Main Index Table of Contents Article 1-50 Article 51-94 Article 95 -105 Article 106-130  Appendix I Appendix II Appendix III Appendix IV Appendix V Appendix VI Appendix VII Appendix VIII

 

Synod is adjourned for committee work.
 

AFTERNOON SESSION - MONDAY, MAY 22,1995

The chairman reopens the meeting. Roll call is held and shows that all members of Synod are present.

Agenda items VIII. F 1 - 8

1. MATERIAL

A. Nominations for the Board of Governors from Regional Synod East November16-17, 1994 and Regional Synod West December 6-7, 1994

B. Report of Board of Governors to General Synod 1995

C. Report of the Board of Governors (Finance and Property Committee) to General Synod 1995

D. Report from the Board of Governors on Tenure Policy

E. Submission from the Board of Governors re Possible Expansion of College facilities.

F. Report to the Board of Governors by the Publication Foundation

G. Letters from the churches at Chilliwack, Watford, Neerlandia, Elora, Houston, Burlington-East and Guelph.

II. OBSERVATIONS

A. With respect to the appointments to the Board of Governors Synod observes:

1 . The Board of Governors recommends that Synod "appoint, elect or reappoint six active ministers to hold office until the next General Synod and to appoint at least three substitutes from each Regional Synod area."

2. Regional Synod East November 16-17, 1994 nominated the following ministers to serve as Governors of the Theological College: D.G.J. Agema, W. den Hollander, P.G. Feenstra; alternates (in order): G. Nederveen, R Aasman and C. Bosch.

3. Regional Synod West December 6-7, 1994 nominated the following ministers to serve as Governors of the Theological College: R. Aasman, C. VanSpronsen, J. Visscher; alternates (in order): J. Moesker, P.K.A. DeBoer and R.A. Schouten.

4. The Report of the Board of Governors makes the following recommendation with regard to the Governors who will serve on the Finance and Property Committee:

a. to re-appoint the brs. K.J. Veldkamp and A. Van Egmond as Governors for a term from the date of their re-appointment until the first General Synod held after the date of their re-appointment;

b. to re-appoint br. H.J. Sloots as a Governor for a term from the date of his re-appointment until the second General Synod held after the date of his re-appointment;

c. to appoint the brs. M. Kampen of Burlington and J. VanderWoude from Hamilton as Governors for a term from the date of their appointment until the third General Synod held after the date of their appointment (with as alternates the brs. F. Stoffels of Hamilton and L. Jagt of Burlington, in that order).

1. The Board notes with great thankfulness that the work in the College could continue unhindered during the past two and a half years. The Board itself could meet regularly. Also the professors and students enjoyed health and strength so that the instruction at the College could continue without major interruptions. The Twenty-Fifth Anniversary of the College was remembered on the Convocation in September 1994.

2. The Board expresses thankfulness for the substantial help which the College continues to receive from the sister churches in Australia. It is noted that support is witnessed in the students who come from Australia, financial contributions and prayers by our Australian sister churches.

3. The Board reports with thankfulness that the professors are faithful in teaching their courses. At times guest lecturers were invited. The bond between the College and churches is strengthened by having one professor visit the churches in the West on a yearly basis.

4. On December 18, 1993 the Board organized an "Open House" for Prof. and Mrs. J. Geertsema on the occasion of their thirtieth wedding anniversary and Prof. Geertsema's thirtieth anniversary in the ministry.

5. It is noted that on March 4, 1993 the Lord took Prof. L. Selles to Himself. The Board remembers with thankfulness the work of Prof. Selles as one of the first professors at the College. The Board also remembers with thankfulness the work of Prof. Drs. H.M. Ohmann who retired in 1993 from his position as professor at the Theological University at Kampen.

6. On September 10, 1993 the principalship of the College was transferred from Dr. C. Van Dam to Prof. J. Geertsema. The Board recommends that Synod appoint "Prof. Dr. N.H. Gootjes as Principal for the period of September 1996 to September 1999, and to designate Prof. Dr. J. DeJong as Principal for the years 1999 to 2002, the Lord willing. The transfer of principalship will take place the day after the Convocation in 1996."

7. Regular visits were made by the Governors to the lectures at the College. The Board reports with thankfulness that the work at the College is done in faithfulness to the Word of God and in harmony with our Reformed Confessions.

