agenda - classis lake superior of the christian reformed church

Agenda CLASSIS LAKE SUPERIOR Sept. 20, 2021

AGENDA - CLASSIS LAKE SUPERIOR

OF

THE CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH

Meeting Sept 20, 2021

On-line Monday 9:00 am to @ 4:30 pm

We help each other fulfill our calling to be Christ’s Church in the following ways:

Classis Lake

Superior

Discerning the Spirit in

Community

Living into a Collective

Calling

Network of Support and

Accountability

Connection into the

Wider Church

Classis Lake Superior is a covenanted fellowship of churches that seek to be faithful

Reformed expressions of the body of Christ, honoring the triune God through

worship and prayer, making disciples for Jesus Christ, and proclaiming and

portraying His love in their communities and the world.


Classis Lake Superior is to be:

A Place of Discerning the Spirit in Community:

When classis delegates gather, they are to discern God’s will with others on behalf of

their larger church community. Classis, as a deliberative assembly, is a community

where this discernment happens.

A Network of Support and Accountability:

Because disciples are made to live in relationships, church leaders need a community

of churches with which to share joys and struggles, to be encouraged and challenged.

A Connection into the Wider Church:

For many people, their main experience of being part of the broader family of the

Christian Reformed Church is via classis. Churches participate in their denomination

through classical structure and opportunity.

Classis also connects the broadness of North American ministry into the individual

church's own regional and local context, providing an avenue for a meaningful

relationship with the denominational ministries.

In addition, Classis should encourage churches to live outside themselves into the

broader Christian community.

Living into a Collective Calling:

At some point, churches that are in healthy relationships with one another will begin to

ask how God might be calling them to serve their city or region together. Many

ministry opportunities go beyond the ability of any one church. Some of these will be

classis wide, while others may be in major urban centers of a large, geographically

spread classis.

PREPARATORY INFORMATION:

I. Registration:

A. COUNCILS, DELEGATES and GUESTS, PLEASE NOTE:

Complete and submit on-line forms for registration as delegate or guest by Friday, Sept 10.

The links for registration will be emailed to you or posted on the website when available.

B. Visitors, invited or coming on their own – Precautions/Provisions/Payments.

1. Are welcome to attend and log-in on-line but we need your email address be able to

send you a link so you can log in. You’re not likely to get this agenda unless you found

it on line or got it from someone else. Please register to get a link.

a. Meetings are open to the public except when executive sessions are declared.

Non-delegates, visitors, must/shall be muted during those sessions.


b. Safety – take whatever precautions that will help you and others stay safe from the

Covid variants going around. You may social distance, wear a mask, wash your

hands—demonstrate care for your own and other’s wellbeing.

2. Costs – though visitors are welcome, there are costs needing to be paid either by those

who invited you or by yourself.

Take note of the following policy:

A. Classis will cover expenses for

1) required delegates and alternates, representatives of Classis’ supported ministries

or committee members who need to be present at Classis to expedite their work

or reporting* (often an annual appearance is the standard practice) and

2) any others whom Classis has invited to attend.

B. The expenses of those invited to attend by local churches as a learning experience

or for any other reason should be covered by the local church.

C. Others who come on their own or beyond an annual committee/ministry appearance

should cover their own costs. (e. g. travel, lodging, and meals)

*(When feasible, committee members who happen to be delegates are also

encouraged to report for committees.)

C. CREDENTIALS – Nominations

We have need for several persons to serve on classical/denominational committees.

Please review and seek out persons who might have interests and gifts to serve.

II. ON “ARRIVAL” AT CLASSIS A. Please have your treasurer send a check to our Classis Treasurer,

Wayne Tobak, 1535 Hampshire Ave N. Golden Valley, MN 55427

for Classis Meeting Expenses of $10 per active professing member of your congregation.

B. Tend to the following:

--Ensure that you have the Zoom invite and link.

--Your computer/lap top, device is set up appropriately and

you can be seen and heard.

-- Be prepared to email your expense forms to the Classical Expense team (email address to

be supplied) or email/mail to the Classical Treasurer. Expense sheets are available on the

website or part of this agenda.

-- Put on a name tag that’s visible on line, or have your name displayed on Zoom picture.

--email late reports to the clerk for distribution.

Classis will decide whether to let it be on the agenda.


III. LODGING A. We assume there won’t be need for lodging, but if you need to travel to a group location

and must book a hotel room on Sunday night be discerning as per travel policy.

IV. AGENDAS AND MATERIALS A. All required documents will be

1. emailed to your church office and pastor 5 weeks before Classis.

2. posted on the Classis Web site: ClassisLakeSuperior.org. You can find them under

Documents, then under “click here” then under Sept 20, 2021

B. Printed Agendas

If desired, please consider printing your own copy.

V. OPENING EXERCISES A. ALL FIRST TIME DELEGATES will be asked to affirm their agreement with the

Doctrinal Standards of the CRCNA by signing the Covenant for Officebearers as

printed below.

Covenant for Officebearers in the Christian Reformed Church*

We, [the undersigned][i.e. delegates of Classis Lake Superior], believe the Holy

Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments to be the inspired Word of God, which

proclaims the good news of God’s creation and redemption through Jesus Christ.

Acknowledging the authority of God’s Word, we submit to it in all matters of life and

faith.

We affirm three creeds—the Apostles’ Creed, the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian

Creed—as ecumenical expressions of the Christian faith. In doing so, we confess our

faith in unity with followers of Jesus Christ throughout all ages and among all nations.

We also affirm three confessions—the Belgic Confession, the Heidelberg Catechism, and

the Canons of Dort—as historic Reformed expressions of the Christian faith, whose

doctrines fully agree with the Word of God. These confessions continue to define the way

we understand Scripture, direct the way we live in response to the gospel, and locate us

within the larger body of Christ.

Grateful for these expressions of faith, we promise to be formed and governed by them.

We heartily believe and will promote and defend their doctrines faithfully, conforming

our preaching, teaching, writing, serving, and living to them.


Along with these historic creeds and confessions, we also recognize the witness of Our

World Belongs to God: A Contemporary Testimony as a current Reformed expression of

the Christian faith that forms and guides us in our present context.

We also promise to present or receive confessional difficulties in a spirit of love and

fellowship with our brothers and sisters as together we seek a fuller understanding of the

gospel. Should we come to believe that a teaching in the confessional documents is not

the teaching of God’s Word, we will communicate our views to the church, according to

the procedures prescribed by the Church Order and its supplements. If the church asks,

we will give a full explanation of our views. Further, we promise to submit to the

church’s judgment and authority.

We honor this covenant for the well-being of the church to the glory of God the Father,

Son, and Holy Spirit.

*To be signed by professors, ministers, commissioned pastors, elders, and deacons when ordained and/or installed in

office. Adopted by Synod 2012. This is also signed when delegated to Classis or Synod.

VI. SCHEDULE.

Monday:

9:00 - Opening devotions and exercises

9:30 - Classis Business

10:00 - Possible Examination of Candidate

12:00 - 1:00 – Lunch

1:00 - 2:45 – Ministry Agenda

2:45 - 3:00 Coffee Break

3:00 - 4:15 –Ministry Agenda

4:15 - Closing Reflections, Evaluation, Prayer, and Adjournment!

VII. TABLE OF CONTENTS

Item # Document Name Presenter Page #

A Place of Discerning the Spirit in Community

4.1 Examinations

4.1.1 Approval of Chaplain Job Description Emo CRC 9

4.1.2 Examination of Candidate -examiner

Sermon/service evaluators-


Overture Re Human Sexuality Report

Baldwin

Overture Committee or

Baldwin delegates

12

Balloting 13

A Network of Support and Accountability

Classical Interim Committee Michael Ten Haken 14

Stated Clerk Henry Gunnink 18

Church Visitors Reports R. Hoekstra, F Rekman 22

Church Counselors Reports B. Bolkema 24

Regional Pastors Reports E. Busink, H. Gunnink 24

Credentials Reports

Living into a Collective Calling

4.1.3 Finance Committee & Treasurer Wayne Tobak,Tim Hubers 26

4.1.4 Classical Home Missions (US) Betsy Wergin 29

4.1.4.1 Home Missionary Reports Chris Alle 35

Home Missionary Reports Arlan Koppendrayer

4.1.4.3 Youth Champion Travis Deur 37

Prayer Coordinator – US L. Schwitters, R. Braun 38

4.1.5 Classical Home Missions (CAN)

4.1.5.1 The Gathering Place Yvonne Schenk 38

4.1.5.2 Hope Centre Ministries, Winnipeg Shellie Power 40

4.1.5.3 Indigenous Family Center Michelle Visser-Wikkerink

4.1.6 Prayer Mobilizer – CAN Sonya Cahais 42

4.1.8 CMLT--Classical Ministerial Leadership Team Robert Hoekstra

4.1.9 Safe Church Team Jeff Vanderhooft

4.1.10

Connection into the Wider Church

Chaplaincy Reports

Mayo Hospice Chaplaincy Dan Crapo

CAF and Elim Village Gerald Van Smeerdyk 44

4.2 Classical Delegates

4.2.2 BOT Calvin University Region 2 CAN Rick Mast

4.2.2 BOT Calvin University Region 8 US Jon Kuyers 47

4.2.3 Board of Trustees: Calvin Seminary Robert Drenton 50

4.2.5-4. Resonate Global Missions P Kelder 51

4.2.7 World Renew Arlan Koppendrayer

4.2.9 Council of Delegates: COD- CRCNA Michael Ten Haken,

Ben Verkerk

53


4.2.10 Diaconal Ministries Canada Ron Vanden Brink 55

4.3 Agencies and other Christian Orgs

4.3.18 Redeemer College-University

4.3.21 Canadian Ministries Director Acting Exec. T. Veldboom 57

4.3.23 Faith Formation Ministries Trudy Ash

4.3.24

5.

6.0 Appendices

A. Requests for Renewal of Lic. To Exhort 60

Agenda for the Meeting of Classis Lake Superior

To convene on-line

September 20, 2021 Art. 1 Officers

President: Rev. Mark Brouwer

Vice-President: Rev. Ben Verkerk

Stated Clerk: Rev. Henry Gunnink

Art. 2 Opening and Organization

2.1 Chair opens

Devotions, welcome, Roll Call and Review of Schedule Monday – 9:00 am

2.2 First time delegates sign the Covenant for Officebearers

2.3 Declaration of Classis being constituted

2.4 Appointment of Committees

2.4.1 Credentials:

2.4.2 Overtures/Deliberative Matters:

2.4.3 Balloting:

2.4.4 Classical Expense Committee:

Note: First named chairs the committee, each can choose who reports on the floor.

Art. 3 CIC report and/or Correspondence of the Secretary of Classis

Art. 4 Reports and other agenda items.

*******

CLASSIS IS…

I. A Place of Discerning the Spirit in Community: When classis delegates gather, they are to

discern God’s will with others on behalf of their larger church community. Classis, as a

deliberative assembly, is a community where this discernment happens.


Monday, September 20, 2021

EXAMINATIONS I. For Minister of the Word in the CRCNA A. Pre-Exam Requirements

1. All sermons have been received as required

2. Declaration that required documents have been received for the exam.

B. Candidate and assignments:

1. Introductions

a. Examiners:

b. Sermon and service evaluators:

c. Synodical deputies:

d. Candidate:

C. Examination:

1. The applicant shall be examined in the following areas:

a. Practica-- the candidate’s relationship to God, commitment to the ministry,

understanding of the meaning and relevance of the ministry in our times,

loyalty to the church, and related matters;

b. sermon and service evaluation;

c. Biblical and Theological Position as shown in the candidate’s Biblical and

theological judgment, competence, and soundness.

2. Questions from delegates and motions to proceed in each segment.

3. Motion to admit to the office of Minister of the Word, and prayer for Holy

Spirit’s guidance;

4. Discussion in executive session.

5. Synodical Deputies written report.

II. EMO CRC Request:

that chaplaincy job description at Elim Village, Surrey, BC, be declared

consistent with the work of a minister of the Word. (CO Art. 12 -c.)


III. Permission to extend Letter of Call to Gerald VanSmeerdyk


-- Church Counselor report, Harold De Jong


IV. Overtures

A. Baldwin Overture re Human Sexuality Report

Overture: Baldwin CRC to Classis Lake Superior

The Council of Baldwin Christian Reformed Church overtures Classis Lake Superior to overture

Synod 2022 to express its gratitude for the work of the Committee to Articulate a Foundation-

Laying Biblical Theology of Human Sexuality and to adopt the final report and recommendations.

Grounds:

I. The committee accomplished the mandate given by Synod 2016. They worked

extensively and graciously through cultural practice, scientific research, and the lived

experiences of various people in or connected to the CRCNA.

II. The report and its recommendations for pastoral care uphold the authority of Scripture

“for the regulating, founding, and establishing of our faith” (Belgic Confession Article

5). The use and abuse of pornography, accepting and encouraging homosexual

relations, premarital sex, cohabitation, polyamory, divorce, and immoral sexual desires

are sinful distortions of God’s intention for loving, committed, faithful marriages

between a man and a woman and what is reserved for marriage. The growing confusion

over gender identity and fluidity in Western culture is not to be further encouraged as

God has created us male and female.

