the people and places you • I wonder what . . . (I wonder what Jonah thought. .about . ?) inside the fish Help kids stay engaged during worship by asking questions and making observations. Duringabout. Get to know the people in your neighborhood. Care for those who are hurting. Talk I wonder what you would have thought about a song, whisper, “My favorite verse of this song is the third one. Which part do you like the 5 PRAY TOGETHER locate together on a map or globe. . . . ? about injustice and advocate for change together. (I wonder how it felt to cross the Red Sea • I wonder how . . . . ?) best?” As Scripture is read, ask your child how it would feel to be living in that story. . . . . ? Talk about what the Bible story means for us today. How might it change the way we love God, 5 JUST BREATHE I wonder how this story makes you feel . love our neighbor, and care for God’s world? Pray together that God will help your family do I wonder who . . . (I wonder who the shepherds told first about meeting baby Jesus 5 TALK ABOUT WORSHIP ON THE WAY HOME Teach your kids a simple prayer verse or phrase to silently repeat while inhaling and • . . . ?) those things in your daily life. I wonder who you would have run to tell exhaling. This is a great way to calm their spirit and/or help them focus as you enter into . . . ? Ask kids about what they saw and heard in worship. Affirm their insights and encourage • I wonder why . . . (I wonder why Jesus told stories to people prayer together. For example, “When I am afraid, / I put my trust in you” (Psalm 56:3) or . . . ?) them to learn more. Ask if they wonder about anything that was said. As you talk, use the AT HOME I wonder why we don’t always do what God asks us to do “Be still, and know / that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). language of worship to build your children’s vocabulary. © 2020 Faith Alive Christian Resources. All rights reserved. dwellcurriculum.org/home AT HOME Permission is granted to reproduce this resource for use in AT HOME © 2020 Faith Alive Christian Resources. All rights reserved. ministry contexts or at home. Permission is granted to reproduce this resource for use in © 2020 Faith Alive Christian Resources. All rights reserved. ministry contexts or at home. AT HOME dwellcurriculum.org/home Permission is granted to reproduce this resource for use in dwellcurriculum.org/home © 2020 Faith Alive Christian Resources. All rights reserved. ministry contexts or at home. Permission is granted to reproduce this resource for use in ministry contexts or at home. AT HOME dwellcurriculum.org/home © 2020 Faith Alive Christian Resources. All rights reserved. Permission is granted to reproduce this resource for use in AT HOME © 2020 Faith Alive Christian Resources. All rights reserved. dwellcurriculum.org/home ministry contexts or at home. Permission is granted to reproduce this resource for use in dwellcurriculum.org/home ministry contexts or at home. Want to help families learn to pray together, explore God’s Word together, and grow in faith? Check out Dwell at Home’s “5 Ways” series at DwellCurriculum.org/Home.

These FREE one-page tip sheets give parents and caregivers practical, creative ideas for nurturing faith at home.

They’re perfect for sharing with families via email, social media, and your church’s website. Or download and print them to hand out.

For more ways to connect children’s ministry and family faith formation check out DwellCurriculum.org/Home AT HOME

APRIL 2021 41 THEBANNER.ORG ADS

DEADLINES: 4/5/21 for May; 5/3/21 June. Subject PRICES: Most ads are $0.43US per character TO ADVERTISE: Place your classified ad online to availability. Details online. (min. 150 characters including punctuation and at thebanner.org/classifieds or email it to clas- US Advertising in The Banner does not imply editorial spaces). A discounted rate of $0.36 per charac- [email protected] or fax it to 616-224-0834. endorsement. ter and $60 per photo applies to Anniversaries, Questions? Call 616-224-0725. Birthdays, Obituaries, Denominational and Classical Announcements, and Congregational Announcements.

