th The This Abstract of the 260 of the Reformed in the United States is hereby affectionately dedicated to the memory of Reformed Church

in the Rev. Robert D. Sander United States July 22, 1920 – January 18, 2006

a faithful servant of our Lord Jesus Christ, a beloved, humble friend, and now in everlasting glory and peace with Abstract of the Minutes the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ th 260 Synod whom he proclaimed and loved.

May the seeds of the which he sowed continue to bear fruit for generations to come.

May 15-18, 2006 — The 260th Synod of the RCUS Grace Reformed Church Mitchell, South Dakota Standing Committee Reports ...... 81 Ecumenical Committee ...... 81 Table of Contents Benevolence Committee ...... 81 Education and Student Aid ...... 82 Judicial Committee ...... 83 Ministerial Aid Committee ...... 84 Directory of Congregations ...... 1 Minutes of Classes ...... 85 Missions Committee ...... 87 Roll of Synod ...... 7 Nominations Committee ...... 89 Ministers ...... 7 Publications Committee ...... 89 Primarius Elders ...... 12 Finance Committee ...... 89 Secundus Elders Present at All or Part of the Meeting ...... 15 Excuses Committee ...... 90 Licentiate ...... 17 Overtures Committee ...... 91 Students under Care ...... 17 Miscellaneous Reports and Other Business ...... 91 Expression of Appreciation to Host Congregation ...... 91 SUMMARY INFORMATION ...... 18 Adoption of Stated Clerk’s Report, Executive Committee’s Report, Officers of Synod ...... 18 and Standing Overture’s Committee Report ...... 91 Permanent Synodical Committees ...... 18 Adjournment ...... 91 Special Committees ...... 19 Reading of the Minutes ...... 91 Synodical Guideline ...... 19 Roll Call ...... 91 Motion to Adjourn ...... 91 ABSTRACT OF THE MINUTES ...... 20 Closing Service ...... 92 Services ...... 20 Devotions ...... 92 Organization ...... 20 Apostles’ Creed, Lord’s Prayer, Benediction, and Doxology ...... 92 Adoption of the Agenda, Order of the Day, and Special Orders ...... 21 Announcement of the Standing Committees ...... 21 APPENDIX ...... 93 Presentation and Referral of Overtures, Permanent Committee Standing Rules ...... 94 Reports, and Communications ...... 21 Index of Positions and Resolutions ...... 97 Permanent Committee reports ...... 21 Membership and Financial Statistics ...... 102 Archives Committee ...... 21 Board of Trustees ...... 21 GENERAL INFORMATION ...... 106 Education and Student Aid ...... 21 Internal Revenue Service Number for the RCUS ...... 106 Diaconal Committee ...... 30 Publications of the RCUS ...... 106 Editorial Advice Committee ...... 31 Churches in Fraternal Relationship ...... 106 Executive Committee ...... 31 Seminaries Listed as Worthy of Support ...... 106 Foreign Ministries Committee ...... 33 Benevolences Listed as Worthy of Support ...... 106 Home Missions ...... 41 Reformed Church in the U. S. Website ...... 106 Interchurch Relations ...... 46 Ministerial Aid ...... 54 Publications ...... 54 Web Site ...... 56 Welcome and Seating of Fraternal Delegates; Welcome of Visitors ...... 56 Reception of New Ministers ...... 57 Reception of New Churches ...... 57 Reports of Officers ...... 57 President’s Report on the State of the Church ...... 57 Stated Clerk on the Minutes (and Necrology) ...... 62 Treasurer’s Report ...... 64 Membership and Financial Statistics ...... 69 Reports from RCUS Fraternal Delegates ...... 69 Addresses by Delegates from Other Reformed Churches, Representatives, and Institutions ...... 69 Reports of Board Members and Liaisons ...... 69 Reports of Special Committees ...... 69 Committee to Research eBooks ...... 70 Study of ...... 71 Procedures for the Establishment of a Denominational Seminary ...... 71 Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 1 2 The Reformed Church in the United States

Lodi, CA 95240 ...... (209) 367-0552 Directory of Congregations Providence RCUS, 245 E. Vine Street Mail: 245 E. Vine St. ARKANSAS Worship 10:30 AM; SS 9:30 AM; Wed. Study 7:00 PM Pastor: Michael Voytek (Rebecca) Bentonville, AR 72714 ...... (470) 876-1064 Web Page: www.prclodi.com Grace RCUS Chapel Office: 15 Kensington Drive, Bella Vista Modesto, CA 95350 ...... (209) 523-3220 Worship: Call Pastor RCUS, 960 El Terino Ave. Pastor: Wesley Brice (Ginger) Mail: 4005 Masterpiece Dr., Modesto, CA 95357 Web Page: www.grc-nwa.org Worship 10:30 AM & 5:00 PM; SS. 9:15 AM Pastor: Paul Treick (Karen) CALIFORNIA E-mail: [email protected] Anderson, CA 96007 ...... (530) 365-6874 Sacramento, CA 95822 ...... (916) 451-1190 Faith RCUS, 3291 Rupert Rd. (off Stingy Lane) Fax: (530) 365-6874 Covenant RCUS, 2020 16th Avenue Mail: P.O. Box 902 Anderson, CA 96007 Mail: 2020 16th Ave. Worship 10:30 AM; SS 9:30 AM Worship 11:00 AM & 6:00 PM; SS. 9:45 AM Pastor: Henry Bowen (Patty) Pastor: Jim West (Elaine) Web: www.faithrcus.org; E-Mail: [email protected] Assoc. Pastor: Frank Walker (Christine) Web Page: covenantreformedchurch.org Bakersfield, CA 93305 ...... (661) 835-1842 San Diego, CA 91977 ...... (619) 460-1321 Grace RCUS, 420 Columbus St. rd Mail: 6407 Brooklawn Way, Bakersfield, CA 93309 Covenant RCUS Chapel, 49 3 Ave., Chula Vista Worship 10:30 AM and 3rd Sunday 6:30 PM; SS 9:15 AM Mail: 6065 Nancita Ct., San Diego, CA 92114 (Alfred White) Pastor: George Horner ( Mary Jo) Worship 11 AM; SS 10 AM Web: www.bakersfieldreformed.org Pastor: Gil Baloy (Maricar) Web Page: www.covenantreformedchurchSD.org Chico, CA 95926 ...... (530) 345-2732 Covenant RCUS, 1877 Hooker Oak Ave. San Ramon, CA 94583 ...... (925) 918-1422 Mail: P.O. Box 1612, Chico 95927 Grace RCUS Chapel, Call for location Fax: (209) 472-7941 Worship 10:30 AM; SS 9:30 AM Mail: P.O. Box 2866, San Ramon, CA 94583 Pastor: Gary Mancilas (Gloria) Worship 2:30 PM Web: www.crcchico.com E-Mail: [email protected] Pastor: Jonathan Merica (Marsha) Web Page: www.gracereformedchapel.com E-Mail: [email protected] Grass Valley, CA 95945 ...... (530) 273-4673 Covenant RCUS, 407 W. Main St., Grass Valley, CA Fax: (530) 273-4673 Shafter, CA 93263 ...... (661) 746-6907 Mail: 407 W. Main St., Grass Valley Ebenezer RCUS, 235 James Street Mail: 235 James St. Worship 11:00 AM & 6 PM; SS 9:45 AM th st rd Pastor: Dennis E. Roe (Julie) Worship 10:30 AM & 6:00 PM (4 Sunday); Bible Study 6:00 PM (1 & 3 Web: www://crcgv.org Sundays); Sun. Sch. 9:15 AM Lancaster, CA 93539 ...... (661) 940-4669 Pastor: Vernon Pollema (Betty) Grace RCUS - Call for location E-Mail: [email protected] Mail: P.O. Box 2331, Lancaster 93539 Worship 10:45 AM; SS 9:45 AM Stockton, CA ...... (209) 472-7941 Pastor: Neale Riffert (Mary Elizebeth) Calvary Reformed Chapel (Vagabond Inn, 3473 Hammer Ln., StocFax:kton) (209) 472-7941 Web Page: www.gracereformedchurch.net Mail: P.O. Box 692426, Stockton, CA 95269 Worship: 10:00 AM; Wed. Bible Study 7:00 PM La Habra, CA 90604 ...... (562) 947-4837 Pastor: Jonathan Merica (Marsha) Rehoboth RCUS Chapel, (501 S. Idaho, Suite 120, between La Habra Blvd and Web: www.gracereformedchapel.com Lambert Rd.) Fax: (562) 947-5958 Mail: 11502 La Serna Dr., Whittier, CA 90604 Willows, CA 95988 ...... (530) 934-2732 Worship 10:00 AM & 6:00 PM; SS: 11:30 AM; Wed. Bible Study 7:00 PM Grace RCUS, 148 W. Sycamore St. Pastor: Jay E. Fluck (Loretta) Mail: P.O. Box 225 Web Page: rehobothreformedchurch.com Worship 10:00 AM; Bible Study 6:30 PM; SS 9:00 AM Pastor: Thomas Mayville (Carolyn) Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 3 4 The Reformed Church in the United States

Yuba City, CA 95991 ...... (530) 755-2272 KENTUCKY First RCUS, 9882 Highway 99 (South of Yuba City) Mail: 9882 Garden Hwy., Yuba City, CA 95991 Danville, KY 40422 ...... (859) 936-1879 Worship 11:00 AM; SS 9:30 AM Office: 917 Rosemont Ave. Danville, KY 40422 Fax: 936-1879 Pastor: Paul Henderson (Tina) Worship: 1:30 PM; Bible Study: 3:00 PM Contact pastor for location of church meetings. COLORADO Pastor: Kevin Hamilton (Robin) Calhan, CO 81007 ...... (719) 347-2881 MARYLAND High Plains RCUS Chapel, 657 7th St. Mail: 555 Boulder St., Calhan, CO 80808 Relay, MD 21113 ...... (410) 674-4854 Worship 10:00 AM; SS 9:00 AM Deaf RCUS, Contact Pastor for location of church meetings Fax: 674-4860 Pastor: Stated Supply - Elder Sam Powell (Susan) Office: 115 Langdon Farm Circle, Odenton Worship: 1:30 PM; Bible Study: 3:00 PM Colorado Springs, CO 80918 ...... (719) 590-1477 Pastor: Jari Saavalainen (Ramona) Trinity RCUS, 2511 N. Logan Ave. at Grace PCA Web: www.deafReformedChurch.org Mail: 6050 Del Paz Dr. 80919 Worship 11:30 AM; SS 1:00 PM; Wed Bible Sty: 7:00 PM - Del Paz Dr. MINNESOTA Pastor: C. W. “Bud” Powell, Jr. (Penny) Web: www.trinityrcus.com Golden Valley, MN 55427 ...... (763) 417-9835 Redeemer RCUS,1300 Lilac Drive North, Golden Valley Greeley, CO 80631 ...... (970) 336-9927 Office: 3101 Virginia Ave. N., Crystal Grace RCUS, 1505 10th Ave. Worship: 10:15 AM and 5:00 PM.; SS: 9:00 AM Mail: 1505 10th Ave. Pastor: James Sawtelle (Wife: Thelma) Worship 11:00 AM; SS 10:00 AM Web: www.redeemerrcus.org Pastor: Gene Sawtelle (Sharon) Web: www.greeleyrcus.org Hamburg, MN 55339 ...... (952) 467-3878 St. Paul's Evangelical RCUS, 15470 Co. Road 31 Karval, CO 81063 ...... (719) 775-8842 Worship: May - October 9:30 AM; SS 8:25 AM; November - April 10:00 am; Blue Cliff Community RCUS, Blue Cliff Community Bldg. SS: 8:55am Mail: 2600 State Rd. 71, Ordway, CO 81063 Pastor: Dan Schnabel (Marie) Worship 12:15 AM; SS 11:00 AM Pastor: Rev. Matthew Powell (Andrea) MISSOURI Limon, CO 80828 ...... (719) 775-8842 Kansas City, MO 64164 ...... (816) 420-9700 Providence RCUS Chapel, 725 Michigan Ave. Northland RCUS, 2901 NW Cookingham Mail: PO Box 848 Worship: 9:30 AM and 6:00 PM; SS: 11:00 AM Worship: 9:00 AM; SS 10:30 AM Pastor: George Syms (Debbie) Pastor: Rev. Matthew Powell (Andrea) Web: www.kcnrc.org Email: [email protected] NEBRASKA ILLINOIS Lincoln, NE 68521 ...... (402) 477-7289 Warrenville, IL 60555 ...... (630) 393-2725 St. John’s RCUS, 1101 South 26th St. Deaf Mission Work - Office 29W531 Prairie Ave. Worship 10:30 AM; SS 9:30 AM (July & August call for time of service) Worship: Meeting in two locations (contact pastor ([email protected]) Pastor: Maynard Koerner (Marcia) Pastor: Jari Saavalainen (Ramona) Web: www.stjohnrcus.inetnebr.com Email: [email protected] Sutton, NE 68979 ...... (402) 773-4218 IOWA Emmanuel RCUS, 110 South Way Ave. Mail: PO Box 362 Garner, IA 50438 ...... (641) 923-3060 Worship 10:30 AM; SS 9:30 AM Peace RCUS, 1905 200th St. (3 miles south of Garner) Pastor: Dan Rogers (Kelani) Worship: 10:30 AM; SS: 9:30 AM Pastor: Jeff DeBoer (Karen) Web Page: www.peacereformedchurch.org Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 5 6 The Reformed Church in the United States

Sutton, NE 68979 ...... (402) 773-4330 Herried,SD 57632 ...... (605) 437-2414 Hope RCUS, 311 E. Hickory First RCUS, 601 Main St. North Mail: PO Box 372 Mail: PO Box 316 Worship 10:30 AM; SS 9:15 AM; Family Bible Study 6:30 PM (2nd & 4th Sun.) Worship: 10:00 AM; SS 11:00 AM Pastor: Darrell Kingswood (Lori) Pastor: Lee Johnson (Jenny Jo) Web: www.firstrcus.org NORTH DAKOTA Hosmer, SD 57488 ...... Ashley, ND 58413 ...... Hosmer RCUS, 2 blocks south of the water tower Salem RCUS, 209 1st Ave. SW Mail: PO Box 88 Hosmer, SD 57488 Mail: PO Box 345 Worship: 9:00 AM or 11:00 AM (alternating months) Worship: 9:00 AM or 11:00 AM (alternating months) Pastor: Vacant Pastor: Vacant Email: Leola, SD 57456 ...... (605) 577-6679 Oranien RCUS, Hwy 10 and Burtis, Leola, SD Lincoln Valley ...... (701) 626-7312 Mail: 1002 Diamond St. Aberdeen, SD 57401 Kassel RCUS, 14 mi. N. and 3½ mi. W. of Denhoff Worship: 11:00 AM Mail: 540 20th St. NE, Kief, ND 58747 Pastor: David Dawn (Colleen) Worship: 10:00 AM Pulpit supplied by Elder Grael Gannon Menno, SD 57045 ...... (605) 387-2816 Zion RCUS, 220 South Pine Minot, ND 58701 ...... (701) 838-0605 Worship 10:30 AM; SS 9:30 AM Harvest RCUS, On Hwy 2, one mi. west of Hwy 83 Bypass Licentiate: Scott Henry (Maria) Mail: 5200 7th Ave. SW, Minot, ND 58701 Worship: 10:30 AM; SS 9:15; Sun. Bible Study 6:30 PM Mitchell, SD 57301 ...... (605) 996-7439 Pastor: Michel McGee (Jenny) Grace RCUS, 1021 South Davison Web: HarvestReformedChurch.org Mail: PO Box 252 Worship 10:00 AM; SS 9:00 AM OHIO Pastor: Ron Morris (Sherrie) Web Page: www.gracereformed.com Napoleon, OH 43545 ...... (419) 599-3106 Peace RCUS, 638 Huddle Rd. Pierre, SD 57501 ...... (605) 945-1070 Worship: *10:00 AM; SS: 9:00 AM *(one half hour earlier June - August) Hope RCUS, 317 S. Garfield Pastor: Harvey Opp (Carol) Mail: 105 Lakeview Dr. Email: [email protected] Worship: 9:30 AM; SS 10:45 AM Pastor: William Haddock (Ferne) PENNSYLVANIA Rapid City, SD 57701 ...... (605) 399-1711 Honesdale, PA ...... (570) 785-4012 Grace RCUS, 5626 North Hines Ave Heritage RCUS Chapel, 335 Beach Lake Highway Worship 10:30 AM; SS 9:15 AM; Bible Study 6:00 PM; Worship: 10:30AM; Bible Classes 9:30 AM Pastor: David Fagrey (Bonnie) Pastor: Ron Potter (Sharon) Web Page: www.gracercus.org Email: [email protected]; Web: www.heritagercus.org Sioux Falls, SD 57106 ...... (605) 339-3887 SOUTH DAKOTA Trinity RCUS, 7301 S. Louise Ave. Mail: 3309 E. 31st St., 57103 Aberdeen, SD 57401 ...... (605) 225-6120 Worship 10:00 AM; SS 9:00 AM; Bible Study 6:00 PM First RCUS, 9th Ave. & Dakota S. St. Pastor: Herman Van Stedum (Phyllis) Mail: 1002 Diamond St., Aberdeen Web Page: www.trinityrcus.org Worship: 9:00 AM; SS: 10:00 AM Pastor: David Dawn (Colleen) Vermillion, SD 57069 ...... (605) 624-4337 Providence RCUS, 830 E. Madison Eureka, SD 57437 ...... (605) 284-2396 Worship 10:30 AM; SS 9:30 AM; Wed. Bible Study 7:30 PM Eureka RCUS, 310 F Ave. Fax: (605) 284-2396 Pastor: Robert Grossmann (Polly) Mail: PO Box 276 Email: [email protected] Worship: 9:00 AM; SS. 10:15 AM Pastor: Dale Clark (Sandra) Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 7 8 The Reformed Church in the United States

Watertown, SD 57201 ...... (605) 882-9704 Rev. Eric Bristley ...... (530) 272-8792 Covenant RCUS, 907 7th Ave. NE Fax:(605) 882-1042 15287 Brewer Rd. Mail: 434 30th St. NW, Watertown, SD 57201 Grass Valley, CA 95949 Worship: 10:00 AM; SS 11:20 AM Email: [email protected] Pastor: Tracy Gruggett (Michelle) Web: www.itctel.com/crc/crc.gif Rev. Dale Clark ...... (605) 284-2396 PO Box 276 WISCONSIN Eureka, SD 57437 Email: [email protected] Manitowoc, WI 54220 ...... (920) 726-4940 Salem Ebenezer RCUS, 6524 County Trunk C Fax: (920) 726-4164 Rev. David Dawn ...... (605) 229-5953 Worship: 10:00 AM; SS 8:45 AM 1002 Diamond St. Pastor: Kyle Sorensen (Donielle) Aberdeen, SD 57401 Web: www.salemebenezer.org Email: [email protected] Email:[email protected] WYOMING Rev. Jeff DeBoer ...... (641) 923-3060 1905 200th St. Rock Springs, WY 82901 ...... (307) 362-5107 Garner, IA 50438 Providence RCUS, 9th and Pearl Email: [email protected] Fax: (641) 923-3060 Mail: 1007 Ninth St. Worship 10:00 AM; SS 11:30 AM Rev. Warren Embree ...... (402) 474-9129 Pastor: Jon Blair (Wendy) 3410 Gregory Ct. Email: [email protected] Lincoln, NE 68521 Email: [email protected]

Rev. David Fagrey ...... Home: (605) 399-1716 5626 Haines Ave. Office: (605) 399-1711 Rapid City, SD 57701 Roll of Synod Email: [email protected] Rev. Jay Fluck ...... (562) 947-4837 11502 La Serna Dr. MINISTERS Whittier, CA 90604 Email: [email protected] Rev. Lloyd Gross ...... (480) 854-3701 215 N. Power Rd. #453 Rev. Gil Baloy ...... (619) 697-0272 Mesa, AZ 85205 757 Maria Ave. Email: [email protected] Spring Valley, CA 91977 Email: [email protected] Rev. Robert Grossmann ...... (605) 624-4337 818 E. Madison Ave. Fax: same as phone Rev. Jon Blair ...... (307) 362-5107 Vermillion, SD 57069 1007 Ninth St. Email: [email protected] Rock Springs, WY 82901 Email: [email protected] Rev. Tracy Gruggett ...... (605) 882-9704 434 30th St. NW Rev. Henry Bowen ...... (530) 549-5740 Watertown, SD 57201 22452 Meadowcrest Lane Email: [email protected] Palo Cedro, CA 96073 Email: [email protected] Rev. William Haddock ...... (605) 945-1070 105 Lakeview Dr. Rev. Wesley Brice ...... (479) 876-1064 Pierre, SD 57501 15 Kensington Dr. Email: [email protected] Bella Vista, AR 72714 Email: [email protected] Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 9 10 The Reformed Church in the United States

Rev. Kevin Hamilton ...... N/A Rev. Jonathan Merica ...... (209) 367-0552 3875 Moores Lane Lot #2 9311 Snow Creek Cir. Stanford, KY 40484 Stockton, CA 95212 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Rev. Howard Hart ...... (605) 995-1964 Rev. Ron Morris ...... (605) 996-7439 1705 N. Minnesota 505 S. Davison Mitchell, SD 57301 Mitchell, SD 57301 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Rev. Paul Henderson ...... (530) 671-7579 Rev. Harvey Opp ...... Home: (419) 599-2266 9882 Garden Highway 927 E. Graceway Dr. Church: (419) 599-3106 Yuba City, CA 95991 Napoleon, OH 43545 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Rev. George Horner ...... (661) 835-1842 Rev. Steven Payson ...... (570) 966-5992 6407 Brooklawn Way 100 Rabbit Hill Rd. Bakersfield, CA 93309 Mifflinburg, PA 17844 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Rev. Lee Johnson ...... (605) 437-2739 Rev. Chester Ploeger ...... (641) 923-6026 PO Box 316 750 W. Lyon St. Herried, SD 57632 Garner, IA 50438 Email: [email protected] Rev. Vernon Pollema ...... (661) 746-0211 235 James St. Shafter, CA 93263 Rev. Norman Jones ...... (605) 945-1045 Email: [email protected] P. O. Box 1212 Pierre, SD 57501 Rev. Ronald Potter ...... (570) 785-4012 Email: [email protected] 136 Grand Ave. Forest City, PA 18421 Rev. Darrell Kingswood ...... (402) 773-4462 Email: [email protected] PO Box 372 Sutton, NE 68979 Rev. C. W. Powell Jr...... (719) 590-1477 Email: [email protected] 6050 Del Paz Dr. Colorado Springs, CO 80918 Rev. Maynard Koerner ...... (402) 477-7289 Email: [email protected] Fax: (719) 573-5398 3930 Mason Dr. Lincoln, NE 68521 Rev. Matthew Powell ...... (719) 775-8842 Email: [email protected] 490 G. Ave. Limon, CO 80828 Rev. Gary Mancilas ...... (530) 345-2732 Email: [email protected] #2 Woodminster Ct. Chico, CA 95926 Rev. Steven Richert ...... (605) 692-1923 Email: [email protected] 145 Trail Ridge Rd. Brookings, SD 57006 Rev. Thomas Mayville ...... (530) 934-3736 Email: [email protected] PO Box 623 Willows, CA 95988 Rev. Neale Riffert ...... (661) 945-4282 Email: [email protected] 43850 20th St. East, Space 100 Lancaster, CA 93535 Rev. Mike McGee ...... (701) 838-8393 Email: [email protected] 124 22nd St. SW Minot, ND 58701 Email: [email protected] Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 11 12 The Reformed Church in the United States

Rev. Dennis Roe ...... (530) 272-6693 Rev. Frank Walker ...... (916) 320-0548 17355 Alexandra Way 6121 Pine Vista Way Grass Valley, CA 95949 Elk Grove, CA 95758 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Rev. Dan Rogers ...... (402) 773-4287 Rev. Jim West ...... (916) 488-5569 PO Box 362 5216 Locust Ave. Sutton, NE 68979 Carmichael, CA 95608 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Rev. Jari Saavalainen ...... N/A 29W531 Praire Ave. PRIMARIUS ELDERS Warrenville, IL 60555 Email: [email protected] Fax: (410) 674-4860 Mr. Ken Armbruster ...... (419) 592-1130 Rev. James Sawtelle ...... Home: (763) 417-9851 14027 County Rd. L 3101 Virginia Ave. N. Office: (763) 417-9835 Napoleon, OH 43545 Crystal, MN 55427 Email: [email protected] Mr. Jim Connelly ...... (970)330-4774 26779 WCR 45½ Rev. Gene Sawtelle ...... ((530) 790-0929 Kersey, CO 80644 1402 Stafford Way . Email: [email protected] Yuba City, CA 95991 Email: [email protected] Mr. Rod DeJong ...... (605) 882-4071 3517 4th Ave. SW Watertown, SD 57201 Email: [email protected] Rev. Dan Schnabel ...... Home: (952) 467-3872 15470 Co. Rd. 31 Church: (952) 467-3878 Mr. Allen Dockter ...... (701) 624-5707 Hamburg, MN 55339 14700 125th Street SE Email: [email protected] Sawyer, ND 58781 Email: [email protected] Rev. Kyle Sorensen ...... (920) 726-4464 6524 County Trunk C Fax: (920) 726-4164 Mr. Chris Fellersen ...... (916) 423-1741 Manitowoc, WI 54220 8675 Sleepy Hollow Lane Email: [email protected] Fax: (920) 726-4164 Elk Grove, CA 95624 Email: [email protected] Rev. George Syms ...... Home: (816) 532-0678 204 Fletcher Dr. Church: (816) 420-9700 Mr. Alan Fickbohm ...... (605) 224-0358 Smithville, MO 64089 304 N. Harrison Ave. Email: [email protected] Pierre, SD 57501 Rev. Paul Treick ...... Home: (209) 551-2407 Mr. Mark Fisher ...... (816) 790-3615 4005 Masterpiece Dr. Church: (209) 523-3220 19380 Hwy. B. Modesto, CA 95357 Edgeron, MO 64444 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Rev. Herman Van Stedum ...... (605) 339-3887 Mr. Roger Gallimore ...... (605) 787-9134 3309 E. 31st St. 4511 Elk Creek Rd. Sioux Falls, SD 57103 Piedmont, SD 57769 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Rev. Michael Voytek ...... (209) 367-1902 Mr. Spencer Gross ...... (605) 996-1919 501 Falls Ave. 723 E. 2nd. Lodi, CA 95240 Mitchell, SD 57301 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 13 14 The Reformed Church in the United States

Mr. Joe Gross ...... (530) 473-2712 Mr. Keith Lorentzen ...... (701) 626-7655 840 J. Street, Box 445 PO Box 121 Williams, CA 95987 Butte, ND 58723 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Mr. Shane Hodge ...... N/A Mr. Gary Maassen ...... (605) 582-6469 116 Bold Venture 717 Parkview Blvd. Danville, KY 40422 Brandon, SD 57005 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Mr. Fred Hofmann ...... (402) 773-5474 Mr. Darrell Mettler ...... (310) 392-3375 2411 Road 1 2520 3rd St. #4 Sutton, NE 68979 Santa Monica, CA 90405 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Mr. Kenton Hoxie ...... (410) 674-5999 Mr. Jeff Mills ...... (661) 722-2908 494 Burletta Ct. 4769 Brisa Dr. Odenton, MD 21113 Palmdale, CA 93551 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Mr. Loren Huber ...... (402) 773-5281 Mr. Leroy Neifer ...... (605) 577-6604 119 Road B RR1 Box 39 Sutton, NE 68979 Hosmer, SD 57448 Email: [email protected] Mr. Jess Johnson ...... (402) 464-0776 Mr. Vern Ochsner ...... (605) 437-2772 7030 Colby 10118 309th Ave. Lincoln, NE 68505 Herried, SD 57632 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Mr. Milbert Kappas ...... (605) 577-6679 Mr. Michael Peery ...... (530) 347-9294 10368 357th Ave. 22250 Francis Way Long Lake, SD 57457 Cottonwood, CA 96022 Email: [email protected] Mr. Jerry Kropp ...... (641) 927-4618 2875 Wood Ave. Mr. David Roggenkamp ...... (605) 284-2055 Garner, IA 50438 PO Box 501 Email: [email protected] Eureka, SD 57437 Email: [email protected] Mr. Ralph Kusler ...... (605) 225-1242 1322 S. 8th Street Mr. Tim Rott ...... (701) 288-3767 Aberdeen, SD 57401 4865 100th St. SE Email: [email protected] Ashley, ND 58413 Mr. Larry Lee ...... (719) 347-2604 Mr. Jim Rydell ...... (605) 624-2130 PO Box 304 309 S. Crawford Rd. Calhan, CO 80808 Vermillion, SD 57069 Email: [email protected] Mr. Wayne Lingenfelter ...... (209) 727-5735 18869 Arrowhead Dr. Mr. David Sawtelle ...... (763) 545-8567 Lockeford, CA 95237 5360 Lowry Terrace Email: [email protected] Golden Valley, MN 55422 Email: [email protected] Mr. Richard Lopez ...... (530) 872-8138 5888 Maxwell Dr. Paradise, CA 95969 Email: [email protected] Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 15 16 The Reformed Church in the United States

Mr. Ted Schieffelin ...... (719) 775-2791 Mr. Rusty Blare ...... (605) 946-5018 725 11th St. 38844 272nd Limon, CO 80828 Corsica, SD 57328 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Mr. Robert Smith ...... (952) 467-2319 Mr. Ken Bowen ...... (530) 272-9167 205 Second Ave. SW 837 I St. Box 445 Norwood Young America, MN 55397 Williams, CA 95987 Email: [email protected] Mr. Allen Stache ...... (920) 853-3139 W2441 Hwy. PP Mr. Reinhold Dockter ...... (701) 288-3884 Hilbert, WI 54129 216 2nd St. NE Email: [email protected] Ashley, ND 58413 Mr. Earl Starks ...... (307) 382-5279 Mr. Ardell Griess ...... (402) 773-4463 112 Mountain Rd. 305 N. Roy Rock Springs, WY 82901 Sutton, NE 68975 Email: [email protected] Mr. David Helseth ...... (530) 893-0277 Mr. David Stelpstra ...... (209) 599-3925 420 Autumn Gold Dr. 20152 N. Ripon Rd. Chico, CA 95973 Ripon, CA 95366 Email: [email protected] Mr. Charles Hensen ...... (605) 582-6350 309 Third Ave. Mr. Richard Stetler ...... (719) 634-0767 Brandon, SD 57005 2339 Stepping Stones Way Email: [email protected] Colorado Springs, CO 80904 Email: [email protected] Mr. Jeff Jones ...... (661) 665-2833 9715 Gold Dust Dr. Mr. Greg Stewart ...... (530) 751-2151 Bakersfield, CA 93311 2495 S. Walton Ave. Email: [email protected] Yuba City, CA 95993 Email: [email protected] Mr. Sam Powell ...... (719) 347-2881 555 Boulder St. Mr. Larry Streyle ...... (605) 387-5648 Calhan, CO 80808 43220 282nd St. Email: [email protected] Menno, SD 57045 Mr. Dominic Speranza ...... (304) 728-0449 Mr. Steve Wilbur ...... (530) 346-6811 362 Stephen Lane 18388 Dog Bar Rd. Charles Town, WV 25414 Grass Valley, CA 95949 Email: johnknoxscot58 Email: [email protected] Mr. Dan Van Peursem ...... (605) 624-6368 Mr. Bob Williams ...... (661) 654-0973 205 S. Crawford Rd. 12709 Moss Landing Dr. Vermillion, SD 57069 Bakersfield, CA 93311 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Mr. Harold Yoder ...... (719) 446-5225 14860 County Rd. 35 SECUNDUS ELDERS PRESENT AT ALL OR PART OF THE MEETING Karval, CO 80823 Email: [email protected]

Mr. Mike Altman ...... (419) 599-7505 K519 County Rd. 14 Napoleon, OH 43545 Email: [email protected] Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 17 18 The Reformed Church in the United States