III. The report reiterates the historical views of the CRCNA and orthodox Christianity.

IV. It is necessary for our denomination to take a formal stand, particularly on

homosexuality, to address situations that we’ve seen arise and continue to come up in

our churches, which go against God’s word—for the sake of love towards renewal.

The issues in this report are not easily detached from people or circumstances. For those struggling

with any of the sinful and broken tendencies, we recognize the devil desires to use these to drive a

wedge of separation between us and God and his love. Yet for those who God loves, there is

nothing “in all creation [that will be able] to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our

Lord” (Romans 8:39). We are to continue being transformed “by the renewal of [our minds], that

by testing [we] may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect”

(Romans 12:2). This transformation and renewal involved in the saving work of God involves

repentance—“[being] genuinely sorry for sin and more and more to hate and run away from it,”

and “wholehearted joy in God through Christ and a love and delight to live according to the will

of God by doing every kind of good work” (Heidelberg Catechism Q&A 89-90, emphasis added).

The committee’s report appropriately calls all of us to repent of where we haven’t been loving in

calling out sin and discipling others, including where heterosexual believers—in singleness,

outside of marriage, and within marriage—need to practice and pursue the holiness God has called

us to. The warning for our denomination and its ordained leaders to not teach or allow that which

is contrary to this report, and far more importantly, contrary to Scripture and the confessions, was

refreshing. To go against the biblically and confessionally-based conclusions of this report, to fail

to steer others away from the conclusions, and to encourage them, endangers us and the people we

believe God has given us to shepherd and direct toward his grace and kingdom. We are not to


remain in sin. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away;

behold, the new has come” (2 Corinthians 5:17). “And such were some of you. But you were

washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the

Spirit of our God” (1 Corinthians 1:11).

Council of Baldwin CRC

Eric Gullixson, clerk 7/12/2021

********

V. BALLOTING and NOMINATIONS

BALLOT Classis Lake Superior September 2021

I. Officers for the Meeting of Classis on March 7-8, 2022

a. Rules of Procedure:

At each meeting of Classis, Classis shall elect a vice-president from a list of at least three

nominees presented by the Classical Interim Committee. This person shall serve as vice-

president at the next meeting of Classis and as president at the subsequent meeting.

b. CIC Nominations:

Vote for one – e.g. Circle – the one with the highest number of votes will be Vice President.

Robert Hoekstra Steve Zwart

____________ _____________ __________________ Nominations from councils.

II. Functionaries of Classis

1. CIC --Shall consist of five members plus the Secretary of Classis (ex officio).

There shall be one alternate.

_Harrison Newhouse 2nd term Yes____ No____ term Sept 21 thru Aug 24

__________________ (Lay member) Yes____ No____ term Sept 21 thru Aug 24

2. CHMC-CA -shall consist of 5 members: 2 clergy, 3 lay members, with 2 alts, 1 clergy, 1 lay.

_______________Clergy-Alt. Yes____ No____ term Sept 21 thru Aug 24

________________Lay-reg. Yes____ No____ term Sept 20 thru Aug 21

_______________ Lay-alt. Yes____ No____ term Sept 21 thru Aug 24

3. Disability Concerns Advocate for Ontario region of Classis No term.

_________________

4. Synodical Deputy Term now to June 30,23 to sync with regular Synod Dep. term

Jack Van Marion Alt To replace Jim Petersen since the synodical deputy’s appointment

_________________ ceases when the deputy departs from the appointing classis to go to

another classis.


5. BOT Calvin University Region 8 US

(to be included in proposed reorganized region 5 of 6 in June 2022)

___________________ Clergy or Lay member to replace Jonathan Kuyers for a 3 yr term

Beginning July 1, 2022.

CLASSIS IS…

A. Monday night worship, sharing and prayer (Omitted this time for On-line meeting)

.

B. Report of Classical Interim Committee -- Michael Ten Haken, chair

CIC does the work of Classis in the interim, between meetings.

This is a report of our work to Classis Lake Superior, September 20, 2021

Your Interim Committee currently consists of 6 members, 5 elected and 1 ex officio.

Members are: Michael Ten Haken – chair, Brian Bolkema, Aaron Greydanus, Harrison

Newhouse, Marg Rekman, Henry Gunnink, ex officio, as clerk of Classis and Jim Lipscomb as

alternate.

Since last Classis meeting, we met 2 times, once via Zoom and once with US members in person

combined with Zoom for Canadian members unable to cross the border.

This is a report of our work of Classis as:

I. A place of discerning God’s will.

1. Access to executive session minutes?

Classis Rules of Procedure state that “out of regard for personal honor or the welfare of the

church” and a common understanding holds that for confidentiality and freedom from

constraint in deliberation there be provision for executive and strict executive sessions in

Classis meetings. The rules of procedure also state that minutes of these sessions “shall be

II. A Network of Support and Accountability:

Because disciples are made to live in relationships, church leaders need a community

of churches with which to share joys and struggles, to be encouraged and challenged.


recorded, but not read in the open session unless Classis decides that such is not

objectionable. Minutes of executive sessions are to be transcribed but are not to be

published wholly or in part in the church publications without explicit instructions from

Classis.”

Based on these guidelines when CIC received a request for access to some executive

minutes, it granted permission for a one-time access to minutes of certain sessions on the

condition that the files/documents be erased/destroyed once the stated purpose was met.

2. Safe Church Coordinator. Two questions required discernment:

a. How should Classis find someone to be the Safe Church Ministry Coordinator after

September 2021 when current coordinator, pastor Jeff Vanderhooft steps down?

b. Should this be a volunteer or paid position?

Deliberation led to the following conclusions that CIC should:

1. do this recruitment together with pastor Jeff,

2. ask persons we already know rather than simply ask for volunteers,

3. Obtain a list of the churches having SCT members before proceeding, and

4. Begin with a layperson in this position and see if it can be made functional before

moving in the direction of hiring someone.

CIC wants to bring the importance of this ministry to the attention of all churches. All

churches are asked to send the names of their SCT contact persons to the clerk for

compilation for future reference and work with the new coordinator.

3. How should Classis meet in September?

Due to the uncertainties raised by the continued presence and spread of the Covid-19 Delta

variant, CIC determined it best to hold another virtual Classis meeting on September 20th.

II. A place of support and accountability.

How can we support each other and help each other stay on track in following the Lord?

CIC received a request from Chaplain Gerald Van Smeerdyk that Classis approve the job

description of new chaplaincy position he is taking at Elim Village in Surrey, BC, as

consistent with the calling of a Minister of Word. CIC responded that it will be supportive of

whatever process Emo and Gerald will work out re his credentials and membership going

forward, but we advised Pastor Gerald VanSmeerdyk and Emo to bring this matter to Classis

according to steps outlined in Article 12 c and supplement but if urgent then bring it back to

CIC for provisional approval as provided for in the supplement.

III. A place of living into our collective calling.

How can we help each other minister more faithfully and effectively in our contexts?


1. Since our treasurer, Wayne Tobak, has announced his upcoming retirement, and alternate

treasurer, Tim Hubers, was not interested in assuming that role, it was felt Hendrik Stel

should be approached so that he could be nominated at our next Finance committee

meeting in July and begin the process of being mentored in. Thankfully, chairman Michael

Ten Haken is in conversation with both parties to help that transition come about.

2. CIC continues to hear reports from its Canadian members on work toward Incorporation in

Canada. Conversations are in process with lawyer Mike Steinstra, from the Transcona

CRC, who will assist in applying for charitable status. There is discussion also about the

need for a Canadian Web site for Classis alongside a US website, as some denominational

agencies already are doing. Many questions remain while waiting for the denominational

work to be completed. We appreciate the extra work Brian Bolkema and Marg Rekman

are undertaking to work toward Classis achieving compliance with the CRA.

3. Revision of the Mandate for The Church Revitalization Fund.

While looking at materials coming in for the agenda of Classis, the material from the

CHMC-US caught CIC eye. In September 2020, when Classis adopted the Application

Form for receiving funds from the Church Revitalization Fund, it had instructed CHMC-

US to revise the included proposed mandate for the fund by also including the original

option of receiving loans from this fund.

Since the following submission fulfilled that assignment, CIC accepted that work as done

and would so inform Classis. Thus, it would not need to be acted upon on the floor of

classis. CHMC-US is thanked for their editing work.

Mandate: The Church Revitalization Fund is to be distributed either as a grant

following the guidelines and application questions below or distributed as an interest

free loan for specific projects or exploration thereof, directed at encouraging

revitalization within established churches in classis. Both grant and loan applications

shall be facilitated and brought to the floor of classis by the respective Home

Missions Committees (US or Canada)

4. Assigned Jeff Vanderhooft as counsellor for Hancock CRC.

IV. A place of connection to the wider church.

What’s happening in our denominational ministries or in the broader Church of Jesus

Christ around the world?

1. CIC assisted the Denominational Pension Fund by receiving and approving the following

request and so informing them:


Annual request for renewal of disability status from Norm Prenger with a letter from Dr

Charles Probizanski, Dawson Heights Medical Clinic, 109-109 Regina Ave, Thunder Bay,

dated April 19, 2021, certifying that he continues to suffer from various ongoing conditions

which render him unable to work as a pastor and he should be considered as permanently

disabled.

Classis may ratify this action as part of approving the work of the CIC.

2. CIC assisted Dordt University by:

a. Participating in a discussion with Todd Zuidema from Dordt University about how

Classis Lake Superior might continue providing Financial support to Dordt University

as an “area college” now that that provision is no longer part of the re-imagined

ministry shares pledge system. It was recommended to Todd that just as the

denomination did for the new pledge system, they draft up suggested ways and amounts

that churches in Classis might follow for continued support. Classis would then need to

decide what approach would be taken.

b. Distributing a letter from Dordt University on July 5th to all churches in Classis with

Dordt’s suggestions for ongoing ministry support.

Respectfully submitted

For the Classical Interim Committee,

Henry Gunnink, clerk


C. Clerk report

Stated Clerk Report to Classis Lake Superior, September 20, 2021

Covering Activities March 3, 2021 to August 11, 2021

Following the categories of the 4 roles of Classis, as your clerk here’s how

I’ve been helping the Classis family to be about the Lord’s business.

Note: More detailed info is available on any of the following if requested.

Secretary/Clerk of Classis Lake Superior Record of Activities

March 3 to August 11, 2021

For first time delegates, a stated clerk wears many hats. The clerk is a secretary

contacting, communicating, recording, coordinating for Classis; an archivist

keeping records of all relevant Classical materials; a parliamentarian knowing

church order and supplements, Classical rules of procedure and mandates,

denominational ministry guidelines, etc.; a researcher exploring and finding needed

information; assistant for getting things done; i. o. w an ecclesiastical jack of all

trades while seeking mastery of all aspects for service to all.

The following is a summary of involvements since the March 2021 Classis

meeting, a detailed record is available for anyone wanting more info about any

item included below.

I have served Classis in its roles of:

I. Discerning the Spirit in Community.

There seemed to be a great need for discernment in these past months.

1. Disability Coverage.

I engaged with Brandon CRC and counselor, Brian Bolkema, got info from

Woodynook CRC of Classis Alberta North, and Norm Prenger, re how pastor on

medical leave could be released without jeopardizing the opportunity to receive

permanent medical disability coverage such as Norm Prenger and others receive.

This requires some “creative accounting” since our CRCNA Pension Plan and

our Insurance Plans do not mesh well. Perhaps an overture is required to

alleviate this administrative difficulty.


2. Area College Support.

Along with Michael Ten Haken and Wayne Tobak, met with Todd Zuidema

from Dordt University, to discuss how under the pledge system for ministry

support CLS would handle the area college support that used to be set by Synod.

3. Request for an internship.

Referred request to Canadian churches from Joseph W. Bowman, Interim

Pastor, Maranatha Christian Reformed Church, Bowmanville, Ontario, who

is seeking to be declared a candidate for ministry in June 2022. Directed

interested councils to denominational sources for better answers.

4. Organization.

Conversed with Arlan K. re how to discern whether to proceed toward

organization, retirement, and calling of Kyle Sandison.

II. Network of Support and Accountability

(focuses more on internal classis actions, relationships)

A. Administrative work

1. re requests re license to exhort

-- a Philip Fritschle, formerly here but now in Arizona.

--Doug Shank, to be removed from list here.

--reminded all of need for renewal requests.

2. Calling requirements

-- Extensive communications with Emo, Gerald Van Smeerdyk,

Kathy Smith, Harold De Jong, clarifying and understanding

requirements and process of calling to chaplaincy position.

3. Executive session minutes/documents assembled for confidential

purposes.

4. Info on pension requirements for calling church, to TH and counselor.

5. Distributed notifications for Abuse of Power workshop and cancellation.

6. Informed Katie Henry at CRCNA Pension of CIC decision to approve

Norm Prenger’s annual application for renewal of disability status.

7. Rec’d and drafted response to letter from Judy De Wit.

8. Communication with Jim Petersen re alternate Synodical deputy status

and advice from Dee Recker re transfer of ministerial credentials.


III. Living into our Collective Calling (as a Classis)

Most activity here is

1. sending out reminders: e.g. for July 1st budget submissions for Wayne T.

or for agenda submissions.