Denominational Announcements MARANATHA CRC OF WOODSTOCK, ON IS their husbands, eight grandchildren, 17 great SEARCHING FOR A LEAD PASTOR. In keeping grandchildren, sisters Marjorie Farhat and NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER (U.S.) In May 1988 with our mission, Finding Joy in Following Jesus, Gloria Vos, many nieces and nephews, and the President of the United States signed into we desire a shepherd to nurture growth in our countless friends, we all praise God for your law a bill establishing the first Thursday of May faith with Biblical preaching, to encourage dis- long, rich and exemplary life. as a National Day of Prayer. This year the Na- cipleship and small group growth and to equip tional Day of Prayer falls on Thursday, May 6. our members to reach out and shine God’s love JOHANNA (KOOY) KONYNENBELT, oldest The synod of the CRC has urged churches in in our community and in all of God’s world. resident of Nobleford, Alberta and lifelong member of Canada's first CRC, celebrates the United States “to observe faithfully any Contact [email protected] national day of prayer which the United States her 100th birthday on April 19. Her children, President publicizes to the nation” (Acts of Syn- PASTOR First CRC in beautiful Thunder Bay, grandchildren, great- and great-great-grand- od 1969). “Our churches must be open to our ON is seeking a full-time pastor to lead our children thank God for her love, faith and congregations and our fellow [citizens] on such congregation. Please email your resume or many contributions to her community and occasions, when God in his providence leads inquiries to [email protected]. church over the years. those in civil authority to call our citizenry to YOUTH AND WORSHIP LEADER. Christ Com- MARGUERITE [PEG] KNOLL pray. We must pray for and with our country” munity Church in Sheboygan, Wisconsin is celebrates her 100th birth- (Acts of Synod 1958). Colin P. Watson, Sr., Ex- searching for a full-time ministry leader who is day on April 23. Thanking ecutive Director of the CRCNA in love with the Lord, humble, Spirit-led, relates God for her loving and car- Announcement of Candidacy well to all generations, has a heart for prayer, ing heart, prayers, and youth, appreciates contemporary and tradi- faith are her children, Rob- We are pleased to announce that ERIK tional worship, and is ready to join us in follow- ert [Ruth]. Patricia [John] DELANGE has now completed his academic ing the Lord to reach our community in bold Timmerman, and Randall requirements and is eligible for call as a can- and creative ways. This person must be ready [Marijo], her 10 grandchil- didate for the ministry of the Word. Colin to work hard and embrace our family just as dren, and 24 great grandchildren. She feels so P.Watson, Sr., Executive Director we will welcome this person with open arms blessed for all these years the Lord has given for what we expect will be many years of grow- her. Peg resides at 2121 Raybrook SE, DeVos Available for Call ing together. Interested Candidates please 355, Grand Rapids, MI 49546 The council of Emden Christian Reformed send resume to [email protected]. BIRTHDAY 95 YEARS Church is pleased to announce that the REV. Birthdays JOSEPH KIM, having completed his Ph.D in Hu- GLENN WYNGARDEN of 500 Parkside, Apt. man Development and Family Studies at Iowa BIRTHDAY 105 YEARS 137, Zeeland, MI 49464 celebrated his 95th State University on 12/11/2020, is once again birthday on March 13. Glenn (Lefty) enjoyed MINNIE (DE LEEUW) STOLK will celebrate eligible for a call as a minister of the Word. May 71 years of marriage with his loving wife with joy and thanksgiving God's blessings for God use this training to further his kingdom. Marge before her death in 2018. He is a joy her 105 years on April 30. Birthday greetings and blessing to his children Rob & Sally Petro- are welcomed and can be sent to The Laurels Church Positions Available elje and Doug and Sandy Holtrop, to 15 grand- of Hudsonville (3650 Van Buren St. 49426) DIRECTOR OF CHILDREN'S MINISTRIES - children/spouses and 21 great-grandchildren. We love you! CrossPoint Church in Chino, CA is seeking a BIRTHDAY 100 YEARS Director of Children’s Ministries to lead and Obituaries maintain our dynamic and growing children’s HILDA HOOGENBOOM (FORMALLY DE programs while nurturing faith and belonging BOER) will celebrate d.v. her 100th birthday GRIEDE, Albert "Al" Age 90 of La Mesa, CA in our youngest members and visitors. See on March 21, 2021. She is the oldest charter Went home to be with Jesus on February 14, the opportunity profile at www.crosspointchi- member at Ebenezer CRC Jarvis, Ontario. She 2021. Son of Jacob and Reka Griede Beloved no.org/employment. resides at # 106 - 98 Talbot St E Jarvis ON NOA husband of the late Esther Griede (Meines). IJO. Her family thank God for His many years Loving father of Cyndi (Ken) Boss, Sharon LEAD PASTOR - Aylmer CRC in Aylmer, On- of faithfulness in her life. Houtman, Jack (Gayle) Griede. Grandfather tario is seeking a Lead Pastor gifted in the of 12; Great-Grandfather of 11. Brother to areas of shepherding and teaching. We are JAYNE FEENSTRA VAN- Annamae Gorter; Marilyn Van Kalsbeek (de- prayerfully searching for a self motivated and DERMALE of 3600 E. Fulton ceased). www.facebook.com/albertgriede compassionate Pastor who is devoted to pro- SE Apt DC 209, Grand Rap- viding Reformed preaching, passionate about ids 49546, will celebrate LIGTENBERG, Verla died peacefully in her nurturing our spiritual growth and equipping her 100th birthday May 1. sleep Feb 7 at 97. Daughters Sheri Ligtenberg us for community outreach. If this is a posi- Jayne enjoyed 64 years of & Candy (& Glenn) Ornee are thankful for her tion you may feel God’s calling to, we would marriage to Bud before he rich full life. Grandchildren, Jamie Gilliland love to speak with you. Please contact Lisa at passed away in 2010. A joy & Danny Ornee, great grandchildren, Alana, 519-520-1220 or email bruceandlisavk@hot- and blessing to her daugh- Kaden & Brooke Gilliland, & many loving neph- mail.com. Job description and church profile ter and husband, Anne and Stephen Tuuk, ews & nieces honored Verla with a memorial are available on the Portal. daughters-in-law Mimi and Kathelene and service at her church in Santa Barbara. Vern