LICENTIATE SUMMARY INFORMATION

Mr. Scott Henry ...... (605) 387-2816 Officers of Synod PO Box 387 Menno, SD 57045 President Email: [email protected] Rev. Vernon Pollema ...... (661) 746-0211 235 James St. Shafter, CA 93263 STUDENTS UNDER CARE Email: [email protected] Vice President Mr. Carl Esparza ...... (562) 947-0564 Rev. James Sawtelle ...... Home: (763) 417-9851 PO Box 5190 3101 Virginia Ave. N. Office: (763) 417-9835 Whittier, CA 90607 Crystal, MN 55427 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Mr. James Grossmann ...... (219) 614-3228 Stated Clerk 6846 W. Lode Rev. Paul Treick ...... (209) 551-2407 Worth, IL 60482 4005 Masterpiece Dr. Email: [email protected] Modesto, CA 95357 Email: [email protected] Mr. Andrew McIntyre ...... (719) 213-4985 4655 Sleepy Hollow Circle South Treasurer Colorado Springs, CO 80917 Mr. Ted Griess ...... (402) 773-4169 Email: [email protected] PO Box 350, Sutton, NE 68979 Email: [email protected] Mr. Sam Powell ...... (719) 347-2881 555 Boulder St. Calhan, CO 80808 Email: [email protected] Permanent Synodical Committees Mr. Douglas Schlegel ...... (916) 690-7293 Archives J. Fluck, J. Stuebbe, D. Mettler 8135 Pixley Way Board of Trustees M. McGee, J. Stuebbe, T. Rott Sacramento, CA 95828 Christian Education (3 yr) S. Richert, P. Henderson, D. Sawtelle Email: [email protected] (2 yr) W. Haddock, L. Johnson, J. Gross (1 yr) D. Kingswood, M. Reyna, S. Gross Mr. Richard Stetler ...... (719) 634-0767 Confer with Dordt Col. H. Van Stedum, R. Morris, M. Koerner, D. Van Peursem 2339 Stepping Stones Way Sunday School Curriculum J. Blair, K. Sorensen, D. Clark, J. Ochsner, C. Esparza Colorado Springs, CO 80904 Diaconal Ministries (3 yr) D. Dawn, H. Hart, B. Stewart* (Colorado Springs, CO) Email: [email protected] (2 yr) M. Powell, R. De Jong, J. White* (Pierre, SD) (1 yr) L. Ochsner, M. Kappas, D. Perey* (Bakersfield, CA) Editorial Advice (3) J. Merica; (2 yr) A. Haller; (1 yr) J. West, J. McClay Executive V. Pollema, J. Sawtelle, P. Treick, T. Griess, D. Stelpstra Foreign Ministries (3 yr) T. Mayville, G. Baloy, J. Jones (2 yr) M. Voytek, D. Schlegel, K. Hamilton (1 yr) D. Schnabel, J. Blair, R. Grossmann Radio Representatives P. Treick, N. Riffert, D. Schnabel Home Missions (3 yr) M. McGee, G. Maassen (2 yr) H. Opp, D. Rogers, W. Lingenfelter (1 yr) N. Riffert, L. Goehring, J. Bruckschen Interchurch Relations (3 yr) G. Horner, M. Koerner, W. Johnson (2 yr) Ron Potter, T. Gruggett, J. Connelly (1 yr) G. Syms, S. Powell, D. Stelpstra Ministerial Relief (3 yr) R. Grossmann, T. Griess, E. Shriver, M. Fisher (2 yr) J. Saavalainen, C. W. Powell, B. Driesen* (Shafter, CA) (1 yr) D. McPherson, G. Maassen, R. Kusler Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 19 20 The Reformed Church in the United States

Publications (3 yr) H. Bowen, W. Brice, Earl Starks th (2 yr) J. Johnson, C. Hensen, H. Hart, E. Bristley Abstract of the Minutes of the 260 Synod (1 yr) G. Mancilas, G. Baloy, G. Stewart of the Develop eBooks G. Mancilas, D. Roe, J. Fluck, J. Jones, E. Bristley, C. Esparza Website D. Roe, F. Walker, J. Mills, K. Hoxie, M. Peery, E. Rynders, M. Powell Reformed Church in the United States Special Committees To Study Federal Vision: D. Fagrey, F. Walker, T. Schieffelin, D. Schlegel, “Whoever transgresses and does not abide in J. DeBoer, W. Embree, J. West the doctrine of Christ does not have God. (Underlined = Chairman; * = Deacon) He who abides in the doctrine of Christ has both the Father and the Son.” II John v. 9

SYNODICAL GUIDELINE Synodical Dues $20.00 I. Services

Deficit Reduction 5.00 The 260th Synod of the Reformed Church in the United States was hosted by Grace Home Missions 51.50 Reformed Church, Mitchell, South Dakota. The 260th Synod convened on May 15, 2006 with a 7 PM worship service conducted Foreign Missions 25.00 by Rev. Kyle Sorensen (Manitowoc, WI). Rev. Lloyd Gross, retired pastor, living in Mesa, AZ preached the sermon entitled “Babel – A Symbol of Our Culture” from Genesis 11:1-9. Ministerial Relief 52.00 On Wednesday, May 17, at 7:00 PM a worship service was held. Rev. Wesley Brice Diaconal Ministries 5.00 (Bentonville, AR) conducted the service. Rev. Jon Blair (Rock Springs, WY) read the Scripture from Galatians 3:1-14 and preached a sermon entitled, “Bewitched or Believing?” Publishing 3.00 Devotions were held daily at 10:00 AM. On Tuesday, Licentiate Scott Henry (Menno, Benevolence 17.00 SD) addressed the body on the subject of “Preach the Word.” from II Timothy 3:1- 4:4 On Wednesday, Rev. Matthew Powell (Limon, CO) addressed the body on “Resurrection and Student Aid 2.00 Forgiveness” from Colossians 3:1-17. On Thursday, Rev. Eric Bristley (Grass Valley, CA) addressed the body on “Paul’s Pattern of Ministry” from II Corinthians 1:12. The closing Building Fund 1.00 devotions were conducted by Elder Rusty Blare (Mitchell, SD) who read Philippians 4:4-9 Ministerial Aid 15.00 and led in prayer.

Dordt College 2.25 II. Organization Hope Haven 2.00 Following the opening worship service, the President, Rev. Vernon Pollema, called the Mid-America Seminary 2.00 meeting to order on May 15, 2006. The Stated Clerk, Rev. Paul Treick, called the roll which New Geneva Seminary 2.00 showed 41 ministers and 33 elder delegates present. Roll was called at the beginning of each business day. The closing roll showed 43 ministers and 35 elder delegates present. Heidelberg Seminary 2.00 The Bar of the House was declared to be the first 12 pews on either side of the aisle. The President appointed Rev. Paul Henderson, Rev. Jon Blair, Elder Mark Fisher, and Greenville Seminary 1.00 Elder Jeff Jones as tellers for the meeting. MERF 2.00 Elections were held for men to serve in the following capacities: President Rev. Vernon Pollema 209.75 Vice President Rev. James Sawtelle Reformed Herald (per subscription) $13.00 Stated Clerk Rev. Paul Treick Treasurer Elder Ted Griess Editor of the Reformed Herald Rev. Paul Treick Rev. George Horner was appointed as reporter for the Reformed Herald. Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 21 22 The Reformed Church in the United States

The President read the Standing Rules of Synod. Mid-America Reformed Seminary III. Adoption of the Agenda, Order of the Day, and Special Orders On January 31st and February 1st, 2006, Rev. Kyle Sorensen and Rev. Michael McGee visited Mid-America Reformed Seminary in accordance with the Synod’s visitation schedule The Agenda and Order of the Day was adopted with the following Special Orders: The of approved Seminaries every three years. Our mandate, per Synod’s guidelines, was to representative from Mid-America Reformed Seminary was allowed to address the body on answer the following question: will a graduate of this seminary be qualified and equipped Tuesday afternoon. Fraternal delegates from other Reformed Churches, observers, and to serve as a duly ordained minister of the Word in the RCUS? representatives of institutions would address the synod at 10:30 AM on Wednesday. During our visit, we were able to observe the following classes: Old Testament History, Preaching the Parables, Seminar on the Reformed Confessions, and Pneumatology. During IV. Announcement of the Standing Committees these classes, the lectures that were given were in accordance with the Scriptures and the standards of the RCUS. It was also refreshing to see the way in which the Three Forms of The President announced the appointments to Standing Committees for this Synod. Unity were harmonized with the to ensure a well rounded education Their names appear after their respective committee reports in the Abstract. from all the historic creeds and confessions of the Church. V. Presentation and Referral of Overtures, Permanent Committee Reports, and The delegation was also able to meet with James Grossmann, who is a student under Communications the care of the RCUS. He reiterated the observation of the delegation by stating that at no point in time during the course of his studies at Mid-America has there been teaching which The Permanent Committee reports were forwarded to their appropriate Standing the RCUS would find objectionable. Committees. Overtures and communications previously sent to the Stated Clerk were given Over dinner, Rev. Sorensen and Rev. McGee were able to meet with Dr. J. Mark to the Overtures Committee who referred them to appropriate committees during the course Beach, Dr. Nelson Kloosterman, Prof. Alan Strange, Prof. Mark D. Vander Hart, and Dr. of the meeting. Following this, a recess was taken for the Overtures Committee to come with Cornelis Venema. During the course of the conversation, the seminary professors promoted its initial report. The Permanent Committee reports are printed below. the declaration they had made concerning their view of creation, which states: We declare that in our public writings and in our classroom teaching, we hold that the A. Archives Committee six days of creation are to be understood as consecutive, real (i.e., literal) days of alternating evenings and mornings. In other words, the word “day” in Genesis 1 should The Archives Committee received no materials this year and therefore did not meet. not be understood as a “day-age” (i.e., some long age of an indefinite number of years). Both the Board and the Faculty of Mid-America Reformed Seminary fully agree that Respectfully submitted, the WCF IV.i. accurately teaches what the Bible states in Exodus 20:11concerning Rev. Jay Fluck, Elder Darrell Mettler, Elder Jon Stuebbe God’s creation of the world in six days. There is no one on the Faculty at Mid-America Reformed Seminary who teaches or B. Board of Trustees subscribes to the framework hypothesis. Furthermore, the Seminary Board has not hired anyone to teach who does not hold to the above position on the creation days. We hold The Board of Trustees met on April 5, 2006. Having no business, we adjourned. firmly to the special creation work of God, performed in the space of six consecutive, real days. In addition, we also declare and teach that the confessional (im)permissibility of any Respectfully submitted particular teaching about the creation days must be determined by the churches responsible Rev. Steven Richert, Elder Tim Rott, Elder Jon Stuebbe for the doctrine and life of Faculty members. The seminary professors also wanted to reassure the churches of the RCUS that they C. Education and Student Aid hold to a view of that is in line with the Scriptures, as well as the Historic creeds and confessions of the Church. In order to address the current issues on the doctrine of Esteemed Brothers, justification, the professors at Mid-America wrote a series of articles addressing the following topics: The Doctrine of Justification in Contemporary Discussion, The Covenant of Works and Justification, The Law-Gospel Distinction, Justification and its Distinction Your Committee this past year coordinated its business via e-mail, travel being from Sanctification, The Place of Good Works in the Believer’s Life, and Justification and necessitated only to carry out specific Committee mandates. the New Perspectives on Paul. Seminary Visitations At the meeting, the Professors expressed their gratitude to the RCUS for the time we New Geneva Theological Seminary and Mid-America Reformed Seminary were visited had taken to send a delegation to examine the school. They appreciate the long-term in accordance with Synod’s mandate to make an evaluative visit of each approved seminary relationship that the school has with the RCUS and welcome open dialogue and frank at least once every three years. (2001:65) These reports and their respective discussion on any issues we believe should be addressed. They cited, for example, the recommendations follow: improvement in the seminary’s apologetics courses which directly resulted from a previous Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 23 24 The Reformed Church in the United States evaluation by the RCUS, for which they were truly grateful. Judging from one student we interviewed, the students are well versed in textual Mid-America Reformed Seminary is a school, in the opinion of the two delegates of transmission and using the critical apparatus. the RCUS, that is worthy of our continued support. This is evident by their view of the All members of the full-time faculty uphold creation in six ordinary days, but the Scriptures alone as the Word of God, their full subscription to the Reformed Confessions, seminary has no official position on this. their stance on justification and creation, as well as their commitment to preparing men to As was mentioned earlier all members of the full-time faculty are Presuppositional, but shepherd the flock of the Lord Jesus Christ, all within the confines of a hearty respect for some of the part time faculty members who are responsible for teaching the apologetics and submission to the church courts which send students to the seminary. courses are not. Recommendation: is taught in the systematics courses. The text used (Turretin) 1. That Mid-America Reformed Seminary (MARS) continue to be listed as a seminary presents covenant theology very strongly. worthy of receiving benevolent moneys from the RCUS. The regulative principle of worship is taught, but with a broader interpretation than the New Geneva Theological Seminary RCUS. The course on worship surveys various worship styles. On April 19, 2006 your committee members, Rev. Lee Johnson and Rev. Steven The emphasis of all the course work at NGTS is for the purpose of preaching and Richert visited NGTS. We interviewed Dr. Dominic Aquila, Dr. C. W. Powell, and Dr. teaching in a congregation. Kenneth Dieter. Dr. Aquila is President of the seminary, professor of Pastoral Theology and The many current aberrations from reformed theology, including the framework director of the Doctor of Ministry program. Dr. Powell is Academic Dean and Professor of hypothesis, open theism, hyperpreterism, hyper Biblical theology, egalitarianism, seeker- Historical and Systematic Theology. Dr. Dieter is Registrar and Professor of Biblical sensitive worship, congregationalism, dispensationalism, theonomy, federal vision, etc. will Studies. find no adherents in the faculty. Dr. Aquila stated that he does not even want to spend time We will summarize the substance of our discussions using the Seminary Evaluation discussing them since such heresies come and go very quickly. Guideline. We believe that the teaching of this seminar is orthodox according to the Your committee believes NGTS meets acceptable academic standards. 99 credit hours standards of the RCUS. Presuppositional apologetics is taught in the required courses on are required for the MDiv. degree. All the major areas of instruction are covered by the apologetics, but other apologetic systems are explained as well. We were assured that the required courses. All faculty members must subscribe to a general evangelical doctrinal full time faculty is all Van Tillian. There is an elective listed in the catalog on the statement as well as to either the Westminster Standards or the Three Forms of Unity. All Apologetics of Cornelius Van Til. faculty candidates must submit to a theological and academic exam before the Board of As to hermeneutics, the grammatical-historical method is taught. Dr. Powell stresses Directors and faculty. It is accredited by the Association of Reformed Theological in his courses that Scripture is to interpret Scripture and that the New Testament must Seminaries. So far every student who has sought to obtain an advanced degree has enlighten the Old Testament. successfully transferred his seminary course work to the new institution. The seminary’s The Systematic Theology courses are very definitely reformed. The main text for all library contains 25,000 volumes. courses is the three volume Turretin set, Institutes of Elenctic Theology. Tuition at New Geneva is currently $2,880.00 per semester. The cost of books will In Homiletics, the students are taught to preach textual, exegetical sermons. Topical vary. There is no student housing, but rentals are rather affordable. We believe these sermons are discouraged. expenses are in line with other ?worthy? seminaries. Student aid is available and there is We did not discuss courses on evangelism and missions with the faculty. There was a deferred tuition payment plan. no separate course on evangelism listed in the catalog. In interviewing students, we found The seminary shows a sincere interest in maintaining a good working relationship with that the missions course was rather useless as is the case in most seminaries with which we the RCUS. We were well received and treated very hospitably. The president, academic are familiar. dean, and registrar gave us quite a bit of their time for our interview, were very willing to Practical Theology has been a weak point in this seminary’s course work. The old answer any question we might ask, and were quick to volunteer information we had not portfolio program has been abandoned and a new series of courses is being introduced in an thought of inquiring after. attempt to improve the teaching in this area. NGTS is governed by a Board of Directors including the President of the seminary and The Biblical language teaching is very strong. This seminary’s graduates seem well ten other men. The board members must subscribe to either the Three Forms of Unity or the prepared for their Classical language exams. Westminster Standards. Rev. Ron Morris and elder Ted Shieffelin of the RCUS currently serve on the board. Church History has been strengthened by adding a third course covering American Church History. As to whether the seminary provides adequate hands-on ministerial/pastoral experience, such training is left to the student’s church. Teaching on the reformed creeds and confessions is interwoven throughout the Introduction to Reformed Theology course and the systematics courses. Of the seven RCUS-sponsored graduates five have been licensed, three are currently ordained and serving RCUS congregations, three are under care, and two expect to be Biblical Theology had been integrated with the Old and New Testament courses, but examined for licensure in the fall. The graduates we spoke to heartily recommend NGTS. is now to be taught separately. The survey courses covering the books of the Old and New Testaments are fairly broad, not detailed. The seminary sends out a newsletter regularly to RCUS churches. Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 25 26 The Reformed Church in the United States

There are no major changes expected in affiliation, faculty, or mission within the next 8. That the ?Discuss and Decide? sections of the Curriculum be reviewed and few years. recommendations for improved teachability and historical relevance be made to the CEC for All of the courses are offered in the evening between 5:00 and 9:30 so that students can its consideration in reporting to the 261st Synod. work during the day to support themselves and their families. Because of this there are no 9. That the K-1 level of the Curriculum be revised to make it more age-appropriate. chapel services. Respectfully submitted Prospective students must have obtained a Bachelor’s degree while maintaining a 2.75 Rev. George Horner, Rev. Kyle Sorensen, Rev. Steven Richert, Rev. Lee Johnson, grade point average to be admitted. Rev. Darrell Kingswood, Elder J. Gross, Elder Mark Reyna Elder E. Starks Almost 100 percent of the graduating MDiv. students enter the pastoral ministry. Most of these are in reformed denominations. Report of Visit to Providence Christian College Recommendation: 2. That New Geneva Theological Seminary continue to be listed as a seminary worthy In fulfillment of the 259th Synod’s mandate (abstract pg 75), Revs. Neale Riffert and of receiving benevolent moneys from the RCUS. George Horner visited Providence Christian College (PCC) in Ontario, California, on Sunday School Curriculum April 27, 2006. PCC just finished its first year as an operational college with 22 students from 11 states, The 988 lessons of the flexible 5-year curriculum, written by Rev. Howard Hart and Elder the fruition of a plan formulated in November of 2001 by a small group of southern Harvey De Groot, based on S. De Graaf’s Promise and Deliverance, have been written, and California Reformed Christians. That group “unanimously agreed that the purpose of the years 1 through 4, proofread by Jess Johnson and compiled by Charles Hensen, are corporation to promote Providence Christian College would be to establish and maintain available on CDROM from the RCUS Book Depository and in use in congregations of the a school for higher education by means of general arts programs that will be taught in RCUS. accordance with the Bible, God’s infallible and inerrant Word, as it is interpreted by the The 258th Synod established a Sunday School Curriculum Committee (SSCC - following Reformed Standards: The , The , The recommendation #6, pg 96, Abstract) “to receive feedback from the churches and propose , The Westminster Confession of Faith, and the Westminster Larger and changes to the material to the Christian Education Committee.” Given that Synod also Shorter Catechisms. Out of its desire to establish Providence Christian College, which in determined (recommendation # 7, pg 96, Abstract) “that the curriculum not be placed in all aspects of its life and learning shall seek to reflect the Lordship of Jesus Christ gladly printed form for at least four years to allow ample time for use of the materials and and visibly from a Reformed Biblical Perspective, the group agreed to commit itself to the suggested revisions,” your Committee believes the intent is for the Sunday School eventual establishment of a quality four-year liberal arts program.” Curriculum Committee to continue to collect and evaluate feedback from the churches as PCC states that it “has been established for the express purpose of inculcating into the the entire curriculum is implemented so that the full curriculum may be perfected prior to minds, lives, and hearts of the college community a Reformed world and life view of reality. its being released in printed form. Therefore the curriculum does not consist in a random collection of courses, but rather a Based now on feedback gathered over the last two years by both the SSCC and wide range of studies that seeks to reflect the interrelatedness and the unity and diversity of individual members of the CEC ( a special thanks to Rev. Kyle Sorensen for his devoted the various aspects of God’s creation. This broad spectrum of courses is designed to equip labors on this project), the CEC make the following recommendations: the student to better understand, engage, and transform our culture for Jesus Christ. By Recommendations: God’s grace, it will enable them to excellently prepare for and to carry out their God-given 3. That the proofreader Jess Johnson and the compiler, Charles Hensen be commended tasks and responsibilities in our contemporary society on a day-to-day basis so that a for their diligent and laborious work on the Sunday School Curriculum. profound difference will ultimately be made in our world. By God’s grace, their education will equip the students to carefully discern the religious direction of our society and, 4.That Charles Hensen be paid this synodical year the $1500. honorarium per consequently, to promote the claims of Christ over all of life.” curriculum year of compilation as approved by the 257th Synod ( take note) Your visitors were warmly and enthusiastically greeted by the President of PCC, Jim 5. That year 5 of the Curriculum be published in CDROM format and stocked by the Den Ouden. He gave us an overview of PCC, including further developments to the RCUS Book Depository for release in 2007. academic program and faculty to be implemented in time for the next academic year, as well 6. That a Teacher Handbook be drafted for each quarter of Curriculum lessons. This as some of the longer range planning. one-two-page aid would reiterate the expectations of the curriculum itself and also seek to We then enjoyed meeting with Dr. Scott Swanson (PhD), professor of Bible and explain the rationale for using each section of the lessons, providing suggestions as to how Theology , who was also joined by Mrs. Mary Ellen Godfrey, Academic Dean. At the lunch that might best be accomplished. following we were joined by Mr. Jack Hoekstra, Director of Development. Afterwards Mr. 7. That a quarterly review lesson and corresponding quiz be written and incorporated Den Ouden conducted us on a tour of the campus and then answered all of our questions into each of the quarters for each year of the Curriculum. A sample review lesson and quiz, back in his office. already successfully ?tested? in RCUS congregations is enclosed as an addendum to this Your visitors deem the following facts as well as impressions, gained from our visit to report. Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 27 28 The Reformed Church in the United States

PCC, useful for evaluative purposes. Dr. Swanson, a graduate of WTS (Philadelphia) 1978, whose doctorate is in PCC is currently governed by a 22 member Board on which 5 Reformed Patristic/Hellenistic Old Testament interpretation, and who spent 7 years in Israel, teaches Denominations are represented: 7 URC, 7 CRC, 2 RCA, 3 PCA, 3 OPC. The Board includes the OT and NT overview courses, and told us that the focus is Redemptive/Christological. two ordained pastors, as well as men from academic and business vocations. All board He intends to teach Hebrew and Greek as well. members as well as faculty must affirm, in writing, their subscription to either the Three With the expected 20-25 new students for the fall, and the expected return of almost Forms of Unity or the Westminster Confession of Faith. Faculty hiring is an extensive all the present students, the student/faculty ratio will yet remain almost tutorial in nature, an process with many interviews, including a theological one conducted by Rev. Squires of the advantage prized by the students. Chino URC. According to the President, PCC seeks and hires faculty only that is both The Reformed perspective of PCC was emphasized to us by all the administration and professionally competent and committed both to the Reformed Confessions and the stated faculty members with whom we had the opportunity to interview. There was an apparent mission and purpose of PCC. Currently there are 3 full-time faculty members ( Theology zeal for the mission/purpose of PCC and many expressions of thankfulness for God’s and Bible, History and Communications, Business Administration) and 8 adjunct faculty providential blessings upon the institution in its first year. members, but it is expected that two more full-time faculty members will be teaching the It is the expressed hope that more students from the Reformed church background next year ( Chemistry and English). The majors currently offered are: Biblical and would become aware of PCC and consider it a viable choice for a college education, Theological Studies, Biology, Business Administration, Communication, Cultural Studies, primarily for its commitment to the Reformed world and life view. Education, English, and History. Also, by partnership with Loma Linda University, PCC offers a nursing program. All students will graduate with an 18 credit-hour minor in Biblical President Den Ouden, when asked, thought that the Board might favorably consider the and Theological Studies. They expect to add soon also a minor in music and other majors addition of an RCUS board member. are being considered based on future student body growth. Your visitors left with the impression that God has providentially provided a solid PCC has an agreement with other Reformed Colleges that allows credits to be beginning to PCC, which is, as far as we know, the only confessionally Reformed Christian transferred and is very zealously pursuing accreditation so that students will be able to college west of the Rocky Mountains in the USA. Their mission and purpose is certainly receive federal financial aid. one that is fitting for RCUS support and encouragement and promotion. Currently, private funds enable financial aid packages that are competitive with other Your visitors make the following recommendations: Christian colleges. Tuition and Room & Board currently are set at $22,900 per year, which is actually lower than that of several other southern California Christian colleges and about 1. That a representative of PCC be invited to address the 261st Synod. 75% of students do receive financial aid. 2. That the RCUS seek to have one of its ministers appointed to the Board of PCC in order to further the development of a fruitful, Kingdom-advancing relationship between the PCC’s 5.5 acre campus is leased for the next 4 years and includes dormitories with RCUS and PCC. space for up to 78 students with some further remodeling. The dorm rooms and lounges are Respectfully submitted, very commodious and pleasant and the facilities for classrooms, chapel, administration, Rev. George Horner, Rev. Neale Riffert library and food service are quite adequate for the immediate future. The lunch we enjoyed was excellent and even included fresh baked, still warm, large and moist chocolate chip The Committee also handed out samples of the Sunday School curriculum in the cookies! We almost enrolled! PCC plans to buy land for campus development in the area different levels for observation. prior to the lease expiring and is pursuing fund-raising to that end. They have a projected budget of 1.6 million for next year and expect, providentially, that the needed funds will be raised as has been the case this first year. Committee to Confer with Dordt College The campus has wireless access to the internet and all students do use laptops. They (This task was given to the Permanent Christian Education Committee, whereby formerly can also avail themselves thereby of online libraries and can also loan books through the it had been a Special Committee) regional inter-collegiate library system. Dear brothers, Students are required to abide by the code of Christian conduct as specified in the Your committee met at Dordt College on March 16, 2006, first privately, and then with Student manual and admission requires a confession of the Christian faith a la the Apostles representatives from the college. The three members of your committee who were present Creed and all students must attend the twice weekly chapel service and be affiliated with a (Rev. Herman Van Stedum was not able to attend) first met to discuss a letter we received local congregation. The chapel programs, we were informed, are in conformity with PCC’s from a delegate to last year’s synod meeting. There were three items contained in the letter Reformed perspective. which the writer wished for us to discuss with the president of Dordt College, Dr. Carl PCC offers the auditing of its courses to the community and evening classes to better Zylstra. fit various schedules. They also plan to be relevant to the Asian Rim social/economic After approximately 20 minutes your committee was joined by Dr. Zylstra along with interrelationships in the region by offering the Cultural Studies program and hopefully Mrs. Judy Hagey (from Dordt’s Office of Alumni and Church Relations) and Mr. John Baas Chinese as a language – one of the new faculty member’s first language is Chinese. (from Dordt’s Advancement Office). The three items suggested in the letter occupied the Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 29 30 The Reformed Church in the United States greater share of our meeting time. the position of the college in general. The first item was the position of Dordt College relative to the creation of all things in At the end of our meeting we were careful to tell Dr. Zylstra that we remain committed six ordinary days. As the body is aware, Dordt has never adopted any particular position as a body to the principle of Christian education. We are concerned, as is Dordt, that about the length of God’s creating work (or by extension, the age of the universe). Dr. covenant children be trained in manner that is consistent with their position. Theologically Zylstra made it clear that instructors are expected to abide by what is contained in the Three we are committed to an understanding of the antithetical nature of a fallen world–a principle Forms of Unity and within those parameters are free to teach according to their conscience. that has resulted in the establishment of Christian day and home-schools. Although we might In the past there has been a professor who was adamant in telling his students that God differ with Dordt College in some minor ways about the content and form of that could not have created the universe in six ordinary days since such a position would be distinctively Christian education, it is reassuring to recognize in Dordt a partner in this clearly at odds with the revelation found in creation itself. That professor has been retired pursuit. for more than five years, and has since been replaced by new faculty members who are not Your committee was provided with a lunch following our discussion with Dr. Zylstra, as interested in stressing a particular position. In the course of discussing these new Mrs. Hagey, and Mr. Baas. professors it was suggested that one of our committee members could meet with one of these Your chairman followed this more general discussion with some visits to particular new faculty members to hear about his particular views. That meeting was arranged for later professors. As was previously indicated, one of these visits was with Dr. Doug Allen, a first on the same day, and a summary of that meeting is contained later in this report. year instructor in the Physics Department. Before my arrival Dr. Allen downloaded a copy The second item in the letter was about the use of drama and images in chapel services. of our synodical paper on the days of creation and was therefore aware of our body’s As the body will recall, at last year’s synod meeting there was some concern expressed about position. He expressed sympathy with our position and told me he was raised in a home what is happening in these services. The chairman of your committee has taken the which held to ordinary day creation. His current position is, self-admittedly, ambiguous. opportunity to visit three chapel services in the last two years and has not observed anything When the question arises in lectures or classroom discussion he tries not to persuade students objectionable. Dr. Zylstra made it clear to your committee that the use of drama is rare of any particular position. Dr. Allen is also interested in the recent Intelligent Design during these times of devotion. Further it is important to note that what was the position of discussions extant in more mainstream academia. He was instrumental in inviting Dr. campus pastor is now that of the Dean of Chapel. Greater responsibility has been given to Guillermo Gonzalez from Iowa State University to Dordt to present the most recent the position to encourage the overall spiritual welfare of the students. Dordt has also hired information on Intelligent Design. Your chairman found Dr. Allen genuinely friendly to our a new person for this new position, Rev. Rod Gorter. Rev. Gorter has been serving overseas body’s position and would doubt any RCUS student in one of his classes would find reason as a part of International Theological Educational Ministries for the last 7 years. Members to doubt what is commonly taught in our homes and churches. of your committee are personally acquainted with Rev. Gorter and believe his hiring is a Your chairman also visited with Dr. Wayne Kobes, senior member of the Theology positive step for Dordt. While we do believe that at times the chapel times will not be Department, and Dr. John Kok, Dean of Humanities. Dr. Kobes expressed appreciation for entirely consistent with what our committee would desire, and there will some times when many of our theological distinctives. One of the matters which our committee did not discuss drama and praise and worship songs are used, we should be careful to point out to the body with Dr. Zylstra but continues to be a concern–and is common to all higher education–is the that attendance is not required and the majority of these services would be profitable for the escalating cost of education. Dr. Kobes and other members of the faculty share that concern, RCUS students that attend Dordt. although the competitive nature of higher education (demonstrated in better facilities, more The third item in the letter was about the adherence of faculty members to the Three programs, etc.) continues to drive costs higher. Forms of Unity. This has always been required in the past and it continues today. Our reports In summary, your committee has attempted to provide as much information about the have noted in previous years that Dordt no longer requires faculty member to be members current state of Dordt College as we are capable. While not a perfect institution, we do of a Christian Reformed Church. Rather, they are now allowed to be members of a believe it will provide our students with both a Christian as well as academically rigorous confessional Reformed church that also supports the college. Your committee has believed, program. Therefore we have one recommendation: as it continues to, that this an improvement to the previous arrangement. It is now possible 1. That the guideline for giving to Dordt College be set at $2.25 per communicant for faulty to attend not only a CRC, but also a host of other confessionally Reformed member for the coming year. churches–including those in the RCUS. Respectfully submitted, In addition to these three areas, your committee also asked the representatives from Dordt about the college’s teaching about male headship. Of particular concern were a pair Rev. Jeff De Boer, Rev. Herman Van Stedum, of books which were eligible to be read by students in Gen. 300 (a required world-view Rev. Robert Grossmann, Elder Dan Van Peursem class). Both of the books treated the subject of male headship in a pejorative and less than biblical manner. We were not able to determine, outside the fact that these were optional D. Diaconal Committee reads, whether the professors who led the discussion about these books did so critically and with other books to provide balance. Later your committee chairman was able to briefly Esteemed fathers and brothers, discuss some students’ responses to these books with a staff member who led a small group The diaconal committee received two items of business this year. discussion about one of the books. It was the opinion of this staff member that the students who read this book were not convinced by its content and did not believe the book reflected First, following Hurricane Katrina, Deacon Ben Stewart of Trinity Covenant Church Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 31 32 The Reformed Church in the United States of Colorado Springs approached his consistory about a plan to consolidate relief for 1. That the 260th Synod of the RCUS meet at Grace Reformed Church of Mitchell, South hurricane victims from the RCUS. He contacted first the OPC, who told him that PCA Dakota, and that the housing cost for delegates from May 15-18, 2006 be covered by their churches in the area were much harder hit. He finally settled on First Presbyterian Church local congregations. of Gulfport, Mississippi, based on reports that they were one of the hardest hit — they lost 2. Services for the 260th Annual Synod of the RCUS: their church building, and twenty families were without homes. He then contacted the Monday Evening Worship (7:00 PM) - May 15, 2006 churches of the RCUS, through the email list and through personal contacts, encouraging anyone who wished to give to hurricane relief to send the money to Trinity Covenant Church Presiding - Rev. Kyle Sorensen to be collected there and sent, in the name of the RCUS. While he was in the process of Preaching - Rev. Lloyd Gross doing this, he realized that Synod had a committee under which such action would fall, so Wednesday Evening Worship (7:00 PM) - May 17, 2006 he contacted the convener of that committee, Pastor Matt Powell, and discussed the issue Presiding - Rev. Wesley Brice with him. Pastor Powell encouraged him to continue with the work (since it was already in Preaching - Rev. Jon Blair progress), discussed it with other committee members, and asked Deacon Stewart to send Devotions (10:00 AM each day) a report when the project was completed. Tuesday, May 16, 2006 - Licentiate Scott Henry In total, Deacon Stewart raised $27,107.60 to donate to the church. Trinity Covenant Reformed Church received a great many thank-you notes and cards in response to the aid Wednesday, May 17, 2006 - Rev. Matthew Powell sent. Thursday, May 18, 2006 - Rev. Eric Bristley Second, your chairman received a communication from the National Fellowship of Closing Devotion at the conclusion of business - Elder from Grace RCUS, Mitchell, Housing Ministries with an offer to partner with them in the development of low-income SD housing projects which would serve as ministry opportunities for our churches. We did not feel that this project would be something that would fit the current position and resources of the RCUS as a denomination, and thus took no action. Last Fall contact was made with a Mr. Gerald Sanders, pastor of Beck’s Reformed Recommendation #1: That the RCUS thank Deacon Ben Stewart for his work on the Church, Lexington, NC, via Jonathan Merica’s web site, which he referred to the chairman Katrina Relief Project. of the Executive Committee. Further phone contact revealed that Mr. Sanders represented a block of 30 UCC congregations, all in NC, who are very close to leaving the Yours in Christ, denomination. They want to leave as a group. Some congregations are 500 members and Rev. M att Powell, Rev. Dan Rogers, Elder Charles Melhaf, more. They were quite excited to discover that there was a continuing RCUS, being aware Elder Milbert Kappes, Elder Lon Ochsner, Deacon Russ Reitz of their roots and history. Mr. Sanders specifically mentioned the devastation caused by Mercerburg’s Theology. This group of churches is still committed to and uses the E. Editorial Advice Committee Heidelberg Catechism. They have contacted some conservative and reformed Presbyterian denominations, one of which suggested that there might be the possibility of forming their own presbytery. However, according to Mr. Sanders, they would prefer to return to their Dear Fathers and Brethren, roots if possible, because of the Heidelberg Catechism. They do not have the Belgic Your Editorial Advice Committee addressed one issue during the previous Synodical Confession or Canons of Dort. How reformed the group has remained is questionable. There year, whether a submitted letter should be published in its entirety. The subject of the letter was a specific request for information and literature from the RCUS. The following concerned theological seminaries. The Committee’s advice was split, but all agreed that the materials were sent: 12 Creation Pamphlets; 12 Constitutions, 6 Directories of Worship letter itself, if published, should be edited (which it was by the Editor of the Reformed (Red); 12 You Shall Be My People; 50 The Reformed Church in the United States Booklets; Herald). 12 259th Synod Abstracts. Total cost: $321.94. To date, there have been no further Respectfully submitted, developments or requests for personal presentations by the Executive Committee. Rev. J. West, Elder A. Haller, Elder J. McClay, Rev. L. Gross There were no specific instructions given to this committee regarding outstanding student loans. To date we have not received word from these individuals that they have F. Executive Committee begun repayment or set up a schedule for such. There was no other business that came before the committee. Esteemed brothers in Christ, Respectfully Submitted, Rev. Vernon Pollema, Rev. Jim Sawtelle, Rev. Paul Treick, During the course of this synodical year, your committee conferred by telephone and Elder David Stelpstra, Elder Ted Griess email and sent out two Executive Circulars (259-1 and 259-2) with recommendations. They are: Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 33 34 The Reformed Church in the United States