2. receiving info from classis ministry heads re webinars, resources, etc. for

the records or to send out as appropriate.

IV. Connecting to the Wider Church Body

A significant amount of time was spent here via participation in

denominationally sponsored webinars or zoom meetings, most of which were

of high-quality content and presentation.

A. Al Postma, communications passed along:

1. To church visitors:

invite to a June 9 PCR Workshop on Classis & Article 17 -to share

resources for Article 17 best practices and intro of a new resource space

on the CRC's website.

2. To Classis chairs:

Invite for Classis chairs to Apr 28 and Sept 9 workshop on Best Practices

for Chairing Classis meetings.

3. To CHMC chairs:

Invite to Glocal Summit May 13-15,

with debrief option on May 19 with A Postma.

4. For Clerks:

a. Participated in Stated Clerks Connect Zoom meeting July 16, with

update on COD, with info on Darren Roorda’s position ending. etc.

b. Requesting clerks to assemble and pass back to him any Article 17

separation agreements for use as future anonymous templates. Am

assembling. Cf crcna.org/pcr/article-17

c. Informed re Stated Clerk Gathering: January 5-7, 2022.

B. Classes Surveys

a. Classis BCNW wanting to know if we have any kind of cap on the

amount of funds seminary students could receive during their years at

http://crcna.org/pcr/article-17


Calvin. Referred to CHMC and Treasurer and shared CLS cap is 80%

of Tuition and books, but because of scholarships we’ve never reached

that. Have instead covered what was left after scholarships.

b. Alberta North-- Has any Canadian classis successfully used a hybrid

meeting formula where most delegates meet in person and others join

through Zoom? Shared our experience.

c. Remuneration for clerk and treasurer

How much is given and how is it adjusted?

Classis Lake Superior is 2nd from bottom, i. e. 10th of 11.

C. Denominational/Other Ministries

1. Participated in

a. 2 Denominational Prayer times with Jon Hoekema and others.

b. 3 lunchroom conversations sponsored by Resonate Global Missions.

Heard stories from Kurt Rietema in Kansas City, Kansas, Jeff

Heerspink in Lincoln, Nebraska, and Ruth Kelder sharing about Go

Local, a Resonate Global Mission journey in joining God in the

neighborhood. Excellent stories and information!

c. Zoom meeting with new Safe Church director, Amanda

Benckhuysen introducing self and encouraging CLS to set up a pd

position with monies from SCT. Sent documents to explain it.

d. a “meet and greet” with SCT staff and 4 other SCT members of

different Classes. Sharing challenges, needs, issues, learn of

resources and plans.

e. Webinar on Abuse of Power, sent to all at request of Jeff V. for

Classis Safe Church team, for Thursday, April 8.

Watched it along with over 900 others.

2. Represented Classis at a semi-annual Heads of Communion meeting

with representatives from 15 other area communions.

3. Canadian Ministries

a. Acknowledged to Darren Roorda via email his release from position

as Executive Director of Canadian Ministries. Appreciated

b. Rec’d Farewell letter from Darren Roorda to all Stated Clerks

pointing out the progress made in Canadian Classes with all “singing

from the same songbook.” He states: Your cooperative work has been a key part to many of the successes that have


been accomplished, so you should be proud of what God has done through you and

the classis. An increase in reception of percentage of Ministry Share, the marked

improvement of staff culture in the Burlington office, our measurable increase in

local church connections, our high rate of take up of denominational resources, and

the congenial partnerships of support we have developed amongst each other across

Canada have all been marks of Godly improvement that you have been partners in

achieving.

All of these have been ways that I noticed that the Canadian side of the church has

been able to be increasingly of one mind as we sought to keep the Great

Commission our main goal.

Hopefully reading or skimming all of the above will yield some sense of

what’s happening in Classis, what you may want to inquire about and what

you can pray for. Thanks for the privilege of letting me be your clerk/servant

in Classis Lake Superior.

Respectfully submitted,

Clerk, Henry Gunnink

D. Church Visitor Reports North Region: Thunder Bay/Emo

Visit with Bethlehem CRC, Thunder Bay

Pastors Ben Verkerk and Robert Hoekstra had a wonderful visit with Bethlehem CRC

council on Tuesday, March 16, ’21 virtually. The visit began with Pastor Robert leading in

devotion with the focused Scripture passage of John 20:21 and prayer. Much was shared of how

God is working through Bethlehem, both in the church and outside in their neighbourhood

community. Though the restrictions due to COVID present challenges, they have settled

somewhat into livestreaming, resulting in more views than members, Zoom Bible study is

ongoing, there’s a budget surplus, the congregation joins together in prayer, and Pastor Marg has

been leading by example which they recognize gives much reason for various programs being

successful. Reaching out to the community around them, they have witnessed further evidence of

God blessing the work of their hands as seen in being part of the Thunder Bay Food Bank

network, Go Local, Go Tell, a Blessing Box, the RFDA (Regional Food Distribution

Association), and Saturday Breakfast. Through these various ministries, many neighbours are

being reached. For one example, they spoke about the Blessing Box that contains items to be

shared with neighbours of Bethlehem, particularly food. The Blessing Box being filled, would

often be emptied in short order. After the Blessing Box had been made available for some time,


Bethlehem took note that other people in the community would put items in the Blessing Box for

others! The blessings of God had multiplied! Pastor Marg also had her fingers in Dunamis,

preparing to lead an upcoming gathering virtually in April ’21.

Bethlehem was happy to have a church visit since the last visit was 15 years ago,

according to their records. They were finally able to share what God was and is doing among

them, while also expressing their more recent struggle through isolation. A prominent struggle

that was highlighted was reaching all members of Bethlehem with Sunday Messages of God’s

Word and the celebration of the LORD’s Supper. The council stated these challenges are being

addressed. One challenge that is not so COVID related is finding office bearers, which stems

from an aging demographic.

Pastors Ben and Robert spoke about the increased depth of challenges pastors across the

board have been facing over the past year. We encouraged the council toward their care of Pastor

Marg by offering to her needed time off for her much needed spiritual, mental, emotional and

physical health and continue shouldering the ministries of Bethlehem with her when and where

able. What certainly rang loudly was their appreciation for Pastor Marg and commending her on

work well done, as indicated from their very recent performance review.

We thanked and gave praise to God for the work He is doing through Bethlehem, leaving

Bethlehem council with encouraging words to continue the good work and strive through the

challenges that exists, knowing that our God is always faithful.

Pastor Ben closed the visit in prayer.

On behalf of Classis Church Visitors,

Pastors Ben Verkerk and Robert Hoekstra

Church Visitor Report re Emo CRC, and First Thunder Bay, Ontario August 11, 2021

We are thrilled that restrictions in the province of Ontario have eased further just

recently, allowing more gatherings to occur. Both Emo CRC, and First CRC, TB and we, church

visitors, have been eagerly waiting for the opportunity to be able to meet in person for a planned

Church Visit. We anticipate meeting in the near future.

In Christ,

Robert Hoekstra and Fred Rekman,

Church Visitors Northern Ontario, Classis Lake Superior

West Region--Minnesota

Church Visitors: Revs. Jeffrey Vanderhooft, David Zigterman

East Region

Church Visitors: Revs. Dan DeGraff, Adam Stout

***************************************


E. Church Counselor Reports 1. Brandon First, CRC

Church Counselor Report from Rev. Brian Bolkema, Counselor to First CRC Brandon

August 4, 2021

As Counselor to First CRC Brandon, I have been in email contact with the council and had

a phone conversation with them. They had received a letter from Rev. Doug VandeKamp

indicating that he did not think he would be able to resume his pastoral responsibilities

there. (For those who may need a bit more background, Rev. VandeKamp has been

unable to perform his pastoral duties since March 2019 due to mental health concerns. He

is currently receiving Long Term Disability benefits.) Doug’s letter prompted the council

to consider the best way to release Rev. VandeKamp from his call so that he may continue

to receive Long Term Disability benefits and First CRC Brandon can pursue calling

another pastor.

To help determine the best way to accomplish this, I have consulted with a few people at

the denominational level about Church Order and about the Long Term Disability benefit

requirements. I have also had a conversation over Zoom with Rev. VandeKamp to

explain the process and determine the best steps for him.

At the time of this report, the plan is that the council will approve releasing Rev.

VandeKamp from his call and bring a recommendation that Classis do the same.


Rev. Brian Bolkema, pastor of Transcona CRC

Counsellor Reports:

Emo CRC – Harold de Jong,

Steve Zwart – Brooten

Brian Bolkema – GNF

Jeff Vanderhooft – Hancock

F. Regional Pastors reports

US Regional Pastor Report, to Classis Lake Superior, September 20, 2021 --- Henry Gunnink

It is said that Covid-19 exposed weaknesses that were already present in our systems but

we didn’t realize it. It appears to be doing the same with pastors and churches. As believers

we know that God uses suffering and hardships to test and try our faith and to purify and

strengthen as we rely on Him to be with us and carry us through. We pray that is happening


with this pandemic, that what emerges will be a better, stronger, deeper expression of the

Christian faith in our time and place.

It’s been a privilege to stay in touch with the pastors and commissioned pastors during

these last six months. Again, there has been a whole range of life experiences happening in

pastor’s lives and families, from births, through childhood traumas, marriages of children,

surgeries, death of loved ones, changes of calling, retirement, even persecution of friends and

family members etc. Life has not stopped during this pandemic, though the ability to share

and experience it together has been restricted. I did send around a few items for prayer and

praise, especially prayer for the KaRen brothers and sisters in Myanmar.

For an overview of how pastors experienced leadership challenges in this time, I

recommend you read Trudy Ash’s summary of pastor/leader conversations in the Faith

Formation report. Additionally, there are concerns about who will come back after months

away, will they be able to revive the ministries and programming, will giving support and

provide what’s needed? Another challenge is captured in the slogan sent out by PCR, “Lead

with imagination, not from memory!” In other words, don’t just try to go back to the way

things were, but be spiritually discerning to see and seize the opportunities this disruption has

made possible.

One area of need PCR and others have mentioned is to deal with the trauma this

pandemic has brought about. These words of wisdom from Al Postma are from a clinical

psychologist who

wonders if there is going to be a delayed emotional impact when we get to the other side

of this. In many cases, it's only after a crisis time when people begin to allow themselves

to emotionally process. You can't do this during the crisis itself. So, this may be a

double-impact: pastors themselves coming out of the crisis starting to experience their

own frustrations while their congregations also start working through some of this.

There are two important ways that pastors can build themselves up: (1) building up

competencies like conflict management. So, simply education and learning opportunities

will give them more confidence and capacity. (2) Rest and pacing self.

See https://www.ictg.org/phases-of-disaster-response.html for graphs and explanations of

trauma response.

For those who like stats, I have record of at least 19.5 hours of involvement as Regional

Pastor. I have begun meeting pastors and pastoral couples in person again and shared

resources as appropriate. I participated in an educational zoom meeting on Narcissism and

joined Al Postma and other Regional Pastors for conversation. I am anticipating the biannual

RP conference in November in Arizona held conjointly with a pastors’ conference.

https://www.ictg.org/phases-of-disaster-response.html


This past season I, myself, have found 2 Scripture passages evocatively helpful. II

Corinthians 9:8, “God is able to make all grace abound toward you so that in all things, at all

times, having all you need, you will abound in every good work.” And I Peter 5:10, “And

the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a

little while, will himself restore you and make you strong and steadfast.” These texts are my

prayer for you all so that we may remember how Christ answered Paul’s prayer for relief,

“My grace is sufficient for you. For my power is made perfect in weakness.” May this

pandemic help us also to confess, “For when I am weak, then I am strong.”


US RP, Henry Gunnink

*******************

CLASSIS IS…

Ministry Reports

Finance Committee, Treasurer’s report

Finance Committee, Classis Lake Superior, Minutes of July 27, 2021

I. CIC Chairman Rev. Michael Ten Haken called the meeting of the Finance

Committee of Classis Lake Superior to order at the Pease CRC and opened with

prayer. Those attending in addition to Michael were Rev. Aaron Greydanus, Rev.

Henry Gunnink, Rev. Brian Bolkema, Rev. Margaret Rekman, Wayne Tobak and

Tim Hubers. Rev. Harrison Newhouse and Hendrik Stel were not able to attend.

Brian and Margaret attended remotely because of Covid travel restrictions.

III. Living into a Collective Calling:

At some point, churches that are in healthy relationships with one another will begin to

ask how God might be calling them to serve their city or region together. Many ministry

opportunities go beyond the ability of any one church. Some of these will be classis

wide, while others may be in major urban centers of a large, geographically spread

classis.


II. There was discussion relating to committee roles/responsibility in the budgeting

process and to what degree committees should participate in vetting financial

requests. It was decided that the Treasurer should work directly with the US and

Canadian Classical Home Mission Committee chairs to obtain the necessary

financial information and budget requests going forward.

III. The new Denominational pledge system is replacing Ministry Shares this month

and Dordt University has requested Classis to encourage churches to continue

supporting area universities and colleges with a per member amount similar to

past years. Motion was made, seconded and approved to recommend that

churches continue to support area universities or colleges with an amount of

$67.84 per member which should be sent directly to the Synod approved

university or college of their choice.

