Tentative Report of the Special Synod Meeting

(continued from the July issue of the Banner of Truth)

The continuation of the special Synod meeting at the Covell Avenue church took place under the clouded circumstances of the morning session. As a consequence of these events Elder J. Van Brugge of Norwich filled the vacancy in the delegates, and a number of appointments were made in order that committees could continue to function. It was also agreed that a letter of explanation should be made available for the delegates to take with them for their respective congregations. Suggestions were made as to its contents, and it was then put into writing by the clerks, presented to the delegates verbally, and their approval given.

Attention was then given to the remaining items on the agenda. Regarding the consideration of divorced office-bearers, after much discussion, it was unanimously agreed that as a general rule a divorced officebearer can no longer serve in office or be eligible for office.

There was a request from Classis Mid-West that Synod establish a fund to help pay moving expenses if ministers from the Netherlands accept a call to this side of the ocean. However, it was decided that in case help was needed, the particular Classis should be approached for this financial assistance.

Classis Far-West had requested a study of the issue as to when the soul enters an unborn child, since this question had arisen at a recent young peoples’ camp-out. Rather than appoint a study group, Dr. L. Willekes of Sioux Center was requested to write an article about this subject for publication in the Banner of Truth.

The Deputies of Foreign Churches from the Netherlands advised the Synod to reappoint three consistory members from the Crescent Street congregation as a lawful continuation of that consistory. There were three who had not concurred with the action of that consistory, and these indicated their desire to maintain their congregation with the denomination and under the Synodical decision. This had been spoken about earlier in the afternoon, with a decision to not take this step. However, after further discussion it was agreed to reappoint them to their respective offices in order to give continuity to the congregation.

A committee was appointed to report to the next Synod, D.V., regarding the subject of “Living Wills.” The members of the committee appointed were Rev. H. Hofman, Elder N. Greendyk, Elder Dr. L. Willekes, and Dr. T. Blok.

Synodical expenses were to be prorated among the congregations. The Lord willing, Lethbridge will be the calling church for the next Synod, which would meet in Grand Rapids next June.

Before closing, the Deputies of Foreign Churches from the Netherlands advised that the moderamen be given a mandate to serve as an interim committee to deal with matters which could arise in the month ahead regarding denominational concerns.

The president of the Synod, Rev. Den Hoed, then made a few closing remarks, reiterating the sad and difficult events of these days, but expressing the wish that our eyes may be upon the Lord, who governs all things. He again thanked the representatives from the Netherlands for their attendance and advice, and wished them a safe journey to their families and congregations. Rev. Spaans expressed appreciation to the president for work in presiding at the meeting, requested the singing of Psalter 221, and closed with prayer.

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