8. In response to a Survey/Questionnaire sent out to all former students at the College, the Board made the following decision in September 1994:
to appoint a study committee consisting of the Principal, the Professor of Diaconioiogy and two members of the Academic Committee to

a. evaluate moving from the present history-oriented approach to a more practice-oriented approach in certain courses in the diaconiological department;

b. consider the suggestions from the ministers and churches regarding the practical aspect of the training (for example, catechism teaching, speaking an edifying word, involving experienced ministers and quest lecturers, the use of workshops and seminars).

10. Miss Margaret VanderVelde was hired as full time associate librarian to speed up the transfer of the cataloguing of books to the Library of Congress system. The Senate appointed Miss Margaret VanderVelde to the function of Librarian, and Dr. N.H. Gootjes to the function of Associate Librarian.

11. The Women's Saving Action supplies the main source of income for purchasing new books. This work of the Women's Saving Action is greatly appreciated.

12. The Board reports that the growth of the College Library necessitates more room. Currently the library consists of 162 book cases and these are filled to capacity. The Board mentions that although according to the Incorporating Act of the College, the Board can act unilaterally regarding the acquisition and conversion of property, still it seeks advice and direction from Synod. A proposal is added to the Report which has been prepared by the Finance and Property Committee which outlines possible expansion of the present facilities. The Board requests a mandate from Synod with regard to future expansion of the College facilities.

In an enclosed submission from the Board of Governors, two alternative plans are described. The first plan (A) contemplates a two-level addition which would be added as an entirely separate wing, providing the College with approximately 8377 additional square feet of space. This would include not only library space and 540 book cases, but also faculty and staff lounge, chapel/large meeting room, handicapped washrooms on two levels, and better supervision of the library itself. The cost of this plan is estimated at $848,750.00, excluding furniture, bookcases, fixtures, etc. The second plan (B) contemplates a two-level addition which would be immediately adjacent to the existing library, providing the College with approximately 3177 additional square feet of space. This would increase library space and facilities and allow 344 bookcases. The cost of this plan is estimated at $397,000.00. Plan A is the preferred proposal by the Board of Governors.

13. In response to a request by General Synod 1992, the Board asked the Faculty to prepare a Report on Tenure Policy. This Report is submitted by the Board to Synod. The Board proposes that the suggestions of the Faculty be adopted by Synod 1995 as the policy for tenure for professors at the College. The suggested policy on tenure is as follows:
a. Definition

The granting of tenure means that a professor's teaching responsibilities at the Theological College continue indefinitely.

In accepting tenure, a professor indicates a commitment to continue to meet the academic standards and to strive for excellence in his discipline. Should this not be the case, the Board of Governors would need to decide whether the status of tenure should be revoked and the professor in question dismissed.

The following criteria are important in the granting of tenure:

i. The educational background and formal academic upgrading desirable and necessary) Of the Professor. He should be equipped and continue to equip himself to furnish scholarly lectures.

ii. The lectures must not only be faithful to the Scriptures and be confessionaily sound, but must also be scholarly.

iii. The professor must be able to communicate his discipline in atisfactory manner.

iv. The professor must enjoy the respect of his colleagues and of the students.

v. The professor must exhibit the ability to respond to student feedback and colleague input for improving his courses or method of teaching

vi. The professor must give evidence of his scholarship through pub cations, public lectures and participation in activities, especially within the Canadian Reformed community.

i. By January 1 of the year in which a Synod will be held, the faculty member involved will submit to the Academic Dean an up-to-date activity list (or curriculum vitae) as well as written self-evaluation, in which he also notes, for example, his contributions to the Theological College.

ii. Keeping in mind the target date of six years from the initial appointment, the Academic Committee of the Board of Governors will carefully monitor classroom reports as submitted by the academic governors, as well as input from the academic dean (who will pass on appropriate evaluations from colleagues and also have access to student evaluations). The faculty member involved will be kept fully informed.

iii. Before the Synod that is to deal with the granting of the tenure, the academic committee will propose the granting of tenure to the Board of Governors for adoption by the full Board.

iv. This proposal will go to the next Synod for implementation, i.e., that is that Synod direct the Board of Governors to grant tenure to the professor involved.

15. The Publication Foundation submits a report of its activities. The following projects are on their way: a book containing speeches on the liberation a book on Dr. K. Schilder, a book on Reformed Church polity and a book on Redemptive Historical preaching.