IV. Michael informed the committee that Wayne will be retiring sometime over the

next year from the Treasurer position, which he has held for 42 years. Michael

has asked Hendrik to consider stepping into that position. Wayne will contact

Hendrik to review the responsibilities and duties of Treasurer and would be

willing to mentor Hendrik. Michael then turned the meeting over to Wayne.

V. Wayne referred members to the handout that was mailed earlier and audited

financial statements for years ending in 2019 and 2020 were distributed. Wayne

suggested that the mileage expense remain at $.464 cents per mile and kilometer

for next year. This is slightly more than 80% of the IRS recommendation because

the price of gas has increased in the past several months. Motion was made and

seconded to approve the $.464 mileage expense for 2022. Motion passed.

VI. Wayne then noted that Classical Ministry shares collected through June were at

$48,909 or 50% of budget, which is greater than previous years and on track to

collect 100% this year.

VII. As there is no longer a published denominational yearbook, Wayne contacted

each church to get a member headcount. It was suggested that Classis again use a

headcount of 2,800 members to calculate classical ministry shares which would

include all churches and allow a small cushion in case some churches were not

able to contribute 100% of ministry shares in 2022.

VIII. Cash balances for all Classis funds combined totaled $635,470.31 as of December

31, 2020. We received 100% of classical ministry shares last year and receipts

exceeded expenses by $4,367. All ministries received 100% of their budgeted

request.

IX. Over the last year, many ministries have been adversely affected by the Covid

pandemic. Because of these circumstances, it was decided that it may be

impossible for some ministries to produce an accurate budget request at this time.

All the ministries were asked to submit a budget request to be approved by the

Finance Committee and then each ministry should review their request by


November 30 to see if circumstances have changed enough to modify their budget

request. It is anticipated that if needs and budget requests necessitate any

changes, it would be a minimal amount.

Wayne then reviewed the budget request of each ministry individually. There was

discussion about Hope Center and the requested increase of $3,000 because of

programming changes and payroll increases. It was also noted that The Broken did not

provide any financials. Wayne will contact Rev. Steve Zwart to ensure that oversight and

mentoring is being provided and request that financials be provided in the future. New

Life Church support is being reduced by $5,000 per year as previously decided by the US

CHMC. Several ministries are not presently active or have adequate cash balances for

the coming year.

Motion was made, seconded and approved to set the 2022 Classical Ministry shares at

$32.85 per member as follows:

The Gathering Place $20,000 $7.15 per member

Hope Centre 25,000 8.90

Safe Church Team 5,000 1.80

Prayer Mobilizer, Canada 2,000 .70

New Life Church 20,000 7.15

Youth Champion 19,000 6.80

Ministry Partnership 1,000 .35

Total $92,000 $32.85

The above motion also includes $20,000 for Trinity Hill Church and $21,600 for The

Broken. These funds will be disbursed from the Classical Church Plant Fund as has been

done in previous years.

X. The Classical Expense Fund was then reviewed. Motion was made,

seconded and approved to set funding at $10.00 per member for 2022.

Margaret closed the meeting in prayer. Respectfully submitted,

Tim Hubers


Home Missions Committees

Classis Home Missions Committee--US Report to Classis, September 20, 2021—Betsy Wergin

Classis Home Missions Committee--US

May 10, 2021, 10:00 a.m.

Faith Church, New Brighton

Meeting Notes

Present: Adam Stout, Travis Deur, Betsy Wergin, Lowell Schwitters, Jeff Vanderhooft, Dave

Huizenga, Gaye Mellema

Present to report Via Zoom: Arlan Koppendrayer, Kyle Sandison, Chris Alle

The meeting was opened with prayer and reflections on Psalm 23 by Pastor Adam Stout of Faith

Christian Reformed Church in New Brighton.

Around the Table – Each member of the Committee was asked to share the happenings in their

area or home church. This sharing was informative and encouraging. We hope this brings

encouragement and ideas to other churches. We believe this sharing can serve as encouragement

and spark new enthusiasm for churches in Classis Lake Superior.

• Pastor Adam Stout – Faith Church, New Brighton, MN.

o They completed an online Alpha Course – . of the attendees were unchurched.

o Their Trunk or Treat event was a success and will be repeated.

o The outdoor picnic last fall for the neighborhood was successful.

▪ Overall they were satisfied with all of the events and plan on repeating them.

o Community Connect is a group of churches of various denominations coming together in

service to their surrounding community to provide a day of giving free services such as hair

cuts and other services. This is in the planning stages.

• Travis Deur – Youth Ministry Coordinator for Class Lake Superior US

o There is a 1 day service project coming up in June for Youth Groups in Classis Lake

Superior. Churches participating at this point are Pease CRC, Faith CRC and Calvary CRC.

Other churches are invited to join in this activity.

o Generation Spark a program pairing 16 – 25 year old’s with someone 45 and up is in the

beginning stages. 70% of youth participating in Generation Spark have locked into a

connection with the church and remained active in that church.

• Pastors Arlan Koppendrayer & Kyle Sandison – Trinity Hill CRC, Chanhassen, MN

o Yesterday, May 9th, was a “fabulous” day at TH. There was a high level of child

involvement and the baptism of a previously unchurched person who had come to TH as a

result of their online ministry.

o June 27th TH will hold a Block Party outdoors for their surrounding neighborhood. The

Galactic Cowboy Orchestra will be the entertainment. There will be more to come and share

with other churches about this group. The sing traditional hymns with a new twist.

o They have had modest success with their online ministry.

o COVID has been hard on them from a financial perspective.


• Pastor Chris Alle – The Broken, Willmar MN

o Pastor Chris has stepped away from preaching at other churches in order to concentrate fully

on The Broken and its ministry to those in recovery from various addictions. There are

approximately 100 attendees at services.

o COVID has been a difficult time for their recovery ministry. The have experienced suicides,

overdoses and relapses.

o The Broken will be celebrating its 4th Anniversary on May 24th.

o They are doing better than could have been expected, all due to the Grace of God.

• Pastor Jeff Vanderhooft & Gaye Mellema – Rock of Life CRC – Willmar, MN

o There has been 6 funerals in 2 months while under COVID restrictions.

o It has bee a personally difficult time for Pastor Jeff personally. He was unable to see his

parents for 1 ½ years during which his father was moved into a nursing home and his

mother into assisted living. Praise the Lord, he was recently able to visit them.

o Their Outreach Committee has kept their eyes forward looking for ways to bless their

surrounding community

o They have completed the Love and Respect course as well as the No Regrets course both

were felt to be successful.

o This fall they will hold the Financial Peace University course.

o They have had to pace themselves not to wear out their volunteers.

• Pastor Dave Huizenga – Bridgewood Church – Savage, MN

o Attendance has not fully come back up but since December there has been 70 new

worshipers come to Bridgewood. They have two full services Sunday mornings.

o They have been blessed financially.

o They will be building Bridgewood Center to host events, weddings etc.

o Young Life and Wild Life “took a hit” during COVID. The church had a difficult time

reaching out to youth.

o Bridgewood lies in a MN sex trafficking corridor between Mall of America and a Casino.

They are studying the issue. They have already begun Tree House ministry for kids at risk.

o Their Community Garden ministry has increased from 120 to 150 gardens. Most gardeners

are African, Hispanic, Oriental or Ukrainian. To help these immigrants they have started an

immigration clinic.

o They have 2 online churches as a result of their online ministry. One in Hammond, IN and

one on Mille Lacs Lake in MN.

o Their prayer team of about 30 people meets every morning at 7:00 am., in person and

virtually.

o They held a retreat focused on the Holy Spirit in our lives and continue to hold a Sunday

morning class on the Holy Spirit topic.

- Wednesday night women’s group studying “Seamless” Bible Study finished course and

Want to continue. Noticing a real spiritual hunger in people.

• Lowell Schwitters – Bunde CRC – Renville, MN.

o It is an exciting time at Bunde.

o Their interim church coach is Joel De Boer during their vacancy. He has been well received


and they are looking forward.

• Betsy Wergin – Bethel CRC – Princeton, MN

o The Ignite, youth group, banquet was a huge success. More funds were raised than any

previous year.

o The Ignite group is busy planning their week of community service called Do Something.

o Focus is on ‘What do we do this summer’ to encourage participation in fall program kick

offs.

Prayer Coordination and Leadership Development were grouped together for discussion.

• Pastor Jeff contacted Pastor John Hoekema from Chicago as a possibility for leading a

prayer and leadership seminar in conjunction with this fall Classis meeting. Pastor Hoekema

has indicated he would be happy to do that. Pastor Jeff will work out details with Pastor

Hoekema.

• Emden CRC – Church Revitalization request for $5,000 was discussed.

The CHMC by unanimous consensus wishes to have the request granted. In addition, the

CHMC would like to see a description of a couple events that are planned to reach out into

their community after the renovation is completed.

New Life Church – Pastor Phohn Sinbondit – New Brighton

• CHMC through Pastor Adam Stout will be asking one or two retired CRC pastors to come

alongside Pastor Phohn and see what their needs might be. There also needs to be some

administration advice and succession planning discussions. The CHMC recognizes the need

to reach out in greater depth to New Life and its members.

2022 Budget discussion

• After lengthy discussion, the following is the 2022 budget request of the CHMC:

o New Life Church $20,000 in 12 monthly increments

o Trinity Hill $35,000

o The Broken $21,600 in 12 monthly increments

o Youth Champion $17,000

o Prayer Mobilizer $0

o Leadership Development $0

▪ Total 2022 Request $95,600

The CHMC will hold the next committee meeting in July or sooner as necessary for fall planning

purposes.

Pastor Jeff Vanderhooft closed in prayer

Respectfully Submitted

Betsy Wergin

CHMC Chair


Classis Home Missions Committee

Budget Request and Budget Rationale for 2022

Submitted to the September Classis Lake Superior Meeting

2022 Budget Request:

1. New Life Church - $20,000 To be paid in 12 monthly increments

2. The Broken - $21,600 To be paid in 12 monthly increments

3. Trinity Hill - $35,000

4. Youth Champion - $19,000

5. Prayer Mobilizer - $0.00

6. Leadership Development - $0.00

1. Total Request $95,600

Rationale:

1. The CHMC believes it is prudent to issue the annual amount in monthly increments to

smooth out the budgeting process for the church. The amount requested follows the

decision of a few years to decrease the funding for New Life by $5,000 per year.

New Life has been funded by classis for many years. It is essentially an immigrant

church and has experienced many ups and downs over its lifespan. It remains an

unknown as to when or if Pastor Phohn plans to retire.

2. The CHMC believes The Broken funding should continue at the current level. Pastor

Chris has a unique gift in his ability to bring the gospel and its reality into the life of

those addicted to a variety of substance. The Broken truly reaches out to those whose

lives and even spirit are broken.

It is also the recommendation of the Committee to issue the annual amount in 12

monthly increments.

3. As was established at a past meeting of Classis, Trinity Hill should continue to

receive $35,000 in 2022 as part of a 5-year commitment to that church plant in the

Southwest metro.

4. Travis Duer continues to serve the Youth Leaders of the churches of Classis Lake

Superior. The CHMC sees this ministry as needed and believes this is a part of the

budget that should remain. We do recommend an increase in the salary for this

position from $10,000 to $12,000 annually.

5. & 6. While the Leadership Development and Prayer Mobilizer categories should

remain well funded and do serve a necessary purpose; the balances in these two funds

are significant and therefore an additional budget amount in 2022 is not necessary.

a. Pastor Jeff Vanderhooft, who has become a member of the CHMC, has

secured a speaker for either the September 2021 or March 2022 Classis

meetings. We are blessed to have Pastor Jeff as a member of the Committee

and want to thank him for seeking out a speaker to help in our endeavor to

advance the leadership of our churches and to encourage prayer, a vital part of

the life of the CRC and Christians everywhere.


Note: Although it is not a part of the CHMC budget, the Committee has some responsibility

toward the approval/denial of Revitalization Funds being granted. A request for such funding

was received from the Emden CRC. The Emden request and fund application are attached as

well as some events that will be held should the funding be granted to the church. The CHMC is

unanimously recommending the approval of the request for Revitalization Grant Funding to

Emden CRC.

Respectfully Submitted,

Betsy Wergin

Chair, CHMC

Grant Request from Classical Church Revitalization Fund

May 1, 2021

Emden Christian Reformed Church

512 Emerson Ave NW

PO Box 390

Renville, MN 56284

Subject: Classical Grant Request Letter Dear Classical Home Mission Committee,

Our current church building was built in 1963 when Emden CRC moved from the country to the town of Renville. This building has served this church well over the years. Being handicap accessible has been a major blessing. But other areas of the building are showing their age. Apart from the fridge, the kitchen remains the same as it was in 1963. We are asking help so that we can upgrade parts of our kitchen.

Several months ago, a small group of women within our church began reimagining the kitchen area so that the church could better serve the community. When they determined replacing the ovens would be the most beneficial upgrade, we realized this was a project Emden CRC would not be able to take on financially at this time or in the near future. Since the current ovens are built into the cabinetry, about half of the cabinetry on one of the walls will need to be reconfigured and replaced in order to fit any oven of this day and age. While contemplating this project, we concluded it would also be a good time to make a few more necessary changes that have been put off from a while. These include: 1) removing an unsafe built-in furnace in the kitchen and 2) removing a non-functional sink and stove top. We are excited about the possibilities for serving the community if we have the ability to update these few things in the kitchen.