G. Foreign Ministries Committee able to pinpoint other areas which need work such as the formation of a biblical church government starting with a consistory and then also forming classis. Esteemed Fathers and Brothers, It has been clear for many years that one of the greatest needs of the FRCK is the On April 3rd and 4th your committee met in Sacramento to review the work of the instruction of men for the ministry. This was evident to Rev. Clark & Rev. Mayville as they previous year and consider the next years’ budget. Since the work with the churches in the taught and examined the Pastor-Elder and elders. This need has been consistently noted by continent of Africa has continued to expand, the Foreign Missions committee is now fully RCUS ministers who visit Kenya. The problem is there are not many viable options. To operating with subcommittees for the Congo (ERCC and the partnership with the Dutch separate a man out from his family by sending him to South Africa, Europe or the USA is GKN Liberated missionaries) headed by Rev. Robert Grossmann and for Kenya (FRCK) not only economically unfeasible but also would do positive harm for the work of Christ headed by Rev. Michael Voytek. These committees then kept in steady contact and because of the financial divide which exists between these societies. In the past, MERF has maintained the oversight they could with our brothers and the leaders in the Reformed been of assistance but the scope of their mission is different, namely to train men to send churches in these areas in Africa. Other committees which report to the FMC include the back into Muslim nations. The subcommittee has done quite a bit of investigation and the Reformed Radio Administration Committee (with Rev. Neil Riffert, Rev. Paul Treick and best option for instructing men and helping the maturity of the Reformed faith in Kenya is Rev. Dan Schnabel) and the Congo Economic Development Committee (The officers of the to send men to Knox Theological College in Mbale, Uganda. Currently there is only one consistory of Providence RCUS, Lodi California). professor there (Rev. Phil Procter) but with the addition of an experienced RCUS minister as well as a more standard loci of study this becomes the best option. Rev. Michael Voytek Congo: and Rev. Dan Schnabel met in Philadelphia with the General Secretary Mark Bube and the Of the churches the RCUS supports in the Reformed Confessing Church of the Associate General Secretary Doug Clawson of the OPC’s committee on Foreign Missions. Congo(ERCC) they surround four main cities: Lubumbashi, Mbuji-Mayi, Kananga and It was clear these men were interested in the possibility of working together with the RCUS Kinshasa. Rev. Kabongo Malebongo, who visited most of the churches last year, has done on this opportunity. Rev. Clark and Rev. Mayville along with 2 Kenyan men also went to a lot of work in the Mbuji-Mayi, Kananga and Kinshasa areas as well as teaches with the Mbale and met with Phil Proctor to determine both feasibility and cultural viability. missionaries at the Dutch GKN~Liberated seminary in Lubumbashi. Rev. Kabongo’s Currently, Rev. Proctor is swamped in training men for Uganda and was very interested in ministry centers in Mbuji-Mayi with the churches he serves there. There are seven other a joint work with an RCUS pastor as well as expanding the scope of the College to train men churches & their pastor/elders in Mbuji-Mayi and Kananga area which we support. In the from the FRCK. There are two major hurdles which we prayerfully have to go through in Kinshasa area there are six churches & their elders which receive support from the RCUS. order to assist our brothers in the FRCK as well as in the OPC. The first is financing. In our Abel N’tita and Jonas Mualaba and are a great help in the Kinshasa area. In the Lubumbashi meeting with the General and Associate Secretary for the OPC Committee on Foreign there are two pastors who receive support from the RCUS namely Rev. Kasantika Kishimba Missions this first issue has been providentially answered in part. The majority of the and Rev. Mbayo Masangu who serve their congregations there. Rev. Kishimba is the legal $60,000 needed for ongoing yearly support for a missionary was offered by the OPC. They representative for the ERCC with the Congolese government and was instrumental in are requesting that the RCUS provide $20,000 per year to support an RCUS minister at founding the ERCC. One of the most helpful things with the work in the Congo is the ability Knox Theological College in Mbale. The second major hurdle is the provision of a to have men be trained at the Reformed Churches in the Netherlands (GKN) seminary in competent RCUS minister to serve in Mbale. One such experienced RCUS minister is Lubumbashi. Currently Abel N’tita and Philip N’gandu are continuing their studies at the prayerful & seriously considering this opportunity of service. Furthermore, there is also seminary. another RCUS minister who is willing to prayerfully consider it as well. Lord willing, if the In the Congo under the guidance of Mr. Jerry DeJong, the Congo Economic motions listed later are passed by the Synodical body it is possible that an RCUS pastor Development Committee was blessed by the giving of the RCUS to be able to forward over could be teaching at Knox Theological College and training men for Kenya, along with $23,000 (since the inception of the fund) to the Democratic Republic of Congo for a variety being able to have a closer contact with the FRCK, sometime in year 2007. of development projects. This was dispersed under a variety of ways including expanding Another area under development which is more directed towards diaconal work is the farming practices through raising various crops as well as pigs. More sewing machines were economic development for Kenya. Elder Doug Schlegel is heading this up. The intent of this also dispersed. The intent of the committee is now to appraise and access projects would be to similar to Congo Economic development but in areas appropriate for needs in undertaken thus far. Kenya. Kenya: RRAC – Reformed Faith and Life. With the Free Reformed Church of Kenya there are three main Pastor-Elders which we Rev. Eric Kayayan continues to faithfully prepare radio broadcasts which are broadcast support: Meshack Nyarango , James Aunga, and Jeremiah Nyaranga. It is reported to us that through shortwave and through satellite for redistribution through radio. The work is also since 2004 the number of churches there have grown from 10 to 14 total. Overall the support broadcast in France, Belgium and Haiti. the RCUS gives in Kenya goes to the Pastor-Elders and elders, as well as medical expenses, With all the work and support which has been given through the years for Congo, church construction, primary education for children as well as assisting in many other areas Kenya and the radio broadcast we thank the Synod and the members of the churches for its where we can. Rev. Dale Clark’s and Rev. Tom Mayville’s trip to Kenya was very helpful support as well as the Lord Jesus for his blessing enabling this giving. We also thank the as they preached, taught and examined men for office, baptized and confirmed people. They individual contributions which have been given to the various areas outside of the dues for were also able to help clarify issues such as budgeting and accountability. They also were these help to do a great deal of work which is not covered by the dues. These are greatly Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 35 36 The Reformed Church in the United States needed although we ask because of the constantly changing needs that these donations be Travel to Europe $1,000(same) given to the FMC through the Synod Treasurer generally for mission work in Africa. This Travel in USA $ 3,000 (same) will allow the FMC committee to be able to answer needs more quickly and precisely as they 7. That $6,000 be budgeted to cover the estimated expenses for conducting seminars arise. Also under no circumstances should money ever be directly given directly to pastors and assessment in the Philippines or pastor-elders but it should go through the FMC so we can know what is being given and try to help the pastors from falling into temptation(1 Tim 6:9&10). I cannot report enough 8. That $20,000 be budgeted to support sending an RCUS pastor to teach at Knox how greatly we appreciate this support as well as do our brothers and sisters in Christ in theological College in Mbale Uganda. Africa. To make the best use of these financial gifts from God we are seeking to gain better Respectfully submitted, accountability from the churches and pastors and elders there by encouraging and teaching Rev. D an Schnabel, Rev. Jon Blair, Rev. Jeff DeBoer, Rev. Robert Grossmann, budgeting as well as requiring a three year budget for oversight. This year we will also Rev. Kevin Hamilton, Rev. Paul Henderson, Rev. Michael Voytek, Elder Doug Schlegel encourage the pastors in ERCC & FRCK to consistently be tithing as an example to those they minister to, as we pray the Lord will make the churches we now support more self Report on 2005 RCUS visit to the Philippines sufficient as the Lord blesses them. Pastor Gil Baloy, Pastor Matt Powell Philippines: Your committee was encouraged by the visits of Rev. Gil Baloy and Rev. Matt Powell in the INTRODUCTION Philippines. Although there are things which will need work as you can see from their report we are hopeful at what the Lord may bring about in the Philippines. The men they met with We were sent to the Philippines in order to evaluate the conditions there, to see whether are well educated and it does not look like it will take much work to help them theologically. it would be profitable and feasible to begin an effort to establish Reformed churches there. (See Philippines report) The initial situation was that there were two pastors, Pastor Edwin Puzon and Pastor Virgilio Larraga, who desired to become part of the Reformed faith and to affiliate with the RCUS. Recommendations: Pastor Puzon had been part of the Christian Reformed Church of the Philippines but had left 1. That the RCUS establish the relationship with the Philippine Churches. over concerns related to doctrine and practice. Pastor Larraga’s background was in the 2. That the RCUS conduct seminars in the Philippines on Reformed worship and Southern Baptist Convention, but had likewise left over doctrinal and practical concerns. government as well as other matters as needed for assessment with the purpose licensing Both now pastor independent churches, but desire to be affiliated with a larger group. those who would be qualified in the RCUS. The estimated financial burden for such would Pastor Baloy and I went to the Philippines with the intention of examining the be about $6,000 orthodoxy of the two men involved, their intentions for their future ministry, the structure 3. That the Synod establish a day of prayer for foreign missions. and maturity of the churches they pastor, the local conditions, the needs to be met and the 4. That Synod approve the plan of sending a man to Mbale and seek an applicant to obstacles to be overcome in order to successfully establish works there in the Philippines. fulfill this post with the commitment of $20,000 be added to the proposed budget for the Our mission expanded somewhat, however, shortly before we came. Pastor Puzon indicated FMC. to us that he knew two men who were still in the CRC but who would be very interested in 5. That we use the mechanism of asking a local church to call a prospective missionary speaking to us as well. These two men are Pastor Napoleon Narag and Pastor Rey Domingo. as an associate pastor for this work and upon receiving this call be commissioned as a We spent the majority of the two weeks I was there talking to these four pastors, missionary of the RCUS. answering questions about the RCUS and asking them questions about their intentions, 6. That the budget be adopted as follows: situation, beliefs, history and practice. This report is the result of our investigation there. Congo: Part I Elder-pastor support $16,200(same) The most valuable resource we have available to us at this time in the Philippines is the four pastors we have discussed. They all desire to work with the RCUS because they feel Kinshasa aid $7,000(same) the RCUS is doctrinally compatible with their views. They are all seminary trained, with Publishing $1,000(same) years of experience in the ministry and all are dedicated to forming a Reformed Building and Diaconal aid $2,000(same) denomination in the Philippines. All are fluent in English, though they are more Kenya: comfortable in their first language, Tagalog. Church Support $12,000(same) To understand our position in the Philippines, it will perhaps be useful to spend some Publishing $2,000 (same) time talking about each one of the men and their situations. Reformed Faith and Life(French) $17,000(same) A. Edwin Puzon Pastor Puzon is located in the suburbs of Manila. He is married with one elementary-age Committee Expenses son. His wife runs a private Christian school, which at the moment provides most of their family’s income. Travel to Africa $2,000(down $2,000) Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 37 38 The Reformed Church in the United States

Pastor Puzon is the pastor of an independent church which meets in the school. This Biblical way. But in the present church, which is located in Quezon City, he has been church has around fifty average attendees, most of whom are quite poor. They come from successful in implementing a more conservative worship using the traditional hymns. This a nearby shanty town, and would probably be even larger except for transportation is quite unique for a church in the CRCP today. difficulties. This church has very little leadership right now apart from Pastor Puzon. Their Pastor Domingo is very inquisitive, and asked many questions about the Reformed former leadership structure was mostly women, who served as deaconesses, but all of these faith, and about the RCUS in particular. He demonstrated a sincere desire to be acquainted women have stepped down voluntarily. Pastor Puzon has one man in his church who is with our doctrinal and practical stands before making any decisions or commitments. He likely well qualified for service as an elder and who is presently teaching Bible studies and does not desire to connect to a denomination rashly. seemed knowledgeable to us. There are others who are more distant possibilities as elders Pastor Domingo has a strong desire to spread the gospel and build the church of God and deacons. in the Philippines. He had opportunity to pastor a church in the United States. He turned Pastor Puzon’s background is in the Christian Reformed Church of the Philippines it down owing to doctrinal differences. He has also considered emigrating to Canada where (CRCP). He left them for a variety of issues, including doctrinal disagreements and personal he has family with the intention of connecting with a church there and later coming back to conflicts over unresolved moral problems in the leadership of that church. He has been the Philippines as a missionary. If he were to join the RCUS, he would likely have no independent since January of 2002, but desires to affiliate with a like-minded denomination. church, initially, to pastor. There is a possibility of a church in the Pampanga region which He is knowledgeable about Reformed doctrine. He has endeavored to move his church desires to be Reformed, that knows Pastor Domingo and would like to have him as their structure and worship service in a consistently Reformed direction. He has eliminated the pastor. But they would likely lack the means to support him. ‘praise and worship’ style of music service. The congregation instead sings Tagalog Psalms D. Pastor Napoleon Narag set to the music of old hymns. He has also incorporated confession of faith into his worship Pastor Napoleon Narag is a pastor in the CRCP. He is currently serving a church in service with the use of the Heidelberg Catechism and the Nicene Creed. Laguna, which is a little more than an hour away from Manila. He has a wife and two young B. Virgilio Larraga children. Pastor Larraga is the pastor of an independent church in the suburbs of Manila. He is Pastor Narag is very intent on forming a conservative, Reformed denomination in the married with three college-aged children. Philippines. Though he is currently in the CRCP, he, like Rev. Domingo and others in the Pastor Larraga’s background is in the Southern Baptist Convention. He became CRCP, is not at all content to remain there. He is uncomfortable with many aspects of the convinced of the Reformed faith through contact with Rev. Baloy many years ago and left CRCP, including their doctrinal aberrations, their loose practice and their focus on the SBC out of doctrinal and operational concerns. He has been independent for a number superstitious beliefs rooted in animism, the so-called charismatic gifts and the like. He of years, though he also unsuccessfully explored working with the PCA’s Mission to the believes that the CRCP preaches a “prosperity gospel”, focusing mostly on the felt needs of World for a period of time. the people and giving them promises of an “abundant life.” Like Pastor Domingo, Pastor Pastor Larraga’s church service is sadly less Reformed than we would like. There is Narag has lost his position in at least one previous church due to being regarded as a still a fair amount of involvement of women in the service, including leading prayer. (He “troublemaker” because of his strict orthodoxy. said, when this issue was raised with him, that he would change it.) There is also an English Pastor Narag is a passionate preacher. We heard him speak as a guest speaker at Pastor “praise and worship” service that occurs immediately before the call to worship, and the Puzon’s church His sermon was a thoroughly Biblical presentation of God’s sovereign music in the service is mixed between “praise and worship” (though of a much more sedate providence in the face of difficulties, presented from the story of Joseph. style than that which was used before the service) and hymns. Pastor Narag’s current church is not a very Reformed church, and does not share his concern His church also seemed to demonstrate some signs of neglect. The service was disorganized about the spiritual condition of the CRCP. He has limited control over the church’s practices and music numbers were obviously ill-rehearsed. Those in the church that we talked to did since the assistant pastor and most of the consistory are opposed to his views. There are not appear to be very knowledgeable about the faith, despite the fact that Pastor Larraga had individuals within the church over whom he has been able to exert some Reformed identified them to us as leaders. At the time we visited, Pastor Larraga taught college in the influence. He will have to leave his church, losing his position at the Christian private evenings and ran a private school during the day, though he has since quit teaching college school at the church where he is also employed, were he to join the RCUS. to give the ministry more of his time. Pastor Narag was formerly the pastor of a CRCP mission church at Pangasinan, some Pastor Larraga also preaches in Tagalog, and his sermon was effective and Biblical. five hours away from Manila. He was loved and influential at this church. Their former Despite our concerns about his church, Pastor Larraga himself is knowledgeable and relationship with Pastor Narag was ended at the CRCP’s instigation, due to the dedicated to the Reformed faith. denomination’s fear that Pastor Narag was encouraging the group in Pangasinan in a C. Pastor Rey Domingo direction that the CRCP did not wish them to take. The members themselves were very Pastor Domingo lives and works near Manila. He is an experienced pastor who has unhappy with the CRCP, and recently they ended their relationship with the CRCP. worked in the CRCP since his ordination. He is dissatisfied with the CRCP because of their Presently, the church has no minister, and the pulpit is filled occasionally by lay members man-centered worship and abandonment of the Reformed creeds. He has lost his position of the church and occasionally by Pastor Puzon. in at least one CRCP church due to an attempt to seriously practice church discipline in a Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 39 40 The Reformed Church in the United States