APRIL 2021 42 THEBANNER.ORG & Verla met & married in Bellflower, CA in born in the Netherlands in 1932. He immigrat- 1946 at Bethany Christian Reformed Church ed to Canada in 1952, and married in 1959. He & were married 65 years. After retiring they studied Education at UBC. He was involved moved to Santa Barbara in 1995 where Verla in the Christian school movement in BC his lived in their home until the last 3 months of whole career. He leaves behind his wife, Willy, her life. The joy of the Lord was their strength! and 4 children: Kathy, Arnie, Jacqueline and Christine and their spouses, 12 grandchildren NYENHUIS, Grace G. (Jongsma), 95, of and 9 great grandchildren. Henk loved the Whitinsville, MA, went home to be with her Lord and lived his faith out well. Lord on January 18, 2021. Predeceased by her husband John, grandson Neal, and brother VANDENBERG, Lester, age 92, of Edgerton, Explore. Harold, she is survived by her children: Ellen MN, died peacefully on Jan. 22, 2021. Born on Fowler, Edward Nyenhuis, Rhonda Adams, Dec. 1, 1928 to Teunis and Elizabeth (Nicolay) Connect. Paul (Karen) Nyenhuis, and daughter adopted VandenBerg, Les is survived and cherished in love, Brenda Kasper and former husband by his wife of 43 years, Beth (DeBoer/Fey), Tom Kasper; as well as 5 grandchildren and children Duane (Rosann) Vanden Berg, Peter Experience. 2 great grandchildren. She is also survived Vanden Berg, Joann (Darwin) Schelhaas, Mel- by brothers Rev Allan (Joyce) Jongsma and vin (Brenda) Vanden Berg, Eugene (Thelma) Robert (Helen) Jongsma, as well as her many Vanden Berg, Janette (Grant) Clausen; step- Nyenhuis brothers and sisters. She leaves be- children Rick (Karen) Fey, Roxanne (Al) Nie- Mount St. Helens Na� onal Volcanic Monument hind a legacy of faith and love for the Lord. boer, Randy (Jan) Fey, Rolland (Cheryl) Fey, Memorial contributions can be made to the Rosemari (Dennis) Kroll; many grandchildren 2021 GUIDED ITINERARIES: Whitinsville Christian School. and great-grandchildren, and sister Johanna Sankey. Les was predeceased by his first wife, THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST: OSTERHAVEN, Bruce, age 84, of Grand Rap- Janette (Gelling) and granddaughter, Tonya Na� onal Parks of Washington ids, MI, was called to his eternal home on VandenBerg, as well as siblings Grace Schuit, Jul 22 – Jul 31 | John & Rachel Witt e January 27, 2021. He is survived by his wife of Henrietta Elbers, Jim, Jake, Henry, Art, and $ Refundable Deposit $ more than 68 years, Shirley Faye (Herweyer); Rich VandenBerg. He served in the Korean children Paul and (Linda) Sue Osterhaven, War 1951-1952, and was a life-long farmer and ADVENTURES IN SCANDINAVIA Keith and Lori Osterhaven, Terry and Dianne church member, volunteering many hours of Sep 8 – 21 | Johannes & Lynda Witt e (Osterhaven) Flynn, and James and Melissa service to Hope Haven Wheelchairs ministry $ Refundable Deposit $ Osterhaven; 15 grandchildren; and 28 great and M2 prison ministry. Psalm 91:1-2. grandchildren. THE CANADIAN ROCKIES VANDERBILT, Eloise passed away on 2-25-21. WITH GLACIER NATIONAL PARK TRIEZENBERG, LaVerne C. (Pruim), 88, of Ka- Born in Rehoboth NM, she was the daughter Sep 11 – 19 | Bruce Buursma lamazoo peacefully passed on to heaven on of Cornelius and Lois Kuipers, missionaries $ Refundable Deposit $ January 26, 2021. She was preceded in death and teachers in