16. In keeping with the Sabbatical Policy adopted by Synod 1992, the Board has in principle approved a request by Dr. C. Van Dam for research leave for part of 1996.

C. Regarding matters pertaining to the property and finances, the Board reports

1 . The Finance and Property Committee met regularly. These meetings were attended by the current Principal and the College's administration assistance, Miss Catharine Mechelse. The term of brother A.L. Vanderhout expired in November, 1992. Br. H.J. Sloots was appointed as his replacement. The Committee mentions that the insight, leadership and contribution of brother Vanderhout will be missed.

2. The College building has been well maintained. The Committee is made aware of the fact that there will soon be a shortage of space for the College library.

3. The salaries of all professors have been reviewed and increased annually, based on the prescribed formula. At the present time one retired professor is supported. The salaries of the staff have been reviewed and where appropriate, increased.

4. The churches continue to support the College faithfully. Special appreciation is expressed for the healthy contributions from our sister churches in Australia.

5. Audited statements of years ending May 31, 1993 and May 31, 1994 are included as appendices. The Board recommends Synod "to consider the audited financial statements and the report of the Auditors for the previous fiscal periods; to relieve the Treasurer of the Board of all responsibilities for these fiscal periods; and to appoint sr. A. Spithoff C.A. as Auditor till next General Synod.

6. Tuition fees for students have been set and approved by the Board of Governors.

7. Based on the College financial budgets, assessments per communicant member are set at $61.00 for the period commencing January 1, 1994 a $63.00 for the period commencing January 1, 1995. Sabbaticals are taken into consideration by the latest budget.

The following letters all address the proposed addition to the Theological College.

1 . The church at Chilliwack proposes that due to the late submission of the Report of Governors, Synod not make a decision at this time and so give the churches more time for input. Chilliwack also recommends finding alternative storage for books not used very often.

2. The church at Watford requests that costs for the proposed addition be kept as low as possible, especially with a view to the financial burden a large increase in assessment would be to small churches.

3. The church at Neerlandia underlines that the Board of Governors is directly responsible to the churches with respect to property acquisition and conversion. Neerlandia indicates not being in favour of the proposed expansion of College facilities. Apart from the matter of the proposed addition, the letter from the church at Neerlandia also makes mention that reports by governors on the lectures should include an evaluation of teaching methods and these should be reported also to the teachers themselves. Neerlandia further indicates that due to financial constraints, the churches would be better served if only governors from the East do the visiting of the lectures.

4. The church at Elora approves the proposed expansion. However, Elora does question the need for a large expansion and urges Synod to consider the burden that the "preferred proposal" of the Governors would lay on the churches.

5. The church at Houston recognizes the needs of the College but a same time points out that it would be a tremendous financial burden if proposed expansion would be funded by an increase in assessment Houston recommends other avenues of financing if they are available.

6. The church at Burlington-East does not support the request to expand College library at this time. The churches have not been given enough to evaluate the request. Burlington-East overtures Synod, "to set up independent committee to study and evaluate the present and future needs of the library and the College as a whole and to report to the churches their finding no later than six months prior to the next General Synod."

7. The church at Guelph expresses concern that the estimates of library expansion do not take into consideration furniture, fixtures, Guelph surmises that the real capital costs could be approximately to 30% higher.

A. In accordance with section 3.04 (a) of By-Law Number 1 (as amended by ByLaw Number 3), the General Synod shall appoint or re-appoint six active ministers to the Board of Governors.

B. In accordance with By-Law Number 1, section 3.04 (b), the General Synod shall appoint or re-appoint five brothers who are not ministers.

C. On the basis of the reports received, Synod considers that the affairs of the Theological College are being well managed by the Faculty and the Board of Governors, composed of the Academic Committee and the Finance and Property Committee.

D. With respect to the Theological College expansion proposal, it is proper that the Board of Governors approached Synod for a mandate regarding future expansion. Based on the evidence submitted by the Board of Governors regarding the growth and future needs of the library and other College functions, it is clear that an expansion of the College facilities is warranted. Considering that the submission of the proposal came late to the churches, the cost considerations are of a major concern to the churches, the proposals have incomplete cost estimates and it is not evident that the expansion is required immediately, it is therefore advisable that the Board of Governors study and prepare a more detailed and definite proposal. This proposal should indicate how this project can be financed from sources and means other than the regular assessment so that it does not unnecessarily burden the churches. A proposal should be submitted to the churches and the next Synod at least six months before the next Synod.