While some say “the kitchen is the heart of the home”, we have found it has often been the heart of our church. In the kitchen, meals are prepared for weddings and funerals, after service potlucks, community meals such as our Soup Supper, serving food for VBS, making


meals for those in need, and providing hospitality for other outreach events we host. Not only does this kitchen space enable us to serve, it also creates space for fellowship and bonding. We believe these ministries will all be enhanced, and new ministries developed, with an improved kitchen space.

Emden CRC is looking for assistance to fund just over half of the project. The cost to replace our 2 ovens would be between $1,200 - $1,700. We have 2 different contractor quotes for the replacement and rebuilding of the cabinetry which are $13,410 and $8,600 (see attached). Neither of these quotes include potential electric or plumbing needs which we anticipate will add to the cost of this project. The total project we estimate to be between $9,800-$15,110, not including any cost that may arise with electrical or plumbing. We are looking to get a $5,000 grant from the Church Revitalization Fund. Being a small congregation, it is a challenge to come up with significant funds quickly without depleting our current finances. Any help from Classis would be much appreciated.

We believe a grant from Classis would equip Emden to serve effectively and missionally for the generations to come. Emden CRC would continue to be, and further grow to be, a place where the congregation and community can come together to get to know each other, celebrate special occasions and minister to those in need while in a safe, functional space.

If there are any questions or concerns, please direct them to the contact information below. Thank you for your time and attention, we look forward to hearing from you soon!

Be blessed and be a blessing!

On behalf of the Emden CRC Council, Samantha Link, Deacon Chairperson

Samantha Link

PO Box 63

Renville, MN 56284

(C): 320-894-4593

(E): [email protected]

Planned Events from Emden CRC

Emden CRC has submitted the following to the CHMC: These are proposed events to be held

should they receive Church Revitalization grant funding in the amount $5,000.

Here are also the three ministry outreach events we are planning:

1) We are piloting an outreach movie night this summer. From what we learn from that

experience, we hope to do quarterly movie nights for the community. With the kitchen renewed,

we would like to provide the community food along with the movies.

2) Another idea that we came up with is preparing meals for farmers in the area during planting

and harvest. The renovated kitchen would make this much more feasible and possible.

3) The third idea we have is to provide a community breakfast in the winter.


Respectfully,

Betsy Wergin

CHMC, Chair

Home Missionary/Church Planters

Chris Alle - The Broken

Classis,

Greetings to you all. I hope this reaches you in good Spirit and health. I wanted to give my update of how the last 6 months has been for us.

I wanted to give the bad and then the good, but I don’t know that I have anything negative to report. We have been extremely blessed over this last 6 months. As mandates started disappearing in Minnesota, it felt like life started moving again. We have seen, like many other churches, the summer lows for attendance, however, we have in exchange gained a few solid people. I have had the opportunity to marry a couple at the beginning of the summer and 2 other couples, who are attendees, in a couple weeks, and one a month from now.

Our services have remained at The Rock of Life and we are so grateful that they would continue to have us. I am still receiving help from the cluster churches who have agreed to also support me. Just another blessing that

they haven’t forgotten or given up on me. They continue to cheer us on while making sure that we are getting by financially as well. I never thought that this would be my reality, but yet and still, God continues to keep us moving forward and still chooses to use a wretched man as myself to preach the beauty of His word. So, part of The Broken’s success is do to those with the same heart as myself leading the surrounding churches.

The heartbreak of what I do is still mostly seen in the addictions side of things in our church. One of my closest friends who I watched get sober, work His butt off to get ordained, and did, and preach the Gospel fearlessly, overdosed 2 months ago. I sat next to his wife’s side in the emergency room watching him convulse uncontrollably on the table in front of us. I thank our God that his day was not that day. We have a ways to go, but I know God is not done with Him yet. I have another couple who I am currently working with that have gone back to meth about a month ago and are on a fast track of throwing


everything away that they have worked so hard for. They are open to help, so praise God for that.

Lastly, I believe that I have grown in my understanding and preaching of God’s word. I have poured over the scriptures as I preach through each book of the New Testament. This full year we have been in the book of Romans and will probably finish the year preparing to preach through possibly Corinthians. I know that prayer and petition has kept me in step with God and me sane through a lot of the chaos that I think we have all endured over the last couple of years. I do not forget, as well, of your graciousness towards me and the funding you continue to provide for us. That check remains the backbone of our finances. We can depend on it and know that we will be alright from month to month. I cannot thank you enough for supporting a bunch misfits like ourselves. Blessings to you all from my family to yours.

Chris Alle | Pastor | The Broken | mobile: 612-469-2715 | email: [email protected] | site: www.thebroken.church

Trinity Hill Church - Arlan Koppendrayer

.

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.thebroken.church/


Youth Champion’s Report – Travis Deur * The collection of Catechism materials that we compiled as a classis caught the eye of the denomination and led to some conversations with them about sharing resources and creating additional materials that could be distributed at a CRC level. It was a good reminder that folks at the home office are keeping an eye on our classis reports, caring for us, and interested in ways we can support each other. * Before the school year ended, I was able to connect with the network of Youth Champions (March 25) and our classis youth ministry leaders (April 27) to discuss summer plans including our August 14 service event. Faith (New Brighton), Calvary (Edina) and Pease are connecting for service projects, worship, and fellowship during a 12 hour event on that Saturday. * Twin Cities SERVE is now officially on the map for the summer of 2022 as Faith and Calvary collaborate to host this site in 2022, 2023 and 2024. Our site will be announced through ThereforeGo Ministries on September 1 and you can follow us on social media by searching for "TwinCitiesSERVE" on Facebook and Instagram. Content will begin surfacing as the announcement is made. * The Generation Spark mentoring project is moving forward. There was an informational meeting on August 3 with an invitation for application to Round 1. I have applied for Faith to be a part of this pilot and hope to have the opportunity to learn more about the program as a participant and in ongoing openings through the Champions network to engage behind the scenes. This will help me to better promote the program and provide guidance for classis churches that would like to participate. * I'm on loan to Classis Wisconsin on Saturday, August 21 participating in their leadership training event in Delavan. I'll be presenting on the Growing Young material and making connections with churches from that area and leaders from the CRC. I'm anxious to provide an opportunity for our classis to host similar connections and will be revisiting this option with the Home Missions team and others who discussed the possibility of several regional events within our classis before COVID sidetracked those plans. Please continue to reach out with questions about youth ministry resources and ideas. I love chatting about ministry with youth leaders, pastors, church leaders, and parents! Travis Deur, Youth Ministries Champion Classis Lake Superior 612-381-7705 [email protected]

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Prayer Coordinators

US Central Coordinator

Lowell Schwitters, US Prayer Coordinator, Central Region

Rob Braun, East Region

My report in prayer coordination. Our mission is the encouraging of our churches to continue to

pray for one another, specifically the church that has shared prayer needs for that period of time.

The prayer needs are shared within the western churches. The prayer seminar that was planned

for this Classis meeting is pending to hopefully the spring Classis which again, hopefully, will be

an in-person meeting. Let`s all be praying for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit to enable us

to be as effective as possible in these times.

Lowell Schwitters

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The Gathering Place ---Yvonne Schenk, [email protected]

The Gathering Place 239 Amelia Street W. Thunder Bay, ON

What is The Gathering Place? The Gathering Place is an organization founded and supported by

the three Christian Reformed Churches in Thunder Bay as well as Classis Lake Superior. Our

mission is to be a safe place for people to meet Jesus. Just as Jesus fed and taught the crowds

that followed Him, we seek to offer support for both the body and the soul. We nourish the

body by handing out food hampers and clothing items to those who are in need. Because of

Covid-19, our other programming was suspended. We are praying that restrictions will be eased

by September so that we will be able to offer our women’s and men’s groups, coffeehouse and

craft times.

Funding: We receive funding from the three CRCs in Thunder Bay, Classis Lake Superior and

private donors. Pre-Covid-19, we would run various fundraisers throughout the year to build

capacity for ministry growth and community with our supporters. Those plans are all on hold at

this time. But God has blessed us with donations and we are very grateful.

Our Programs:

• Open Hands: Our Open Hands program has continued to operate throughout the

pandemic. Because of all the extra checkpoints that Covid-19 required of us, we have

been blessed with the increased opportunities to learn the names of clients, hear their


stories and pray with them. Our assumptions for this fall are twofold: one that

restrictions will be lifted almost completely and that two, come influenza season, we

will likely need to follow public health guidelines again. To that end, we plan to continue

some basic screening and we are planning to continue the request for mask wearing –

especially during flu season. Please be assured that if people don’t make it past

screening or don’t have or want to wear a mask, they will still receive food, they just

won’t enter the building to get it. We will bring the food to them as they wait outside

the building. Maybe, Lord willing, even those steps will be unnecessary in the future.

• Clothing: Due to the need to safe spacing for people during Covid-19 and because we

are not offering our children’s programs at this time, we decided to move our clothing

depot to the lower level of our building. Our clothing depot was closed for quite some

time during our more severe lockdowns, but we continued to take in donations – doing

so safely – so now that the depot is open again, we have an abundance of clothing to

give out – and surprisingly enough, a LOT of jigsaw puzzles. Not sure how to explain that

one ☺.

• Mosaic (Women’s group): I can’t emphasize enough just how excited we are to start

meeting with women again in September. We plan on having the three staff (Yvonne,

Sonya and Laura) each offer a different Bible study for women to choose from. One

thing we’ve learned from some of the women who have come for years to our groups, is

that they want a Bible study. If we offer something less or place more emphasis on

fellowship for example, we get complaints. They want to study the word of God. How

exciting is that! Again, we are operating under the two assumptions mentioned earlier.

We will keep groups small so that we can be safely distanced and will screen for good

health during the flu season unless public health says otherwise.

• Men’s Group: Lord willing, our men’s group will start up again in September.

• Make It and Take It: Combined with our afternoon coffeehouse on Thursdays, we will

be offering a time of crafts again, starting in September.

• Seasoned with Salt: We are visualizing how we can still offer cooking opportunities in

September. We have learned throughout this pandemic how flexible we need to be and

we are looking forward to offering this program to smaller groups of participants.

• Community Connection: The staff have been reading the book “The Turquoise Table”

and we are quite motivated by the story told there. We will once again this summer, put

out a table (not turquoise, but a turquoise table is on order) and chairs and offer bottles

of water and iced tea to people who walk by – looking for opportunities to have

conversations. This worked out well last summer and people have already been asking

when we will start doing it again this summer. We are going to add some aspects to it –

a washer toss game in the parking lot which can easily move indoors when we change

from offering drinks outside to offering them inside, along with some card games and

perhaps a jigsaw puzzle or two.


• Church Connection: We have the opportunity to work in collaboration with the

Canadian churches of Classis Lake Superior to participate in Hearts Exchanged

(https://www.crcna.org/hearts-exchanged) – a facilitated discussion time geared to help

Reformed Christians engage with Indigenous people as neighbours and as fellow image-

bearers.

Prayer Requests:

• Please pray for wisdom as we slowly open and offer our programs again.

• Pray that the Holy Spirit will open the hearts of women and men who are seeking to

know their Creator and Redeemer and that they will feel led to sign up for our women’s

and men’s groups.

• Pray for the Hearts Exchanged discussion time – that many will come forward to take

part in this opportunity.

If you would like more information about The Gathering Place, please check our website at:

www.thegatheringplacetbay.ca or “like” us on Facebook.

Submitted by Yvonne Schenk, Executive Director for The Gathering Place

****************************

HOPE CENTER hopecentreministries.org 204-479-4893

Shellie Power

Report to Classis Lake Superior

September 2021

Thank you, Classis Lake Superior, for your on-going and faithful support. It means so much to

HCM and to the men and women with disabilities who are finding care and belonging.

We are excited to share with you the variety of ways that our ministry has grown and shifted over the last 17 months and invite you to pray specifically for an exciting and immediate needs that we have.

Celebration Points:

• Friendship from Home Bible studies have seen an increased attendance of 68%!—the online format removes barriers such as geography, transportation, and staff support.

http://www.thegatheringplacetbay.ca/


HCM is writing and publishing Bible study material and packaging them together with participation kits that make for an interactive Zoom experience for the teachings. We currently have curriculum written/produced through Christmas 2021 and will begin 2022 kits in October.

• Retreat in a Box: over 100 people attended and participated via video teachings, interactive Zoom times, and at home activities. In comparison, HCM in-person retreats typically had an average of 75 people (support staff and volunteers included) so this is a significant increase.

• Summer Interns: this summer we welcomed 6 students to our summer ministry team. These students have actively supported the ministry by creating at home supplies for Fall Bible studies, hosting in-person care events, managing social media, and ensuring that each person signed up on the HCM care list (80+ individuals), received 3 at home care visits. It has been a busy and exciting, ministry-focused summer.

Prayer Needs

Like many ministries, HCM has been actively exploring what ministry may look like once restrictions fully lift. While there are still many un-knowns, the board of HCM has committed to a “hybrid” approach moving forward. HCM intends to continue with the on-line Bible studies as so many people are now connected, and we want to continue ensuring that connection is possible.