Zuni NM. She married Maas by her husband Henry J. Triezenberg with VanderBilt in 1950; they spent 30 years as GREECE: SHINING THE LIGHT OF JESUS whom she celebrated 50 years of marriage. missionaries in Japan and the Philippines. Sep 16 – Sep 27 | Bill & Lyn Vanden Bosch She was also predeceased by her parents, In retirement they attended Hope Fellow- THE NETHERLANDS BY BIKE & BARGE Henry and Martha Pruim, her sister Beverly ship in Flagstaff and West Valley Christian Sep 17 – Sep 25 | Kathy & John Korstange Dood, and son-in-law Tom Morgan. Celebrat- Fellowship in Sun City AZ. She was preceded $ Refundable Deposit $ ing her life are her children, Dan and Paula in death by her husband and her daughter Triezenberg, Cindy and Tom Nanninga, Steve Cori Fordice. She is survived by her children JOURNEY THROUGH THE LAND and Laura Triezenberg, Larry and Christina Lori VanderBilt, Monty and Lori (Broersma) Sep 19 – Oct 3 | Jeff & Karen Blamer Triezenberg, and Heidi Morgan, 11 grandchil- VanderBilt, Lois VanderBilt (Ash Marquart), dren, and 8 great grandchildren. LaVerne was Deb VanderBilt (Bill Soleim), Joni VanderBilt PAUL’S MISSIONARY JOURNEYS a woman of deep and abiding faith in the Lord (Breen Smith), son-in-law Tim Fordice, sisters IN GREECE and a lifelong member of the Christian Re- Carol DeVries of Salt Lake City and Darlynn Oct 7 – Oct 19 | Dr. Jeff rey A.D. Weima formed Church. She and Henry valued Chris- and Tom Pettinga of Holland MI, 13 grandchil- tian schools, loved to share the zoo with their dren and 23 great-grandchildren. She lived a A TASTE OF THE SOUTHERN STATES grandchildren, and in retirement volunteered life full of joy, generosity, and love, her legacy Oct 18 – Nov 2 | Johannes & Lynda Witt e for a year at Rehoboth Christian School. She to her children and all who knew her. $ Refundable Deposit $ knit prayer shawls for many going through dif- ficult circumstances. Memorial contributions VANDERLAAN, Marcia, 94, a resident of Alam- SIGN UP TODAY! to ReFrame Ministries, Rehoboth Christian eda, CA passed peacefully on January 15,2021. School, or Zuni Christian School. Born in Nicaragua, she was preceded in death www.wi� etours.com/banner by her husband Dirk in 1991. She is survived VAN DRUNEN, Milton of Lansing, IL went to by her children Dirk, Harold, Robert and Jen- LOOKING FOR SOMETHING ELSE? his heavenly home on January 30, his 96th neke and their spouses; and 5 grand-children Our Vacati on Consultants are eager to birthday. Beloved husband for 72 years of An- and their spouses, and 1 great grandchild. help you get wherever you want to go! naMae (nee Huizenga) and father of the late Visit www.witt etravel.com or call us Milt (Rita) Van Drunen, Kathy (Bill) Dykstra, ZYLSTRA, David B., 96, of Grand Rapids, at (616) 942-5112 to get started. Deb (Jim) Panozzo, Steve (Deb) Van Drunen, passed peacefully from one life to another Joel (Carol) Van Drunen. 18 grandchildren, 44 on December 30, 2020. Preceded in death by great grandchildren. We are thankful for his his wife Carolyn (Mulder), and survived by his example of faith and service. wife Beatrice (Grotenhuis), David leaves a pro- foundly Christian legacy with his 6 children, 2 VAN HUIZEN, Henk. On February 4th, 2021, stepchildren, 20 grandchildren, and 16 great- Grand Rapids, MI | 616.957.8113 the Lord took Henk van Huizen home. He was grandchildren. His joy remains contagious.