E. Synod considers that the Report on Tenure Policy submitted by the Board of Governors fulfils the instruction of Synod 1992. It would be advisable to adopt the proposed policy on tenure so that in the future all faculty members will be treated alike in regards to the matter of tenure.

F. Synod considers that the Board of Governors is correct in concluding that if the Publication Committee carries the official name of the College then the Board of Governors bears a certain responsibility for the Committee. Therefore if the Publication Committee feels this leads to difficulties, then there is the option to incorporate a separate Publication Foundation.

G. The concern of the church at Neerlandia, that the Governors' reports on the teaching methods of professors are submitted also to the professors is covered by the new tenure policy. As for their concern about the cost of having Governors from the West attend lectures, it should be kept in mind that the cost is minimal, and that it is necessary to maintain this practice in order to do justice to the responsibility laid also on the churches from the West.

IV. RECOMMENDATIONS

Synod decide

A. To appoint as Governors of the Theological College the following active ministers and their substitutes:

From Eastern Canada:
D.G.J. Agema, W. den Hollander, P.G. Feenstra; alternates (in order): G. Nederveen, P. Aasman and C. Bosch.

From Western Canada:
R. Aasman, C. VanSpronsen, J. Visscher; alternates (in order): J. Moesker, P.K.A. DeBoer and R.A. Schouten.

C. To express its sincere gratitude for the work done by the retiring Governors:
Rev. B.J. Berends, br. H. Buist and br. C.G. Heeringa.

D. To express gratitude, that the work at the Theological College continues without interruption and that all instruction is given in harmony with the Word of God and in agreement with the Confessions of the Canadian Reformed Churches.

E. To express thankfulness for the work done by Prof. L. Selles who passed away on March 4,1993.

F. To appoint Prof. Dr. N.H. Gootjes as Principal for the period of Sept. 1996 to Sept. 1999, and to designate Prof. Dr. J. DeJong as Principal for the period of 1999 to 2002. The transfer of principalship will take place the day after the convocation in 1996.

G. To approve all decisions and actions of the Board and of its committees for the years 1992, 1993, 1994 and 1995 until the day of the Board's report.

H. To adopt the suggestions of the Faculty regarding a Tenure Policy as the policy asked for by General Synod 1992.

I. To direct the Board of Governors to study and prepare a more detailed and definite proposal for the expansion of College facilities, and seek the possibility of financing this project without increasing the assessment to the churches. A proposal should be submitted to the churches and the next Synod at least six months before the next Synod.

J. To recommend to the Board of Governors to give the Publication Committee the option to incorporate separately.

K. To acknowledge gratefully the work for our Theological College by the
Women's Saving Action.

L. To express gratitude to the Board of Governors, the Faculty and Senate and
the Staff and volunteers for all their labours for the Theological College.

M. To express gratitude to the churches in Canada, the United States and Australia for their faithful and regular support of the Theological College.

N. To consider the audited financial statements and the report of the Auditors for' the previous fiscal periods; to relieve the Treasurer of the Board of all responsibilities for these fiscal periods; and to appoint sister A. Spithoff C.A. as Auditor till next General Synod.

Committee Ill presents:
Agenda items: VIII. A. 18, 20, C. 3, 24, 40, D. 10
The Committee takes its proposal back for further consideration.

EVENING SESSION - MONDAY, MAY 22,1995

Reopening

The chairman reopens the meeting. He asks all present to sing Psalm 17 : 1, 2, 3. Roll
call shows that all members of Synod are present.

Committee Ill presents:

Agenda items: VIII. A. 18, 20, C. 3, 24, 40, D. 10.
 

1. MATERIAL
 

A. Report CRCA
B. Letter from the church at London, re: Rules for Ecclesiastical Fellowship
C. Letter from the church at Guelph, re: CRCA
D. Letter from the church at Houston, re: CRCA
E. Letter from the church at Fergus, re: CRCA
F. Appeal from Rev. P. Kingma and br. T. Kingma re: Ecclesiastical Contact ICRC
II. Re: FCS and PCK

A. OBSERVATIONS

1. The Mandate of the CRCA regarding the Free Church of Scotland(FCS) was
a. to offer the FCS, including the FCS congregations in Canada, a relationship of Ecclesiastical Fellowship under the adopted rules;

b. to charge the CRCA to convey to the FCS the decision of Synod 1992, and to advise the churches and Synod 1995 of the response of the FCS.