We are also investigating what/how to move forward with in-person, care-focused, fellowship gatherings. Currently, we are at capacity for what our current staff team can manage and so have determined that it will be necessary to add another position. This position will focus on care which will include: in-person gatherings, care visits, needs surveys, and facilitating smaller care circles.

We realize the long-term financial implications of this reality and seek your prayerful support for this significant step.

In Christ,

Shellie Power

Executive Director, Hope Centre Ministries

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Indigenous Family Center -- Michele Visser Wikkerink

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Report of Canadian Prayer Mobilizers – August 2, 2021 Sonya Cahais

Mission Statement: To teach and model the centrality of Christ and an intimate love relationship

with God through encouraging individual and corporate prayer.

Six of the eight churches in Classis Lake Superior – Canada have prayer coordinators.

They are:

• Brandon First CRC ~ Dianne van den Ham and Paulette Kelly

• Winnipeg Covenant ~ Alyce Baardman

• Winnipeg Transcona ~ Linda Schreuders

• Thunder Bay Bethlehem`~ Dini and Hank Makkinga

• Thunder Bay Hope ~ Isabel Van Ramshorst and Sonya Cahais

• Thunder Bay First ~ Harry Prenger

Past 6 months:

• Dunamis Gateway Project # 2 “In the Spirits Power” took place via zoom April 19 –

April 23. Biblical and practical instruction of what it means to cooperate with the

Holy Spirit for powerful and well-balanced ministry to take place was taught

through out the week. Most of the Prayer Coordinators were able to attend as

participants. Personally, as part of the Host Team, as Lead Intercessor, it was such a

blessing to witness the Holy Spirit at work!

• The Prayer Coordinators participated on their own in a study on the book of Joshua

~Heavens Mighty Warrior. It was an encouraging study.

• Meeting together via zoom the past few months has been a challenge because of

circumstances out of our control. Prayer concerns and encouragement have been

shared via email. I am hoping that in the fall we can meet more regularly once

again.

Looking ahead:

• Dunamis Project #3: The Power of Prayer will take place the last week of

October. All are welcome to attend! Whether you think you are simply “not

good” at prayer, want to go deeper in your walk with God through prayer, or want

to grow in your understanding of intercessory prayer, this conference will give

you Biblical foundations and practical instruction to help you grow in both

personal and corporate prayer, led by the Holy Spirit. Please stay tuned for more

information as it becomes available.

• As things “open up” trusting we will be able to meet in person for prayer

gatherings.

Prayer and Praise:

Please join us in praying:


• For Pastor Marg Rekman as the Track Director and the host team as we meet to plan the

next Dunamis Project to happen this fall.

• That the Lord will place it on the hearts of those He is calling to come forward as Prayer

Coordinators at Emo Christian Reformed Church and Good News Fellowship.

• Praising God for the move of the Holy Spirit upon our Classis area as we learn to

cooperate with Him more. “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come

upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and

to the farthest parts of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

• That each church in our Classis area will be a House of Prayer!

“Prayer does not fit us for the greater work;

prayer is the greater work!” Oswald Chamber

Submitted with praise and thanksgiving to God for this opportunity serve,

Sonya Cahais, Prayer Mobilizer Classis Lake Superior – Canada

************************

CMLT--Classical Ministerial Leadership Team -- Pastor Robert Hoekstra

SAFE CHURCH TEAM


CHAPLAINCY REPORTS

Mayo Hospice Chaplaincy -- Dan Capo

Canadian Forces Base Suffield -- Gerald Van Smeerdyk

28 April 2021

Annual Report

Rev. Gerald Van Smeerdyk

Canadian Forces Base Suffield

Base Chaplain

Hello everyone,

Our Director of Chaplaincy and Care, Rev. Tim Rietkerk, has asked our chaplains to provide an

annual report by answering the questions he supplied to us (see below). Before we go any

further, however, I need to announce a big change in ministry. As I’ve mentioned, this is the year

I will be retiring from the military and my role as a military chaplain. After months of prayer and

seeking advice, the Lord has led me to a new ministry with Elim Village in Surrey BC.

Elim is a Christian Long-Term Care Facility and Retirement Home founded by members of the

First Christian Reformed Church of Langley – now called the Willoughby CRC. Elim provides

elderly people with Independent Living, Assisted Living and End of Life Care. To make a long

story short, I was offered and have accepted the position of Pastor of Community Life. This

position was held by Rev. Walt Brouwer of the CRC who has just retired. There are two other

ordained ministers and a Christian counselor on the pastoral care team and I’m looking forward

to working alongside them in the care of elderly people from our community and the BC Lower

Mainland. I have attached the job description to this email.

A Connection into the Wider Church:

For many people, their main experience of being part of the broader family of the

Christian Reformed Church is via classis. Churches participate in their denomination

through classical structure and opportunity. Classis also connects the broadness of

North American ministry into the individual church's own regional and local context,

providing an avenue for a meaningful relationship with the denominational ministries.

In addition, Classis should encourage churches to live outside themselves into the

broader Christian community.


I am asking the Council of Emo CRC to endorse me in this new job position and to send your

endorsement to Classis Lake Superior for approval as being concurrent with my calling as

Minister of the Word. I have also addressed this letter to Henry Gunnink so classis is aware of

what we are doing. Tim Rietkerk has further directed that your endorsement would require that

we create a new Joint Covenant of Supervision. This new covenant will be between Emo CRC,

the CRC Chaplaincy and Care Ministry and myself. Please prayerfully consider my request and

then direct me according to your wishes.

This letter brings with it the official closing of our joint ministry to the Canadian Armed Forces

on 21 June 2021. I cannot begin to express how much everyone’s support has meant to me. I am

deeply grateful to you, not only for having had the privilege of serving Emo as pastor (1995-

2001) but for being the community that gave birth to my ministry as pastor and chaplain. Should

you decide to continue endorsing me as pastor and chaplain, you will embark with me on a new

ministry of pastoral care to the 600+ elderly residents of Elim Village.

Now, on to my final annual report as a military chaplain,

1. What self-care and spiritual disciplines have been meaningful for you this past year?

Meditative prayer, which focuses less on speaking and more to listening to God, has been very

meaningful to me. At this point in my life – 25+ years in the ministry, 40 years of marriage,

nearing the age 60 (22 June 2021), releasing from the military, my wife Cora retiring, moving

back to BC, embarking on a new ministry - the best thing to do is to sit at the Lord’s feet and

listen.

2. How can we pray for you? How can we support you?

Pray for peace and patience as we navigate this big transition in our lives.

3. Please share about your ministry and life. What joys, challenges, and changes, have you

encountered this past year?

The past year has provided both joys and sorrows. The biggest challenge I faced was being in

isolation from mid-March to mid-June 2020. It was really hard being alone; I missed being with

other people. Yet, it gave me a freedom to pray and focus my thoughts on the way forward, to

read and write, to consider new directions for ministry. I learned some technology that enabled

me to start a Facebook page for my chapel ministry (see Chapel of Christ the King). I was

overjoyed to learn that I could reach more people through this ministry than I could with the

chapel alone. My other focus has been on our Sentinel program where I train and supervise

military members to provide pastoral care in their workplace (like lay pastors).

4. How are you staying connected to your calling church and denomination in the past year?

It’s been a blessing to be able to participate in the Chaplain Zoom sessions from time to

time and to communicate with members of Emo and our council Elder.


5. What were your professional development and education opportunities in the past year?

What do you recommend to other chaplains?

This past year I have taken professional courses that focused on inappropriate workplace and

domestic issues like abuse, harassment, and sexual misconduct, how to respond to them, and

ways to resolve the disputes rising from these situations.

6. What are you looking forward to personally or professionally this year?

I am looking forward to being near my dad and my sister Anita, Cora’s sister Pat, our nieces,

nephews, and their children. The change of ministry will be very welcome, not because I’m

eager to leave the military but because I am eager to support another group of people – the

elderly – who face particular hardships of life in this age of Covid. It is frontline work and

therefore has dangers, but no more so than the dangers of military service. Being with and caring

for people who are experiencing hardship is what chaplains do.

7. Share a story from your ministry that captures what it is to be a chaplain.

One of my members has had an exceedingly difficult relationship with his ex-wife and teenage

daughter this past year. The daughter was receiving professional mental health care and he had

not been informed. This caused a lot of trouble, to say the least. He lives alone and I was worried

how he would be over Christmas. I discussed the situation with our Base Commander, and he

approved my plan to send the member to visit his father over Christmas in Florida. That was not

easily done, due to all the Covid restrictions (one of which is that CAF members are forbidden to

enter the States for personal reasons), but he laid out my plan to the Commander of our Division

and the member was given permission to spend the Christmas season in Florida with his father

and stepmother. Chaplains are shepherds. We need to know where our people are and know that

they are safe.

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter and to consider my request,

God’s peace be with you all,

Rev. Gerald Van Smeerdyk

Board of Trustees: Calvin University -------------------- Rick Mast, Region 2 rep.

Rick Mast Campus Minister at the University of Alberta, on behalf of Classis Alberta North

***************************


Board of Trustees: Calvin University -------------------- Jon Kuyers, Region 8 rep.

Calvin University board notes Feb/May 2021

The board meeting February 4,5 was held virtually. The minutes from the October 2020 meeting

were approved with minor changes as well as correspondence received and sent.

Michael Le Roy shared with trustees the details related to Calvin’s potential bond restructuring.

Calvin’s important characteristics shared with the raters were:

• Calvin has a strong national and international reputation among Christian higher education, and

Calvin’s faculty shapes the conversation around faith and learning.

• Calvin has a strong, seasoned leadership team that has demonstrated its capacity to respond to

adversity.

• Calvin has outstanding balance sheet, demonstrated fiscal discipline, and strong donor support.

Joel Westra, Co-chair of the University Core Curriculum Task Force, provided an overview of

the work of the task force and noted that the existing core lacked internal coherence and was

adjusted to work for various programs. He shared that the revised core is intended to provide

versatility to students as they seek to satisfy requirements. The proposal for the revised core

was ratified by the Board and will be implemented this Fall.

The Board then moved into a discussion on the work of the Confessional Commitment and

Academic Freedom (CCAF) sub-committee related to the CRCNA human sexuality report that

was shared by the denomination in October 2020. The CCAF is gathering information that can

be presented to the board in May to help them understand the potential impact of the study.

The discussion hinged on the difference between Reformed confessions and denominational

position statements and what the implications are to the university. The board agreed that the

CCAF sub-committee should continue their review and discernment in the matter and that they

bring their findings back to trustees.

All trustees reviewed individual committee minutes prior to plenary IV, and several items of note

arose during the committee Q & A time:

• Administration and Finance: Trustees will need to look at strategic budget planning, as the

university will need to make substantive adjustments to produce a balanced budget for 2021-

2022 in May.

• Enrollment Strategy: Calvin needs to keep increasing the recruiting funnel, and trustees were

invited to help in the recruitment process. Materials will be sent to trustees.

• Executive: Nominations are open for officers. The secretary spot will be open. Send

suggestions to Jan or Bruce.

• Trusteeship: The bylaws are being revised. The board officer structure has been modified to

have a chair, vice-chair, and secretary. The duties of the secretary are for oversight and

operation, while the day-to-day duties will be supported by administrative staff. The

university president will be appointed by the board. Also, represented regions will move from

12 to 6. Bylaw changes need a 2/3 approval of the board and majority approval by the Council

of Delegates of the CRCNA.


Items for Action:

• AA 3.160 Faculty Reappointments with tenure was approved.

• AF 3.116 2021-2022 Capital Budget Proposal was approved.

• AF 3.117 Debt Refunding Resolution Revision was approved.

• AD3.004 Athletic Stadium Fundraising was approved.

• TR 3.037 Board of Trustee Handbook Revisions to Section II was approved.

• TR 3.038 Bylaws Revisions was approved.

The consent agenda was ratified, endorsed, and approved with no opposing votes

Board meeting for May was held virtually.

After a review of the agenda and approval of the February 4-5, 2021, minutes and

correspondence at Plenary I, Chair B. Los thanked Cabinet members and made personal

comments of his appreciation for each of them.

Plenary II started with President M. Le Roy introducing Calvin’s new provost, Dr. Noah Toly.

Dr. Toly shared a bit about himself, his family, and his faith journey. He noted that he moved

many times in his youth, so he gained exposure to different Christian traditions and started to

establish his Reformed roots. Through it all, his immersion in scripture is the catalyst through

which God works His way in him.

M. Le Roy then shared things at Calvin in which he finds joy and gratitude:

• Enrollment is on-track to meet the FTIAC goal of 725.

• Pandemic operations have been on-point and have helped Calvin students to be able to continue

to meet on campus. The board authorized the conferral of degrees, honors, and certificates for

the class of 2021.

• There is growth in awareness on campus of what it means to be a person of color in a

predominantly white community.

• Fundraising continues to be outstanding: $199 million has been raised for the campaign, $28+

million for the Commons union, $2.7 million for the annual fund, and $29.5 million in new

gifts and pledges.

• The structural aspects of the budget are being adjusted, but Calvin does have a balanced budget

planned for the coming year.

• The debt structure has been simplified through a bond offering. Calvin received an A- rating

from S&P.