We were able to meet with this group on two occasions and spoke to them for many appears to have become intractable. Pastor Puzon and Pastor Narag have both told us that hours about the doctrinal and practical positions of the RCUS. They appear anxious to they will not work with any group in which Larraga is present. pursue a relationship with the RCUS. If both they and Pastor Narag were to join the RCUS, There are attitudes on both sides of this conflict which require repentance, and there are Pastor Narag would most likely return to Pangasinan as this church’s pastor. now deep suspicions of the motivations of the other group present on both sides. Since our visit, another minister by the name of Rev. Rodrigo “Ogi” Bicaldo, 3. Doctrinal Challengers and a church of 20-30 members in distant Davao City, Davao (Mindanao Island), have The doctrinal challenges that we would face in planting a church in the Philippines are expressed serious interest in affiliation with the group, and with the RCUS, as well. The really no different than the doctrinal challenges we would face planting a church somewhere church has had previous connections with a particular URCNA church in the U.S. However, here. these four are the group that we have available to us now, who are doctrinally compatible, Women in leadership is one of the big issues. Even in the churches that have removed trained and in position to begin working soon. women from the formal leadership of the church, there are still women leading various CHALLENGES aspects of worship. Women provide a great deal of the informal authority of the church. The obstacles or potential obstacles that the work in the Philippines faces falls into The pastors are for the most part committed to the doctrine of male headship and leadership three categories- structural, personal, and theological. in worship. The obstacles will for the most part be present in the congregations, rather than 1. Structural Challenges: with the pastors. The pastors will therefore be a great asset to us in overcoming this The Philippines is a poor country. It is not nearly as poor as other areas where the obstacle. RCUS has pursued missions, such as Africa. But the unemployment is high, wages are low, The doctrine of worship will be another difficult area. All of the pastors come from a and opportunities are scarce. The government of the Philippines is widely regarded as more “praise-and-worship”, man-centered, feelings-centered worship. Most have broken corrupt and bribery of public officials is commonplace. Many of the people in the churches with that past and desire something richer and fuller. But again, their congregations are in we are presently considering are lower class, and some, like a good number of the members some instances slower in moving in that direction. attending Puzon’s church, live in shanty towns. Partial financial support from the RCUS Pastor Virgilio Larraga is perhaps the more challenging pastor in both of these areas. would likely be necessary for a period of time. He has not yet adopted a fully Reformed style of worship, and he has women lead some Though these ministers have attended seminaries in the Philippines, much more aspects of his service. When we spoke to him about these matters, he was resistant to instruction will be required, particularly, about the importance of a Christian world-and-life change. Further work will be necessary with Pastor Larraga. view, Presbyterian government, as well as the Reformed view of worship. This would Pastor Puzon is perhaps the most in line with our views on these issues. The other two probably require trips to the US for them to be examined and licensed, to attend synod and pastors, Pastor Narag and Pastor Domingo, appear to be compatible. But it is somewhat helpful conferences, etc. Also RCUS pastors will need to travel to the Philippines to provide difficult to judge as their churches, unlike Puzon’s church, are still in the CRCP. We were further instruction, oversight and training for them and even their churches. unable to observe these pastors putting their philosophy of worship and male headship into 2. Personal Challenges practice. There has been some interpersonal conflict between the pastors, mainly between Pastor On various other issues of reformed doctrine, there will likely be no unusual barriers. Larraga and the others. It is somewhat difficult to know the exact nature of these conflicts We will likely face the same kinds of difficulties as we would bringing in any independent But it appears to be the result of distrust between two groups who don’t know each other church from any metropolitan area of America. very well. They are both concerned that the other group is gaining some special privileges It is of interest to note that because the Philippines is about 85% Roman Catholic, there with us. We encouraged Pastor Larraga and the other pastors to meet together regularly is some resistance in the Protestant community to practices which might be regarded as while they moved towards integration with the RCUS, and the first meeting did not “Catholic”. The two practices that most obviously fall into this category are confirmation apparently go well. Pastor Larraga requested additional information about the other pastors and infant baptism. Infant baptism is less of a challenge for the groups we are presently in order to get to know them better, and they took offense to this request. Later, Pastor working with, since the CRC practices infant baptism. But it is the practice in the CRCP to Larraga made some accusations against the other pastors that he did not expect them to see, allow either infant or believer baptism, and for the parents or adult baptize to choose the but which accusations did become known to the other pastors. This has resulted in a rift mode. Further, re-baptism of Roman Catholic converts is common. between Pastor Larraga and his associates, and the other three pastors (Puzon, Domingo and On the subject of confirmation, it will be necessary to make a sharp delineation Narag). between the RCC sacrament of confirmation and the Reformed practice. It might even be One suggestion that Pastor Larraga made was to form two separate classes, one for wise to come up with an alternate name for the rite for the Filipino churches. Larraga and his associates, and one for the other pastors. We told them that this simply 4. Organizational challenges wasn’t done in the RCUS, and that they would not be able to sidestep the need to work out On the organizational front, the difficulty will be how to oversee these pastors in their their differences as fellow ministers and brethren. work within time and monetary constraints. Communication is relatively easy via email, but If the RCUS moves forward with working with all of these pastors, it will be necessary they will require more extensive involvement than that. We will need to bring them to the to reconcile these two groups, and they will likely need some help doing it. The problem States periodically for Synod meetings, especially until such a time as they become a separate denomination. We will need to decide how to govern the churches there. Will we Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 41 42 The Reformed Church in the United States allow them a greater degree of independence than we might a new plant here in the States? oversight. The chapel advertises with a variety of means: sponsoring an R C Sproul radio Or will we approach it simply as a number of church plants under the jurisdiction of a broadcast; listing with Welcome Wagon; and telephone listings. They continue to rent a particular classis until they have established enough churches to form their own classis? VFW Hall in Bella Vista, which provides a worship area, several rooms for Sunday School, One possibly worrying development occurred when some of the pastors there went and an evening service can be held there. A building fund has been established with regular ahead with establishing a formal body, with membership and a president, as a forerunner to giving, and they plan to talk soon with the development company in Bella Vista about land forming their own denomination ahead of involvement with us. When we approached them for their own church building. They have taken a 20% reduction in support from Synod and about it, they said they were only taking this step in order to better support the Pangasinan Classis in 2006. Rev. Brice reports with thanks to the Lord that his strength has returned group that was seeking to leave the CRCP but that had no pastor, and to facilitate after serious illness last year. communication between the individuals who desired to move in the direction of forming an Redeemer RCUS. Golden Valley, MN indigenous Reformed church in the Philippines. They told us that this step in no way Rev. Jim Sawtelle reports that the congregation gained 18 total baptized members in changed their desire to affiliate with the RCUS. Our fears were somewhat assuaged. But 2005, to have a total of 150 baptized members in 46 families. Rev. Sawtelle continues to we still have some concerns about an overly independent spirit, as well as a certain be busy with various classes, having two services each Lord’s Day, and doing pastoral visits. impulsiveness. We hope that spirit will be put in check as a result of being under truly A 9 week sponsorship of an R C Sproul radio program brought in a family, and they plan Reformed church government. to run other radio ads this year. Most contacts come through their web site. Rev. Sawtelle Recommendations: reported he is very thankful for the work of the church officers. The elders visited every 1. We believe that the RCUS should move forward with a relationship with the Philippine household in the congregation in 2005. They also teach 3 separate Sunday School classes. churches. We believe that contact should be made with each of these pastors in order to The deacons have been quite active working with families undergoing financial difficulties. determine what each would need to be licensed in the RCUS. The giving of the congregation increased over the year, and with the reductions of 2006, the 2. We would recommend that the interested pastors immediately be given an orthodoxy and plan is that this will be their last year of outside support. Special Consistory meetings were intent examination in order to establish the suitability for support and training to move them held regarding the idea and feasibility of Redeemer establishing another congregation in the towards the goal of licensure. All of these men are seminary graduates, so hopefully it Twin Cities. Financial planning was done to determine anticipated costs. The readiness of should not be too difficult to accomplish this. Redeemer, the number of core families to participate in the work, and its location are things to be determined, for which prayers of the RCUS are desired. Rev. Sawtelle also reported 3. We believe that supplemental financial assistance ought to be considered for the pastors, that total denominational support of Redeemer over 7 years has totaled $230,000, including who will be leaving established churches in order to pursue a relationship with us. Careful the building loan that has been repaid. In return the RCUS has gained a congregation of research ought to be done in order to establish an appropriate amount of aid. 150, which gives about $15,000 yearly to the denomination. They have properties worth 4. We believe that the RCUS ought to explore the feasibility of conducting seminars in over $1,000,000, on which they now owe less than $500,000. This was said to note that Reformed worship and government in the Philippines, as well as other subjects as time mission works do cost money, and take commitment, but when the Lord blesses the work, allows. RCUS representatives should be sent to the Philippines to interact with the churches it will more than pay for itself in time. Redeemer also started in a large city with a core and pastors both for the purpose of oversight and for encouragement and support. The group of around 30, both of which were reported as good models. seminars and visits could be combined, if the appropriate personnel can be secured. Chicago Area Mission Rev. Saavalainen arrived in August to serve as a Missionary to the Deaf in the Chicago H. Home Missions Area, for an initial trial period of one year. Services and classes have been held regularly in the two locations of Lombard and the Moody (downtown Chicago) group. The Dear Brothers: overseeing Danville Consistory and the Classis Missions Committee have been quite The Synod Home Missions Committee met at La Habra, CA on April 6-7, 2006. involved with advising the work. There have been some difficulties regarding Committee members present were: Rev. Harvey Opp, Elder Jim Bruckschen, Elder Lynn communication and expectations. The Classis Missions Committee and the Danville Goehring, and Elder Wayne Lingenfelter. Members not present were: Rev. Neale Riffert, Consistory will continue to seek improvement in these areas. A series of Sunday School Rev. Ron Morris, Rev. Mike McGee, and Elder Melvin Burbach. Home Missionaries classes were recently completed for membership instruction. The Lord has blessed the work present were Rev. Wesley Brice, Rev. Robert Grossmann, Rev. Jay Fluck, Rev. Jonathan in that 2 additional adults from Moody (for a total of 4 there) have joined the RCUS, and in Merica, Rev. Jim Sawtelle, and Rev. Jari Saavalainen. Mr. Mike Brabo was present for deaf January, a vote at Lombard was taken, with 9 voting to proceed toward RCUS membership. interpretation. Only 2 of that congregation voted against this. Rev. Saavalainen reports that the people continue to “hunger after God’s Word.” A majority at Lombard attend a Wed. Bible study. Mission Reports There are visitors at both locations who disagree with infant baptism, or are not familiar with Grace Reformed Chapel, Northwest AR and covenant theology. Children’s Sunday School classes need to be provided. Rev. Wesley Brice reports that they average 25 to 30 in attendance for Sunday worship, Covenant East Classis approved another year’s status for Rev. Saavalainen as a missionary and now have 15 communicant members. Several more have recently finished a to the Chicago area. This was done since there was no call to the work from an RCUS membership class. The Peace RCUS Consistory, at Garner, IA continues to exercise diligent Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 43 44 The Reformed Church in the United States congregation. However, since the work has developed to the extent above, an associate Rev. Gene Sawtelle sent his report stating that the congregation added 2 communicant pastor call may be forthcoming by the time Synod meets. members and one covenant child during 2005. Average attendance was 41. Five covenant Providence RCUS, Vermillion, SD youth are in catechism class. There is a women’s and also a men’s Bible study, and a Rev. Robert Grossmann is pleased to report that the congregation is healthy and strong, Sunday evening study, held twice monthly. Sunday School is well-attended by adults and spiritually and materially, and that members “remain solidly committed to the preaching of children. The Lord has blessed the congregation spiritually and physically. In less than 3 God’s word, both for themselves, and to a wide area covering most of five states through our years they have been able to pay their debt on the church and parsonage down to $140,000. weekly radio broadcast that continues to receive good listener response. Church attendance Diaconal needs have also been provided. Rev. Sawtelle has struggled with health difficulties by all member families is constant.” In 2005, there were 5 confirmations, and after 2 to the point where he is assured he must now retire after 43 years in the ministry, the last 6 transfers there was an overall gain of 3 communicants. Several Chinese graduate students serving at Greeley. He and his wife Sharon express thankfulness for God’s people in the at the University of South Dakota attend regularly, and a Chinese Bible study is held each Greeley congregation and in all the RCUS for the very generous and loving support they week. Church finances are remain strong “through consistent and generous offerings, and have received for material needs, for the warm care shown in times of illness and pain, and our denominational support”. Guidelines are always met, and some property improvements as they have mourned the loss of dear family members. Rev. Sawtelle is to retire at end of were made. In addition to the above study, Rev. Grossmann continues to labor in preaching May. and teaching, midweek Bible study, adult Sunday School class, and youth fellowship. High Plains RCUS, Calhan, CO Grace Reformed Chapel, San Ramon, CA and Calvary Reformed Chapel, Stockton, CA Mr. Sam Powell sent his report stating that in 2005, two communicants joined the Rev. Jonathan Merica reported that the summer of 2005 unto the present has been a church, and one covenant child was born. Eleven of the youth attended the Heidelberg time of major transition for his labors. Last year, the Western Classis required that there be Camp last summer. Recently, eight covenant youth were confirmed. Mr. Powell exhorted a “marked improvement in attendance and/or membership” at San Ramon for its funding in throughout the year, while also taking seminary courses at New Geneva in Colorado Springs. continue in 2006. The determination of the Classis Missions Committee was that a weekly He taught confirmation and church history classes, adult Sunday School, and Sunday Bible study should be moved from San Ramon to Stockton, in June of last year, while evening Bible study. His seminary studies proceed well, which are to continue for at least services continued at San Ramon. Then, the Committee’s assessment last fall, was that the another year. The Spiritual Council is working through some difficulties in the Classis requirement was not met, and the work was said to be no longer viable. Therefore, congregation, and some counsel from a Classis committee was recently given. The the relocation of Rev. Merica’s mission efforts to the Stockton, CA has been carried out, as committee found that the consistory was working together in unity with Mr. Powell. They provided for in the 2005 Classis and Synod actions. An assessment of the Stockton work appreciated the advice, and said they will take the steps needed. The committee reports that will be done before the end of this year. Worship services in Stockton began March 26th, overall the situation is positive at Calhan. renting a suitable facility at Mayfair Christian Church for $145 per month! Fourteen were Covenant RCUS, Chico, CA in attendance, almost all of whom are members of Covenant RCUS, Grass Valley, whose Rev. Gary Mancilas sent his report stating that the congregation has shown faithfulness consistory continues to have oversight of Rev. Merica’s labors. Stockton is a city of in a difficult year. A discipline case resulted in several erasures. However, one adult was approximately 250,000. Prayers are requested for the Lord’s blessing on this work. received by profession of faith, resulting in a total membership of 20 communicants, a loss Rehoboth Reformed Chapel, La Habra, CA of 3 from the 2004 total. With this decline, there was a significant decrease in financial Rev. Jay Fluck reports that the chapel has continued in the same leased rooms since last resources. The consistory made this shortfall known, and the congregation has responded July, and have their name listed on the building’s permanent sign. There are 19 with giving above their regular offerings. The consistory has requested that the Classis communicants, 10 non-communicants, 11 regular visitors, and 6 more visitors who have Missions Committee assist them in reassessing and establishing, if need be, a new goal for been regular for several months. They have a Sunday evening service, two SS classes, and financial support for 2007. They continue to meet in a rented Adventist building. Rev. Wed. Bible study. In visitations, members report that the ministry there helps them in their Mancilas stated that the congregation shows “a high level of commitment to church growth. spiritual growth, and the people are known among their families for their knowledge of Our witness in the community remains to be through word of mouth (personal witnessing), God’s word. The working relationship with Ebenezer RCUS, Shafter continues to be a the yellow pages, the Internet via our church website, the sermon and teaching tape ministry, blessing. The consistory is represented at the chapel services on a monthly basis, which is and the local newspaper.” They also have a local cable television program, “The Hour of to be highly commended. Outreach of various means is done, the most effective being the ,” and are starting a program on a radio station. personal testimony of the people. Their web site is often the means for initial learning of Deaf Reformed Ministries the chapel in the very large and “churched” area. The monetary giving of the chapel has The Reformed Faith continues to be spread to the deaf community throughout America increased in the last year, and the Classis support has increased to nearly twice the amount by the work of DRM. Their national meeting, the Sovereign Grace Deaf Conference was from Synod. Two CA churches have provided a large amount of their funding also. The held in Danville, KY in 2005, and local conferences were held in California, Texas, Florida, location of the LA area necessitates the budget where the rent and utilities total $36,000 per and Pennsylvania. The development of video clips of the Heidelberg Catechism in year. Rev. Fluck has continued to work outside of the congregation also, and asks prayer American Sign Language is nearing its final stage. Clips are on DRM’s website. Overall, for strength to continue in his physically demanding schedule. He rejoices in the Lord’s DRM had revenue of $71,500 and spent almost $70,000. The Director, Elder Kenton Hoxie, blessing upon his people there. will be glad to answer any questions about this work. Rev. Kevin Hamilton and Rev. Jari Grace RCUS, Greeley, CO Saavalainen are on its governing council, and did its financial audit last year. The same Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 45 46 The Reformed Church in the United States support of $4,000, split between CEC and Synod is requested. Covenant East continues to 2. That Synod continue its provision for our Deaf missions work in the Chicago area, in the provide said $2,000. amount of $17,300 for the remainder of fiscal year 2006, to the sum of $29,200 for 2006. Committee Work: [This is the same total support for Chicago and Rev. Saavalainen as approved for the past After the reports of the missionaries, they participated in a roundtable discussion with year, beginning in June 2005.] the committee members. Topics included: 1. Advertising methods, including web sites. 2. 3. That support for our Deaf missions work in the Chicago area be set at $29,200 for 2007. For advertising purposes, using the title “Church” along with the statement “A Mission 4. That support for Deaf Reformed Ministries be set at $2,000 for 2007. Work of the RCUS”, for an unorganized work. The consensus was that this has been done 5. That support for Grace RCUS, Greeley, CO be set at $13,586 for 2007. in the past, and avoids much confusion in the world over what a “chapel” is. 3. The “RCUS 6. That support for High Plains RCUS, Calhan, CO be set at $14,400 for 2007. Radio Program”. This has been found to be a more difficult project than envisioned, in seeking to have 6 different writers of the messages. Also, it was seen as more of an 7. That support for Providence RCUS, Vermillion, CO be set at $8,720 for 2007. advertising method, as in telling RCUS history, etc., rather than preaching the Scriptures, 8. That support for Covenant RCUS, Chico, CA be set at $9,960 for 2007. which takes a longer time period to gain steady listeners. The consensus was that 9. That support for Rehoboth Reformed Chapel, La Habra, CA be set at $14,000 for 2007. development of the program would not be the best use of money, and that it should not be 10. That support for Calvary Reformed Chapel, Stockton, CA be set at $19,980 for 2007 pursued further. 4. Approach and time involved for training people for membership, to contingent upon a positive assessment that will be done before the end of 2006. [Note: This where they can take such vows without exceptions to our creeds. The time, of course, varies assessment report must be sent to the SHMC upon completion.] with the needs of the individuals, and enough time must be taken with that consideration in 11. That $9,000 be budgeted for new works, and that the remainder of the RCUS Radio view. Project funds be transferred to this budget. During our meeting the mission reports, budgets, and overtures from the classes were 12. That $6,000 be budgeted for committee expenses. considered. There were a number of questions in reviewing the budgets, due to the variety 13. That the annual Home Missions Offering on the Day of Prayer in 2006 be designated of forms used. The SHMC has a basic form which would be preferable. Also, three of the for Grace RCUS, Greeley, CO. budgets were not balanced. That is, substantial deficit spending was projected with no explained income source, Eg. savings or expected loan to cover the expenses. The budget 14. Take Note: The Home Missions budget, if approved as recommended, would be for each work was not always forwarded to the SHMC by the respective Classis Missions $154,226. Committee, but had to be requested from the missionaries. See Home Missions Manual 15. Take Note: The three-year budgets of mission works are to be balanced and follow the (1.b., pg. 6). Some of the Classis reports showed that annual visitations of mission works basic form to be obtained from the SHMC. (in person) were not always carried out as required in the Manual (#2, pg. 2), by members 16. Take Note: The Classes and their Missions Committees are to take care that those from the Classis Missions Committee and Synod Home Missions Committee. nominated for their committees and the Synod Home Missions Committee are willing and Two new possibilities for future Synod mission works were brought to our attention. able to serve in the necessary work of missions visitations, and the SHMC annual meeting, However, since neither location had been assessed nor brought to us by Classis approval, we if so appointed. could take no action. This is again clear in the Manual (pp. 3-4, and 1.a., pg. 6). Respectfully Submitted, It should be noted that the work of the SHMC was hindered this year in that only 50% Rev. H arvey Opp, Elder Lynn Goehring, Rev. N eale Riffert, Elder Jim Bruckschen, of its members attended this annual meeting. Therefore, this report and its recommendations Rev. Mike McGee, Elder Wayne Lingenfelter, Rev. Ron Morris, Elder Melvin Burbach had to be approved by a majority after the meeting, in accord with RCUS Rule of Order #34. There were, for example, health or family issues for some of the committee members and I. Interchurch Relations missionaries, which are understandable. However, some of the conflicts were due to poor planning. It was determined last year that the annual meeting will be held on the first Thursday and Friday of April, unless the latter is Good Friday. The same schedule has been Esteemed brethren: set for next year, after discussion with all those who were present. Since the last meeting of Synod, the IRC has conducted its business by telephone and Annual Day of Prayer and Debt Reduction Offering: via e-mail. One of the Synod’s mandates was the revision of the position paper, “Principles As a reminder, the Annual Day of Prayer for Missions is the second Sunday of of Church Unity,” in order that it might reflect more clearly our own confessional basis. We September. The 2005 debt reduction offering for Redeemer RCUS, Golden Valley, MN was submit to the delegates the revision of the paper (attached) for review. Your committee also $21,000, including the congregation’s own offerings. Rev. Jim Sawtelle expressed makes recommendations regarding the same. appreciation on behalf of Redeemer for all the support of the RCUS congregations. Your Churches in Fraternal Relations committee recommends that the 2006 offering be designated for Grace RCUS, Greeley, CO. Canadian Reformed Churches There have been no formal meetings with the CanRef Recommendations : committee in the past Synodical year, but there has been increased interaction between our The SHMC recommends the following to the 260th Synod of the RCUS: respective Classes. The Synod of the Canadian Reformed Churches meets next in 2007. 1. That support for Grace Reformed Chapel of NW Arkansas be set at $10,080 for 2007. Orthodox Presbyterian Church Rev. Kyle Sorensen and Rev. Tracy Gruggett attended Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 47 48 The Reformed Church in the United States the OPC’s General Assembly on June 6-7, 2005, and Mr. Sorensen’s report is appended to this 3. Delegate(s) to the RPCNA Synod (June 2006) Beaver Falls, PA 600.00 report. 4. Interchurch Relations Committee Meeting 2,500.00 Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America Rev. G. Syms attended the Synod of 5. Interchurch Relations Committee expenses 500.00 the RPCNA meeting June 27-30, 2005, at Geneva College, Beaver Falls, PA, and his report will TOTAL: $7,200.00 be appended to this one. Recommendation 1: That the proposed changes to the paper on Biblical Principles of Church Gereformeerde Kerken in Nederland - Vrijgemaakt While an initial and brief report was Unity be adopted. received from the RCUS delegate to the General Synod of the GKN-V, the assembly was still Grounds: The above changes bring the paper on Biblical Principles of Church Unity in meeting when the RCUS Synod met last year. Elder John Heerema has submitted a report on line with the language of the Three Forms of Unity as mandated by Synod. his visit to that Synod. The Committee is studying the report and will discuss the issues that are of significance. Recommendation 2: That the commentary on each of the five principles of the Biblical Principles of Church Unity be affirmed. Relations with other churches Grounds: The commentary explains why each of the five principles was affirmed and will URCNA Your committee will make a recommendation to this Synod as to how we should facilitate the work of the Interchurch Relations Committee. respond to the URCNA invitation to move into “Phase II” relations with that body. Recommendation 3: That Synod respond to the URCNA’s invitation to enter Phase II relations Ecumenical Organizations with them, by instructing our Stated Clerk to write to their Synod, indicating “our desire to have North American Presbyterian And Reformed Council fraternal or sister-church relations without committing to the process of ecclesiastical union.” The RCUS delegation to the NAPARC meeting of November 1-2, 2005, at Bonclarken, Recommendation 4: That the Synod of the RCUS vote in favor of the reception of the Free Flat Rock, N.C., were the Rev. Messrs. Potter, Koerner, Opp, and Elder S. Powell. Rev. Reformed Churches of North America into membership in NAPARC and that the Stated Clerk Potter’s report on NAPARC is attached. of the Synod advise the secretary of NAPARC of the outcome of the vote. International Conference of Reformed Churches Grounds: The FRCNA is desirous of being member church of NAPARC, meets all the Your delegates to the ICRC meeting in Pretoria, South Africa, were Rev. P. Treick and criterion for membership stated in the Basis of the Council and is commended to the churches Rev. G. Syms. Rev. Treick has written a report (attached) on this Conference and reflects on for membership approval by the Council. Documents germane to the FRCNA are included for the value of the RCUS holding membership in it. information. Other business Recommendation 5: That the budget be approved. Correspondence received from the Rev. L. Roy Taylor, inviting the RCUS to send an Respectfully submitted, observer to the PCA General Assembly, meeting June 20-23, 2006, in Atlanta, GA. Rev. Tracy Gruggett, Rev. Maynard Koerner, Elder Jay Liesveld, Rev. Sam Powell, Correspondence received from the Rev. James Maciver, Principal Clerk, of the Free Rev. Ron Potter, Rev. Jim Sawtelle, Elder David Stelpstra, Rev. George Sym s Church of Scotland, requesting the RCUS to send an observer to attend their General Assembly, May 22-26, 2006. Report on the International Conference of Reformed Churches Correspondence from the Rev. Donald J. Duff, Stated Clerk of the OPC, inviting the RCUS to send a fraternal delegate to the OPC General Assembly, meeting June 21-28, 2006 in Palos Heights, IL. The sixth quadrennial meeting of the International Conference of Reformed Churches was held in Pretoria, South Africa, from October 13 to 19, 2005. A prayer service preceded Correspondence from the Rev. Dr. Bruce C. Stewart, Secretary of the Interchurch the official opening, during which a message was presented with the theme, Through the Relations Committee of the RPCNA, with an invitation for the RCUS to send two delegates to Jerusalem meeting God safeguards the unity and catholicity of the church. The venue for their Synod, meeting at Geneva College, Beaver Falls, PA, June 26-30, 2006. the conference was the Vrye Gereformeerde Kerk at Rietfontein, Pretoria. The host church, Correspondence from the Evangelical Reformed Ministries Sri Lanka, Peter Munasinghe, the Free Reformed Churches of South Africa, provided for the needs of the delegates with Secretary, basically outlining financial needs. great generosity and consideration, as numerous members gave selflessly of their time and Correspondence from NAPARC, which is to meet, D.V., in Laval, Quebec, hosted by the resources to make our experience in Pretoria a memorable one indeed. ERQ (Reformed Church of Quebec) Nov. 14-15, 2006; Potter, Koerner, Sawtelle, Syms, are Members and Visitors to be the delegation, God willing. During the meeting, three new members were added to the Conference—the Reformed Budget Information Churches in South Africa, the Reformed Churches of Spain, and the Reformed Your Committee submits the following as its anticipated budgetary needs for the next Confessing Church in Congo—bringing the combined membership of the member synodical year for the use of the Standing Committee on Finances. Dues for NAPARC and churches to almost 700,000. The basis of the fellowship among the member churches in the ICRC are not included. Conference is a commitment to the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as 1. Delegation to NAPARC 2006 in Laval, Quebec $3,000.00 confessed in the historic Reformed standards: the Three Forms of Unity and/or the 2. Delegate(s) to the OPC GA June 2006, Palos Heights, IL 600.00 Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechisms. The twenty-five member churches are: Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 49 50 The Reformed Church in the United States

1. Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church (ARPC) Republic of Congo in September 2003) since the last meeting. The Missions 2. Calvinist Reformed Churches in Indonesia (Gereja Gereja Reformasi Calvinis di Indonesia NTT) Committee also presented a summary of the results of the survey it had conducted (GGRC) regarding the worldwide missions work of the member churches. A new mandate for 3. Canadian Reformed Churches (CanRC) the Missions Committee was adopted, which included development of a list of mission 4. Christian Reformed Churches in the Netherlands (Christelijke Gereformeerde Kerken in contact representatives for each of the member churches, who will be responsible for Nederland) (CGKN) disseminating ICRC missions information and materials to their respective churches. 5. Reformed Confessing Church in the Congo (Église Réformée Confessante au Congo) (ERCC) Papers 6. Evangelical Presbyterian Church in England and Wales (EPCEW) The central theme of this meeting was “The Lordship of Christ,” and four papers were 7. Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Ireland (EPC I) presented to open up various aspects Christ’s Lordship in the believer, the church, and the 8. Free Church of C entral India (FCCI) world. Discussions and workshops were conducted with respect to each of the papers. 9. Free Church of Scotland (FCS) The first paper was presented by Prof. Dr. A. J. de Visser (CanRC) on The Lordship in 10. Free Church in Southern Africa (FCSA) the Life of the Believer. Prof. de Visser started by giving a biblical perspective on the theme, 11. Free Reformed Churches in South Africa (Die Vrye Gereformeerde Kerken in Suid Afrika) (VGKSA) including the fact of Christ’s Lordship and its implications. He then discussed the question as to how the Lordship of Christ functions in churches in various parts of the world, and 12. Free Reformed Churches of North America (FRCNA) suggested that the Lordship of Christ is a powerful antidote against the widespread problems 13. Orthodox Presbyterian Church (OPC) of both antinomianism and legalism. 14. Presbyterian Church of Eastern Australia (PCEA) The second paper was presented by Prof. Dr. J. W. Maris (CGKN) on The Lordship 15. Presbyterian Church in Korea (Kosin) (PCK(K)) of Christ in the Church. Prof. Maris began the development of his theme by discussing 16. Reformed Churches in Indonesia – NTT (Gereja Gereja Reformasi di Indonesia NTT) (GGR I) the relation of Christ to the identity of the church. He then explored Christ’s three 17. Reformed Churches in the Netherlands (Liberated) (Gereformeerde Kerken in Nederland offices, especially that of King, and the consequences of the Christ’s Kingship for the (vrijgemaakt)) (GKNV) church’s obedience. The Lordship of Christ also drives the agenda of the church in its 18. Reformed Churches of New Zealand (RCNZ) mission endeavors, in its quest for biblical unity, and in its government. He concluded 19. Reformed Churches in South Africa (GKSA–P) by observing some implications for the future of the church, noting that there will be 20. Reformed Churches of Spain (Iglesias Reformadas de España) (IRE) no end to Christ being King and Lord of His people. 21. Reformed Church in the United States (RCUS) 22. Reform ed Presbyterian Church of Ireland (RPC I) The final two papers were presented by the Rev. Messrs. Y. Dethan (GGRC) and D. Robertson (FCS) on The Lordship of Christ Proclaimed in the World. Mr. Dethan focused 23. Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America (RPCNA) on the proclamation of the gospel to pagans and on the suffering of persecuted 24. Reform ed Presbyterian Church of N orth East India (RPC NEI) believers. He challenged the meeting to bear in mind that, in bringing the gospel to 25. United Reformed Churches in North America (URCNA) pagans, we should not compromise, but rather confront them with the Scriptures, Ten other churches sent observers or visitors to the Conference, several of which introduced bearing in mind that this is our duty—the result is God’s. He concluded by reminding themselves or updated the meeting on current work: the meeting that persecutions do not arise by chance. God allows them to test our faith, 26. Church of Christ in Sudan Among the Tiv (Nongo u Kristu u ken Sudan hen Tiv) (NKST) for our purification, and for His own glory. Mr. Robertson focused on the challenges 27. Ethiopian Reformed Presbyterian Church (ERPC) of proclaiming the Lordship of Christ to a postmodern age, where institutions are 28. Evangelical Reformed Church in Sweden (ERCS) suspect, the present is dominant, and there is no master story. In taking up this 29. Free Church of Scotland (Continuing) (FCC) challenge, he encouraged Reformed churches to be real (rather than simply role play), 30. Heritage in North America (HRCNA) to be radical (in the sense of taking everything back to the Scriptures), and to be genuine 31. Independent Reformed Church in Korea (IRCK) in developing relationships with unbelievers. He concluded with the plea that 32. Mehrete Yesus Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Eritrea (MYEPC) evangelism and church planting not be relegated to the peripheries in the life of the 33. Reformed Church in (RCJ) church, but to remember that the Lord uses the theology, government, and worship that 34. Reformed Churches of South Africa (Soutpansberg Synod) (GKSA–S) arise out of our Reformed understanding of Scripture to build up His church, to bring 35. United Reformed Churches in Myanmar (URCM) sinners to Himself, and glory to His name—whether in a post-modern, modern, Missions traditional, or whatever culture or age in which we happen to live. One of the main purposes of the Conference is to encourage cooperation among the Amendment to the ICRC Constitution member churches in the fulfillment of the missionary mandate. The Conference The meeting determined to propose the following amendment to the ICRC received the report of its Missions Committee, and noted the successful regional Constitution to the member churches (which must be approved by the major assemblies gatherings (Asia/Pacific in Thailand in February 2003 and Africa in the Democratic of two-thirds of member churches to go into effect): Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 51 52 The Reformed Church in the United States

[That Article IV.1.a of the Constitution be amended to read:] School was cancelled for three days due to the meetings and the computer room was 1. Those churches shall be admitted as members which: available to delegates. a. adhere and are faithful to one or more of the confessional standards stated As noted above, there were four papers delivered during the conference, followed by in the Basis, as each church has adopted one or more of these as its own discussion. Later, workshops were held to discuss matters that related to each paper and how the Lordship of Christ affects Christians living in very different situations. Quite often, the standards, or adhere and are faithful to Reformed Confessions which are observation was made during the conference that the future growth of the Reformed Church equivalent in content to the Confessions listed in the Basis (Art. 2), and which appears to be greatest in what are now called “third world” countries while waning in the confession (or confessions) shall be proposed to be added to Article II of the western world. Constitution. A highlight of the meeting for us from the RCUS was the reception of the Reformed Other Significant Actions Confessing Church in the Congo. This church began only 21 years ago and has grown to 250 Among the many actions taken by the meeting, three merit special mention. A congregations. God has blessed His Church there and it is a blessing for us to be part of their conscious effort was undertaken to add members of the newer (to the ICRC) member support. churches to both the Interim Committee and to the Missions Committee. It was also decided On Sunday, delegates went to various churches in the city. We chose to go to the to combine Regional and Mission Conferences of the ICRC, and that, in general, the Mamelodi mission church (VGKSA) in one of the townships lying on the outskirts of the financing for such conferences should come from within the region, and not through the city. Here we found a vibrant congregation in a beautiful facility in the midst of a ICRC assessment. The meeting decided to ask the Interim Committee to appoint someone neighborhood with great poverty. The a cappella singing of the hymns (in the Soto language) to assemble and distribute information on existing theological education programs and was truly inspiring. institutions of all the member churches. On Tuesday, there was a day off from the meetings so delegates could travel to see the Retirements and Appointments area. A bus took most of the delegates to view monuments and other historical sites. We The meeting expressed its thanksgiving to the Lord for the labors of the Rev. M. Van choose to go with Rev. Ben Fourie from the Reformed Churches in South Africa (GKSA – Beveren (CanRC), who retired after more than twenty years of service to the Conference as a rather large denomination with 37 churches in Pretoria alone). He took us out of the city Corresponding Secretary. The meeting confirmed the appointment of the Rev. C. Van into an area known as KwaMhlanga where the church (with help from the Christian Spronsen (CanRC) as the new Corresponding Secretary of the ICRC. The meeting also Reformed Churches in the Netherlands) operates Mukhanyo Theological College. Here there expressed its thankfulness for the work of outgoing chairman, the Rev. Jack J. Peterson are four levels of training ranging from a Certificate Course to a BA in Theology. The (OPC), for his services on behalf of the Conference for the past eight years. The Rev. B. de students there are all black and are trained as elders, pastors and missionaries. We sat in on Graaf (CGKN) was appointed as the new Chairman of the meeting. a class (all classes are in English), a chapel service, and ate a meal with the students. From Budget and Next Meeting the college we went to see other facilities that the GKSA operates – one was an aids hospice, The meeting adopted a four-year budget (to the next meeting of the Conference in and the other two places were orphanages. AIDS is widespread in South Africa and many 2009) in the amount of $135,000, or $33,750 per annum (less than 5 cents per church children are left without parents. They generally live with families in the area, but come to member per year). The next meeting is scheduled to be held in 2009 in New Zealand, with the orphanages for food and schooling during the day. the Reformed Churches of New Zealand as host. — Advisory Committee Press Release South Africa, while rich in resources, is also crime-ridden. There is a stark contrast Observations from the Delegates between the downtown in the cities and the outlaying townships where poverty is severe. All properties are surrounded with high fences, often with razor wire at the top, and electric Jakaranda trees in full bloom, adorned with beautiful lavender flowers, lined the streets gates to get into the driveway. Our lodging was in Pretoria with steel fences and electric wire of Pretoria. In October, south of the equator, Spring was just beginning. This was a perfect surrounding the Lodge. Security was high. setting for delegates from Reformed denominations around the world to hold a conference. The International Conference of Reformed Churches meets every four years in various As a part of our responsibilities for this trip we spoke with representatives of the countries. Rev. Paul Treick and Rev. George Syms were the delegates representing the Reformed Churches in South Africa to seek commonality for a fraternal relationship. Rev. RCUS at this meeting. Eric Kayayan is a member of this denomination. The other task that we performed on the last Thursday and Friday was to tour and film the offices for Reformed Faith and Life – What was striking to us as delegates was the world-wide scope of the Reformed faith. French. This is in the Rietvallei church where I was given an opportunity to address the While separated by continents, language, and culture, there was no doubt that Christ was the congregation on Sunday evening. On Friday, we toured the Trans World Radio facility Lord of all – the conference theme. which is used to broadcast Rev. Kayayan’s messages and then had lunch at Menlyn – the Meetings were hosted by the Free Reformed Churches in South Africa (VGKSA), a largest mall in the southern hemisphere. relatively small denomination. The church sits on a large lot and has over 1,000 members. After 28 hours in the air, this writer was a bit exhausted, but very happy to put his feet It was a real blessing to get to know folks from the congregation, who worked tirelessly to back on California soil. Seeing the views of the northern coast of Africa meeting the prepare meals and snacks and provide the daily transportation from our lodging to the Mediterranean Sea and the southern coast of Greenland at 43,000 feet was magnificent, but meetings. The meals were superb! Next to the church was elementary school. there is no place like home when the journey is over. Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 53 54 The Reformed Church in the United States

The time spent at this conference was encouraging, especially the interaction with CRCNA who was, during the membership of the CRCNA in NAPARC, frequently present as delegates from other countries. What a wonderful fellowship our Lord affords us already in a delegate. The Council voted for rev. Roy Taylor of the PCA to write a letter to rev. Englehart this life. on behalf of NAPARC. Rev. Paul Treick 6. The next NAPARC meeting will be held November 14-15, 2006 in Laval, PQ, Canada. It has been my privilege to be a regular delegate of the RCUS to NAPARC since its NAPARC Report to the 260th Synod of the RCUS reception as a member churches 10 years ago. During that time the IRC of the RCUS has endeavored to include Ministers and Elders from the RCUS, not normally exposed to the work

st of NAPARC, as part of its delegation. I believe that has proved beneficial in broadening our The 31 meeting of the North American Presbyterian and Reformed Council met at the exposure to the work of NAPARC and extending interchurch connections. In that ten year ARPC BonClarken Assembly, in Flat Rock, NC, November 1-2, 2005. period the CRCNA was expelled as a member church and that cleared the way for other Churches represented were the ARPC, the KAPC, the OPC, the PCA, the RCUS and churches such as the ERQ, CanRC, the URCNA, the RPC, the FRCNA and the HRC to take the RPCNA. The ERQ was unable to send a delegation. Observer churches represented were a serious look at NAPARC and observe its meetings. The result has been the addition of the the CanRC, the FRCNA, the HRC and the URCNA. Early in the proceedings, by vote of the ERQ and the URCNA into membership with the FRCNA pending. In the next few years other member denominations, the URCNA was added as a member Church of NAPARC bringing observer churches are expected to apply. The addition of the URCNA has added an additional the total membership to 8 churches. The Free Reformed Churches of North America applied Three Forms church(besides the RCUS) to an otherwise predominantly Presbyterian Council. for NAPARC membership of which more will be said below. The addition of the FRCNA will add to the Three Forms presence as will the addition of the Representing the RCUS were the Rev. Maynard Koerner, the Rev. Harvey Opp, Elder CanRC and the HRC if they proceed with membership. The confessional complexion of the Sam Powell and the Rev. Ron Potter. Council has thus changed over the last 10 years. The elected officers of NAPARC are the Rev. Bruce Parnell (RPCNA) chairman, the But more than that, the desire of smaller denominations, like us, to be part of the Council Rev. James Kim (KAPC) vice chairman; the Rev. Maynard Koerner (RCUS) treasurer and bodes well for the future work of NAPARC. These smaller faithful reformed denominations the Rev. Ron Potter (RCUS) secretary. want to be part of a Council that is striving to be faithful to the Word of God, to be Following the normal order of business a delegate from each member church read a confessionally united and to work together to extend the Kingdom by mutual reporting and report of their significant Assembly or Synodical actions and the reporting church was accountability, prayer and the sharing of resources. As long as the CRCNA was a member of prayed for by a chair appointed delegate. Opportunity was to the Council given to ask NAPARC these smaller denominations held back. But with the CRCNA departure there is now questions after each report was given. These reports are published in the NAPARC Minutes. a desire on their part to be seated at the Council table and engage in the work of the Lord Observer churches also brought a brief report of their significant actions and again prayer alongside more numerous and larger churches. The future of NAPARC grows brighter. If it was was offered for each church by a NAPARC delegate. once characterized as a ?good ole boys club? it cannot be now. Among the various items of business were the following: The willingness of the Council, for example, to speak to the culture on a matter such as 1. The Council voted to adopt the following statement on women in the military and women serving in the military, and thus uphold the doctrine of covenant male headship, is an to send it to the churches for ratification: The word of God gives no warrant expressed or indication that the churches of NAPARC see the Council as a venue to make their collected implied that women are to be conscripted into or employed for military combat roles but prophetic voice heard. rather they are to be defended by men and kept from harms way that they might fulfill their It has been my privilege to represent the RCUS at NAPARC these last ten years and I am biblical callings and duties under God. thankful to the IRC for sending me. I look forward to another decade of involvement if the This matter will be coming to the floor of Synod via the Stated Clerk and voted on by Lord so wills. the Synod. Respectfully, 2. A report was brought by the chairman of NAPARC regarding the NAPARC Web Rev. Ron Potter site. This has been in disarray for a number of years and if finally being ?reformed? and (The committee’s revision of the paper on Biblical Principles of Church Unity is not printed updated under the oversight of the chairman, vice chairman and secretary of NAPARC. in the Abstract, since the action of the Synod was to return it to the committee for revision.) 3. A report was brought by the committee formulating plans to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the birth of John Calvin in 2009. All the details are not yet put together but as J. Ministerial Aid matters stand the committee indicated that a location in Tennessee is being looked into where (The Committee did not submit a separate report, but the status of the Ministerial Aid worship services, lectures and seminars may be held over a period of several days. Fund appears in the Treasurer’s Report.) 4. The Free Reformed Churches of North America (FRCNA) applied for NAPARC membership, This application must be voted on by NAPARC member churches before they are actually received. Documents germane to the application of the FRCNA are attached for K. Publications your information. 5. The Council was informed of the terminal illness of Rev. David Englehart of the Esteemed Fathers and Brothers: Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 55 56 The Reformed Church in the United States