2. The CIRCA reports
a. The FCS was informed of the decision of 1992. At the Assembly of 1993 the FCS accepted with gladness the relationship of Ecclesiastical Fellowship with the Canadian Reformed Churches in accordance with the agreed upon Rules.

b. From its work the CRCA considers that the FCS continues to be faithful to the Word of God, to its confessional standards and to its church government.
 
3. The CRCA recommends to continue the relationship of Ecclesiastical Fellowship with the FCS in accordance with the adopted rules.

4. The church at Houston requests Synod to mandate the Committee to investigate and so determine whether or not the same divergencies which exist between the OPC and the Canadian Reformed Churches also exist between the FCS and Canadian Reformed Churches and between the PCK and the Canadian Reformed Churches. The CRCA must inform the CCOPC, as well as the churches, concerning their finding before the next Synod.

5. The church at Fergus suggests to suspend Ecclesiastical Fellowship with the FCS so that clarification can be obtained as regard the allegations that have been made by the CEIR of the OPC regarding free masons.

6. The mandate to the CRCA re: the Presbyterian Church of Korea (PCK)
was

a. to inform the PCK of our acceptance of their request for Ecclesiastical Fellowship using the adopted rules;

b. to formalize this relationship in a manner satisfactory to both church federations;

c. to inform the churches and to report to the next General Synod on the relationship with the PCK.
 

7. The CRCA reports regarding the PCK
a. The PCK was informed of the decision of General Synod 1992. The relationship of Ecclesiastical Fellowship was formalized on September 2, 1993.

b. The PCK suggests that one way to make this relationship more effective would be through an exchange of professors. The CIRCA considers that Synod should give this proper consideration.
 
8. The CIRCA recommends that Ecclesiastical Fellowship be continued withthe PCK in accordance with the accepted Rules.

1. Synod notes with thankfulness the report of the CRCA that both the FCS and the PCK accepted the relationship of Ecclesiastical Fellowship with the Canadian Reformed Churches.

2. On the basis of the information provided by the CRCA in its report, Synod gratefully concludes that the FCS and PCK are faithful to the Word of God, their confessions and Church Orders.

3. The CRCA has fulfilled its mandate regarding our EcclesiasticalFellowshipwith these churches.

4. The churches of Houston and Fergus suggest that the CRCA investigate the FCS and PCK with regard to certain practices. They do not give proof warranting the need for an investigation.

5. With regard to the suggested exchange of professors between Hamilton Pusan, Synod considers that it is a matter which the CRCA should further investigate, in consultation with the Board of Governors, as to its feasibility

Synod decide

1 . To thank the CRCA for its work done since 1992.

2. To continue a relationship of Ecclesiastical Fellowship with the Church of Scotland and the Presbyterian Church in Korea in accord with the adopted Rules.

3.To mandate the CRCA to investigate the suggested exchange of professors between Hamilton and Pusan.

A. OBSERVATIONS

1. Regarding the Reformed Church in the United States (RCUS) the CRCA was mandated to investigate the RCUS with a view to entering into a relationship of Ecclesiastical Fellowship, making use of the findings of the church at Carman.
2. Regarding the RCUS the CRCA reports

a. that the RCUS was informed of the decision of General Synod 1992;

b. that an exchange of observers took place;

c. that the CRCA studied in detail the Constitution of the RCUS.

4. Regarding the Reformed Church in Zaire (RCZ) the CRCA reports

a. that the RCZ asked for close relations with the Canadian Reform Churches;

b. that information was exchanged. At this moment the CIRCA is still awaiting additional information from other sources.

5. The CIRCA recommends that it be mandated to continue the investigation re RCZ and report to the next General Synod.

a. the RPCGA asked that ecclesiastical contact be established between the RCPGA and the Canadian Reformed Churches;

b. the CRCA asked for more information. At this moment no more information has come in.

8. The church at Fergus requests that the CIRCA apply less haste in their endeavour to establish a relationship with the RPCGA.

B. CONSIDERATIONS

1. Regarding the RCUS the CRCA has been faithful in fulfilling its mandate, but could not complete it. The CRCA should be mandated to continue the contact with the RCUS.

