Letter Details Work of Synod 2010

July 20, 2010 – For the first time in 2011, young adult advisers will be appointed to serve at the Christian Reformed Church synod, writes Rev. Jerry Dykstra, executive director of the Christian Reformed Church in North America, in a letter to CRC Church Councils.

As advisers, young adults will have the chance to speak and have their voices heard on the floor of synod.

“Future synods will be enriched as these young leaders bring a fresh perspective and new ideas,” writes Dykstra in the letter that details the decisions made and actions taken by Synod 2010.

The letter, including an addendum, describes issues faced and decisions made by Synod 2010 of the CRCNA.

A challenge for the denomination, as well as individual congregations, in the coming year will be to find ways to increase diversity in leadership roles, Dykstra also writes.

“The issue of diversity continues to challenge the church. Synod clearly expressed its desire to increase diversity in leadership roles.”

Another challenge for the denomination and for local churches, Dykstra points out, will be to take seriously the issues of immigration and care for the creation.

As for immigration, the church will need to educate its “membership about the socioeconomic, political, and security issues facing immigrants and newcomers, and equip them to respond in love and concern to the people groups that God is bringing into our nations.”

On the topic of creation care, Dykstra points out in the addendum that churches are being asked to recognize and discuss the reality that activities of human beings have had an effect on the Earth.

As such, the denomination, as well as churches, must find ways to remind people: “Our world belongs to God the Creator. The Lord calls us to care for creation faithfully and to use its riches obediently and justly. Human sin has corrupted our ability and desire to care for creation.”

Some of the issues came to synod from the Abuse Victims Task Force, Church Order Revision Task Force, Faith Formation Committee, and the Committee to Study the Migration of Workers.

To read the letter and overview of synodical decisions and issues, visit: Synodical Action

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