Your Permanent Publications Committee conducted business by e-mail and conference L. Web Site calls. For the consideration of the 260thSynod, the Committee presents the following reports Dear Brothers, and recommendations: 1. Concerning item G2 on p.76 of the Abstract of the Minutes of the 259th Synod Your Web Site committee was once again able to stay within our proposed budget of (reprinting “Romans Seven”), Mr. deBlois was duly informed of the denial. $1800.00. Below are a some of things we accomplished this year were: 2. Concerning items G3 & G4 of the above cited Abstract, those items were implemented. 1. Set up a web site at “reformedherald.org” and posted PDF versions of the “Reformed Herald” as they became available from the editor. 3. Concerning item G5, Rev. Paul Trieck reports that he is willing to serve as editor of the “Reformed Herald”. 2. Maintained and updated the inventory of our Book Depository. Recommendation 1: That Rev. Paul Trieck be nominated to serve as editor of the 3. Maintained the E-mail discussion group at “[email protected]”. Reformed Herald. 4. Made updates of church pages for each congregation as information was provided. 4. Concerning item G6, the editor’s expense account. 5. Made update of members/elders/minister e-mail addresses, change of Recommendation 2: That the editor of the “Reformed Herald” be given an expense addresses, etc. when provided. account of up to $1,500.00 for the next Synodical year. 6. Posted various articles and position papers provided by members of Synod. 5. Concerning item G7, Web-site budget. 7. Posted the Abstract for Synod and the Abstracts for the Classes when provided. Recommendation 3: That the web-site budget be set up to $1,800.00 for the next Again, we welcome the comments and suggestions submitted by the members of our Synodical year. church. 6. With regard to RCUS pamphlets. The depletion of our stock of “Why the Reformed We recommend the following actions to Synod: Church?” led us to consider changes in format and text as well as possible consolidation with 1. That a budget of $1800.00 to maintain the denomination’s web site be approved for the other pamphlets. The committee would like to review all of our pamphlets and make next Synodical year. This budget consists of $1200 for web engineering, $360 for web hosting whatever changes are indicated rather than to review each as supplies dwindle. No cost and $240.00 for software maintenance (if needed). estimate can be made at this time. 2. That the Stated Clerks of each Classis regularly provide to the Web Site Chairman, in Recommendation 4: That the Permanent Publications Committee be authorized to electronic form, an updated roll of ministers, elders, and churches following their spring conduct a review of all RCUS pamphlets and bring recommendations to the 261st Synod. meeting of Classis. 7. Concerning the “Promise and Deliverance” Sunday School curriculum: Year 4 has been 3. That the Clerk of each Consistory notifies the Web Site chairman of any changes in the sent to the Book Depository. Year 5 (the final year) should be released this calendar year. information listed on the Web Site for their particular charge. 8. Concerning item G 10, promotion and sale of RCUS resources. The committee 4. That Synod encourage the members of the RCUS to submit to the Web Site chairman discussed establishing a web store as part of our web site. Rev. Eric Bristley would be willing “position papers” or other important historical documents they may have in electronic form and to do the work at $28.00 per billable hour, he estimates the cost at approximately $2,000.00. not yet published on the web site. Recommendation 5: That the Permanent Publications Committee be allowed to set 5. That the members of the RCUS be encouraged to use and promote the RCUS e-mail up a web store. discussion group for e-mail discussions. Recommendation 6: That Rev. Eric Bristley be retained to set up that store and that Respectfully submitted, he receive a stipend based upon the billable hours not to exceed a total of $2,000.00. Rev. Dennis Roe, Rev. Frank Walker, Elder Jeff Mills, Elder Kenton Hoxie, 9. According to the Book Depository inventory, The Three Forms of Unity (modern Elder Michael Peery, Elder Eric Rynders, Elder Matthew Powell English version/red cover) is in short supply. Pine Hill Press presented cost estimates of $3,020 for 1,000 copies; $4,690 form 2,000 copies; $6,360 for 3,000 copies. These prices assume only minor changes to correct a few “typos”. Major changes (reformatting, changing VI. Welcome and Seating of Fraternal Delegates; Welcome of Visitors the cover, etc.) could cost an additional $2,000. Recommendation 7: That the Permanent Publications Committee be authorized to The President welcomed fraternal delegates, observers, representatives of institutions, arrange for the re-printing of 2,000 copies of The Three Forms of Unity (red cover) without any visiting elders and other visitors as they arrived. Fraternal delegates and visiting RCUS elders reformatting or cover changes. were seated in the Bar of the House and given the privilege of the floor. Delegate elders who Recommendation 8: That Rev. Eric Bristley be engaged to proof read the current were attending their first meeting were introduced and welcomed. issue and highlight the dozen or so “typos” that need changing. Fraternal delegates included: Rev. Benjamin Hopp, representing the General Assembly Respectfully submitted, of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church; Rev. Bruce Parnell, representing the General Assembly of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America; Elder Art Poppe, representing the Elder Jess D. Johnson, Rev. Howard Hart, Elder Dave McPherson, Elder Charles Henson, Canadian Reformed Churches; Elder Klaas Wezeman, representing the Reformed Churches Rev. Neale Riffert, Rev. Gil Baloy, Rev. Gary Mancilas, Rev. Eric Bristley in the Netherlands, Liberated; and Rev. Ralph Pontier, representing the United Reformed Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 57 58 The Reformed Church in the United States

Churches in North America. A letter of fraternal greeting from the Reformed Confessing . . . Grace Reformed Chapel in Arkansas reports progress in growth of numbers and giving; Church in the Congo was read. Honesdale, PA reports a doubling of attendance over its three years of existence.” Representatives who addressed the body include: Dr. Carl Zylstra (Dordt College); Mr. “So what is the state of our Classis? The Parochial Reports and statistics tell the tale. . . Keith LeMahieu (Mid-America Reformed Seminary); Mr. Marlow Van Ginkel (Hope Haven); . They tell of the rise of some congregations and the decline of others. They testify of our Rev. C. W. Powell (New Geneva Theological Seminary); Rev. Jim West (City Seminary of weaknesses and frailties as Christians and pastors, and of God’s greater grace. They tell of Sacramento); Mr. Ray Schnabel (Heidelberg Theological Seminary); and Dr. Nick Willborn faithful preaching, administering the sacraments, exercising of discipline; of prayer, of pastoral (Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary) visitation, of struggles with health, of discouragements and encouragements, and faithful wives. They tell of the need we have of each other, to support one another financially and with godly VII. Reception of New Ministers advice and prayer. . . . These reports are Ebenezers: ‘Thus far the Lord has helped us’.” There were no new ministers added to the roll this year. Northern Plains Classis: “. . . the Word of God is being proclaimed from our pulpits. For the most part, discipline, where necessary, is practiced and the sacraments administered. The marks of the church are evident and while we should not become complacent, we need to give VIII. Reception of New Churches thanks to our Lord for this.” There were no new churches added to the roll this year. “But there is more to the state of the Classis than the above. . . . changes have come so quickly. Leola has overtured the Classis about the process for disbanding. Hosmer is talking IX. Reports of Officers about it as well. The main problem is not having enough members to meet the financial needs. [There are] financial challenges for Ashley and Denhoff. Herreid also had to dip into savings to meet their budget.” A. President’s Report on the State of the Church “While this is disheartening, it is encouraging to read the desire of the congregations to continue. Denhoff is still courageously seeking to keep their doors open. . . . Herreid is looking Esteemed Brethren: at stepping forward intentionally to reach out to the community. . . . Minot, in spite of the coming loss of members, sees it as an opportunity from God to advance His cause there. . . . Gleaning from the reports of the Presidents of the Executive Committees of the Classes, Pierre is remodeling [its building] for the sake of their testimony to the community.” who, in turn, have gleaned from the Parochial Reports of the respective pastors, we get an over- “The Home Missions Committee has come with a plan for the Classis as a whole to reach all view and assessment of the state of the denomination. Moving from East to West: out into regions where we are not currently present. People are moving away to the urban Covenant East Classis: “We don’t name stones very often today. . . . But in the Old centers. The idea of a missionary-at-large will need some discussion, but we as a Classis must Testament we read a number of times that God’s people were to set up a stone or pile of stones do something. . . . The main resource that is needed is not money, but a man to do the work.” as reminders of past mighty acts of God’s mercies (cf. I Sam. 7:12). The Bible teaches that “There continue to be changes in our region, and we as a Classis must meet the new memory (remembering) keeps gratitude fresh, faith focused. And Israel was to remember what challenges. How-ever, this must never be at the expense of the truth and Biblical directives.” those stones meant, and to be instructed by the faithfulness of God to which the stones testified: South Central Classis: “As I read the parochial reports, I read of growth in some our ‘Thus far the Lord has helped us’.” assemblies as well as improvements on the physical properties of our congregations. Regarding “In this report, I draw your attention to a stone marker of sorts, the fact that this year our mission works, we see that God has been at work in our three mission congregations. In marks the 21st Annual Spring Meeting of our Classis. In 1985 the Eureka Classis/Synod decided Vermillion, God has brought students to the University of South Dakota. They have been it was time to divide the Eureka Classis into four separate Classes, which together would attending our mission work there and are hearing the Word of God preached. God only knows constitute the Synod of the RCUS. Our first classis meeting was in Menno, SD on April 15-18, the impact that will have for the future of those students. In Greeley, Rev. Gene Sawtelle has 1986. For those of you too young to re-member, our classis was originally named the Great labored faithfully, but has come to the point where he needs to retire from the pastorate. May Lakes-Gulf Classis . . . made up of seven charges. God bless Rev. Sawtelle as he makes the transition and may God send the right man there to . . . Nine ministers were on the roll, of which only two remain in the RCUS, one is carry on the work. . . . The Calhan congregation is also witnessing God at work as they work deceased, and none are part of our classis currently. By 1991 we had changed our name to to establish a Reformed witness in that part of the world. . . . [It[ is time to think a little more Covenant East Classis and consisted of four congregations: Carbondale, Garner, Napoleon, and pro-actively about missions in our Classis. Two of our three current works are taking reductions Manitowoc. . . . There were no mission works, only four ministers, and congregations separated in financial assistance and in a few years will be off completely. Where shall we go next for by hundreds of miles. Yet, “the Lord helped us.” . . . As of this 21st Annual Spring Meeting, missions in the SCC? . . . We need to consider the larger cities within our boundaries. Omaha the classis is made up of 10 charges. A group of Christians from the Deaf Community in and Den-ver are a couple that come to mind.” Chicago is petitioning this classis to organize them as a particular congregation of CEC. The “Another ministry of the SCC is our Reformed Resource Center. This got its impetus Manitowoc congregation, along with the Home Missions Committee, is exploring an effort to when Rev. Norman Hoeflinger’s large theological library was donated to the Classis. Since that start a hearing congregation along side of the Deaf Mission work in Chicago. . . . Redeemer time it has been added to, especially various video presentations given by different ministers Reformed Church of Minneapolis will, the Lord willing, be self-supporting as of January, 2007. of our denomination during youth camps or at retreats. The library has been moved from Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 59 60 The Reformed Church in the United States

Lincoln to Vermillion and placed under the care of Heidelberg Theological Seminary where giving! While it is impossible that Christ would ever abandon a church that demonstrates the it has a much greater chance to be effectively used.” three marks, it is also true that a church that is confessionally sound can drift into Western Classis: “This year I approached your reports thinking that all was not well in lukewarmness, and even become half-dead.” the Western Classis. On the one hand, there seems to be a wonderful unity among us, despite “. . . the churches in the Western Classis with some exception, are experiencing more the animated seminary debate featured at last year’s Synod meeting. We stand hand-in-hand peace that one year ago. . . . The Federal Vision, justification by works, and paedo-communion on the Justification issue, the necessity of training our children in the Heidelberg Catechism, onslaughts have not been as fierce as in previous years. We should praise God for this peace, and the necessity of confessional integrity with regard to the Three Forms of Unity. We are while remembering that there will be new issues and new assaults as we enter the new Classical known as a denomination that gets things done, that takes stands on the important theological year.” issues of our day, and not one that suffers from viral committeeitis. It has been said that if The above Presidents’ Reports, as well as the Permanent Home Missions and Foreign Moses had formed a committee, the Exodus would never have occurred. On the other hand, if Ministries Reports, indicate both a necessary and healthy desire for missions, especially at the RCUS were present, our toes might have touched the waters of the Red Sea just before the home where missions must begin. With the disbanding of a number of our old rural sea was divided. On the other hand, I am keenly aware of the importance of evangelism, so that congregations due to dwindling numbers, we must establish more new churches in our urban whenever we retrench in missions, I react as if Mars is about to crash into planet Earth. Hence centers. May God grant us the wisdom and courage to go forward. my disappointment that, because the work in San Ramon did not improve, it was officially It is also gratifying to see the enthusiasm with regard to foreign missions, as well as the relocated to Stockton. Of course, more than allaying your President’s frustration is the new opportunities and doors that are opening. The reports of those men who have volunteered sovereignty of God. . . . ‘Man proposes, but God disposes’.” their time to teach and preach in these fields have certainly heightened our awareness of the “The other mission works in Los Angeles, Chico, and Chula Vista showed undramatic, great need that exists. Again, may God grant us both the wisdom and means to meet these but real growth. needs. However, I believe a word of caution is in order. While there is no question concerning . . . Pastor Baloy reports quiet progress in San Diego and Pastor Fluck rejoices that God the sincerity of our desire, we also have to be careful not to over-extend ourselves or spread has given his congregation an expensive, but most suitable building to worship in. The ourselves too thin. Doing fewer things well is better than trying to do too many things without attendance in these works has been steady and quietly improving. The work in Los Angeles, proper planning, oversight and support. although financially dear, strikes me as “cheap” compared to the future payoff. When a man Our relationships with other denominations, domestic (NAPARC) and foreign (ICRC), has a dollar to invest, he should know that he is a sorry investor if all he sees is the dollar. He continue to expand. I trust our influence is expanding as well as we seek to be the purest is really looking at one dollar plus interest, even compound interest over many, many years. It expression of the Reformed faith. If this appears to be arrogant and self-righteous, it is not is similar with regard to missions. Small congregations augmented by the interest of many meant to be. Rather, this should be the desire and goal of every Reformed denomination, as years of faithful preaching (especially in a heavily populated area) often translate into a spiritual “iron serves to sharpen iron.” I grow weary from hearing so frequently, and even from within bonanza for Christ’s kingdom.” our own ranks, “Reformed (RCUS) people think they’re the only ones that are right.” Such a “Your President would be remiss if he did not mention the passing of the Rev. Robert view or thinking proceeds from a false premise. One does not define a true church or the Sander into the Church Triumphant. His last written parochial report appeared in 2000, where Reformed faith by its people, although they can at times, by their life and witness, bring it into he noted that he preached 28 times in six different cities, sometimes traveling 600 miles. His disrepute. True faith must be determined by conformity to Scripture. Part of true faith is final sentence was: ‘I will close with saying my desire and prayer is for my Lord and Savior “holding for truth all that God has revealed to us in His Word” (HC #21). The Reformed to continue to use me.’ In other words, he wanted to be productive for Christ, even when his Church has gone further than any other church in defining what that truth is. It has and outward man was perishing.” continues to do so through faithful adherence to its creeds and confessions. If one does not “. . . the churches in the Western Classis are indeed evidencing the marks of the true confess these truths, he or she is, at best, delinquent in faith. Church. This is revealed not only by the faithful preaching of the word of God, but also by the I would be remiss, if I did not pay proper tribute to our “retired pastors,” who, often in administration of Biblical church discipline. If church discipline was not a mark of the church, spite of their physical infirmities, continue to labor among us, and certainly have a direct or completely optional, our churches might be larger and there would be fewer gut wrenching bearing on the State of the Church. They are: Lloyd Gross, Howard Hart, Norman Jones, experiences for our pastors and elders. But such a peace would only be a chimera, a golden Chester Ploeger, the late Robert Sander, and most recently, Gene Sawtelle. These, I suspect, dream, that would eventually issue in further worldliness and carnality. Indeed, it would spell will be followed by a number of others in the not too distant future. These have now become the eventual doom of the Church as a whole. There would be peace in the Church, but it would the “fathers,” a title that seems to have disappeared in the recent decade (perhaps due to the fact be the peace of a cemetery.” that so many pastors were of similar age and not considered so “old” as to be revered). These “. . . while it is true that the three marks of the church are present, we must not think that also now represent what may be referred to as “the old guard.” As this generation retires or the church can operate on automatic pilot. On the one hand, the thee marks produce fixity “fades away,” it is quite understandable that there is a concern for the next generation of instead of an ever-changing flux. We are not tempted as much as others to experiment with preachers and the future of the church. And although it is not easy to “let go of the reins,” it is ‘designer-type’ worship which tries to please the palates of the Mr. Worldly Wisemen of our inevitable. Nevertheless, the concern is genuine and also biblical, e.g., the apostle Paul in I Cor. generation. On the other hand, we must beware of heartless worship that is satisfied with going 3:10: “I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed through the proverbial motions or that rationalizes sins of omission. Let us remember that it is how he buildeth thereupon.” the presence of Christ through the Holy Spirit that makes the Church organic, living, and life- Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 61 62 The Reformed Church in the United States

Always the concern must be for the doctrinal purity and unity of the church, and in our vainglory; but in lowliness of mind, let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not case, the doctrinal purity and unity of the RCUS. This is the church of many of our forefathers. every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others” (Phil. 2:3,4). It is the church many of us have adopted , grown to love, and to which we are committed. The Reminder: Amended Standing Rule #13 now reads: “The reports and recommendations concern is to see such commitment and loyalty continue. Yes, denominationalism may be the of the Permanent and Special Committees of Synod shall be completed and mailed to the result of sin, but it is a sin that will re-main until the Church becomes triumphant and glorified. Consistories of all the churches and the Treasurer of Synod no later that April 1st.” Last year Until then we must struggle to keep “our denomination” the purest manifestation of the true I wrote that only one report was in compliance, and that as far as the State of the Church is church on earth. That is the “old guard’s” constant prayer and desire. concerned, this could indicate a number of things, i.e., slothfulness, ignorance, forgetfulness, It is because of this concern that serious consideration must be given to establishing a a disdain of rules, etc. I also wrote that I chose to believe that it’s due to the fact that change denominational seminary in the very near future. When we were the Reformed Church in the always comes about slowly and that next year there will be significant improvement to the state United States, Eureka Classis, there was one seminary that was very instrumental in of minds! This year there was only slight improvement, if that, with a number of reports strengthening and unifying us as a denomination. That seminary was Westminster Theological coming at the last minute or not at all! Maybe next year our minds will improve more Seminary, Philadelphia, PA. It was considered “our seminary.” When that seminary changed significantly as Standing Rule #13, Standing Rule #13, Standing Rule #13, sinks in! and became unacceptable, we began a process, that in hindsight, did not promote and strengthen the unity of the RCUS. We began to look at other seminaries to meet our needs and Respectfully submitted, which would meet our approval for our students to attend. Over the years we have found Rev. Vernon Pollema several, and what follows is not meant to denigrate or “bad-mouth” any one of them. However, B. Stated Clerk on the Minutes (and Necrology) having different seminaries has not promoted unity among us, nor has it instilled a denominational loyalty. Such is understandable given the nature of independent seminaries. Their purpose is to serve the broader Reformed community, rather than any one specific Esteemed Brothers in Christ, denomination. The result is a generic or ecumenical approach that allows for differing views. We are very critical of the broad that pervades so much of the church. What In accordance with the requirements of this office, your clerk has preserved the minutes about being broadly Reformed? Are we ready and willing to sacrifice the distinctives that we of the 259h Synod with all supporting documents. An Abstract of the actions of Synod hold dear, i.e., six-day creation, male-headship in the home and church including the vote in including reports was prepared and published in accord with Standing Rule 10. Copies of this nd congregational meetings, the regulative principle (2 Commandment) in worship, justification Abstract and a Directory of Congregations were distributed to all ministers and congregations by faith alone, strict subscription to our creeds, not only for our officers, but also our of Synod, as well as to all churches with which we maintain fraternal relations. The Index of communicant members, catechetical instruction including memorization , etc. If these things Positions and Resolutions included in the Abstract was updated. The minutes and all supporting are important and true, should we not insist upon them being taught? “Buy the truth, and sell documents were scanned and saved on CD in Adobe PDF format. A PDF. copy of the Abstract it not; buy wisdom, and instruction, and understanding” (Prov. 23:23). was sent to the Web Page Editor. In addition, each seminary carries it own brand, including independent seminaries, which Your clerk mailed a copy of the Report on the New Perspective on Paul to all churches intentionally or not, for better or worse, they impress upon their students. We have experienced with which we have fraternal relations, to the clerks of all NAPARC churches, and clerks of such results. I.e., Theonomy, Independentism, Redemptive Historical Hermeneutic, Hyper- ICRC churches. A copy of the report and a letter calling Bishop N. T. Wright to repent was sent Preterism, Faith/Works Controversy, Exclusive Psalmody, Paedo-Communion, Weekly to him. I have received an answer to the letter from Bishop Wright. I will leave it up to the Communion, Puritanism, etc. Synod as to whether this letter should be made available in an open report, as it was written to Having graduates from different seminaries has not always resulted in a healthy or me. The letter indicated his dismay that we should be so bold as to rebuke him since he is not homogenous mix but instead, has contributed to differences among us that could result in a a part of our denomination, and we are not a part of his. He felt that our use of the creeds and party spirit where we divide into groups over seminaries. Whereas Paul describes the party- confessions of the church, rather than the Scriptures themselves, was an invalid argument. And, spirit in the church of Corinth in terms of individual teachers/preachers, i.e., “. . . I am of Paul; finally, he indicated that he would continue to teach this doctrine, as he feels it is supported by and another, I am of Apollos”(I Cor. 3:4), the party spirit among us could be described in terms his interpretation of the Bible. of seminaries: “I am for ______Seminary; I am for ______Seminary” (You fill in the In that same connection I received a letter with attachments from Mr. Peter Collins of blanks). The apostle Paul warns against (rebukes) such party spirits, stating that the concern Great Britain who had read our special committee reports on Justification and The New must be for the building of the church, for its foundation, and its unity and purity of doctrine. Perspective given to him by a friend. He is with the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in We must not become preoccupied with men, personalities, and egos, but with what will be England and Wales and was sent these documents by David Cross, Clerk of the Presbytery of good and best for the church, for the RCUS. Having our own seminary, although not perfect the EPCEW. He was encouraged by the reports and joins us in seeking to give these reports and having its own inherent dangers, but one which we can oversee and support, will serve to wide distribution. He welcomes any further fellowship with the RCUS. both strengthen and unify us. Heeding the following counsel will aid us in that endeavor: “My I wrote a letter to Mid-East Reformed Fellowship informing them that we have placed brethren, be not many teachers, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation: (Jas. them on our Synod Guideline for support. I also asked them to consider placing one 3:1). “And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you representative from the RCUS on their Board of Trustees, as the Synod suggested. I have in the Lord, and admonish you” (I Thess. 5:12). “Let nothing be done through strife or Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 63 64 The Reformed Church in the United States received various informational mailings from MERF, but to date there has been no response continued on to Westminster Seminary in Philadelphia to address the class and celebrate the to our request for representation. 50 year anniversary of his graduation. However, at his daughter’s home in New Hampshire, he Churches in fraternal relationship and institutions supported by the RCUS were invited suffered a stroke which prevented him from going on to the celebration. He has been at home to attend this 260th Synod meeting. In addition an invitation was sent to the President of in San Jose for five years. He was not able to speak well, but never lost his ability to praise the Providence College, but he indicated that he would not be able to attend our meeting. Lord! On January 18, 2006, it pleased the Lord to take him to his everlasting rest, ending his I believe that the plan to have all the classes clerks forward the email addresses to the Web earthly journey and labor. Page editor will eventually work better. Clerks need to do this as soon as possible after their Bob, despite his frail physique, was a mighty warrior for the Reformed faith. He loved the classes meet. Lord and the service that the Lord called him to. His family, his colleagues, and the I receive a number of reports via email which speeds things up, but clerks are reminded congregations he served will miss this gentle, godly man. that they must have signed and sealed copies for the clerk’s records. Committee chairmen must Funeral services were held on Monday, January 23 at the Covenant Orthodox have a majority of their committee actually sign the report when it is finally brought before the Presbyterian Church in San Jose, CA, where Bob and Betty attended. Participants were Rev. Synod and made a part of the record. Jeff Landis, Rev. Rollin Keller, and Rev. Paul Treick, who preached from II Timothy 4:5-8, Once again, it greatly helps the clerk of Synod if committee reports are sent to the him in “But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof a word-processing format (rather than PDF.), so these can be used in setting up the Abstract of of thy ministry. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I the Minutes. Most committees have done this, but on occasion, I have received reports in have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is Adobe PDF files. While these are fine for viewing, they are difficult to use for reproduction. laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” Thank you all for your cooperation during the past year. “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.” (Ps. 116:15)

Sincerely in Christ, (The Synod moved to dedicate this 260th Abstract of the Minutes of Synod to the memory Rev. Paul H. Treick of Rev. Robert D. Sander.) Necrology for Rev. Robert Sander C. Treasurer’s Report Robert Derrell Sander was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Walter and Emma Sander on July 22, 1920. Soon after, they moved to California. At 16 he attended a Youth Conference on Catalina Island, where the Holy Spirit entered his heart. Soon after, he was crossing the street Esteemed Brothers: in Pasadena and a car hit him and he was in the hospital for sometime and his room mate was a minister. They had many conversations which caused his faith to grow stronger. About that I want to again thank you for the privilege of serving you another year as Synod Treasurer. time his mother heard of a Bible Study in a home nearby and she and Bob attended that. It was I hope and pray that my service has been acceptable to you and to the Lord. a group of people who were interested in starting an Orthodox Presbyterian Church. Bob was Our cash balance decreased by $17,633.10 as of January 31, 2006. As of that the only young person attending and the Pastor took him under his wing teaching him the West- same date our outstanding notes increased by $9,254.71. It would appear that the minster Catechism. When they organized as a church, Bob was 18. Since he and the Pastor’s overall financial condition of the RCUS deteriorated by $8,378.39, but that is somewhat father were the only men qualified in the group, he was put into the office of elder. Because of misleading. As directed by Synod two outstanding student loans totaling $25,147.50 his accident and the concussion, none of the Armed Forces would accept him. He therefore were written off the books, and had that not occurred in this past fiscal year the total went to the University of Southern California, which at the time was under the control of the assets of the RCUS would have increased by $16,769.11. Navy. He received his University training in three years because they had three semesters a year. The churches in Grass Valley, California and Rock Springs, Wyoming continue to pay on their indebtedness in a timely manner. He married Elizabeth Ziegler in June 1945 and in 1947 he began his Seminary training at Westminster in Philadelphia. Their marriage was blessed with five children: Richard As approved by Synod a $15,000 loan was made to the church in Lincoln, Nebraska (Denver, CO); James (San Jose, CA); Timothy (Sacramento, CA); Steven (Cupertino, CA); and and repayment of $5,000 in principal, together with the interest on the note has been Martha Bacon (Derry, NH). received. Upon graduation from Westminster Seminary in 1950, he moved to his first church in Recently a loan was made in the amount of $30,000 to the Danville, Kentucky church Santee, CA. He served churches in California, Oregon, and South Dakota. He then became a and a note, payment schedule, and Deed of Trust are in the Synod’s records. part of the RCUS and served at Grace RCUS, Bakersfield, California. He was afflicted with This year the special missions offering went to Redeemer RCUS in Golden Valley, leukemia in 1977 and was very ill during that time. He was proclaimed to be in remission in Minnesota. The offerings which went through Synod amounted to $9,002.16. A number 1982, though very weak, so he felt he could not serve a church full time. He began supplying of the churches sent their offerings directly to Redeemer and therefore aren’t included in pulpits for extended periods in both the RCUS and the OPC churches up and down the this accounting. California Coast and even into Nevada for the next few years. He went to Synod that year and Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 65 66 The Reformed Church in the United States

The guideline for the Ministerial Aid Fund brought in $32,459.81, and while that is statements on the cash basis method of accounting. a significant decrease from the prior year, $7600 in other monies came into that fund which Fund Accounting: Fund accounting, which consists of a self-balancing group of is a significant increase over prior years. accounts and in which is recorded cash received and expenditures paid, is used by the This year I would ask Synod to give the Treasurer some direction as to how to deal synod. In addition, revenue and the related assets are recognized when received rather than with monies that are received with a request that it be dispersed for a specific purpose in when the obligation is incurred. Accordingly, the accompanying financial statements are Africa. First of all. it costs Synod $50 for each wire transfer of funds to Africa. It seems not intended to present financial position and results of operations in conformity with to me that it is not prudent to wire $150 to Africa for a particular medical need and generally accepted accounting principles. pay one-third of that amount to do the transfer. Yet the money is greatly needed. Note 2: Notes Receivable Secondly, the individuals sending the money for Africa have a tendency to be very Notes receivable are recorded as an asset at the time funds are advanced. specific about their desired purpose, such as a particular health need or for . There is simply no way for me to make sure that the desire is met. As an example, we presently have over $9,000 in the account for the Congo that I have been unable FUND BALANCES to forward, awaiting some direction as to how to try to meet the desired purpose. Finally, I would remind the delegates that they need to give the new Synod Remittance forms to Beg. Balance Income Expenses Balance their Treasurer and advise them as to any changes during the meeting of Synod that affect Building Fund $66,280.36 $17,204.54 45,000.00 38,484.90 their duties. Checking Transfers - - Recommendations: Deficit Reduction 13,589.47 10,043.56 13,589.47 10,043.56 Diaconal 7,900.45 2,524.15 10,424.60 1. That $10,043.56 be distributed from the Deficit Reduction Fund to zero out that fund. Dordt College - 5,141.76 5,141.76 - 2. That the Foreign Missions Committee consider how to most efficiently handle monies Foreign Ministries 45,024.20 82,065. 73,560.60 53,529.36 received by the Synod Treasurer for specific purposes in Africa. General Benevolence (19,315.51) 57,818.06 54,325.00 (15,822.45) Respectfully submitted, Reform ed Herald (11,312.20 19,181.87 20,210.00 (12,340.33) General Publishing 86,766.55 12,143.96 13,796.08 85,114.43 Ted S. Griess Home Missions 68,627.16 151,555.44 150,340.18 69,842.42 (Correction note from the Treasurer after Synod: St. Paul’s, Ham burg, MN, had paid their dues in full, Hope Haven - 4,995.69 5,349.69 (354.00) but it was inadvertently credited to another fund.) MERF - 4,621.73 4,267.73 354.00 Ministerial Aid - 40,059.85 40,059.85 - Ministerial Relief 4,171.52 147,503.69 144,600.00 7,467.45 1-31-2005 1-31-2006 Seminaries - 16,238.57 16,238.57 - ASSETS Student Aid 4,171.52 18,344.03 14,188.20 8,327.35 Current Assets Synod Dues 6,631.07 46,593.00 53,001.63 222.44 Cash $0.00 $0.00 Other Assets 75,207.36 40,000.00 30,745.29 84,462.07 Unallocated Income 1,186.50 1,186.50 Checking #2 256,480.23 274,113.33 TOTAL $349,320.69 $676,035.66 $684,414.05 $340,942.30 Total Current Assets $ 256,480.23 $ 274,113.33 Other Assets LOANS RECEIVABLE Beg. Bal. New Note Principal Interest End. Bal. Notes Receivable Unsec $ 84,462.07 $ 75,207.36 Student Loans Total Assets $ 340,942.30 $ 349,320.69 Christ Caughey $10,772.50 $10,772.50 - - John Sawtelle 14,375.00 14,375.00 - - Grass Valley 3% 21,217.17 2,879.03 689.08 18,338.14 LIABILITIES AND FUND BALANCES Rock Springs 3% 28,842.69 2,718.76 828.06 26,123.93 Danville 3% - 30,000.00 - - 30,000.00 Liabilities $ 0.00 $ 0.00 Lincoln 3% - 10,000.00 - - 10,000.00 Interest earned on Cash balance (credited to Synod Dues) 1,257.63 Fund Balances $ 340,942.30 $ 349,320.69 TOTAL $75,207.36 $40,000.00 $30,745.29 $2,774.77 $84,462.07 Total Liabilities and Fund Bal $ 340,942.30 $ 349,320.69 STATEMENT OF EXPENSES

The following notes are an integral part of the financial statements. BUILDING FUND Note 1: Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Transfer to Other Assets $45.000.00 $45,000.00 Basis of Accounting: The Reformed Church of the United States prepares its financial DEBT REDUCTION 13,589.47 $13,589.47 DORDT COLLEGE 5,141.76 $5,141.76 Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 67 68 The Reformed Church in the United States