2. Synod appreciates the cautious approach of the CIRCA towards the requests of the RCZ and the RPCGA. This caution is in line with the requests of the church at Fergus.

3. The mandate of the CRCA allows the CRCA to continue investigating the requests of these churches. General Synod does not need to make a separate decision in this regard.

Synod decide

1. To continue the mandate regarding the Reformed Church in the United States: "to investigate the RCUS with a view to entering into a relationship of Ecclesiastical Fellowship, making use of the findings of the church at Carman."

2. To report on this to the churches at least six months prior to the next General Synod, and to the next General Synod.

IV. ICRC

A. OBSERVATIONS

1. The CRCA's mandate regarding the ICRC

a. that the Canadian Reformed Churches be represented at the next meeting of the ICRC;

b. that the CRCA report to the next Synod, as well as to the churches, giving a report and evaluation of the ICRC, Zwolle, the Netherlands (D.V.) 1993.

2. The CRCA reports that

a. The delegates attended the ICRC in Zwolle. The CRCA gives positive evaluation of this meeting. The ICRC provides an excellent forum for sharing experience and knowledge.

b. The FRCA have submitted a proposal to amend Art. Ill, sub 1 of the ICRC Constitution. The FRCA proposes to change the statement "to express and promote the unity of faith that the members churches have in Christ" to 'to express and promote unity in the reformed faith which the member churches confess."

c. The CRCA considers that the decision of Synod 1992 on the ICRC indicate that the Canadian Reformed Churches are satisfied with the present formulation and therefore the CRCA recommends that no further changes be entertained and supported.

d. The CRCA recommended the Free Reformed Churches of North America (FRCNA) and the RCUS for membership in the ICRC. There is a question whether this was necessary according to the Constitution of the ICRC.

a. that the Canadian Reformed Churches continue to participate in the ICRC and to report to Synod 1998 containing its findings and evaluation;

b. that the Canadian Reformed Churches be represented at the next meeting of the Conference scheduled to take place in Korea during the month of August in the year of our Lord 1997;

c. that Dr. J. Visscher and Rev. C. VanSpronsen be sent as voting delegates and that in view of his familiarity with the language and customs of Korea, Dr. N.H. Gootjes be appointed as advisor.

5. The church at Fergus requests Synod not to adopt the CRCA's recommendation regarding delegation to the ICRC, but to send retired ministers and elders.

6. The church at Houston suggests to regularly rotate the delegations sent to meetings of the ICRC and meetings with other churches with whom we are in contact or fellowship.

B. CONSIDERATIONS

1. The CRCA is to be thanked for fulfilling its mandate with regard to the ICRC

2. With regard to the proposal of the FRCA the CRCA is correct in its consideration that this matter should not be supported.

3. The church at Guelph is correct that the CRCA should not have supported the request of the FRCNA and the RCUS. The letters of support state more than our Synods have decided with regard to these churches. These letters could pre-empt the discussion with these churches.

4. The suggestion of the church at Houston is a valuable suggestion. rotate delegation from within and outside of the CRCA will enhance the experience of others. The CRCA will do well to keep this in mind in future recommendations. With respect to the suggestion of Houston to do the same to meetings with other churches with whom we are in contact, Synod considers that such a practice would hamper the functioning and continuity of the synodical committees.

Synod decide

1 . That the Canadian Reformed Churches continue to participate in the ICRC and report to Synod 1998 its findings and evaluation.

2. That the Canadian Reformed Churches be represented at the next meeting of the Conference scheduled to take place in Korea during the month of August in the year of our Lord 1997;

3. That Rev. C. VanSpronsen and Dr. N. H. Gootjes be sent as voting delegates

A. OBSERVATIONS

1. The CRCA reports that it issued declarations to several ministers who travelled abroad. It also published several reports and articles in Clarion.

2. The church at Guelph objects to the fact that the CRCA used Clarion to inform the churches of various matters. It contends that this is incorrect since Clarion is not an official publication of the Canadian Reformed Churches. In Guelph's opinion the CRCA should have notified all the consistories by letter.

3. Guelph also questions the practice of issuing declarations for ministers who are travelling abroad, because in its mandate the CRCA does not receive authorization for this practice.