APRIL 2021 43 THEBANNER.ORG Anniversary clients buy properties as well. Contact Doug Takens of Independence Realty, 6801 Gettys- WEDDING ANNIVERSARY 60 YEARS burg, Hudsonville, 616-262-4574 or takens@ KOSTER, Al & Carol (Falmouth, Michigan) will sbcglobal.net celebrate 60 years of marriage on April 7. CARING FOR AGING Their children, the late Gary & Diane Koster, PARENTS? Visiting Vicki & Dave Ebels, Greg & Karen Koster, Von- Angels has been pro- da & Greg Dreyer, Tonya & Tim Plaisier along viding in-home assist- with 13 grandchildren and 5 great grandchil- ed living for 15 years dren give thanks to God for the love, faith- in West Michigan. fulness, and legacy of our Christian parents. Trish Borgdorff and Praise God from whom all blessings flow! her multitude of An- WEDDING ANNIVERSARY 50 YEARS gels offer meal prep, light housekeeping, run errands, provide transportation to appoint- GRITTER - The children of ments, and joyful companionship. Whether Dr. Kenneth and Marianne you need a few hours a day or up to 24-hour (Vander Woude) Gritter are care for assisted independence in your home, pleased to announce their call Visiting Angels at 616-243-7080. parents’ 50th wedding an- niversary. Ken and Mari- FAITHFUL JOUR- anne were united in mar- NEY QUARTET riage on February 26, 1971, Looking for live at Maple Avenue Christian Christian music Reformed Church in Holland, MI. They have for your event? been blessed with 2 children: Joel (Jenifer) and Our W.Michigan Brad (Ariel); and 5 grandchildren: Erica, Anne, based, male singers are available for indoor/ Hope, Will and Clara. They have been mem- outdoor concerts. Visit: www.faithfuljourney- bers throughout the years at Fuller Ave. CRC quartet.com or email [email protected] and LaGrave CRC in Grand Rapids, MI and Bethany CRC in Muskegon, MI. They have a MOVING TO/FROM SEATTLE/ BELLEVUE/ close relationship with Christ and have WA? 35 + yrs exp! Allan Kuipers, Coldwell passed that love on to their family. God has Banker Danforth. 206-850-2724, rlst8brokr@ blessed Ken and Marianne with 50 years, and comcast.net. www.allankuipers.com they have been a blessing to their family, friends and community that entire time. You REMODELING? Call Ken DeVries today for a are invited to participate in a belated card/ free estimate on windows or kitchen/bath email “shower” to celebrate 50 years of God’s renovation. 616-457-5880. Since 1985. www. blessings in marriage! Ken and Marianne’s ad- homework-construction.com dress is 1919 Boston St. SE, Apt. C313, Grand Real Estate Sales / Rentals Rapids, MI 49506, and their email address is [email protected] . We love you dearly, 1 BEDROOM APARTMENT Burton and Pat- Mom and Dad! terson SE, Grand Rapids MI. Perfect for Calvin students and retirees. Includes utilities ex- Employment cept electric. $775 a month. Call 616-340-6038. NANNY WANTED Nanny in Tinley Park Fall ANNA MARIA ISLAND CONDOS Large of '21, 9 hrs/day, M-F. Christian values & dog- pool, beach access, free WiFi, 1&2 Bedroom friendly are a must. If interested, please call $700/$800/$900 a wk. redekercondosonami. Jon for an interview @ 708.878.7442 com Tim 941-704-7525 Products and Services COTTAGE 4 RENT. 4 bed, 3 bath, updated. ABSOLUTELY BEST PRICES paid for religious Sleeps 12, Hess Lake, MI. private waterfront. books. Contact Credo Books, 1540 Pinnacle $1,600/week. Call Lonnie 616-942-0048 East SW, Wyoming, MI 49509, ph. (616) 249- 9291. [email protected] HOME FOR SALE 655 Broadview SE Grand Rapids, MI-Spacious ranch, hardwood floors, BOERS’ TRANSFER & STORAGE, INC Offering fireplace, pool, four bedrooms, office area, professional moving services within the Unit- $279,900. Near Alger business district. Pic- ed States and Canada. EXCELLENT CLERGY tures on Zillow. Interested-616 581-7536 DISCOUNTS and an approved mover for re- tired CRC clergy! 13325 Riley Street, Holland, LAKE MICHIGAN COTTAGE 4 RENT Comfort- MI; 1-800-433-9799 or 616-399-2690 email: lar- able & newer on Lake Michigan in Montague. [email protected]; www.boerstransfer. 4BR 2BA, available Jun 5-12, wonderful views com Agent for Mayflower Transit, LLC. 1800/week. 616-452-6621