FOREIGN MINISTRIES Mrs. Phyllis Grossmann 12,000.00 Congo Account 16,663.40 Mrs. Virginia Hoeflinger 12,000.00 International Radio 18,258.51 Mrs. Vivian Stuebbe 12,000.00 Kenya Account 12,258.00 Mrs. Kay Savage 12,000.00 Kishimba Kasantika 5,400.00 Rev. Chester Ploeger 14,400.00 Mbayo Masangu 1,800.00 Rev. Howard Hart 15,000.00 Philippines 3,220.77 Rev. Norman Jones 15,600.00 SFMC Committee 10,109.01 Rev. Robert Sander 15,600.00 Total Foreign Min. $73,560.60 Total Ministerial Relief $144,600.00 GENERAL BENEVOLENCE SEMINARIES Amy Stevens 12,000.00 Greenville 2,383.40 Chicago 1,350.00 Heidelberg 4,858.81 Faith, Anderson 12,300.00 Mid-America 4,598.68 Grace, Lancaster 5,800.00 New Geneva 4,397.68 Jari Saavalainen 5,000.00 Total Seminaries $16,238.57 Kevin Hamilton 3,875.00 STUDEN T A ID Ron Potter 5,300.00 James Grossmann 2,050.00 Trinity, Colorado Springs 8,700.00 Richard Stetler 2,356.86 Total General Benevolence $54,325.00 Samuel Powell 5,031.34 REFORMED HERALD 20,210.00 $20,210.00 Scott Henry 4,750.00 GENERAL PUBLISHING Total Student Aid $14,188.20 CD Roms 5,514.40 SYNODICAL DUES D. McPherson, honorarium 300.00 Abstracts 5,577.46 E-Book Committee 4,055.28 Annual Meeting 29,966.94 Herald Editor honorarium 1,000.00 Clerk Assistants 100.00 Misc. 500.00 Executive Committee 321.94 Postage 106.53 Federal Vision Com. 53.56 Royalties 319.87 Financial Audit 505.00 SS Curriculum Expense 1,500.00 Greenville Com. 988.75 Subscription Manager 500.00 Interchurch Relations 9,502.44 Total General Publishing 13,796.08 Officer Rem uneration 2,450.00 HOME MISSIONS Postage 308.81 Bldg Debt, Golden Valley 9,002.16 Study RCUS Seminary Com. 1,520.07 Chicago 10,433.31 Web Site Com. 1,706.66 Covenant, Chico, CA 12,496.08 Total Synodical Dues $53,001.63 Deaf Reformed Ministries 2,000.00 TOTAL EXPENDITURES $653,668.76 Grace Chapel, Arkansas 14,400.00 Grace, Greeley, CO 18,580.08 MINISTERIAL AID FUND Grace, San Ramon, CA 19,979.97 High Plains, Calhan, CO 18,000.00 Bank Accounts Rehoboth, La Habra, CA 14,451.00 Checking (Pierre) Haddock Act. $ - Providence, Vermillion, SD 11,508.36 Checking (Sturgis) McPherson Act. 4,240.61 Radio Programs 750.00 Subtotal $4,250.61 Redeemer, Minn, MN 6,112.56 Bank CD’s Rev. Saavalainen 7,000.00 Bank West (Pierre) $55,161.93 SHM C Committee 5,626.66 Wells Fargo (Sturgis) 136,172.59 Total Home Missions $150,340.18 Dacotah Bank (Aberdeen) 148.665.75 HOPE HAVEN 5,626.66 $5,626.66 Subtotal $340,000.27 MERF 4,267.73 $4,267.73 Mutual Fund Accounts MINISTER IAL AID 40,059.85 $40,059.85 American Funds $212,467.30 MINISTERIAL RELIEF Vanguard Funds 133,925.70 Mrs. Joan Vance 12,000.00 Subtotal $346,393.00 Mrs. Marie Stuebbe 12,000.00 TOTAL MINISTERIAL AID FUND BALANCE $690,643.88 Mrs. M arjorie Duckett 12,000.00 Ted Griess, Treasurer Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 69 70 The Reformed Church in the United States

are adopted unless otherwise noted.] X. Membership and Financial Statistics A. Committee to Research eBooks The report of the Membership and Financial Statistics for 2005 was adopted, and is printed in the Appendix of this Abstract. Esteemed Brethren:

XI. Reports from RCUS Fraternal Delegates The Special Committee to Research eBooks was conducted by telephone, email, and meetings with project committee members to work on the tasks assigned by the 259th Synod Rev. George Syms read a report on his attendance at the Synod of the Reformed of the Reformed Church in the United States and brings to the 260th Synod the following Presbyterian Church of North America. Rev. Kyle Sorensen reported on his attendance at report and three recommendations: the 72nd General Assembly of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. Rev. Paul Treick read a In compliance with Recommendation 1 in the Abstract of the Minutes of the 259th report on the ICRC meeting. Rev. Ron Potter read his report of the NAPARC meeting. Synod, page 56, which reads, “That the committee concentrate on the promotion of the sale of The RCUS Electronic Reference Library, Second Edition,” the CD is being promoted XII. Addresses by Delegates from Other Reformed Churches, Representatives, and through special interest groups, eMarketing (internet website bookstores), and Christian Institutions bookstores. If approved, the CD will also be promoted through the proposed RCUS Web Store (The Permanent Publications Committee is bringing to the delegates of the 260th Rev. Benjamin Hopp, representing the General Assembly of the Orthodox Session of Synod a recommendation that the RCUS develop an RCUS Web Store.). The Presbyterian Church brought fraternal greetings. Rev. Howard Hart responded on behalf committee has contacted selected venders and interest groups; and, at the request of the of the Synod. Rev. Bruce Parnell, representing the General Assembly of the Reformed department heads, the committee has provided cover letters and sample CDs of version 1.6 Presbyterian Church of North America brought fraternal greetings. Rev. George Syms for their review. responded on behalf of the Synod. Elder Art Poppe, representing the Canadian Reformed In compliance with Recommendation 2 in the Abstract of the Minutes of the 259th Churches brought fraternal greetings. Rev. Herman Van Stedum responded on behalf of the Synod, page 56, which reads, “That The RCUS Electronic Reference Library, Second Synod. Elder Klaas Wezeman, representing the Reformed Churches in the Netherlands, Edition, be sold to RCUS members and bookstores at the cost of $35.00,” your committee Liberated. Rev. Robert Grossmann responded on behalf of the Synod. Rev. Paul Treick has informed Mr. Dave McPherson, RCUS depository manager. read greetings from the Reformed Confessing Church in the Congo. In compliance with Recommendation 3 in the Abstract of the Minutes of the 259th Rev. Ralph Pontier, observer from the United Reformed Churches in North America, Synod, page 56, which reads “That The RCUS Electronic Reference Library, Second addressed the body. Edition, be released as soon as it is finished,” Rev. Eric Bristley reports to the committee Dr. Cornelis Venema, President of Mid-America Reformed Seminary addressed the that the development of the second edition (version 2.0) will be completed by the 260th body. Dr. Carl Zylstra, President of Dordt College, addressed the body on behalf of the session of Synod. college. Mr. Marlow Van Ginkel, a representative from Hope Haven, addressed the body. Regarding Recommendation 4, in the Abstract of the Minutes of the 259th Synod, page Rev. C. W. Powell, representing New Geneva Theological Seminary, addressed the body. 56, which reads “That the Special Committee to Research eBooks be continued.” Your Rev. Jim West, representing City Seminary of Sacramento, addressed the body. Mr. Ray committee proposes that the Special Committee to Research eBooks be continued under the Schnabel, a representative of Heidelberg Theological Seminary, addressed the body. Dr. title of “Special Committee to Develop eBooks.” The work of the committee has shifted Nick Willborn, representing Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, addressed the from researching to developing and promoting; therefore, the committee agrees that the body on behalf of the seminary. current title is no longer applicable. The eBook Committee brings to the 260th Synod the following three recommendations: XIII. Reports of Board Members and Liaisons Recommendation 1: That the Special Committee to Research eBooks be continued. Recommendation 2: That the title of this committee be changed to Special Committee to Rev. Herman Van Stedum, reported as a member of the Board of Trustees of Dordt Develop eBooks. College. Rev. Jeff DeBoer, reported as a member of the Board of Trustees of Hope Haven. Recommendation 3: That the Special Committee continue with the promotion of the sale Rev. Jim Sawtelle, reported as a member of the Board of Trustees of Mid-America of The RCUS Electronic Reference Library, Second Edition (version 2.0). Reformed Seminary. Rev. Ron Potter, reported as a member of the Board of Trustees of Note: Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Rev. Paul Treick reported as a liaison to the In regard to Recommendation 1, the following motion was adopted: That the Special Radio Administration Committee of Reformed Faith and Life - French. Rev. Paul Treick Committee to Research eBooks become a Permanent Committee to Develop eBooks. read his report as editor of the Reformed Herald. In regard to Recommendation 2: it was declared out of order. In regard to Recommendation 3, Take Note. XIV. Reports of Special Committees Respectfully submitted, [NOTE: The recommendations, including amendments, in these Special Committee reports Rev. Gary Mancilas, chairman, Rev. Dennis Roe, Rev. Jay Fluck Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 71 72 The Reformed Church in the United States

Rev. Eric Bristley, Elder Jeff Jones, Elder Carl Esparza the word and shall be under the spiritual oversight of their Classis in which their credentials are held. (see By Laws Art. IX & X) B. Study of Federal Vision ! There is some distinction made between faculty and Teachers of Theology, in that not all faculty must be elected as Teachers of Theology. (see Art. IX & X) The report was recommitted for greater clarification, with Rev. Jim West and Dr. ! Board members shall be appointed by the Board of Trustees with the approval of Classis. Warren Embree added to the committee. (see Art. III) C. Procedures for the Establishment of a Denominational Seminary ! The seminary shall be incorporated as a non-profit corporation. The officers of the Board of Trustees shall be the officers of the corporation. The decisions of the corporation Esteemed Fathers and Brothers: are subject to approval of the Synod. (see Governmental Structure and Art. XIX & XX) ! The Board of Trustees shall be responsible for the budget of the seminary and for raising The Special Committee to Establish Procedures of a RCUS Seminary was continued the financial support of the seminary. (see Art. XVIII) by the 259th Synod without a clearly defined mandate. It is our understanding that our task We ask the delegates to carefully read the report presented below, and we bring before remains that of the mandate given to the committee by the 258th Synod, namely, “to put into the Synod three recommendations for your consideration: place the procedures for the oversight, operation and financing of a denominational Recommendations: seminary” (cf. Abstract of the Minutes 258th Synod, p. 80). The work of the committee was 1. That the procedures for the oversight, operation and financing of a denominational done this past year by email and numerous phone conversations. seminary as proposed in the Mission Statement, Governmental Structure, and By-Laws for Your committee presented a report last year consisting of a Mission Statement, a RCUS seminary in this report be adopted. Statement of Governmental Structure, and By-Laws for a denominational seminary. As an Grounds: appendix we also submitted an Operational Handbook which remains a work in progress. Our report this year is largely the same as that of last year, with the exception of several a. This recommendation, if adopted, would fulfill the mandate Synod gave this clarifications which we believe will be an improvement of the report. These clarifications committee to accomplish. have been incorporated into the body of the report, but you can find the specific changes b. If adopted, the Classes and Synod would have the necessary guidelines and we made and where to find them in the report in Appendix 2. Appendix 1 is a handbook documents to pursue the establishment of a denominational seminary. which was mailed out last year and remains a work in progress. We will not mail out the 2. That the following procedure for establishing or becoming a RCUS seminary be handbook again, but we will have them available if anyone needs one. adopted: We are also proposing by means of a separate recommendation a procedure to be a. By overture from a Consistory to Classis and from a Classis or a Special Committee followed in the establishment of a denominational seminary. If this procedure is adopted of Synod to Synod. it would be added to the By Laws. On this recommendation the committee did not have b. When an already established seminary desires to serve as a Theological Seminary full agreement. of the Church (RCUS), an overture requesting such status shall be submitted to the Classis You should also note that the conclusion of last year’s report has been left out in whose geographical area the seminary is located. Upon Classis approval, the overture altogether, since it does not clarify or propose anything specific to our mandate. will be submitted to Synod. Upon Synod approval, the following constitutional In the process of discussions, there arose a concern that Article 41 of the RCUS requirements will apply: Constitution should be amended. Therefore, we are presenting a recommendation to that i. Synod shall exercise oversight of the seminary through a Board of Visitors effect. (See Art. VIII). To help understand the basic concepts in the Governmental Structure and By Laws we ii. Nominations shall be submitted by the Classis to Synod for election and present the following highlights: inauguration as Teachers of Theology. ! The day to day operation and decision making process of the seminary shall be by a Grounds: Board of Trustees. These men shall be officers of the church appointed by the Board and a. If adopted, the Classes and Synod would have the necessary procedures to pursue approved by the Classis in which the seminary resides with representation from each the establishment of a denominational seminary. Classis. (see governmental structure and By Laws Art. II – IV.) b. These procedures follow the normal process of submitting overtures. ! The Synod shall have the oversight of the seminary with authority to direct and approve 3. That Article 41 of the RCUS Constitution be amended to read as follows: (The first its work, particularly with respect to faculty and curriculum. This oversight shall be carried sentence of the article would read) “If two ministers and two elders of the church, out by means of a Board of Visitors which shall report to the Synod. (see governmental representing two different Classes, present to….(the rest would remain the same). structure and By Laws Art. II, III, VIII-X) Grounds: ! Faculty shall be appointed by the Board of Trustees, examined and approved by Classis and confirmed by Synod. All faculty shall be reappointed every two years. The Synod a. The new required number of office bearers necessary to seek the disqualification shall have the power to dismiss a faculty member. Faculty members shall be ministers of of a professor would better reflect the size and make up of the number of ministers and Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 73 74 The Reformed Church in the United States elders of the denomination. and shall insure that the administrative duties of a registrar, librarian, secretary, etc., shall b. The new requirement about those raising concerns would ensure that a greater be carried out by either a support staff appointed to each of the respective duties by the representation of the synod be expressed if a charge against a professor is to be Board of Trustees, or the Board of Trustees may assign individuals to function in these investigated. designated capacities as needed to carry out said administrative functions until such a time MISSION STATEMENT as permanent appointments are made. The administrative offices and duties shall be set forth in detail in the RCUS Seminary By-Laws. A RCUS seminary shall be incorporated THAT: 1. An R.C.U.S. Seminary shall have as its main mission the goal of training as a non-profit corporation within the state in which it is located. The Board of Trustees and preparing men for the Reformed pastorate; and especially those men who are shall have the care of the physical property of the seminary and the maintenance there of committed to being faithful and devoted pastors in the Reformed Church in the United as a sacred trust of the corporation. States, all to the glory of Jesus Christ. “And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers.” This work shall be done by the Church, preferably by it’s ministerial members. “You therefore, my son, be strong in BY-LAWS the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.” (Ephesians Article I 4: 11; I Timothy 6:20-21; II Timothy 2: 1-2) Purpose THAT: 2. An R.C.U.S. Seminary shall seek to train and prepare men by equipping The (RCUS) Theological Seminary has as its primary purpose the preparation of men them with the necessary skills to teach and preach the glorious gospel of the Lord Jesus for the Ministry of the Word who will serve as pastors and teachers in the Reformed Church Christ and care for His flock. “ For the equipping of the saints for the work of the ministry, in the United States, who shall truly believe the Gospel as it is set forth in the Scriptures of for the edifying of the body of Christ, till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the the Old and New Testaments, and who love and are motivated to proclaim, apply, and knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness defend the same as it is accurately and completely set forth in the Heidelberg Catechism, of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12-13) the Belgic Confession of Faith, and the Canons of Dordt (commonly called the “Three THAT: 3. An R.C.U.S. Seminary shall seek to encourage a sincere desire and zeal Forms of Unity”). The Seminary has as a secondary purpose — the offering of theological for continuous study and growth in historic Reformed teaching as well as in the production training for church officers and church members who desire to be refreshed or pursue of such biblical teaching. An R.C.U.S. seminary shall thus seek to engender in its students further education by the means of Biblical, theological, apologetic, historical, and practical a companion desire to impart this knowledge to others through the writing of articles, studies. pamphlets, and books. THAT: 4. An R.C.U.S. Seminary shall seek to provide for the continuing education Article II of ministers and elders, through various means such as conferences, classes, and other Board of Trustees media sources. 1. The Board of Trustees shall consist of twelve (12) men. There shall be a minimum THAT: 5. An R.C.U.S. Seminary shall seek to provide opportunities and resources of one (1) member from each Classis of the Reformed Church in the United States. As for further education and training for lay members of the denomination as well as for many as two (2) members may come from denominations that are in fraternal relations with others. the RCUS. All members must subscribe to the Heidelberg Catechism, the Belgic THAT: 6. An R.C.U.S. Seminary shall seek to assure that the catechization of our Confession, and the Canons of Dordt, otherwise known as the Three Forms of Unity. Of covenant youth, the “Jewel” of the RCUS, is carried on through the centuries for our these twelve men, six (6) shall be ministers of the Word and Sacraments in good standing, posterity and for “as many as the Lord our God shall call” (cf. Acts 2:39). and six (6) shall be non-ministerial members in good standing with their respective congregations. GOVERNMENTAL STRUCTURE 2. Each Board member shall be required to subscribe to the following: I do honestly The Synod of the Reformed Church in the United States shall have the oversight of and in good conscience before the Lord declare that I believe and am persuaded that all a RCUS Seminary while the operation of the seminary shall be the work of a legally the articles and points of doctrine in the Heidelberg Catechism, the Belgic Confession, and constituted Board of Trustees consisting of reformed pastors, elders, deacons, and members the Canons of Dordt,, are in complete and accurate agreement with the Word of God; and approved by the Synod. The Board of Trustees shall be accountable to Synod, and shall I do promise to promote and defend the same in good faith and reject all doctrines report to Synod through a Board of Visitors appointed by Synod. The number, method of conflicting therewith. selection & dismission, tenure, duties, power & authority, qualifications, organization, 3. Nominations for Board membership shall be administered by a standing Executive procedure, and frequency of meetings of the board members shall be set forth in the RCUS Committee (See Article III of the By-Laws) who shall solicit from Synod and/or the Classes Seminary By-Laws adopted by Synod. The government of the seminary shall be based upon the names of potential Board members (at least twice the number of names needed to elect) the Word of God and the Three Forms of Unity, and regulated by the Constitution of the to be presented to the Board for election. RCUS, RCUS Seminary By-Laws, the Directory of Worship, and the Rules of Order. The 4. Members of the Board of Trustees shall be elected for a term of three (3) years (in Seminary Board of Trustees shall appoint the seminary faculty, subject to Synod approval, Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 75 76 The Reformed Church in the United States classes with no more than four (4) terms expiring each year). Members who have served year of all financial books and records by a Certified Public Accountant. two (2) consecutive terms are not eligible for re-election for two (2) years. Members 5. The officers of the Board of Trustees shall constitute the Executive Committee to receiving appointments to the Board to fill an un-expired term shall be eligible for the act for and on behalf of the whole Board between meetings of the Board. One (1) member remaining terms for election purposes if the duration does not exceed eighteen (18) months. of the Synodical Board of Visitors and one faculty member shall be ex-officio members of 5. Vacancies due to death, inability to serve, resignation, or termination for cause the Executive Committee. shall be filled by majority vote of the remaining Board members. 6. Removal from office for cause shall take place with due notice, proper charges and Article IV right of appeal according to the Constitution of the Reformed Church in the United States. Committees 7. Regular meetings of the Board of Trustees shall be held at least two times per year. Board members shall be notified of the time and place of each meeting at least thirty (30) days prior thereto unless set by appropriate Board resolution. Board members are required 1. Board of Trustees shall appoint committees to oversee the functions of the to attend Board meetings unless justifiably excused. Absenteeism may become grounds for seminary. requesting resignation and/or dismissal. 2. Board committees shall be subject to the following requirements: 8. Special meeting of the Board of Trustees shall be called by the president and at the a. Committee decisions shall be taken by majority vote of a quorum of the request of four (4) members of the Board. Notice of special meetings, including their committee. purpose, shall be given at least thirty (30) days for said meeting, but with the agreement of b. Unless otherwise specifically provided under these By-Laws, each Committee all Board members may be called upon fifteen (15) day notice. shall meet upon call by the Chairman of the committee. 9. Expenses for the Board meeting will be paid by the Seminary Treasurer according c. Each Committee shall maintain minutes of it’s meetings and proceedings. to the Standing Rules of Synod (Standing Rule number five (5)). d. All Committee members shall serve for a period of one (1) year or such other term 10. The Board of Trustees shall determine the location of the seminary with the as established by the Board of Trustees. approval of the Synod. In determining the location the following principles should be Article V applied. Executive Committee a. Proximity to an RCUS church to provide a good setting for family life and support. 1. The Executive Committee shall: b. Proximity to as many RCUS churches as possible where students can work. a. Serve as the Board’s standing nominating committee for Board membership; c. That which provides the best situation for student housing and work and travel. b. Carry out decisions of the Board of Trustees; d. That which provides the greatest availability of active RCUS pastors to c. Prepare agenda for meetings of the Board of Trustees; participate in training. d. Forward copies of the minutes of its meetings to the Board of Trustees; e. That which provides accessibility for others who need to travel to the seminary. e. Consider all matters relative to the educational policies, curriculum and library matters and make recommendations concerning the same to the Board. Article III f. Investigate the spiritual and academic qualifications of candidates for teaching and Officers of the Board of Trustees administrative positions, make recommendations to the Board concerning such candidates, 1. The officers of the Board of Trustees shall be the President, Vice President, and arrange interviews of said candidates before the Board; Secretary, Treasurer. Officers shall be elected by ballot for a term of one (1) year. The g. Recommend to the Board a budget for the ensuing year, indicating the various election shall take place on the first meeting of the year. sources of income and how these monies are to be collected and allocated; 2. The President, or in his absence, the Vice President, shall preside at all meetings h. Make recommendations as to all phases of the proper care, maintenance and of the Board of Trustees. The President, with the Secretary, shall sign all legal documents adequacy of the physical building, property and equipment of the school; of the Seminary executed by and for the Board. i. Make recommendations regarding remodeling, renovation and replacing 3. The Secretary shall be responsible for all the official correspondence of the Board building(s) and equipment; and shall keep accurate minutes of all meetings of the Board of Trustees. He shall have the j. Make recommendations to the Board concerning the appointment, work and salary care and custody of the official documents of the Seminary. of the custodian(s); 4. The Treasurer shall be accountable to the Board for the oversight of the financial k. Perform such other duties as may be delegated to it by the Board of Trustees; operation of the Seminary. All monies received shall be deposited by the business office staff in the approved financial institution(s). All payments shall be made by check. The Treasurer shall give a written financial report at each regular meeting of the Board. The Article VI Treasurer shall, at Seminary expense, provide for at least one (1) audit during each fiscal Executive Director Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 77 78 The Reformed Church in the United States

The Board may employ, contract with, or arrange for a competent chief executive and shall be eligible for appointment as a Teacher of Theology. operating officer whose title shall be Executive Director. Such individual may, but need c. Only permanent and/or full-time professors shall be appointed as Teachers of not, be a member of the Board of Trustees. The Executive Director shall be the Theology by election and inauguration of the Synod. representative of the Board in the management of the Corporation. Subject to the direction d. At least two (2) permanent or full-time professors shall be appointed to teach the and under the supervision of the Board of Trustees, the Executive Director shall have central Old and New Testament and Systematic Theology courses. general charge of the business affairs and property of the Corporation. The Executive Director shall have such other duties and responsibilities and may exercise such other e. Part-time or adjunct professors may be appointed by the Board of Trustees to teach powers as are usually incident to the office or as from time to time may be assigned by the languages, preaching and pastoral courses, etc. Such appointments shall be no more than Board of Trustees or these By-Laws. If required by the Board of Trustees, the Executive two (2) years without Classis approval and Synod confirmation. Director shall be bonded, at the corporation’s expense, for the faithful discharge of his f. All faculty shall be required to sign a contract for the term of their appointment duties, in such sum and with such surety as the Board of Trustees shall determine. on a form prescribed by the Board of Trustees consistent with the By-Laws of the Seminary. Article VII 3. Oversight. Board of Visitors All faculty shall be subject to the spiritual oversight of their Spiritual Council and the Classis of which they are members with the normal appeals process to Synod. 1. Synod shall annually appoint a Board of Visitors with at least one representative from each Classis whose duties shall be: 4. Faculty Administrative Duties. a. Visit and attend classes of the Seminary at least once a year; a. The Faculty shall choose one of its members as Chairman, whose duties shall be to lead faculty meetings, and report to the Board on Faculty decisions and functions. b. Visit with and interview students; b. The duties of academic record keeping shall be those of the registrar, who shall be c. Attend at least one of the annually stated meetings of the Board of Trustees; chosen by the Faculty with Board approval. d. Investigate and carefully examine any and all charges made against a Teacher of Theology (cf. Constitution of the RCUS, Article 41); Article IX e. Give an annual report to Synod of the spiritual and temporal condition of the Seminary. Teachers of Theology f. They shall serve as liaison between the Board of Trustees and Synod by bringing 1. A Teacher of Theology is a Minister of the Word elected and inaugurated by Synod requests and nominations to the Synod for action. as a professor in a Theological Seminary of the Church (cf. Article 36 RCUS constitution). Before a Teacher of Theology enters into the duties of his office, he shall publicly affirm the declaration as set forth in the Constitution of the RCUS, Article 38. Article VIII 2. All Teachers of Theology shall ordinarily be appointed for an initial term of two Faculty (2) years and thereafter for successive terms of four (4) years upon recommendation of the 1. Qualifications. Board of Trustees to Synod for approval. a. Faculty shall be seasoned pastors who have shown competence in preaching and 3. Teachers of Theology shall be required to sign a contract for the term of their pastoral work for a minimum of ten years. appointment on a form prescribed by the Board of Trustees consistent with the By-Laws b. Faculty shall possess at least a Bachelor’s degree and a M.Div. (or equivalent) of the Seminary. degree from an institution with a sound theological preparation for the ministry. 4. Teachers of Theology are amenable to the oversight of their Spiritual Council and c. Faculty shall have demonstrated good scholarly ability in research and theological the Classis to which they belong with the normal appeals process to Synod, except for their writing. position as Teacher of Theology, which, for cause and by due process, can only be removed 2. Appointments: by Synod. a. Seminary Faculty shall be appointed by the following process: 5. The discharge or suspension of a Teacher of Theology shall follow the process set forth in the Constitution of the RCUS, Articles 40 & 41. i. The Faculty and the Board of Trustees shall interview prospective nominees for appointment. 6. Teachers of Theology at the denominational seminary shall possess as a minimum the academic requirements equivalent to those of the faculty. ii. Nominees selected by the Board of Trustees shall be recommended to the Classis for examination and approval. iii. The Classis shall present the nominee for appointment to Synod for Article X confirmation. Curriculum b. Appointments shall be of two (2) years duration. After the third appointment he 1. Content: Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 79 80 The Reformed Church in the United States

a. The Seminary shall teach a classical Reformed Curriculum, which shall include 3. Donations shall include but not be limited to Synodical and Classis guidelines. The minimums of: Nine semester (or equivalent) hours of Old Testament studies (in addition Synodical Board of Visitors shall present recommendations to Synod for a Synodical to Hebrew), Nine hours of New Testament studies (in addition to Greek), Eighteen hours seminary guideline. of Systematic Theology, Nine hours of Preaching and Pastoral Theology, Twelve hours of 4. The Board of Trustees shall conduct capital fund drives. Capital projects shall not Church History, Six hours of Presuppositional Apologetics, plus courses in Creeds and be carried out until the project is 55% funded. Confessions, Evangelism and Missions, Cults and False Religions, and Christian Ethics. b. Special attention shall be given to Historic Reformed teaching concerning Article XIII justification by faith alone, to the Reformed/biblical view of the sacraments, and to patriarchal Presbyterian church government. Emphasis shall be given to RCUS principles Fiscal Year and practices. The fiscal year of the Corporation shall begin on January 1 and end on December c. A minimum of 96 credit hours will be required for a Master of Divinity degree. 31 of each year.