B. CONSIDERATIONS

1. The church at Guelph is correct that, when the CRCA is mandated to report to the churches, a notice in Clarion does not suffice. The CRCA should also send a letter to the churches.

2. The Rules for Ecclesiastical Fellowship 4 & 5 imply the practice of issuing declarations for ministers who are travelling abroad. The CRCA does not need a specific authorization for this practice.

VI. MANDATE

A. OBSERVATIONS

1. The CRCA recommends the following mandate:

a. to investigate all the requests received for entering into ecclesiastical fellowship;

b. to respond, if possible and feasible, to specific requests made to attend Assemblies, Synods, or meeting of other churches;

c. to report on its findings with suitable recommendations, to the next General Synod.

2. The church at Guelph requests a more focussed mandate for the CRCA as far as responding to new requests for Ecclesiastical Fellowship is concerned. Guelph's suggests that priority should be given to relations with churches in the Americas.

3. The church at Houston proposes to adopt a policy of concentrating primarily on investigating and contacting North American churches.

Concerning the requests from Guelph and Houston, Synod refers to the consideration III.C. of Art. 112, of the Acts of General Synod 1992.

Synod decide to give the CRCA the following mandate:

1 . to investigate all the requests received for entering into Ecclesiastical Fellowship;

2. to respond, if possible and feasible, to specific requests made to attend Assemblies, Synods, or meetings of other churches;

3. to report on its findings with suitable recommendations to the next General Synod.

A. OBSERVATION

The church at London makes several proposals with regard to the current Rules for Ecclesiastical Fellowship.

The Rules for Ecclesiastical Fellowship have been adopted by General Synod 1992. In order to change these Rules, the church at London must prove that the current Rules are against Scripture, Confession or the Church Order. London does not do this. Therefore Synod cannot deal with this.

Synod decide not to grant the request of London.

A. OBSERVATIONS

1. Rev. and br. T. Kingma urge Synod to reverse a trend, which in their opinion, can be traced from Synod to Synod, and which was confirmed at Synod 1992

a. by terminating the relationship of Ecclesiastical Fellowship the C/ARCs have established with the FRCS^ FRCA, RCN and by returning to the Rules for Sister church correspondence as adopted by Synod 1962;

b. by terminating the relationship of Ecclesiastical Fellowship the C/ARCs have established with the PCK and FCS;

c. by terminating our membership of the ICRC.

a. that Synod 1992 changed the Rules without proving that the old rules were unscriptural. They state that new rules were put in practice with the purpose of establishing the possibility of intercommunion and pulpit exchange with churches with which the unity of the faith is missing;

b. that the Canadian Reformed Churches do not have the unity of the faith with these churches seeing that they have the Westminster Confession;

c. that within the ICRC this unity of the faith is missing as well.

1. The rules adopted by Synod 1992 are not different in principle, but a new formulation of the old rules. The appellants fail to prove that the new rules are against the Scriptures, the Confession or the Church Order.

2. As to relationships with churches that maintain the Westminster Standards, this matter will be dealt with in connection with several appeals yet before this assembly.

Synod decide to deny the appeal of Rev. P. Kingma and br. T. Kingma.

IX. FINANCES

A. OBSERVATIONS

1. Synod 1992 instructed the CRCA to submit a financial statement and a budget to this Synod.

2. The CRCA submits a financial statement for the period 1993-1994 and a budget for 1995-1998.

3. In the period 1993-1994 the CRCA spent $ 14,052.98. The proposed budget is $ 12,000.00.

Synod decide to adopt the following budget for the CRCA:
 

ICRC (fees)	2,500.00
Meeting of ICRC	3,000.00
Meeting RCUS	1,500.00
Miscellaneous	3,000.00
Total	$10,000.00

 

Contact with the OPC

Committee I presents its proposal. After discussion the Committee takes the report back once more for further consideration.

Elder T. VanPopta requests that Psalm 124 A - 3 be sung and leads in prayer of thanksgiving. The chairman adjourns the meeting.
 

MORNING SESSION - TUESDAY, MAY 23,1995

The chairman reopens the meeting. He requests the Psalm 18: 1, 2 be sung and reads from Scripture Ephesians 6: 1 - 9 and leads in prayer. Roll call is held. All members of Synod are present. He welcomes Grade 6 of the John Calvin School in Yarrow.

The Acts, Articles 93 - 103 are read and adopted.

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