• The university held a groundbreaking for the new business school this spring and building has

commenced for this facility. A new dean, Dr. James Ludema has also been appointed to lead

the School of Business.

Trustees heard a presentation on “Finance 101: Revenue” from J. English, L. Jensen and K. den

Dulk. The presentation highlighted the distribution and sources of revenue for Calvin, the

challenge of decreasing net tuition revenue from traditional undergraduate students, and the


university response in working to expand our markets for undergraduate students and developing

graduate programs that attract new learners.

The board then engaged with several students of color (Samuel Carrasco, Frank Jones Jr., and

Shelton Rodriguez) who sit on the students of color presidential advisory council. Each shared

about their Calvin experience and what they would like to see at Calvin related to racial

reconciliation. The board was both inspired and grateful to these students and Dr. Michelle

Loyd-Paige for this excellent presentation.

The following items for action were approved:

• AA 3.171 Brandsen Provost Emeritus Status

• AF 3.118 Approval of 2021-2022 Operating Budget

• AF 3.119 Global Campus Tuition Rates

• AF 3.120 Retirement Plan Contributions

• AF 3.121 Endowment Fund Spend, Fees, and Designations

• EX 3.109 Conferral of Degrees, Honors, and Certificates

• EX 3.110 Revised Meeting Dates

• EX 3.111 Chair, Vice-Chair, Treasurer Appointments for 2021-2022 (B. Los, Chair; M.

Tuuk Kuras, Vice Chair, J. English, Treasurer)

• EX 3.112 Secretary Appointment for 2021-2022 (Rhonda Roorda)

The following trustees were approved:

Jonathan Eigege (At-Large), Niala Boodhoo (At-Large), Heather Van Vugt Ramierez (Classis

Region 9, At-Large), Rosanne Sweetman Lopers (Classis Region 3), Gary Bos (Classis

Region 5), Kevin Adams/J. Todd Hoeksema (Classis Region 6 election outcome still

pending), Michael Den Bleyker (Classis Region 7), and reappointments: Lois Miller, Andrea

Karsten, Ben Ipema, CJ Grier, Andrew Elliot and Steven Triezenberg.

The consent agenda was also passed before M. Le Roy gave thanks to retiring trustees

Jan Buikema, Fernando del Rosario, Wendy Hofman, Marge Hoogeboom, Tim Howerzyl,

Alicia Sinclair, and Tom Wybenga.

Since the board meeting in May, Jim English the VP of Finance has left the university to pursue

another opportunity. We are grateful for the good work that Jim accomplished during his tenure

at Calvin to balance the budget during the challenges of COVID and enrollment challenges.

President LeRoy also notified the board after the May meeting the 2021-2022 academic year will

be his last year of leading Calvin. The board is very grateful for his outstanding leadership over

the last 10 years. https://calvin.edu/news/archive/president-michael-le-roy-announces-his-final-

season-at-calvin. There will be more information to share throughout the next few months.


Jon Kuyers (Region 8 trustee)

*********************************

https://calvin.edu/news/archive/president-michael-le-roy-announces-his-final-season-at-calvin

https://calvin.edu/news/archive/president-michael-le-roy-announces-his-final-season-at-calvin


Board of Trustees: Calvin Seminary -- Robert Drenten

Calvin Theological Seminary

Report for Classis – Fall 2021 Region 8 Trustee – Rev. Robert Drenten

Noteworthy items from the Board of Trustees meeting of May 20-21,

2021:

Facility Remodel and Expansion – Calvin Theological Seminary broke ground on a new addition to the building. An extensive upgrade is underway on the facilities to upgrade classrooms; to improve spaces for students, faculty, and staff; and to enhance the hospitality of the building and grounds. The project also addresses some maintenance issues. Students and Academic Programs – The student body represents a diversity of nations. CTS

anticipates welcoming a student from Cuba this year. We thank God for the international impact

CTS is making. We are also thankful for the experience interaction provides students during their

years at CTS.

52 graduated from CTS in May 2021 with degrees ranging from certificate-level to masters and

doctorate degrees. This included 22 Master of Divinity graduates. M.Div. graduates often seek

candidacy for ministry in the Christian Reformed Church.

CTS sees three trends in enrollment which may be related. First, CTS is receiving a declining

number of applicants for the M.Div. program. Second, students preparing for ministry

increasingly pursue a more narrowly-focused Master of Arts degree. Third, applicants

increasingly seek out distance learning options. These trends hold true for applicants to most

seminaries across North America. Applicants tend to be older, less free to commit to in-resident

education, and interested in accessible tools for ministry.

CTS is in a strong position to adapt to the context of these trends. The Lord has blessed CTS

with a heritage of quality education and with financial health. The Lilly Foundation has awarded

a $50,000 grant for a CTS initiative, “Pathways to Tomorrow,” which will explore ways to

realign its programs in the future.

Staff and Faculty – The board approved 3-year reappointments to Jeff Sajdak as Dean of

Students, and to Sarah Chun as Dean of International Students & Scholar Services.

CTS has begun a search for faculty positions in Old Testament, History of Christianity, Philosophical Theology, and Preaching. Be in prayer that the Lord provides professors for these positions. Be in prayer also that the Lord will use new faculty members to continue to give shape to the vision and life of CTS. Calvin Prison Initiative – CTS continues to provide help and resources to give prisoners

training in ministry leadership at the Handlon Correctional Facility in Ionia, Michigan.


Resources – Please take advantage of Forum, a resource published quarterly by CTS and sent to

Christian Reformed churches. Forum provides helpful study material for church councils and

members.

Also, please explore the resources available through the Calvin Theological Seminary website --

http://calvinseminary.edu/ . The site offers a number of tools for preaching, worship, and

ministry leadership.

Finally, encourage those around you who you notice may have gifts for ministry to explore the

Lord’s calling in their lives, and to consider Calvin Theological Seminary as a key part of their

preparation.

Rev. Robert Drenten CTS Board of Trustees, Region 8 [email protected] (712) 395-0552 (Voice and Text)

****************************************

Resonate Global Missions -- Fall 2021 Central Region Classes Report

--Peter Kelder

Apart from the Chicagoland Classes, the Central US team partners with seven Classes—Central

Plains, Heartland, Iakota, Lake Superior(US), Minnkota, North Central Iowa, and Wisconsin.

Here are a few glimpses into the mission activity in each Classis.

Central Plains:

New Life Prison Ministry and Rick Admiraal have been deeply affected by the pandemic, since

access to the facility in Newton was unavailable. Pray for momentum to increase when they are

able to meet there again.

Resonate’s journey of discernment called Go Local has been helpful to Grace Fellowship as

they engaged spiritual practices (listening, discerning, experimenting, reflecting), while

engaging their neighbors.

Some other individuals in congregations of Classis participated in Joining God in the

Neighborhood, a 4 session taste of the Go Local process.

Trinity, St. Louis, has embraced a Koren group using their church building. This hosting of an

ethnic group is another way to love our neighbor different than you through hospitality.

Heartland:

Scott Van Voorst has taken a call to the Cornerstone Prison Ministry. Friendship Church is

being assisted by the Classical Mission Committee for its future plans.

Kansas City area has New City Church working toward another site in a neighboring part of

KC, MO and Kurt Rietema continues to develop and practice presence in KC, KS Argentine

neighborhood.

http://calvinseminary.edu/



F Street Church in Lincoln continues to find ways to bless its community through multiple

ministries and to raise leaders for the mission of God there.

Iakota:

Journeys to Friendship, a cohort of like-minded folks who focus on loving their neighbor

different than themselves, is planning their June 2022 conference in NW IA/Sioux Falls SD.

This group meets monthly to plan the event and also hear stories from around the world

around international students, immigrants, refugees, and ethnic diversity. This would also be

of interest to Heartland and Minnkota.

The Central US in partnership with Journeys to Friendship is looking for a Mission Network

Developer in NW IA/ Sioux Falls SD area to help spread the word and assist on the ground

planning for the conference. It is about an 8 hour per week job commitment. If you are

interested or can suggest a person for this let me know at [email protected]

Hope, Rapid City is working through At the Crossroads, a process that helps them celebrate

their past, name their present and discern their future. Pastor Joy Englesman is assisting them

I the process.

Lake Superior:

Trinity Hill in Chanhassen MN is a partner with Classis and Resonate as a new ministry.

Kyle Sandison is stepping into a greater role of leadership there.

The Broken continues to minister to those freed from addiction or prison in Willmar MN.

The Central US team would invite further discussion with them in the year ahead.

There is some interest in bringing the Deeper Journey retreats to this Classis. Further

discussions are pending.

Minnkota:

Minnkota was seriously working in Marshall MN as a new ministry site. Pray for an opening

so that this might continue in the months ahead.

North Central IA:

The campus ministry Areopagus led by Tyler Helfers at Iowa State University is supported

by NC IA and others in the state.

Iowa State also hosts a Korean ministry which is going through a transition right now.

Pastor Lee is returning to Korea and rev. S Kim is coming to take the campus position there.

Kanawha participated in the Go Local cohort. Their experiment during the pandemic was

with their children’s ministry and it grew to 65! Recently they planted a pumpkin patch near

the church and look forward to a fall harvest.

Wisconsin:

Geneva Campus Church at the University of Wisconsin is entering a new chapter. Jim Kirk

becomes the lead pastor as Mike Winnowski retires. Geneva wants to keep a focus on the

campus, especially with graduate students (over 10,000) . The vision is to hire a second

person for that purpose. Classis is being asked to partner with Geneva for this person.



Go Local and Joining God in the Neighborhood has been well received by Faith, Beaver

Dam and also Marshview Ministries. A number of lay leaders in Oostburg and Waupun

participated in Joining God in the Neighborhood.

A unique partnership is being formed by First, Oostburg and Kenosha CRC. This looks to

be a foster/adoption merger. Pray that God can use this to benefit both congregations.

Peter Kelder, Regional Mission Leader

Central US Region

resonateglobalmission.org Engaging People. Embracing Christ

815-690-2408

*****************************************

COD (Council of Delegates) ------------- Michael Ten Haken, US

Ben Ver Kerk, COD Canada Corp

Council of Delegates (COD) Report to Classis Lake Superior Rev. Michael Ten Haken

August, 2021

I was elected by you to serve as your representative to Classis Lake Superior last March. I

began my first 3-year term in June of 2020, following the ratification of the COD who acted

on behalf of Classis due to the cancelling of Synod last year. In addition, due to the nature of

the bi-nationality of our classis, my counter-part, Rev. Ben Verkerk, serves as your

representative on the Canada Corporation representing the Canadian churches of CLS to that

body.

Due to pandemic related issues – especially around travel restrictions – the COD has

continued to meet electronically, via ZOOM. While not ideal, it does allow us to get together

and do the work the Synod and the churches have tasked us with doing.

Here are a few of the highlights of our work from the last few months:

1. The Structure and Leadership Task Force (SALT) Report – At our May meeting, one major

item was the approval of this report which provides the starting point to ‘retool’ and ‘realign’

ministry needs and legal needs particularly as it relates to our ability to function efficiently,

effectively, and legally as “one denomination in two countries.” Implementation of the

report’s recommendations are just now beginning. This includes the forming of an

implementation team to oversee more (and better) Joint Ministry Agreements (JMA’s) that

allow us to do our work internationally, the approval of job descriptions for a General

Secretary, a Chief Administrative Officer, and an Executive Director – Canada, and a plan to

ensure all of this meets with the approval of the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).


This process has not (and will not) be easy. Already the report has been met with

disapproval by some of the Canadian members of the COD as not providing the necessary

direction and control for contextualized Canadian ministry that the CRA requires or that

many Canadian CRC’s desire. As a result, there is still much work to do. Your prayers for

wisdom are appreciated as we continue to navigate that process. Formal and final

endorsement of the SALT report with be done at Synod 2022.

2. Synod 2021 – Since Synod could not meet in-person this year, the Synodical Services

Committee submitted (and we approved) the necessary items that the COD would need to

take up and work through in lieu of a regular Synod meeting. This is not an ideal situation

and is not something the COD particularly enjoys doing. Nonetheless, we did meet in June in

lieu of Synod and took care of several necessary items including approval of candidates for

ministry, budgetary and pension matters, abuse of power work, and a decision that the COD

send a formal communication to Synod 2022 regarding Neland Ave CRC which reaffirms our

earlier letter of admonition and expresses our grave concern over their decision to install an

officebearer who is in a same-sex relationship.

It was decided however, that any formal action or final decision on the matter was best suited

for the full synod. As a result, this will be taken up more fully by Synod 2022.

3. Synod 2022 – Discussion is already taking place around Synod 2022. How are we going

to deal with all the matters (some of them quite weighty) in the usual timeframe? How can

we best process both the deferred and the new items that will be on the agenda along with

all the attending overtures that are sure to accompany them? The COD has, therefore,

mandated the Synodical Services Committee to consider various options and ideas for the

look and layout of Synod 2022 to accommodate what is sure to be very full agenda.

Finally, you should be aware that starting on July 1st, I began a new role on the COD as I was

selected to serve at President of the US Corporation and Vice President of the full COD. If you

have no idea what any of that means, don’t worry about it! Just know, that I’m humbled and

privileged to be of service to Classis Lake Superior in this way.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns I would welcome the opportunity to hear

from you. I’m more than happy to discuss our work. Thank you for me allowing me to serve

you as your COD representative.

