Editorial Page

Tomolynn Torrance

To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven. . . Ecclesiastes 3: 1 NKJ

Change is not always a comfortable state. Some people enter into it kicking and screaming; others rush into it with enthusiasm. The former may suffer some anxiety. If the change is sudden or extreme, they may also deal with shock. The latter seem to take even the most unexpected changes in their stride and to make the transition smoothly.

When we remember those who left their homelands at the end of the second world war to begin new lives in Canada, we may wonder at their courage and their ability to face change with an open heart and, for some, a clear head.

When I think about the changes that have taken place in my lifetime, I am sometimes surprised at how I came through them. The career that I was preparing for is not the one with which I ended up. And who knows in advance where they will end up living or what kind of family they will have? I certainly didn’t.

The road may be clear and smooth as far as we can see, but we cannot see over the next hill or around the corner. The only thing we can be certain of is that change happens.

As Christians, we have some assurances: God knows the road ahead for each of His children, and He prepares us for what is coming. When God calls us to follow a certain road, it is for a reason, and He will give us the strength and the skills to match the task. With this assurance, we can face change in whatever form it comes.

To everything there is a season, A time for every purpose under heaven. . .

The Pioneer (Pioneer Christian Monthly) was established almost 50 years ago to assist RCA members across Canada to adjust and to be strong together in Jesus Christ. Its early issues were printed in the Dutch language. Over time, as change made its mark, and as the needs of its readers changed, English became the language of The Pioneer.

Now, it seems, the need for The Pioneer is gone. Under the direction of the Regional Synod of Canada, the next issue (Winter 1999) will be the final issue.

Your support over many years, or in recent times, has been invaluable, and for this we offer our heartfelt thanks. Being a part of this magazine has been a blessing.

As plans are already being made for the content of the last issue, we invite your thoughts and feelings. These, with your consent, will be published in that issue. If you wish to participate in this sharing of memories and support, please submit your notes and letters by October 5, 1999.

Keep the members of the editorial committee and the Regional Synod of Canada in your prayers as they adjust to change and follow the roads that have been set before them.