Article XI Article XIV Students Miscellaneous 1. Admission Standards: 1. Property. The title of all property of the Corporation, both real and personal, shall be vested in the Corporation. a. Students shall normally be admitted to the Seminary who have completed a Bachelor’s Degree program, which includes world history and introductory Philosophy 2. Contributions. All contributions of any nature, unless designated for a specific courses. purpose, shall be used for such purposes as the Board of Trustees may direct; and in the absence of any direction by the Board, such may be used for the general purposes of the b. Exceptions to this standard shall be made only with the agreement of the Executive Corporation. Contributions of any nature for specific purposes shall be used only for the Committee of the Board of Trustees with the right of appeal to the full Board. Such purposes and in the manner for which the contributions are made. Contributions include students shall be placed on probation until they demonstrate that they can handle the bequests and devises under Last Will of deceased persons. seminary curriculum. 3. Contracts. The Board of Trustees may authorize any officer or agent to enter into c. Such exceptional students shall be provided with a degree of completion of the any contract or execute and deliver any instrument in the name of and on behalf of the curriculum, but shall not receive a Master of Divinity degree upon the completion of their Corporation, and such authority may be general or confined to a specific instance, and studies. A Master of Divinity will be given upon the completion and presentation of a valid unless so authorized by the Board of Trustees, no officer, agent, or employee shall have any Bachelor’s Degree. power or authority to bind the Corporation by any contract or engagement, or to pledge its 2. Student Behavior and Performance: credit, or render it liable pecuniarily for any purpose or to any amount. a. Students are expected to maintain high standards of Christian behavior, and to show 4. Voting Stock Owned by the Corporation. Unless otherwise ordered by the Board themselves to be humble, mature and godly men in all of their relationships. Failure in of Trustees, the President shall have full power and authority on behalf of the Corporation these respects shall be grounds for dismissal at the judgment of the Faculty and Board, and to vote either in person or by proxy at any meeting of stockholders of any corporation in referral to their Classis and Spiritual Council under whose care and oversight they reside. which this Corporation may hold stock, and at any such meeting may possess and exercise b. Students shall finish assigned work promptly and may be given special all of the rights and powers incident to the ownership of such stock which, as the owner consideration only with the agreement with the professor teaching the course. thereof, this Corporation might have possessed and exercised if present. The Board of c. Students who perform at below a 1.8 level in any course may be required to retake Trustees may confer like powers upon any other person and may revoke any such powers. the course. A 2.6 grade point average shall be required for graduation with a M.Div. 5. Participation. No person shall on the grounds of national or ethnic origin, race, or degree. Students whose grade point average is below 2.6 will receive a degree of color be excluded from admission to, be excluded from participation in, be denied benefits completion of the curriculum. of, or be subject to discrimination under any program or activity of (RCUS) Theological Seminary. Article XII Finances Article XV 1. The Board of Trustees shall establish endowment and bequest funds to assist in the Dissolution operation of the seminary. The purpose of this fund is to eventually provide the majority In the event of the dissolution of the Seminary and cessation of its activities, the Board of the funding for the seminary. of Trustees shall, after paying or making provisions for the liabilities of the Seminary, 2. The Board of Trustees shall seek donations to cover the operational cost of the dispose of the assets of the Seminary according to the direction of Synod. seminary. Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 81 82 The Reformed Church in the United States

Article XVI send a letter of thanks to Deacon Ben Stewart for coordinating relief efforts among the Amendment RCUS churches for victims of Hurricane Katrina. Amendments to these By-Laws may be proposed by a two thirds (2/3) vote of the 2. That monies collected for benevolent or diaconal causes should be sent through the Board of Trustees to the Synod for approval. RCUS Treasurer. Respectfully Submitted: 3. That benevolent aid be granted to Grace RCUS, Lancaster, CA, in the amount of $425 Rev. Maynard Koerner, Rev. Vernon Pollema, Rev. Robert Grossmann, per month ($5,100) for the next Synodical year. Rev. H oward Hart, Rev. C.W. Powell, Rev. Jam es Sawtelle, 4. That the RCUS Synod grant benevolent aid to Faith RCUS, Anderson, CA, in the amount Elder Greg Stewart, Elder Spencer Gross, Elder Roger Gallimore of $600 per month ($7,200) for the next Synodical year. 5. That the RCUS Synod grant benevolent aid to Mrs. Amy Stevens in the amount of $1,000 per month for the next Synodical year. Note: Amendments made to the By-Laws from the floor are included in the text above. All three special committee recommendations passed. 6. That the RCUS Synod grant benevolent aid to Trinity RCUS, Colorado Springs, CO, in the amount of $725 per month ($8,700) for the next Synodical year. 7. That the RCUS Synod grant benevolent aid to Rev. Ron Potter in the amount of $450 per XV. Standing Committee Reports month ($5,400) for health insurance and medical expenses for the next Synodical year. 8. With regard to the thank you letter from Rev. And Mrs. Potter, Take Note. [Where a Primarius Elder was absent, the vacancy was filled by their respective Secundus 9. That the RCUS Synod grant benevolent aid for Rev. Kevin Hamilton in the amount of Elder.] $470 per month (($5,640) for the next Synodical year. Rev. Hamilton will be paid for the month of May 2006 in the same amount as last year’s amount. A. Ecumenical Committee 10. That the RCUS Synod grant diaconal aid for Rev. Dale Clark in the amount of $2,000 Recommendations adopted: per month for up to six months or until he receives a call whichever comes first, beginning 1. With regard to the communication from the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in England July 1. and Wales, that a member of the Permanent Interchurch Relations Committee make contact 11. That the RCUS Synod recommend to the Northern Plains Classis that they pay for Rev. with the EPCEW. Clark’s moving expenses. 2. With regard to Recommendation #1 of the Interchurch Relations Committee report, that 12. That the RCUS Synod grant diaconal aid for Rev. Stephen Richert in the amount of the matter be re-committed to the Permanent Committee to perfect the language further. $1,000 pre month for up to six months or until he finds work, whichever comes first. 3. That we accept the United Reformed Churches of North America’s invitation to enter 13. That the RCUS Synod grant benevolent aid for Rev. Gene Sawtelle to pay his moving Phase II relations by entering into Fraternal Relations. (Rev. Pontier, URCNA, was expense in the amount of $2,000. subsequently seated in the Bar of the House, a prayer of thanksgiving was offered, and the Rev. H . Bowen*, Rev. D. Clark, Rev. H. Hart, clerk will inform the Stated Clerk of URCNA and other churches which with we have Elders J. Mills, K. Armbruster, R. Smith, and M. Kappes fraternal relations, of this new fraternal relationship.) 4. That the Synod of the RCUS vote in favor of the reception of the Free Reformed C. Education and Student Aid Churches of North America into membership of NAPARC, and that the Stated Clerk of the Synod advise the secretary of NAPARC of the outcome of the vote. Recommendations adopted: 5. That the budget (Interchurch Relations Committee) be approved. 1. That Mid-America Reformed Seminary (MARS) continue to be listed as a seminary worthy of receiving benevolent money from the RCUS and that we continue our guideline 6. That Synod ratify the following statement from NAPARC regarding women in the support at $2.00. military: “The Word of God gives no warrant, expressed or implied, that women are to be conscripted in or employed for military combat roles, but rather they are to be defended by 2. That the guideline for giving to Dordt College be set at $2.25 per communicant member men and kept from harms way that they might fulfill their biblical callings and duties under for the coming year. God.” 3. That the guideline for giving to Dordt College be set at $2.25 per communicant member Rev. D. Fagrey*, Rev. R. Potter, Rev. G. Syms, Rev. W. Embree, for the coming year. Elders D. Stelpstra, L. Lee, R. Gallimore, A. Fickbohm 4. That Synod provide student aid to Elder Sam Powell in the amount of $4,700 for tuition ($4,450) and books ($250). B. Benevolence Committee 5. Regarding communication #9: a letter from Licentiate Scott Henry thanking Synod for money in the amount of $4,750 to pay for tuition for academic year 2005-06, Take Note. Recommendations adopted: 6. Regarding communication #7" a letter received from Jim Den Ouden, President of 1. That the Permanent Diaconal Committee Report be adopted and that the Stated Clerk Providence Christian College acknowledging an invitation letter from the Stated Clerk to Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 83 84 The Reformed Church in the United States attend Synod and expressing that he will not be able to attend, Take Note. “justification,” “covenant membership,” and “faith,” you should not be surprised that 7. That a representative of Providence Christian College be invited to address the 261st “historically orthodox Christians,” such as we conceive ourselves to be, would find your Synod. claims shocking. That we would respond so strongly might be surprising to you in our day 8. That the RCUS seek to have one of its ministers appointed to the Board of Providence of laissez faire theology, but we find ourselves in strong disapproval of your views and Christian College. wished to publish this opinion, and then thought it unscriptural not to let you know as well. 9. That the proof reader, Jess Johnson, and the compiler, Charles Hensen, be commended You mention that your impression is that we base our criticism on the views of men for their diligent and laborious work on the Sunday School Curriculum, Take Note. who are either less than competent or are in disagreement with us on other issues. Quite to the contrary, we are convinced that our objections to your views are based on sound 10. That Charles Hensen be paid this synodical year the $1,500 honorarium per curriculum th exegesis of Scripture as is expressed in the creeds of the church and has been understood year of compilation as approved by the 257 Synod, Take Note. for generations by those who hold to the grammatical-historical-theological hermeneutic. 11. That a Teacher’s Handbook be drafted for each quarter of the curriculum lessons. We do use points of departure suggested by other critics of your views, but ones, we think, 12. That a quarterly review lesson and corresponding quiz be written and incorporated into are no different than your use of Sanders, with whom you also express some disagreement. each of the quarters for each year of the curriculum. So we hardly think this approach “gets us off on the wrong foot from the start.” 13. That the ‘Discuss and Decide’ sections of the Curriculum be reviewed and revised by In all honesty, we must say of your charge that we rely “on quoting from scholars” the Sunday School Committee for improved teachability and historical relevance and these rather than on a “fresh reading of the Scriptures,” is untrue and unhelpful. Throughout revisions be submitted to the 261st Synod. history those who have “found” that the Scriptures teach the opposite of the church’s 14. That the K-1 Grades of the Curriculum be revised to make it age-appropriate. historic understanding (as in your view of justification based on a novel reconstruction of 15. That Year 5 of the Curriculum be published in CD-ROM format and stocked by the Jewish history and thought – something you yourself rightly criticize early in “What Saint RCUS Book Depository for release as soon as possible. Paul Really Said”) hardly have a good record of straightening out the Church. Indeed, sound exegesis operates on sound hermeneutical principles consistently applied. We are Rev. F. Walker, Rev. T. Gruggett*, Rev. C. W. Powell, Rev. K. Sorensen, happy that you purpose to “speak according to Scripture.” We are convinced that, Elders J Connelly, L. Huber, R. Lopez, K. Lorentzen unfortunately, you have missed that mark rather severely in several respects. We thank you for your consideration of our concerns and pray that God will vindicate D. Judicial Committee His Truth among all of us. Recommendations adopted: Sincerely in Christ, 1. That Synod accede to the overture of South Central Classis to declare that ministers are The 260th Synod of the RCUS members of their local congregations. Rev. R. Grossmann*, Rev. J. Fluck, Rev. L. Gross, Rev. G. Sawtelle, 2. That Synod respond to Bishop Wright with the attached letter (below). Elders S. Gross, T. Schieffelin, V. Ochsner Dear Bishop Wright, We wish to thank you very kindly for your response to our letter about the action of E. Ministerial Aid Committee our Synod concerning your account of the teaching of the Apostle Paul. While it was not Recommendations approved: our purpose to engage you in an extended discussion, but simply to let you know that we have reached some conclusions quite critical of your claims on this subject, we think it 1. That Ministerial Aid for Mrs. Marie Stuebbe in the amount of $1,000 per month be useful to respond to your letter of 24 January 2006. approved for the next synodical year. First, we fully agree that you are not under our ecclesiastical oversight. We are not 2. That Ministerial Aid for Mrs. Vivian Stuebbe in the amount of $1,000 per month be under any illusions concerning that, but since you have published your views in the approved for the next synodical year. theological arena of our day, and since we are convinced that your views can be harmful 3. That Ministerial Aid for Mrs. Marjorie Duckett in the amount of $1,000 per month be to the faith of your readers, especially those in the Reformed community, our Synod approved for the next synodical year. decided to deal with what you have published. Please understand that there is no joy or 4. That Ministerial Aid for Mrs. Robert Sander in the amount of $1,000 per month be satisfaction in reaching the conclusions we did, nor that there is any anger toward your approved for the next synodical year. person. On the contrary, we are convinced that Christians owe each other fitting 5. That Ministerial Aid for Mrs. Virginia Hoeflinger in the amount of $1,000 per month be admonishment, even when far removed from one another, when these actions or teachings approved for the next synodical year. may endanger our continuance in the faith. To ask one to reconsider and repent of his 6. That Ministerial Aid for Rev. Howard Hart in the amount of $1,350 per month be actions is not something that can or must be limited within ecclesiastical borders, even approved for the next synodical year. thought the responsibility and force of such actions is far more direct in such cases. 7. That Ministerial Aid for Mrs. Phyllis Grossmann in the amount of $1,000 per month be You do indeed succinctly express the substantive issue to be that we think your approved for the next synodical year. writings do mislead folks on what Paul “really said.” As you define concepts such as 8. That Ministerial Aid for Mrs. Kay Savage in the amount of $1,000 per month be Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 85 86 The Reformed Church in the United States approved for the next synodical year. 5. On pg. 3 portion X, A. President’s Report, it is not recorded that Sawtelle resumed 9. That Ministerial Aid for Mrs. Kay Savage in the amount of $1,000 per month be the chair. approved for the next synodical year. 6. On pg. 4 of the minutes the heading “D. Election of Officers” is missing. 10. That Ministerial Aid for Rev. Norman Jones in the amount of $1,350 per month be 7. On pg. 15 of the Documents the credentials of elders to classis is not signed by the approved for the next synodical year. pastor. 11. That Ministerial Aid for Mrs. Joan Vance in the amount of $1,000 per month be 7. On pg. 60 of the Documents the statistical report is not signed by the clerk of the approved for the next synodical year. consistory. 12. That Ministerial Aid for Rev. Chester Ploeger in the amount of $1,200 per month be 3. Your committee recommends that the minutes of the Northern Plains Classis be approved for the next synodical year. approved with the following corrections: 13. That the letters of thanks from Mrs. Duckett and Mrs. Sander be read to the body. 1. In the Table of Contents, the Numerical and Financial Statistics are found on pg. 14. That the investment policy of placing the MAF assets into a balance of 50% in mutual 83 rather than pg. 82. funds and 50% in CD’s be continued. 2. On pg. 2 of the Minutes the Stated Clerk’s Report on the Minutes were received but 15. That Synod continue the MAF guideline of $15.00 per communicant member for the no further action was taken. 2006-2007 synodical year. 3. On pg. 8 of the Minutes the Standing Nominations Committee there is a duplication 16. That Synod urge all the members of the Ministerial Relief Committee to be in of the phrase “of the report. communication about the committee’s work, and the submission of a report to Synod. Take 4. Your committee recommends that the minutes of the South Central Classis be approved Note. with the following corrections: Rev. J. Sawtelle*, Rev. J. West, Rev. L. Johnson, Rev. K. Hamilton, 1. In the Table of Contents, the welcoming of Fraternal Delegates is found on pg. 3 Elders W. Lingenfelter, A Stache, G. Stewart as well as pg. 4. 2. In the Table of Contents, the Standing Committee on Examination and Licensure F. Minutes of Classes is found on pgs. 5-6, 8-9, and 14-15 and not as recorded. Recommendations approved: 3. In the Table of Contents, the Reading of the Minutes is found on pgs. 11 and 15, not 1. Your committee recommends that the minutes of the Western Classis be approved with as recorded. the following corrections: 4. In the Table of Contents, Adjournment is found on pg. 15, not as recorded. 1. In the Table of Contents the Interchurch Relations Committee is on pg. 4, not on pg. 5. On pg. 3 of the Minutes, the Canadian Reformed Churches are referred to as the 3. Canadian Reformed Church. 2. In the Table of Contents the Roll Call is not listed. 6. On pg. 3 of the Minutes, the time given to Mr. Ray Schnabel was seconded but no 3. On pg. 1 of the minutes it says the president set the bar of the house “at” rather than further action was taken. “as” the first six rows. 7. On pg. 7 of the Minutes, Rev. Darrell Kingswood is not referred by title and first 4. On pg. 3 of the minutes there is no reception of the Permanent Missions Committee name the first time he is noted. report, but there are motions following that pertain to it. 8. On pg. 8 of the Minutes, Mr. Scott Henry read “his parochial report” although at 5. On pg. 12, lines 42 and 46 there two unnecessary seconds when bringing an that point he was neither a licentiate or minister of classis. amended motion as the main motion to a vote. 9. On pg. 13 of the Minutes, there is a recommendation to recess which was seconded 6. On pg. 14, line 30 it is recorded that “Rev. Horner moved for a five minute recess.” and carried, and then the president called the order of the day. Better it would read “Rev. Horner moved a five minute recess. 10. On pg. 15 of the Minutes, there is a heading for an expression of appreciation but 2. Your committee recommends that the minutes of the Covenant East Classis be approved there is no indication in the minutes that appreciation was actually given. with the following corrections: 11. On pg. 16 of the Minutes, the addresses of the president and treasurer of classis are 1. In the Table of Contents there is a reference to 2003 rather than 2006. not included. 2. In the Table of Contents, the minutes refer to XX and XXI which are not found in 12. On pg. 11 of the Minutes, Kingswood moved to excuse Embree from all sessions the Table of Contents. of classis but he is recorded in the minutes as present at all meetings. 3. In the Table of Contents, the Constitutional Questions to Elders are found on pg. 13. In the Documents section, Document 11 functions as the Executive Committee 3 as well as 4. report but is not signed by a majority of its members. 4. In the Table of Contents, the Standing Overtures Committee is found on 3, 4, 5 as 14. In the Documents section, document #21, Robert’s Davis’s parochial report, is not well as 6. signed. Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 87 88 The Reformed Church in the United States

15. In the Documents section, document #22, Sam Powell’s parochial report, is not $154,226. signed. 18. Take Note: The three-year budgets of mission works are to be balanced in terms of 16. In the Documents section, documents #32 and #33 are not signed. matching income and expenses while following the basic form to be obtained from the Rev. J. DeBoer*, Rev. D. Rogers, Rev. S. Richert, Rev. M. Powell, SHMC. Elders D. Speranza, R. Stettler, S. Hodge, T. Rott 19. Take Note: The Classes and their Missions Committees are to take care that those nominated for their committees and the Synod Home Missions Committee are willing and G. Missions Committee able to serve in the necessary work of missions visitations, and the SHMC annual meeting, if so appointed. Recommendations approved: 20. That the Synod day of prayer include foreign missions. 1. That Synod support in the amount of $2,000 be granted in order to move Rev. Jon Blair to Grace RCUS in Greeley, CO. Also that the remaining $2,000 to move retired pastor Rev. 21. That the budget be adopted as follows: Gene Sawtelle to Yuba City, Ca, be referred to the Benevolence committee. Congo: 2. That Synod provide Grace Reformed Chapel of NW Arkansas, with $10,080 in fiscal Elder-pastor support $16,200(same) year 2007, (another 10% reduction off the original support). Kinshasa aid $7,000(same) 3. That the Synod Home Missions Committee be informed that Classis has granted Rev. Publishing $1,000(same) Saavalainen the status of Missionary to the Deaf in the Chicago Area, for another year. Building and Diaconal aid $2,000(same) 4. That Synod continue its provision for our Deaf missions work in the Chicago area, in the Kenya amount of $17,300 for the remainder of fiscal year 2006, towards the sum of $29,200 for Church Support $12,000(same) 2006. [This is the same total support for Chicago and Rev. Saavalainen as approved for the past year, beginning in June 2005.] Publishing $2,000 (same) 5. That Synod provide our deaf missions work in the Chicago area with $29,200 for fiscal Reformed Faith and Life- French $17,000(same) year 2007. Committee Expenses 6. That Synod provide $2,000 for Deaf Reformed Ministries for 2007. Travel to Africa $2,000 (down $2,000) 7. That Synod support for Covenant Reformed Church, Chico, CA for 2007 be $9,960.00 Travel to Europe $1,000(same) (The Western Classis support is $9,960.00). (this is a reduction from $12,051.00) Travel in USA $3,000 (same) 8. That Synod support for Rehoboth Chapel, La Habra, CA for 2007 be $14,000.00 (Classis Total $63,200 support is $29,125.00). 22. That Synod approve the plan of sending a man to Mbale in 2007 and seek an applicant 9. That the RCUS Synod budget support for Calvary Reformed Chapel, Stockton, CA in to fulfill this post. the amount of $19,980.00 for 2007 contingent upon the continuance of this work (Classis 23. That we use the mechanism of asking a local church to call a prospective missionary support is $19,980.00). (This work was moved from San Ramon per Classis and Synod as an associate pastor for this work and upon receiving this call be commissioned as a encouragement last year. There will be an assessment of viability done this year by the missionary of the RCUS. Missions Committee according to the Synod Home Missions Manual). 24. That $20,000 be budgeted for 2007 to support sending an RCUS pastor to teach at Knox 10. That the Synod Foreign Missions Committee evaluate the mission work of Christians theological College in Mbale Uganda. for Armenia to determine if they are an institution worthy of our support. 25. That the RCUS establish the relationship with the Philippine Churches which were 11. That Synod support for Grace Reformed Church Greeley, CO, be $13,586.00 in 2007. visited by Rev. Gil Baloy & Rev. Matt Powell according to the Synod’s approval last year. (Reduction from $15096) 26. That the RCUS conduct seminars in the Philippines on Reformed worship and 12. That Synod support for Providence Reformed Church in Vermillion, SD be $8,720.00 government as well as other matters as needed for assessment with the purpose of licensing in 2007. those who would be qualified in the RCUS. The estimated financial burden for such would 13. That Synod support for High Plains in Calhan, CO be $14,400.00 in 2007. (last year be about $6,000. they took a %20 reduction.) 27. That $6,000 be budgeted to cover the estimated expenses for conducting seminars and 14. That $9,000 be budgeted for new works, and that the remainder of the RCUS Radio assessment in the Philippines. (Note: this would be added to Rec. 21 above.) Project funds be transferred to this budget. 28. That it be published in the Reformed Herald that those interested in giving donations 15. That $6,000 be budgeted for Synod Home Missions Committee expenses. to Congo contact Rev. Bob Grossmann and donations for Kenya contact Elder Doug 16. That the annual Home Missions Offering on the Day of Prayer in 2006 be designated Schlegel to first inquire of needs before designating money for specific needs. for Grace RCUS, Greeley, CO. 29. That all special Home and Foreign Missions offerings go through Synod Treasurer in 17. Take Note: The Home Missions budget, if approved as recommended, would be order to facilitate proper accounting and oversight. Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 89 90 The Reformed Church in the United States

30. That the communications from Jonas Mualaba of the Confessing Reformed Church of Treasurer in full and are based upon accurate figures. Take Note. Congo be referred to the permanent Foreign Missions Committee. 2. That the $10,043.56 balance in the Deficit Reduction Fund be transferred to the General Rev. D. Schnabel*, Rev. M. Voytek, Rev. N. Riffert, Rev. J. Saavalainen, Benevolence Fund to aid in offsetting the deficit in that fund. Elders S. Wilbur, M . Fisher, R. DeJong, J. Rydell 3. That consistories and congregations of the RCUS be advised that each transfer of contributions from the U. S. To the Congo and Kenya, Africa, incurs a $50.00 transfer fee H. Nominations Committee for each transaction. Take Note. The Permanent and Special Committees of Synod which were adopted are printed in 4. That the RCUS Synod Treasurer continue transferring of RCUS contributions to the the SUMMARY INFORMATION at the beginning of this Abstract. Congo and Kenya, Africa, paying the $50.00 transfer fee for each transaction, but that the Rev. D. Roe*, Rev. R. Morris, Rev. G. Mancilas, Rev. W. Haddock, Synod Treasurer, working with the Permanent Foreign Ministries Committee research and Elders G. Maassen, D. Mettler, E. Starks make use of a less expensive and more efficient means of transferring contributions from the U. S. To the Congo and Kenya, Africa. 5. That Licentiate Scott Henry’s travel reimbursement of $42.00 be granted. I. Publications Committee 6. That Mr. Chuck Snyder be given an honorarium of $1,100 and an honorarium of $1,100 1. Concerning the 259th Synod denial of the reprinting of Romans 7, Mr. De Blois was duly be given to Mr. Daniel Roush. informed. Take note. 7. That the Treasurer’s and Auditor’s report be approved. 2. Concerning the 259th Synod’s action that the Reformed Herald be printed with black and th one color on all 12 pages and that the number printed be reduced to 2200 per month, it has 8. That Synod pay the travel expenses for the 260 RCUS Synod in the amount of been implemented. Take note. $22,077.62. 3. Concerning the 259th Synod’s action that the Reformed Herald subscription be raised to 9. That the Synod commend the Treasurer, Elder Ted Griess, for his ‘work of faith and $13. per family- it has been implemented. Take note. labor of love’ during this past year. 4. That Rev. Paul Treick be nominated to serve as editor of the Reformed Herald. An 10. That the guideline be set at $2.00 per communicant member for Heidelberg Theological election by secret ballot resulted in the election of Rev. Treick as editor. Seminary. 5. That the editor of the Reformed Herald be given an expense account of up to $1500. for 11. That the Guideline for 2006 be as follows: the next synodical year. Synodical Dues 20.00 Mid-America Seminary 2.00 6. That Rev. Eric Bristley’s desire and willingness to serve the RCUS with his digital Home Missions 51.50 New Geneva Seminary 2.00 electronics publication skills be utilized in developing and enhancing the visual identity Foreign Ministries 25.00 Deficit Reduction 5.00 of the RCUS, under the direction of the Permanent Publications Committee, and that he be Ministerial Relief 52.00 Ministerial Aid Fund remunerated for his labors at the rate of $30 per hour up to a maximum of 32 hours per Diaconal Ministries 5.00 15.00 month, a maximum budget of $960 per month. General Publishing 3.00 Building Fund 1.00 Student Aid 2.00 M.E.R.F. 2.00 7. That the budget for the web site and web store resources, not including labor, be set at General Benevolences 17.00 TOTAL $209.75 $2000. for the next synodical year. Dordt College 2.25 st 8. That all RCUS pamphlets be reviewed and recommendations be made to the 261 Synod Hope Haven 2.00 Reformed Herald, $13.00 per to update, consolidate and otherwise improve their effectiveness. Since the stock of “Why Greenville Seminary 1.00 subscription the Reformed Church” is depleted, it would seem reasonable to reconsider all the pamphlets Heidelberg Seminary 2.00 so a more unified presentation is made. 9. Since the Three Forms of Unity are in short supply at the Book Depository, that Pine Hill Rev. J. Merica*, Rev. T. M ayville, Rev. M. McGee, Rev. D . Kingswood, Press’s bid to print 2000 copies for $ 4,690 be accepted, minor typos being corrected in the Elders T. Griess (T reas.), C. Fellersen, R. Kusler. L. Streyle new printing. 10. The 4th year of Promise and Deliverance has been delivered to the Book Depository K. Excuses Committee and the 5th and final year is expected to be delivered this calendar year. Take note. Recommendations adopted: Rev. G. Horner*, Rev. J. Blair, Rev. E. Bristley, Rev. N. Jones, 1. That Synod grant the excuses for part or all of the th Elders J. Johnson, F. Hoffmann, J. Gross, L. Neifer 260 Synod according to the requests of: Rev. Frank Walker, Elder Roger Gallimore, Elder Darrell Bentz, Elder David Roggenkamp, Elder Michael Peery, Elder Mike Altman, Rev. Kevin Hamilton, Elder Shane Hodge, Elder Jeffery Mills, Rev. Jay Fluck, and Rev. J. Finance Committee Bill Haddock.” Seconded and carried. Recommendations adopted: 2. That Synod grant excuses for Rev. Jari Saavalainen, Rev. Kevin Hamilton, and Elder 1. That RCUS congregations insure that their synodical dues are submitted to the Synod Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 91 92 The Reformed Church in the United States

Dominic Speranza due to their absence after 4 pm Thursday, since the interpreters left. C. Motion to Adjourn 3. Take note that the travel reimbursement for Rev. Walker will be covered by his congregation. The 260th Synod of the Reformed Church in the United States adjourned to the 261st meeting of the Reformed Church in the United States to be held at Northland RCUS at 7:00 L. Overtures Committee pm on May 21, 2007. All overtures to Synod were handled by this committee and referred to their proper The 260th Synod adjourned at 8:15 pm on Thursday, May 18, 2006. Standing Committees and the disposition of these overtures are reflected in the individual reports of these committees as reported above. The Overtures Committee handled the D. Closing Service following items which were adopted: 1. that Dr. C. N. Willborn will be present at Synod to represent Greenville Presbyterian 1. Devotions Theological Seminary. Take Note. 2. That the Synod of the RCUS accept the gracious offer for the Northland Reformed Church of Kansas City, MO, to host the 261st meeting of the Synod in 2007. Elder Rusty Blare led in the closing devotion with the reading of Philippians 4:4-9 and led in prayer. Rev. M. Koerner*, Rev. G. Baloy, Rev. D. Dawn, Rev. W. Brice, Elders D. Sawtelle, B. Williams, D. Roggenkamp 2. Apostles’ Creed, Lord’s Prayer, Benediction, and Doxology XVI. Miscellaneous Reports and Other Business The President led the assembly in reciting the Apostles’ Creed and Lord’s Prayer. He pronounced the Benediction and led in the singing of the Doxology. A. Expression of Appreciation to Host Congregation

That the following expression of appreciation to Grace RCUS, Mitchell be printed in the Sunday bulletin. Respectfully submitted, “The delegates of the 260th Synod of the Reformed Church in the United States wish to extend our heartfelt appreciation to you dear brothers and sisters of Grace Reformed Paul H. Treick, Stated Clerk Church of Mitchell, SD for your gracious and loving care of us. Your labors of love on our behalf were clearly noted. May God richly bless you for making our stay so enjoyable.”

B. Adoption of Stated Clerk’s Report, Executive Committee’s Report, and Standing Overture’s Committee Report

The Executive Committee’s Report was adopted; on the Archives Committee, Take Note; the other reports were all previously adopted.

XVI. Adjournment

A. Reading of the Minutes (and at the beginning of each day)

The minutes were printed, distributed, read, corrected and adopted for each day’s proceedings.

B. Roll Call

The final roll called showed 43 ministers and 35 elder delegates present. Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 93 94 The Reformed Church in the United States Standing Rules

Note: The Standing Rules of Synod were adopted in 1986 and amended in the bracketed years. 1. The fiscal year of the Synod of the Reformed Church in the United States shall run from February I st to January 3 1 st of the following year. The synodical dues shall be due on the first of January and are to be paid not later than the thirty-first of January of the current fiscal year. [1991] APPENDIX 2. The statistics of the Classes shall be forwarded to the Stated Clerk of Synod two weeks before the session of Synod. 3. The writ of certification for delegate elders shall be forwarded to the Stated Clerk two weeks before the session of Synod. 4. The Standing Rules shall be read during the second session of the annual Synod Standing Rules of Synod meeting. This rule may be suspended by a two-thirds’vote of Synod. 5. The Treasurer shall reimburse travel in behalf of Synod at thirty-five cents Index of Positions and Resolutions ($.35) per running mile per vehicle. When distance and time require delegates to use public transportation to Synod, or in behalf of Synod, they shall be granted full fare. [2005] Membership and Financial Statistics 6. Travel reimbursement shall be paid only those delegates to Synod whose congregations have paid the synodical dues in full to the Synod Treasurer, and those delegates who have attended all sessions of Synod or have been properly General Information excused by Synod. 7. The President of Synod shall receive four hundred fifty dollars ($450), the Stated Clerk shall receive one thousand dollars ($ 1,000), and the Treasurer one thousand dollars ($ 1,000) for the synodical year. An amount equal to 10 percent of the Stated Clerk’s honorarium will be available for the Stated Clerk to use for secretarial help. The Editor of the Reformed Herald shall receive one thousand dollars ($1,000), the Book Depository Manager shall receive three hundred dollars ($300), and the Subscription Manager shall receive five hundred dollars ($500) for the synodical year. [1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998] 8. The monies sent to the Synod Treasurer shall be made out in check form to the REFORMED CHURCH IN THE UNITED STATES and shall be designated for which fund and how much. for each fund. 9. The Stated Clerk of Synod shall prepare an abstract of the synodical minutes, including a cumulative index of resolutions and positions taken by Synod, and shall publish the same. Each Stated Clerk of Classis shall prepare an abstract of classical minutes and shall send one copy to each minister, elder delegate and congregation of Synod. [1987, 1989, 1990] 10. The Synod shall have Permanent Committees as follows: Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 95 96 The Reformed Church in the United States

A. Archives B. Board of Trustees internship requirement may be fulfilled either before or after the candidate has C. Christian Education H. Home Missions received a call or is licensed. [1995] D. Diaconal Ministries 1. Interchurch Relations 17. Overtures sent to the Stated Clerk of Synod four weeks in advance of Synod E. Editorial Advice J. Ministerial Relief shall be circularized, but overtures may be submitted to Synod at any time. The F. Executive K. Publications members of the Overtures Committee of Synod shall meet during a recess on G. Foreign Ministries L. Web Site Tuesday morning after V. Presentation and Referral of Overtures, Permanent and the Standing Committee on Nominations each year is to nominate men to Committee Reports, and Communications, until the call of the chair, and shall serve on these committees. [1989, 1992, 1996, 1999] make the initial distribution of papers upon the resumption of business. [1998, 11. The complete Synod statistics shall be duplicated by the Stated Clerk each year 2004] at the Synod’s expense. 18. The spring meeting of the Classes shall he held at least one month before the 12. Nominations for all officers of Synod and the editor of the Reformed Herald annual meeting of Synod. [1987] shall be made by secret ballot. All names appearing on the nominating ballot shall 19. The annual session of Synod shall begin each year on the evening of the third be candidates, and if there is not an election on the first ballot, only the names with Monday of May unless Ascension Day occurs in that week, in which case it shall the two highest totals of votes shall be candidates until there is an election. [1997] begin on the evening of the second Monday in May, and shall meet each day until 13. The reports and recommendations of the Permanent and Special Committees all business regularly brought before it has been disposed. The Order of the Day of Synod shall be completed and mailed to the Consistories of all the churches and of Synod shall provide for a service of worship on Monday evening and for the Treasurer of Synod no later than April 1st. The only committee exempt from committee work on Tuesday evening. [1992, 1998] this requirement is Home Missions, which shall submit its report at least three 20. The Executive Committee of Synod is charged with overseeing contact with weeks in advance of Synod. Excuses for this requirement are to be made only on groups expressing interest in the RCUS, and with developing materials that will written request to the Executive Committee of Synod by the chairman of the facilitate uniform presentations to such groups. [1997, 2000] committee involved, at least two weeks before the meeting of Synod. All reports, overtures and correspondence must be submitted on 81/2" x 11” white paper, and 21. Each year the Synod of the RCUS will pay for the services of at least two all reports must be signed by a majority of the committee members. [1992, 2000, American Sign Language interpreters to interpret the proceedings of Synod who 2004] will be allowed seating within the bar of the house. The interpreters are to be chosen by the consistories of the deaf churches of the RCUS. [2002, 2005]] 14. The services of Synod shall be prepared by the Executive Committee, and these proposed services shall be circularized before Synod. 15. Students for the ministry of the Reformed Church in the United States shall be urged by Synod to attend only such seminaries which are listed as institutions worthy of receiving benevolent monies from the Reformed Church in the United States. Only students who attend institutions so listed shall be eligible for student aid while preparing for the Christian ministry. Each student receiving student aid must affirm his commitment to pursuing ordination in the RCUS each year before receiving student aid. His affirmation must be signed, dated, witnessed and sent to the Stated Clerk of Synod, who will forward a copy of the same to the chairman of the Candidates and Credentials Committee of the student’s Classis. [2001] 16. It shall be the practice of the Reformed Church in the United States to require each candidate for the ministry to complete an eight-month internship before his ordination exam. This internship shall be spent with a pastor who has served at least five years in the Reformed Church in the United States. The pastor shall provide a written evaluation of the candidate to the Candidate and Credentials Committee. During this internship particular emphasis shall be placed on learning the peculiarities and practices of the Reformed Church in the United States. This Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 97 98 The Reformed Church in the United States