In Service to the King,

Rev. Michael L. Ten Haken

**************************************** World Renew -- Fall 2020 Classis Update -- US report, Arlan Koppendrayer

****************************************


Diaconal Ministries Canada

Relying on the Holy Spirit, Diaconal Ministries Canada exists to Inspire, Empower and Equip Deacons, as they

animate congregations to join in God’s transforming work in communities across Canada.

August 2021

Fall Classis Report

Greetings Friends in Ministry!

Challenging. Unexpected. Interesting. Busy.

These were some of the top words shared at a recent gathering of our NewGround partners, board

members and staff to sum up this past year of ministry. Perhaps some of these resonate with you as

well. And yet through these past 18 months, Diaconal Ministries Canada has continued to work

tirelessly to equip and support deacons and churches all across the country. Along with updated

resources being added to our website regularly and hands-on training and support from our

network of Diaconal Coaches, our NewGround program continues to help churches love their

community (we gave out 7 grants to partners across Canada, including our second Youth Justice

partner in Halifax, NS).

Deacons play an important role in bringing Christ’s love to their churches and communities and for

that, we are grateful. It has been our privilege to serve and equip them in this role. Here is some of

the feedback we’ve received over the last year and a half:

“First-time deacons are usually a bit overwhelmed and Diaconal Ministries Canada has a lot of

resources. I have been a deacon before so am pretty familiar with our Mandate but it was good to be

reminded and read through it again. Doing workshops via Zoom has its limitations but at least we can

still do these types of trainings during Covid!” - Deacon in Nova Scotia

“Diaconal Ministries Canada has been most helpful in providing leadership and resources especially in

this Pandemic time. Thank you!” - Stewardship Bible Study participant

This is only possible because of this faithful community of supporters, who pray for us and

contribute financially to our mission to equip and support deacons in their role. SO THANK

YOU!

https://diaconalministries.com/diaconal-coaches/

https://diaconalministries.com/newground/

https://diaconalministries.com/newground-partners/


Some things we’re working on for upcoming 2021-2022 ministry year are:

● Our Stewardship Pilot Project continues to be a program of learning, resources and action,

intended to help CRCs in Canada increase their members’ awareness of the Biblical

principles of stewardship, and help them live those principles out in practical, measurable

ways. Toolkits for the 4 areas of stewardship are being developed right now on top of what is

already on our website. If your church is ready to dive in, contact us today!

● We have worked closely with Ms. Anja Attema who can offer deacons significant help with

their Benevolence ministry. As a certified Financial Life Coach, Anja can help deacons move

from offering temporary and limited solutions to giving practical and sustainable assistance

to their churches and communities. Interested churches can reach out to us to find out

more.

● Our NewGround Program continues to be a significant part of our work at Diaconal

Ministries. Mentioned earlier in this report, we had a great Ministry Networking Day with our

NewGround partners, built around the theme of Spiritual First Aid during a Pandemic. Alida

van Dijk of the Community Counselling Centre of London, a current NewGround partner, led

our plenary session. Van Dijk’s presentation, entitled “Post-traumatic Growth and the Role of

Spiritual First Aid in a Pandemic”, showed how Spiritual First Aid involves being present,

providing support and being an empathetic witness – all things we can offer in times of crisis,

like the ongoing pandemic. This annual event was held virtually for the first time ever due to

the ongoing pandemic. One partner participant thanked van Dijk, saying the session was

both ‘amazing and soul nourishing!’ (You can read the full story here). Unfortunately, our

spring NewGround Offering has decreased significantly over the past couple of years,

mostly due to the ongoing pandemic and several churches not meeting in their usual ways.

This will have a direct impact on our partner churches and ministries in the coming year. We

appreciate your ongoing support tremendously, as do our partners! We have sent a special

request to churches to consider taking a Fall offering for NewGround.

It is our sincere hope and desire that your church has been impacted by the work that we do to

equip and encourage deacons in the areas of community engagement, justice & mercy, and

stewardship.

In closing, we can’t stress enough the vital role that deacons play at the Classis level as they live into

this mandate. Classis is a place where everyone matters, everyone is heard, and everyone does their

part SO THAT we can together bring the Good News of the Kingdom to this broken world and see

lives and communities transformed!

For your information, our Board Executive for 2021-22 is:

● Chair – Peter VanHarmelen (Halifax, NS)[email protected]

● Vice-Chair – Martin Slofstra (Toronto, ON)[email protected]

● Secretary – Cindy Verbeek (Houston, BC)[email protected]

● Treasurer – Rose Saller (Pontypool, ON)[email protected]

https://diaconalministries.com/stewardship/#stewardship-resources

https://diaconalministries.com/stewardship/#benevolence-resources

https://diaconalministries.com/newground/

https://diaconalministries.com/apart-yet-a-part-of-gods-kingdom-work/

https://diaconalministries.com/newground-campaign/


If you have any questions or concerns or need assistance in any way, please reach out to us at

[email protected]. May God bless each one of you in your ongoing ministry!


ron vandenbrink

National Director, Diaconal Ministries Canada

*************************************************

Redeemer University College

********************************************

Canadian Ministries Director -- Terry Veldboom Acting Executive Director

Fall Classis Letter - 2021

Strange days and uncharted waters. We continue to find ourselves in the midst of a

pronounced time of uncertainty. The COVID pandemic continues to be of considerable impact

on the daily life and rhythm of the church. Christian Reformed churches across the country are

determining when and how they will reopen and reengage for in-person worship and what

ministry programs will look like for the Fall. There is much to consider and many perspectives

and voices weighing in. Wisdom and strength to you as you continue to journey through these

uncharted waters.

Denominationally, Synod has not met for two years. This extended hiatus has meant

that the Human Sexuality Report continues to receive much worthwhile and necessary

conversation. If you have not already done so, please consider utilizing the Challenging

Conversations Toolkit in engaging this significant subject matter.

The Council of Delegates (COD) and its companion corporations have been engaged in

significant structure and leadership discussion over the past year and a half which culminated in

the Structure and Leadership Team (SALT) report and recommendations which was approved at

the May meeting of the COD. A steering committee and multiple implementation teams will be

working in earnest in the coming year.

Additional detail on these matters and other initiatives impacting the CRC in Canada are

listed below.



Canadian Restructuring: the SALT report and recommendations includes two

recommendations specific to Canada and several others which might be deemed “bi-national” in

nature, all of which are significant to the future of the CRC in Canada. Underlying all of the

recommendations are foundational and systemic issues which need to be addressed if we are to

truly advance and be unified as a bi-national church, to thrive contextually in our distinct

national context and to ensure appropriate compliance with Canadian regulations. The

operational energy, relational challenges and personal toll of yet another iteration of this matter

is considerable.

Hearts Exchanged: Hearts Exchanged is a learning and action journey designed to equip

Reformed Christians to engage with Indigenous people as neighbours and fellow image

bearers. Do you want to grow in your reconciliation journey in a robust and appreciative

way? Hearts Exchanged is now recruiting participants from across Canada to join other

Reformed Christians in this learning and action journey. Learn more in this quick five minute

video.

Canadian National Gathering: Hearts Exchanged will be the centrepiece of the next Canadian

National Gathering - which has been tentatively scheduled for some time between May and

August 2023. Details to follow.

Centre for Public Dialogue: The Centre for Public Dialogue will continue its focus on three

main issues: Indigenous Justice, Climate Change, and Refugee Justice. Mike Hogeterp

[email protected] is your key contact.

Anti-Racism and Diversity: We are excited to welcome Pablo Kim Sun as Senior Leader for

Anti-Racism and Inter-cultural Conciliation for the CRC in Canada. Pablo is beginning his work

by assembling a diverse advisory team to counsel and establish this effort. Pablo can be reached

at [email protected] .

Human Sexuality Report: The Biblical Theology of Human Sexuality Report (summary)

includes a recommendation to “encourage the churches to make use of the curriculum prepared

by Pastor Church Resources (PCR), in conjunction with members of the committee, to help small

groups study and discuss aspects of the committee’s report which may be controversial.” The

Challenging Conversations Toolkit is a resource meant to help small groups in your church

listen deeply to the report and to one another as you consider what’s next. A good number

of Canadian churches have already made use of this valuable resource.

.

Ministry Shares: As the denominational ministries have wrapped up another fiscal year ending

June 30, we acknowledge the generous and faithful support of the churches in the form of

https://www.crcna.org/sites/default/files/2021_structure_and_leadership_task_force.pdf

https://www.crcna.org/hearts-exchanged

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7j55m6QM08&t=3s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7j55m6QM08&t=3s

https://www.crcna.org/PublicDialogue


[email protected]%20

https://www.crcna.org/sites/default/files/human_sexuality_report_2020.pdf

https://www.crcna.org/sites/default/files/summary_human_sexuality_report_2020.pdf

https://www.crcna.org/pcr/churches/challenging-conversations-toolkit


ministry shares and above ministry share offerings. Year two of Ministry Shares Re-Imagined is

due to roll out shortly. There will be a lot of specific communication in the coming weeks.

Bridge App: Use of the Bridge App continues to grow, particularly the GIVE function. What

sets this app apart from other smartphone apps geared toward churches is that The Bridge App

aims to be relational, missional and local in a distinctively CRC way and with the emphasis on

the local congregation.

Classis Ontario Southwest – We have a new classis in Canada, sort of. Classis Chatham has

changed their name to Classis Ontario Southwest to better reflect the region in which its

churches are located.

Terry Veldboom

Acting Executive Director (Canada)

***************************************

Faith Formation Ministries -- Trudy Ash

Dear Classis Delegates,

Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to serve your congregations for another year under

the umbrella of Faith Formation Ministries and the Connections Project. I feel blessed that I can

say: “I love my job!”

I wanted to share with you a few points of interest that have come out of my work with FFM and

Connections in the past year. If you have any questions about any of them, please feel free to

contact me. One thing I have learned over the past year is just how much I enjoy the one on one

conversations my job allows me to have with pastors and church leaders around our region.

1. Faith Practices Project: This is a set of curated resources on twelve different faith

practices that have been hand picked and prayed over. They have been a lifeline for me

over the past year. And the feedback we are getting would say that I am not the only one

who has found these resources helpful and life-giving. There are ideas and tips on how to

use them as a congregation, as a family and as an individual and are a wonderful way to

help people learn (maybe even re-learn) different ways that we can grow closer to God

and encourage others to do the same. Here’s the website: crcna.org/faithpracticesproject.

https://www.crcna.org/MinistryShares/ministry-shares-re-imagined

https://network.crcna.org/church-communications/how-bridge-app-can-assist-your-congregation

https://classisontariosw.ca/

https://www.crcna.org/FaithPracticesProject


2. Part of my work with the Connections Project led to some Pastor/Leader Conversations

around the topic of leadership during and coming out of Covid. A month ago, Pastor

Michael Ten Haken and I hosted one for Classis Lake Superior. It was a great time of

thinking about and sharing stories of what leadership in the church has been like over the

past 16+ months. Here are some of the themes that came out of that conversation.

a. What leadership qualities have you had to lean into during Covid?

i. Communication, encouragement, adaptability, sowing unity, empathy

b. What leadership quality will you have to lean into moving forward?

i. Discernment, faith-building, longevity, navigating polarization and

disunity, trauma healing

c. What will be helpful to you moving forward?

i. Individual assessments of what is feasible for a leader to accomplish,

delegation for what is not

ii. Clear and honest communication

iii. Keeping the big picture in front of people

iv. Growing a deep sense of faith and hope

v. Empathy

vi. Individual and institutional trauma assistance

d. Biggest question moving forward?

i. How do we get through the next “second marathon?”

ii. How do we foster healthy, loving conversations within congregations and

the denomination?

3. Upcoming Cohort Learning Opportunities For Your Congregation

a. These virtual learning opportunities will be led by some of my colleagues at Faith

Formation Ministries and myself. They are particularly helpful because they allow

participants to explore innovative, practical, and sustainable ways to help your

church community change and grow. If interested, reach out to me or go to

crcna.org/FaithFormation/cohorts.

i. Learning to Lead Faith Practices: October 2021

1. Learn and experience how Christian practices (spiritual

disciplines) can help your ministry encourage life-giving

transformational faith.

ii. Children’s Ministry - Engaging Children in Worship: January 2022

1. Explore how to support children in moving from observers to

participants in the worshipping community.

iii. The Building Blocks of Faith: January 2022

1. Explore how meeting four spiritual needs can help people of all

ages grow in their faith.

https://www.crcna.org/FaithFormation/cohorts


Again, I’d love to hear from you if you have any questions about anything you’ve read here or

anything else related to faith formation or other denominational resources. If I can’t answer your

question, I’ll connect you to someone who can!

Blessings on your ministry in this next season...

Trudy Ash

Regional Catalyzer with Faith Formation Ministries and Regional Network Connector, Region 5

[email protected]

******************************************

APPENDIX A

Requests for renewal of License to Exhort 1. Rob Braun



2. Wendy Widder-Huisken

3. Jerry Van Someren

agenda - classis lake superior of the christian reformed church

Documents

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