I CAN LIST YOUR HOME FOR $1000 OR 1.5%. NAPLES AREA 2 BD GATED CONDO, 2 FBA, 1992 Calvin grad will list your property using great pool, beautiful residential area near a cost effective Business Model- full service, Gulf Available monthly JAN-MAR & APR-DEC with savings. The system works! 200 closings (reduced price). No pets No smoking. 616- in 2020, including 25 Banner clients. We help 560-2895

APRIL 2021 44 THEBANNER.ORG IN MY SHOES

Finding Points of Connection

It might be hard YOUNG PEOPLE AREN’T GROWING UP people would receive cards, flowers, in the same world their parents and meals, visits, and phone calls. This to see, but there grandparents did. They are less active beautiful practice reflects the actions and spend less time outside. Many kids of the early church (Acts 2:42-47). own a cellphone before high school are young people But our idea of who might need such and are always connected to their compassion could be expanded. It peers via text and social media. experiencing might be hard to see, but there are Modern technology allows for young people experiencing anxiety, anxiety, constant communication, which for loneliness, and hopelessness in our some young people leads to thoughts congregations. They are also “the least loneliness, and of hopelessness. Some deal with bully- of these.” Caring for a struggling young ing at school and find the harassment person might include assistance with hopelessness in continues online when they get home. a college application, helping make Or consider a student who strives for employment connections, or finding our congregations. high achievement. Whenever she tangible ways to treat young, single logs onto social media, she views the individuals as equal members in the achievements proudly posted by her body of the Christ. peers as a constant reminder of her One way to start is by simply own inadequacies. approaching an individual after COVID-19 has hit youth hard. While church (or, in a time of pandemic, the death rate is certainly much reaching out via text) asking questions lower in this age group, the virus around how school or work is going and our attempts to slow its spread and offering help where appropriate. have had other effects. Those looking Leaving the conversation by hand- for employment saw a shrunken job ing out your email address can help market. Many classes became virtual. continue the relationship. Young adults looking to nurture new Our tangible care should grow from romantic relationships had fewer the hope that is fundamental to our options for getting to know each other. Christian worldview—something Statistics from Toronto’s Centre for we can share with our youth. We Addictions and Mental Health show can express that we are children that Canadians aged 18-39 have who are tenderly loved by the God been more likely to experience anxi- of the universe. We can share that ety, binge drink, feel lonely, and be God is always renewing and redeem- depressed during the pandemic than ing his creation, including those he older Canadians. Loneliness and anxi- created on the sixth day. We can point ety in particular differentiated this to countless moments in Scripture age group from the rest. It doesn’t take where humanity’s failures and pain much imagination to understand that are followed by God’s covenantal constant anxious thoughts during love, which causes God to reach out to isolation can quickly lead to feel- retrieve his hopeless, lost sheep. Adam Vanderleest ing hopeless. is in his final year of Some people’s situations make it diffi- medical school at As Christians, we are called to serve cult for them to relate to the hope we Western University. the least of these, and our churches do have in Jesus. That’s OK. They might He loves experienc- an excellent job serving some. When I be ready to hear only that “all who are ing God’s creation. was growing up, my church’s Sunday weary and burdened” can find rest in He and his wife, Katherine, worship at bulletin included the names of church Jesus. Sharing this message and being Talbot Street Church members in the hospital, recovering like Christ simply with your presence in London, Ont. from an illness, or grieving. These might be all that’s required.

