April 22-23, 2008
As we gathered for our third meeting as a committee, we reviewed the ground we have covered so far and the course that we have set for ourselves. We are heartened at how well we have worked together, and encouraged at how a very complex and far-reaching matter in the life of the church seems to look a good bit more manageable each time we meet. We feel certain that we have identified the main issues that need addressing and, though we are not yet certain of many things, we are confident that we will be able to address them well. Our feelings of being overwhelmed seem to shrink a little every time we meet!
We noted that major progress has been made on the construction of a website for our committee. We have received valuable assistance from Dean Heetderks, and we have a large volume of material already available that will assist the churches. We anticipate taking a look at the website at our May meeting and would like Synod to see it also.
We are sending a proposal to the Board of Trustees concerning the appointment of a large number of “Pastoral Correspondents” who are able to be our eyes and ears throughout the denomination. These correspondents, all trusted leaders who are actively involved in ministry, will be able to consult with others in their areas and provide us with insight and feedback.
Lyle Bierma, professor at Calvin Seminary, engaged us in a lively and thoughtful discussion on the implications of the historic confessions of the church for this subject, particularly Heidelberg Catechism, Q/A 66, 74, 81, 82 and Belgic Confession, art. 35. We continue to gain new insight and a deeper appreciation for how carefully we must lead the church. Len Vander Zee met with us to share his reflections from the Faith Alive Resources perspective. We are eager to work together.
We have begun our work on documents that will form the foundation of our teaching materials for the churches. We aim to address the importance of the sacraments, our baptismal identity, affirming baptismal identity as a life-long process, and renewing the vitality of profession of faith. We are convinced that carefully crafted documents such as these will serve both us and the churches well.
When we began our work earlier this year, we resolved to dialog with many others who carry valuable insights for us. We know that many others are able to join with us in more clearly understanding the church and its needs, the formation of young hearts, the understanding of Scripture, and the interpretation of the confessions. As of our third meeting we have met face to face with 17 persons so far and we’ve found these times highly valuable. We plan such dialog meetings with others in conjunction with each of our meetings. In addition we have sent an inquiry memo to all CRC Councils and have received 18 responses as of this time. With the appointment of our Pastoral Correspondents, we hope to have several dozen others working with us. We believe the church will be served well by such broad-based conversations!
Howard Vanderwell, Secretary