Fraternal Relations, Rules for Establishing - 92:88 Fraternal Relations, Not to be Established by Classes - 94:61 Index of Positions and Resolutions Goals of Interchurch Relations - 93:56, 120 Interchurch Relations Committee - 78:39; 83:80; 87:64 Entries are keyed by year and page of their respective Abstracts International Conference of Reformed Churches - 91:152; 92:88; 94:25; 98:50 Independent Presbyterian Church of Mexico - 91:16 1; 94:56; 99:7 1; 2000:51; 03:71 BENEVOLENCE North American Presbyterian and Reformed Council - 75:34; 92:89; 93:120; 94:25, 57;96:28, 70 Bethesda Sanatorium Assoc. - 57:8; 63:19; 72:21 Orthodox Presbyterian Church - 93:119, 122; 94:26, 57; 95:126; 96:69; 97:57 Dordt College - 64:18 Relations with other Reformed Churches - 59:16; 60:20 Juan Calvino Seminary - 91:161 Reformed Churches in the Netherlands (Liberated) - 89:27; 91:152 Safe Harbor Lighthouse - 2000:51 Reformed Confessing Church in Zaire - 94:57 Middle East Reformed Fellowship (MERF) - 05:75 Reformed Presbyterian Church General Assembly - 93:12 1; 94:26; 96:70 CHRISTIAN EDUCATION Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America - 73:19; 75:32; 92:89; 94:57; 96:69, 70 Catalogue of Christmas Programs - 88:11 Reports of Fraternal Delegates - 89:102 Catechism for Young Children - 61:20; 63:18 United Reformed Churches of North America - 98:49; 2001:64; 2006:81 Christian Education Committee - 73:18 FAMILY CONVENTION City Seminary of Sacramento - 2001:65; 04:94 Inviting non-RCUS Groups to Attend - 97:55 Dordt College Scholarship - 80:29 FINANCIAL Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary - 2000:24; 2001:65; 04:94 Debt Reduction - 94:59 Heidelberg Theological Seminary - 2001:65; 03:72 Loan and benevolence requests to be accompanied by budget - 99:74 RCUS Scholarship Fund - 95:73; 96:71 Minister’s Salaries - 59:16 RCUS Seminary - 04:64; 05:58 Monthly contributions to Synod encouraged - 93:126 Solicitations by Students for the Ministry - 2000:55 Property loan Repayments - 99:73 Student Aid Policy - 97:59; 2001:66 Reimbursement Form - 93:127 and App. Student Financial Aid Agreement - 73:22; 74:9; 2001:66 Reporting finances in statical report - 04:95 Students for the Christian Ministry - 72:21 Treasurer on Clerk’s Mailing List - 94:59 Sunday School Curriculum - 94:58; 97:22; 98:51; 04:94 Treasurer to Send Unaudited Report of Contributions by Feb. 01:67 Visitation of Approved Seminaries - 2001:65 JUDICIAL Westminster Theological Seminary in California - 2000:52 Adopting and Receiving Reports - 84:70 Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia - 2001:65, 66; 04:94 Associate Members - 85:96 CONSTITUTION Authoritative English Bible Translation - 89:87 “Affirm” v. “Oath” in Article 140 - 91:157 Authoritative Heidelberg Catechism Translation - 86:74 “Broader” v. “Higher” Judicatory - 91:144; 92:77 Biennial v. Delegated Meeting - 93:129, 130; 94:19, 62; 04:89 “Church” in Article 31 - 87:69 Borrowing Elders - 90:136 Constitutional Amendment, Article 14 - 57:8 Candidates and Credentials Committee - 74:30 Constitutional Amendment, Article 28 -63:13; 64:11 Candles at Weddings - 81:38 Constitutional Amendment, Article 26 - 63:13; 64:11 Closing Religious Services - 70:27 Constitutional Amendment, Article 35 - 63:13; 64:11 Credentials from Congregation to Synod - 89:87; 94:61 Constitution, Article 81 (84), Family Visitation - 64:11; 65:11 Deaf Reformed Classis - 2000:55 Constitution, Article 81 (84), Explanation of answer other than “yes” - 66:16 Different Language Classis - 2 000:5 5 Constitution, Article 5 - 69:22 (interpretatin of “proper reasons”) Dismission of Minister to Heterodox Denomination - 98:53 Erasure as Discipline - 91:157 Elder Representation at Classis - 70:26 Exam for non-RCUS Licentiates and Ministers - 93:128 Election of Reformed Herald Editor - 97:69 Excuses for Absent Elders - 98:53 Email documents and reports - 98:54; 05:81 Executive Committee, Article 91 (95) - 64:20; 65:12; 66:16 Form for Baptizing Families - 91:157 Local Constitutions to conform to RCUS Constitution - 62:14 Giving to Classis - 74:2 3; 79:3 3 Nominations from Floor at Congregational Meetings in Article 48 - 2001:67; 03:63, 75 Guideline for Giving - 7 3:2 1 ; 7 5:3 3 “Orthodox” in Article 74 (formerly Art. 76) - 70:26 Labor Outside the Bounds of Classis - 78:36 Revised Forms and Rules of Order - 87:Appendix Membership of Minister - 70:26; DIACONAL Membership of Minister in local congregation - 2006:85 Classes Encouraged to Have Committee - 97:56 Minister as Ruling Elder in non-RCUS Church - 75:32 Channels for Seeking Aid from Synod Diaconal Committee - 97:56 Minister from Another Denomination - 87:70 ECUMENICAL Ministers Serving as Elders at Classis/Synod - 93:129 Alliance of Reformed Churches - 92:89; 93:112, 120; 94:52 Name of a Congregation - 89:87; 92:94 Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church - 94:57; 96:69; 2000:51 Number of Elders in Line I of Statistics - 2001:68; 04:95 Canadian Reformed Churches - 91:152; 92:89; 93:120; 94:57; 97:57; 98:50; 2001:52, 64 Objections to a Call - 82:42 Evangelical Reformed Methodist Episcopal Church - 97:58 Objections to Circular Actions - 80:3 1; 87:69 Fellowship with non-RCUS groups - 93:121 Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 99 100 The Reformed Church in the United States

Overtures to Synod - 87:69 Home Missions Fiscal Year the Same as Synod’s - 94:65 Pastor’s Salary - 74:26; 92:92 Home Missions Manual - 2001:56 Reception of New Congregation - 87:68 Home Missions Works - 87:75 Recommendation of a New Minister - 87:68 Home Missions Procedure - 64:11; 65:11; 67:15 Register of Licensures - 94:61 Missionary-at-Large - 78:24; 84:34 Serving on Committees - 83:80 Missionary to Kenya - 03:76 Statistical Report, Definition of “Debt” , etc.- 94:60; 04:95 Policy and Procedures for Foreign Missions - 81:17 Statistical Report, Definition of “Family” - 70:20 Riverbank Resolution - 84:73 Subsidiary Standards - 83:80 Second Year of the Salary Scale - 77:20 Task of the Church - 83:81 Supplementing Home Missionaries’ Salary - 92:97 Vows of Officers - 99:75 Support for Construction in Ruashi, Zaire, Encouraged 94:66 MINISTERIAL AID Three Year Budget for Mission Works - 91:162; 92:98 Classis to Determine Need - 91:159 Zaire Administration Committee - 87:71, 92:98,99 Consistories to Investigate Requests - 99:75 Instructor in Mbale, Uganda - 2006:90 Investing Ministerial Aid Fund Monies in Mutual Funds 92:95 Mission Prospects in Phillipines - 2006:90 IRA, Churches Encouraged to Include in Pay Package - 92:95 PUBLICATIONS Ministerial Aid Fund Committee - 89:88; 90:138; 98:54 Assistant Editor - 90:149; 92:106 Ministerial Aid Fund, Special Offering Encouraged - 94:63 Classes Urged to Coordinate Publishing with Synodical Committee 99:82 Ministerial Relief Qualifications - 79:29 Copyright of Reformed Herald Articles - 99:81 Ministerial Relief Questionnaire - 96:31, 75; 97:62 eBooks Researched - 2001:61; 04:80; 05:57 Minister’s Pension - 60:20; 61:19; 62:7; 63:13; 64:10; 65:11; 66:6; 67:14; 05:67 Editorial Advisory Committee - 88:97 MINUTES OF CLASSES Graded Sunday School Curriculum- 04:35,93: 05:77 Destroying Documents - 90:139 Heidelberg Catechism Workbook - 70:19 Organization of Minutes - 95:136 Marketing Formula - 81:24; 96:32, 81 Recording and Storing Minutes - 88:90; 93:13 1; 94:60, 63; 99:76 Memorial Issues of the Reformed Herald - 97:68 MISCELLANEOUS Printing of Heidelberg Catechism - 85:105 250th Anniversary Celebration - 94:69; 95:70; 96:46 Reformed Herald - 56:10, 18; 57:7; 67:17 Anti-abortion Declaration - 72:29; 85:95 Royalty Policy - 89:102 Autographa - 73:28 Semi-Anonymous Articles in the Reformed Herald prohibited - 61:20 Days of Creation - 85:105; 86:83; see also 99:50 SPECIAL STUDIES Directory of Worship, Revision of - 65:13; 66:10; 67:16; 69:16 Assoc. for the Advancement of Chrn. Scholarship - 71:20 Eureka Classis Included in Proper Name of Church - 65:20 Authority of Position Papers - 2000:48 Excuses for Congregations without Representation for Two Consecutive Years - 99:73 Bible Text used in the Catechism - 89:76 Excuses for Primarius and Secundus Elders - 98:53 Canons of Dordt - 74:19 History of the Eureka Classis - 59:16; 60:20 Canons of Dordt and Belgic Confession - 81:28; 82:30; 83:47; 84:45; 85:58; 93:121, 122; Homosexuality - 99:75 94:17, 61, 62 Hyperpreterism, Condemnation of - 97:61 Charitable Organizations - 81:28 Sunday School - 69:16 Church Incorporation - 91:109; 92:69 Trinity Hymnal - 63:12 Confessional Conferences for Reformed Unity - 94:53 Use of Pictures - 93:128 Creation in Six Days - 99:50 MISSIONS Deaconesses - 81:31 Annual Day of Prayer - 93:135; 95:138 Directory of Worship - 93:113; 94:18, 41, 62; 95:74; 96:56; 98:40 Applying for Home Missions Support, Procedure - 94:64 Dividing into Classes - 73:28; 85:64; 94:60 Classis to Notify SHMC of New Works - 94:64 Doctrine of Scripture, WTS (Phila.) - 92:79; 95:75 Commissioning a Foreign Missionary - 67:10; 68:12 Ecclesiastical Divorce and Remarriage - 90:12 1; 91:44 Committee on Assessment - 89:90; 90:141 Elders on Permanent and Special Committees - 70:19 Constitution of Mission Churches - 93:135 Group Health Insurance - 97:55 Descending Scale, Abolished - 94:65 Guidelines for Receiving Congregations - 94:44; 95:77 Diaconal Support for ERCZ Encouraged - 94:66 Hymnal - 94:46; 95:81, 13 3; 04:63 ERCZ Church Government - 88:30 Infant Communion - 77:23; 77:40 Establishing and Funding New Works - 99:77 Investigate a RCUS Seminary - 85:68; 86:61; 04:64 Evangelism - 90:81 Justification - 04:82 Faith and Word Ministry - 97:65 Knox Theological Seminary - 98:48 Foreign Ministries Committee - 92:98; 93:134 Lodge Membership - 64:12 Five Year Commitment of Mission Pastors - 94:65 Ministerial Requirements - 88:72 Five Years Experience for Mission Pastors - 94:64 New Perspective on Paul 05:69 Home Missions Committee - 87:73 Ordination Vow - 80:2 8; 96:49 Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 101 102 The Reformed Church in the United States

Preaching and Exhorting - 81:3 5 Membership and Financial No. No. of Comm. Rec'd Rec'd Re Total Tot. Lost RCUS Ecclesiology - 94:40; 9 5 117 Statistics - 2005 of Deaco Memb. by by c'd Rec'd Old/ by Reformed Pastors on Independent Mission Boards - 94:48 Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, MS - 74:20 COVENAN T EAST CLASSIS Procedures for Estalishing an RCUS Seminary 05:58 Bentonville, AR Grace (w/ G arner) 0 0 9 0 2 4 6 15 0 Revolving Fund for Church Buildings - 72:20; 73:20 Columbia, MD Deaf 2 1 15 2 0 1 3 18 2 Chicago, IL (w/ Danville) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 “Right to Die” Issue - 93:115 Student Assistants to Ministers - 73:19; 77:26 Danville, KY Deaf (incl IL) 2 1 17 0 0 0 0 17 2 Garner, IA Peace (incl AR) 3 3 125 0 2 5 7 132 4 Theonomy - 85:72; 87:4 1; 92:94 Golden Valley, MN Redeemer 4 4 73 0 9 3 12 85 2 Voting in Congregational Meetings (Place of Women in the Church) - 64:11; 65:12 Ham burg, MN St. Paul's 3 3 242 5 0 5 10 252 0 Voting in Congregational Meetings - 78:28 Honesdale, PA (w/ Napoleon) 0 0 11 0 0 0 0 11 0 Women in the Military - 95:124; 96:60; see also 99:75 Kansas City, MO Northland 3 3 45 2 0 2 4 49 0 Procedures for Establishing a Denominational Seminary - 2006:72 Napoleon, OH Peace (incl. PA) 3 3 68 3 0 0 3 71 0 Newton, WI Salem-Ebenezer 4 3 258 4 0 3 7 265 7 24 21 843 16 11 19 46 889 17 Subtotal NORTHERN PLAINS CLASSIS Aberdeen, SD First 3 3 107 5 3 1 9 116 4 Ashley, ND Salem 3 3 46 0 0 0 0 46 0 Denhoff, ND Kassel 3 2 25 0 0 0 0 25 2 Eureka Eureka 2 3 201 5 2 0 7 208 7 Herried, SD First 2 2 54 3 0 0 3 57 1 Hosmer, SD Hosmer 2 3 39 0 0 0 0 39 1 Leola, SD Oranien 1 3 8 0 0 0 0 8 0 Minot, ND Harvest 2 3 39 0 2 1 3 42 1 Pierre, SD Hope 2 1 20 1 2 0 3 23 0 Watertown, SD Covenant 2 0 17 0 3 0 3 20 0 22 23 556 14 12 2 28 584 16 Subtotal South Central Classis Calhan, CO High Plains 3 2 27 8 0 1 9 36 0 Col Spr., CO Trinity Cov. 3 2 38 0 2 5 7 45 1 Greeley, CO Grace 4 2 35 0 2 0 2 37 0 Karval, CO Bl Cliff Com. 2 2 19 2 0 0 2 21 0 Limon, CO Providence 1 1 17 4 0 0 4 21 0 Lincoln, NE St. John's 4 4 86 3 4 0 7 93 1 Menno, SD Zion 4 4 177 0 0 0 0 177 5 Mittchell, SD Grace 3 2 71 2 0 0 2 73 2 Rapid City, SD Grace 2 2 49 3 6 0 9 58 2 Rock Spr., WY Providence 3 1 34 0 0 1 1 35 0 Sioux Falls, SD Trinity 5 5 111 3 7 1 11 122 11 Sutton, NE Emmanuel 3 3 148 0 0 0 0 148 2 Sutton, NE Hope 4 4 233 8 2 0 10 243 12 Vermillion, SD Providence 2 1 19 4 0 2 6 25 2 43 35 1064 37 23 10 70 1134 38 Subtotal WESTERN CLASSIS Anderson, CA Faith 1 1 36 0 0 2 2 38 2 Bakersfield, CA Grace 4 3 126 2 0 3 5 131 4 Chico, CA Covenant 2 1 23 0 0 1 1 24 2 Grass Valley, CA Covenant (incl S. R.) 2 0 54 1 3 1 4 58 0 La Habra, CA Rehoboth w/ Shafter 0 0 22 0 0 1 1 23 3 Lancaster, CA Grace 2 1 42 3 0 0 3 45 3 Lodi, CA Providence 3 4 56 0 0 3 3 59 3 Modesto, CA Trinity 4 3 59 1 0 0 1 60 4 Sacram ento, CA Covenant incl S.D 4 7 156 4 3 8 15 171 1 S. Diego, CA Covenant w/ Sacto 1 1 18 0 0 1 1 19 0 San Ramon, CA Grace w/ Gr Valley 0 0 18 0 0 0 0 18 0 Shafter, CA Ebenezer incl La H 6 5 116 1 0 1 2 118 3 Willows, CA Grace 2 1 40 0 0 1 1 41 1 Yuba City, CA First 3 2 47 0 0 0 0 47 2 33 28 755 12 6 20 37 792 25 Subtotal TOTALS THIS YEAR 122 107 3218 79 52 51 181 3319 96 TOTALS LAST YEAR 121 107 3197 79 57 75 211 3408 85 PERCENT OF CHANGE +1 0 +1 0 -4 -32 -14 -3 +12 Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 103 104 The Reformed Church in the United States

Lost by Lost Total Comm. Unconfir Total No. No. of Adult Infant Total No. Rec'ng Times MEMBERSHIP AND FINANCIAL Re ce ipts Re ce ipts Re ce ipts Total Giv ing to Giv ing to Giv ing to Giv ing to Erasure by Lost Memb. m-ed Baptized of Children Baptisms Baptisms Baptisms Lord's Lds STATISTICS - 2005 from Reg. from Spec. from other Re ce ipts Synod Cla ss is Non-Guide- Non- Offerings Offerings Sources Guidelines Guidelines line Causes RCUS COVENANT EAST CLASSIS 0 0 0 15 2 17 7 6 0 1 1 15 6 Bentonville, AR Grace (w/ 36,100 820 28,800 65,720 2,479 799 0 620 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Columbia, MD Deaf 26,822 1,883 0 28,705 3,180 1,013 0 600 0 0 0 2 2 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Chicago, IL (w/ Danville) 0 12,170 25,700 37,870 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 15 14 29 8 16 0 0 0 10 9 Danville, KY Deaf (incl. IL) 20,926 19,268 30,875 71,069 2,346 1,147 0 7,817 2 4 10 122 13 135 71 22 0 2 2 109 11 Garner, IA Peace (incl AR) 129,469 29,828 33,421 192,718 26,513 8,697 4,729 5,822 1 0 3 82 68 150 42 58 0 6 6 84 6 Golden Valley, MN Redeemer 208,546 16,925 13,876 239,347 14,639 4,928 8,816 3,025 10 2 12 240 49 289 121 36 0 1 1 198 9 Hamburg, MN St. Paul's 164,661 3,330 22,397 190,388 37,485 16,335 0 637 0 0 0 11 5 16 6 0 0 0 0 10 12 Honesdale, PA (w/ Napoleon) 22,791 0 5,881 28,672 200 400 0 0 2 0 2 47 25 72 24 23 0 2 2 47 6 Kansas City, MO Northland 142,932 8,983 2,902 154,817 9,739 3,308 500 1,300 2 2 4 67 21 88 37 16 0 0 0 64 12 *Napoleon, OH Peace (incl. PA) 110,668 6,339 8,188 125,195 13,970 4,590 621 7,682 13 5 25 240 31 271 130 19 0 1 1 220 4 Newton, WI Salem-Ebenezer 137,369 4,413 15,701 157,483 52,554 18,480 3,193 2,134 941,393 90,969 127,360 1,159,722 160,426 58,498 17,859 29,017 30 13 58 813 221 1,034 433 190 0 12 12 732 57 Subtotal NORTHERN PLAINS CLASSIS 0 0 4 112 28 140 61 22 0 1 1 109 4 Aberdeen, SD First 72,310 5,707 1,781 79,798 21,308 4,066 0 0 2 2 4 42 0 42 22 1 0 0 0 40 4 Ashley, ND Salem 17,525 7,245 6,039 30,809 4,316 1,710 785 0 2 2 6 19 4 23 14 0 0 0 0 14 4 Denhoff, ND Kassel 11,191 318 293 11,802 2,782 950 0 418 2 5 14 194 19 213 117 14 0 0 0 133 3 Eureka, SD Eureka 101,372 5,304 3,385 110,061 31,620 7,638 160 1,594 0 2 3 54 9 63 29 6 0 0 0 50 5 Herried, SD First 29,413 9,011 162 38,586 5,572 2,052 1,132 255 0 1 2 37 0 37 23 0 0 0 0 28 4 Hosmer, SD Hosmer 18,824 903 373 20,100 560 156 675 0 0 0 0 8 0 8 5 0 0 0 0 8 4 Leola, SD Oranien 8,454 583 2,203 11,240 1,694 304 0 0 1 0 2 40 21 61 23 19 0 1 1 40 12 Minot, ND Harvest 49,100 430 5,047 54,577 2,508 1,482 0 0 0 0 0 23 1 24 11 3 0 0 0 19 6 Pierre, SD Hope 32,288 5,901 0 38,189 3,316 798 156 30 0 0 0 20 10 30 10 7 0 0 0 18 6 Watertown, SD Covenant 28,206 1,594 16,000 45,800 3,379 646 0 1,072 7 12 35 549 92 641 315 72 0 2 2 459 52 Subtotal 368,683 36,996 35,283 440,962 77,055 19,802 2,908 3,369 SOUTH CENTRAL CLASSIS 0 0 0 36 16 52 11 12 0 1 1 36 4 Calhan, CO High Plains 45,036 5,241 40,565 90,842 5,366 1,956 0 0 2 0 3 42 17 59 25 16 0 0 0 41 12 Col. Spr., CO Trinity Cov. 69,285 26,479 9,359 105,123 7,790 2,753 0 26,504 1 0 1 36 17 53 23 10 0 1 1 34 4 Greeley, CO Grace 55,171 18,085 36,939 110,195 7,255 2,821 2,503 7,583 1 0 1 20 4 24 6 5 0 1 1 20 12 Karval, CO Bl Cliff Com. 22,186 2,178 6,599 30,963 3,306 1,410 385 2,260 0 0 0 21 12 33 7 11 0 1 1 21 12 Limon, CO Providence 29,956 0 6,600 36,556 3,302 1,262 0 1,605 0 0 1 92 27 119 49 20 0 2 2 84 6 Lincoln, NE St. John's 64,933 30,490 17,410 112,833 17,808 6,231 2,007 684 1 1 7 170 34 204 91 26 0 2 2 157 4 Menno, SD Zion 98,509 31,505 1,955 131,969 45,179 12,836 6,383 0 0 1 3 70 33 103 40 32 0 1 1 70 6 Mitchell, SD Grace 83,280 4,399 0 87,679 14,830 5,216 0 0 1 0 3 55 38 93 29 27 0 3 3 54 8 Rapid City, SD Grace 122,293 0 0 122,293 10,025 3,550 1,660 600 0 0 0 35 11 46 19 3 0 0 0 33 12 Rock Spr., WY Providence 66,289 10,905 0 77,194 791 2,347 250 550 3 0 14 108 45 153 59 38 0 2 2 106 6 Sioux Falls, SD Trinity 142,950 8,142 9,535 160,627 22,446 8,091 1,985 4,405 1 7 10 138 33 171 70 34 0 4 4 131 6 Sutton, NE Emmanuel 51,131 33,361 101 84,593 12,848 10,723 1,714 5,081 3 1 16 226 53 279 105 64 0 0 0 208 6 Sutton, NE Hope 128,258 5,836 1,915 136,009 41,013 16,591 818 8,048 1 0 3 22 8 30 11 4 2 0 2 24 4 Vermillion, SD Providence 42,371 4,755 21,475 68,601 3,886 1,376 0 0 14 10 62 1,071 348 1,419 545 302 2 18 20 1,019 102 Subtotal 1,021,648 181,376 152,453 1,355,477 195,845 77,163 17,705 57,320 WESTERN CLASSIS

0 0 2 36 7 45 20 15 0 0 0 35 11 Anderson, CA Faith 64,392 0 23,400 87,792 7,179 4,554 0 0 4 5 13 118 29 147 65 18 0 2 2 74 4 Bakersfield, CA Grace 220,791 21,911 0 242,702 26,030 15,939 2,977 0 2 0 4 20 0 20 11 0 0 0 0 24 12 Chico, CA Covenant 42,478 365 30,912 73,755 1,029 1,311 156 100 6 0 6 52 28 80 29 21 0 2 2 51 16 Grass Valley, CA Cov. (SnRam) 110,992 12,688 35,626 159,306 2,463 2,557 630 5,801 1 0 4 19 10 29 10 9 0 1 1 22 6 La Habra, CA Rehoboth 54478 0 62641 117119 4969 3162 0 1060 1 0 4 41 22 63 22 12 0 1 1 37 4 Lancaster, CA Grace 81,362 4,430 12,512 98,304 6,261 3,985 1,752 0 4 0 7 52 19 71 30 13 1 1 2 54 12 Lodi, CA Providence 82,331 200 7,652 90,183 8,448 5,250 533 12,480 2 1 7 53 30 83 22 28 0 0 0 59 4 Modesto, CA Trinity 98,173 555 4,809 103,537 11,726 7,464 1,055 0 7 0 8 163 78 241 74 68 0 6 6 156 12 Sacramento, CA Cov (Sn Diego) 327,905 106,996 83,345 518,246 32,072 19,734 22,929 41,302 0 0 0 19 8 27 13 8 0 0 0 19 11 San Diego, CA Covenant w/ 37048 1537 10500 49085 3734 2277 0 4154 0 0 0 18 4 22 10 0 0 0 0 17 4 San Ramon, CA Grace Chapel 27091 3307 33667 64065 1155 1697 0 64251 3 1 7 111 39 150 54 38 0 1 1 101 6 Shafter, CA Ebenezer (LA) 162,816 10,547 2,032 175,395 18,127 11,511 28,777 2,857 0 0 1 40 19 59 18 17 0 1 1 40 12 Willows, CA Grace 88,201 15,232 321 103,754 9,100 4,000 12,400 0 2 0 4 43 17 60 20 6 0 0 0 43 12 Yuba City, CA First 74,495 3,200 0 77,695 787 866 2,831 0 31 7 63 729 288 1,019 365 236 1 14 15 674 105 Subtotal 1,353,936 176,124 200,609 1,730,669 123,222 77,171 74,040 62,540 82 42 218 3,162 949 4,113 1,658 800 3 46 49 2,884 316 TOTALS THIS YEAR 3,685,660 485,465 515,705 4,686,830 556,548 232,634 112,512 152,246 70 47 202 3,213 1,043 4,256 1,695 869 7 64 71 3,033 311 TOTALS LAST YEAR 3,735,992 344,114 650,899 4,740,007 565,868 250,991 67,311 98,602 17 -11 7 -2 -9 -3 -2 -8 -57 -28 -41 -5 +2 CHANGE -1 +29 -21 -1 -2 -7 +41 +35 Abstract of the Minutes – 260th Synod 105 106 The Reformed Church in the United States

Oth er Total Value of Value of Imp rov em -en ts Present Debt Giv ing to Giv ing to Giv ing to GENERAL INFORMATION Expenses Expenses Church Church on church Pro pe rty Pa ym en ts Synod per Classis per RCUS per Building Parsonage pro pe rty De bts Past Year Co m. M br. Co m. M br. Co m. M br. Internal Revenue Service Number for the RCUS 53,252 57,150 0 0 0 0 0 275 89 364 51-0202914 19,551 24,344 0 0 0 0 0 212 68 280 26,615 26,615 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 50,329 61,639 0 0 0 0 0 138 67 205 Publications of the RCUS 135,521 181,282 750,000 125,000 15,691 0 0 212 70 320 RCUS Book Depository 169,251 200,659 750,000 280,000 17,896 518,229 42,281 201 68 389 RCUS BOOKS c/o Elder Dave McPherson (605) 347-5666 97,134 151,591 750,000 250,000 0 0 0 155 68 222 29,713 30,313 0 0 0 0 0 18 36 55 Box 126, Sturgis, SD 57785 Fax (605) 720-2788 128,096 142,943 1,500,000 200,000 8,909 438,505 30,021 216 74 301 E-Mail: [email protected] 91,082 117,945 200,000 90,000 5,509 0 0 205 68 282 The Reformed Herald (Monthly magazine) 80,224 156,585 780,000 170,000 0 0 0 204 72 288 771,188 1,036,988 4,730,000 1,115,000 48,005 956,734 72,302 ave. 190 ave. 69 ave. 260 Rev. Paul Treick (Editor) ...... (209) 551-2407 4005 Masterpiece Dr., Modesto, CA 95357 E-Mail: [email protected] 54,525 79,899 150 0 528 0 0 199 38 237 Rev. Frank Walker (Subscriptions) ...... (916) 320-0548 24,581 31,392 24,900 22,000 0 0 0 94 37 148 6121 Pine Vista Way, Elk Grove, CA 95758 E-Mail: [email protected] 8,006 12,156 40,000 0 0 0 0 111 38 149 102,118 143,130 250,000 75,000 23,535 0 0 157 38 196 39,104 48,115 40,000 42,000 927 0 0 103 38 162 22,227 23,618 25,000 0 0 0 0 14 4 36 Churches in Fraternal Relationship 9,177 11,175 20,000 0 0 0 0 212 38 250 Canadian and American Reformed Churches 48,723 52,713 150,000 78,000 0 10,022 4,538 64 38 102 Orthodox Presbyterian Church 30,117 34,417 110,000 110,000 446 31,873 4,859 166 40 214 Reformed Churches in the Netherlands (Liberated) 44,934 50,031 0 145,000 0 3,716 4,705 199 38 237 383,512 486,646 660,050 472,000 25,436 45,611 14,102 ave. 139 ave. 36 ave. 179 Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America Reformed Confessing Church in the Congo 76,124 83,446 152,000 165,000 8,395 115,828 5,541 199 72 271 United Reformed Churches in North America 53,784 90,831 0 0 0 0 0 185 66 251 87,998 108,160 192,000 158,000 588 146,481 13,689 207 81 359 Member: North American Reformed and Presbyterian Council 27,850 35,211 0 0 0 0 0 174 74 268 Member: International Conference of Reformed Churches 29,279 35,448 40,000 0 1,229 13,910 2,272 194 74 268 90,830 117,560 110,000 99,100 27,856 10,000 5,000 207 72 303 60,777 125,175 500,000 75,000 9,000 0 0 255 73 364 69,772 89,818 260,000 130,000 0 40,000 0 209 73 282 Seminaries Listed as Worthy of Support 90,316 106,151 493,900 200,970 0 138,500 20,380 205 72 310 Mid-America Reformed Seminary, Dyer, IN 91,822 95,760 170,000 0 0 57,468 8,079 23 69 100 New Geneva Theological Seminary, Colorado Springs, CO 123,663 160,590 445,143 147,000 0 105,967 43,662 202 73 293 Heidelberg Theological Seminary, Vermillion, SD 65,358 95,724 522,000 157,000 5,332 0 0 87 72 171 Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Greenville, NC 76,759 143,229 400,000 60,000 0 0 0 176 71 250 57,121 62,383 0 0 3,507 0 0 205 72 277 City Seminary of Sacramento, Sacramento, CA 1,001,453 1,349,486 3,285,043 1,192,070 55,907 628,154 98,623 ave. 187 ave. 74 ave. 277

58,728 70,461 360,000 0 5,621 0 0 199 127 326 171,172 216,118 600,000 200,000 14,375 0 0 207 127 357 Benevolences Listed as Worthy of Support 71,089 73,685 0 0 0 0 0 45 57 109 Diaconal committee of the Orthodox Presbyterian Church 148,417 162,868 439,000 0 70 81,817 6,921 46 47 105 Faith and Word Ministries 110429 119620 0 0 0 0 0 226 144 370 Hope Haven, Rock Valley, IA 87,325 99,323 0 0 0 0 0 149 95 286 67,136 93,847 233,706 0 0 0 0 151 94 254 Radio Administration Committee (French) 83,036 103,281 350,000 0 1,141 53,551 14,318 199 127 343 Safe Harbor Lighthouse, Kansas City, MO 359,484 475,521 297,614 0 0 0 0 205 127 479 Middle East Reformed Fellowship 38795 48960 0 0 0 0 0 207 127 334 67103 0 0 0 0 0 0 64 94 158 103,212 164,484 500,000 150,000 0 0 0 156 99 504 74,993 100,493 550,000 0 3,000 0 0 228 100 638 Reformed Church in the U. S. Website 74,554 79,038 238,990 111,282 5,200 63,000 8,971 17 18 95 rcus.org 1,299,146 1,639,119 3,569,310 461,282 29,407 198,368 30,210 Ave. 145 Ave. 90 Ave. 315 3,455,299 4,512,239 12,244,403 3,240,352 158,755 1,828,867 215,237 Ave. 165 Ave. 67 Ave. 258 Reformed Herald Online - reformedherald.org 3,443,607 4,530,787 12,789,728 3,378,800 493,156 2,059,880 334,828 Ave. 176 Ave. 78 Ave. 275 0 0 -4 -4 -68 -11 -36 -6 -14 -6