APRIL 2021 45 THEBANNER.ORG STILL

The Agony of a Son

Darkness surrounds you in your bed alone,

takes over your body, feelings, and soul.

You cringe in great pain and loudly you groan;

a wounded spirit that longs to be whole.

Abandoned in darkness as in a cave

without old Fingal’s music to relieve

the strains of roaring, crashing, white-topped wave

crushing your vessel; they won’t let you leave

for gentle pools in an ocean of calm

that pacifies the buffeted temper;

you cry for the One who anoints with balm

that soothes your total being’s distemper.

Appearing most absent, he is most near,

holds you to his bosom, a son most dear.

Habib Steele, previ- ously known as Bill Steele, is a retired Minister of the Word and Sacraments in the Christian Reformed Church. He served as a missionary with Christian Reformed World Missions in the Republic of Guinea, West Africa. He is a member of New Life CRC in Guelph, Ont.

APRIL 2021 46 THEBANNER.ORG Christ ’s Resurrection Story

West Africa can be a difficult place Naomi shared her powerful testimony in to share a message of salvation. Still, ReFrame’s youth video series on Facebook ReFrame’s partners there are ready to and YouTube. Born into a Muslim family, share the hope of Christ’s resurrection Naomi first heard about Christ while with their fellow French speakers this attending church with her aunt. Easter. And many of them are celebrating “As someone who had not experienced that hope because of gifts from Christian much love in their life before, I was moved Reformed individuals and congregations. to give my life to someone who loves us unconditionally.”

See Naomi’s video and help others in Burkina Faso hear the Easter story this year at ReFrameMinistries.org/Easter

APRIL 2021 47 THEBANNER.ORG

38789 ReFrame_Banner April 2021 ad.indd 1 2/26/21 12:10 PM Simple Sessions for Complex Times

Available free to CRCs For these uncertain times in By Video: Whether pre-recorded children’s ministry, we’ve tailor- segments or live via video through Dwell Digital made 36 new stand-alone Dwell conference. sessions for use in a variety of situations to help make lesson At Church: If lower attendance planning a little easier. We call it requires you to combine into a Dwell Flex. multi-age class. Dwell Flex is...flexible! At Home: Send these easy lessons for families to do at home. These are simplified, single-page Dwell lesson plans that require no Dwell Flex sessions are available other materials and work within a now as part of a church’s Dwell wide range of ages and in multiple Digital subscription (and free to contexts, including: CRCs, thanks to ministry shares).

Call 800.333.8300 to sign up or visit DwellCurriculum.org to learn more.

APRIL 2021 48 THEBANNER.ORG

38555 Dwell Flex Ad.indd 1 9/9/20 9:47 AM