Pioneer Christian Monthly - September, 1985

Editiorial
C. G. Bons

In previous years our General Synod has encouraged the RCA churches to initiate, with the Christian Reformed Church, pulpit exchanges and joint study/discussion groups on the history, common theology and differences in perspective between our two churches; and to provide appropriate background and study documents to congregations which request them. The Commission on Christian Unity was also instructed to invite the CRC to initiate conversations leading to closer cooperation and eventual union.

Such conversations are now taking place in the United States, and also in Canada, between the interchurch Relation's Committee of the Council of the Christian Reformed Church in Canada and our C.R.C.C. At the Reformed Church Centre in Cambridge, we have already met twice this year, in February and in June.

We have established some joint concerns, such as new church development, sharing of our talents and facilities (such as Camp Shalom), facilitating reconciliation and improving interaction for fraternal delegates at Classis meetings.

We have also requested that the C.RC.C. be represented on the Joint Denominational Committee in the U.S.A. Hopefully, we'll organize a joint Council meeting as well at Camp Shalom in November 1987, where the CRC and RCA in Canada would at least have the opportunity to get better acquainted. Also this year, 1985, we hope to be represented at the Council meeting of the Christian Reformed Church in New Westminster, B.C. in the month of November.

I feel it is important for you to know that these conversations aye taking place, and to have the opportunity to respond to these actions. Please write us as to what your views and hopes are, and help us to make these efforts more meaningful.

When you read this issue of Pioneer, the annual meeting of the C. P, C.C. at the Centre Office in Cambridge will already have taken place. In the next issue, I hope to give you more information about the decisions and actions.

Last Spring, Classis Ontario appointed an Ad Hoc Committee of representatives of committees and interested leaders in churches. The task of this Committee was to identify what the major problems in our churches are, and what can be done about them. This Committee has met twice and will meet once more. They looked into such areas as the spirituality of the churches, the efficiency and effectiveness of leadership, the measure of unity and vision for the future. I heard remarks like these:

"the second generation will leave the ethnic church"

"our churches are too conventional, almost grim and unhappy looking."

"the young people are not excited ... in youth work many hard working people are lost, because the initiative is taken away"

"Classis meetings are too boring; more time should be allowed for spirituality ... let the committee handle all those dry items of business" - The Executive Committee of Classis was requested to change the format of Classis meetings.

"our church has no clear goal"

A suggestion was made that all churches develop a concept of ministry with goals and objectives.

The following resolution was adopted: 1. Since we are the living body of Jesus Christ, we will, with God's gracious help inspire the congregations which we represent, and our Classis to increase their faith, hope, joy and dedication to our Lord Jesus Christ. 2. We also will commit ourselves to be flexible, yet firm, be tolerant and much in prayer. 3. We recommend that these above ideas will be gradually adopted and promoted. 4. We suggest that a church work in one area, or on part of a congregation which may inspire the whole.

What do you think about the state of the church, and how do you think the church will be able to overcome her problems?

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