Report of Classis Hamilton meeting: September 16, 2008
One of things we do
to begin Classis Hamilton meetings is to have the host church lead opening
devotions. On behalf of Faith CRC, Kevin DeRaaf presented a meditation “God has
Come to Help His People” and shared with us how Faith CRC is living out their
call to be “people together on a journey” within the Burlington area.
The examination of Jeff Vandermeer began shortly after our time of worship. When
a candidate completes the seminary portion of their education, Classis examines
some of the main elements of pastoral ministry: Personal and Pastoral Identity,
Preaching and Worship, and Biblical and Theological position. At the end of the
examination there was a unanimous motion to admit Jeff Vandermeer into the
office of Minister of the Word in the Christian Reformed Church of North
America.
Another significant part of the day is spent connecting with the committees,
ministries and organizations within Classis. Here are some highlights:
Ruth Visser reported on the finances of Classis. Cash flow issues continue to be a challenge. Churches are encouraged to make their ministry shares in regular payments, with a preferred minimum frequency of 4 times a year or more.
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of the CRCNA, Arie Van Eek reported some challenges in gathering ministry shares for our church’s denominational ministry. At the halfway point of the year, 6 churches had not made any contributions, 5 churches were at or above 25% of what they had promised for the year, and 3 churches were somewhere between 5 and 15% of their yearly support.
John Verbinnen made a presentation on the work of the Ontario Christian Gleaners. They have begun their ministry of collecting surplus fruit and vegetables, drying them, and turning them into soup packets that can be go towards the needs of relief efforts worldwide. They are looking for a steady stream of individuals and groupings of people to serve through this ministry. Contact John Verbinnen at 905-659-7366.
Tim Sheridan shared about the New Hope Church which ministers within the context of east Hamilton. They are excited that they have been able to live out their name (New Hope) in their local neighbourhood. Many people who have had no experience with the church are becoming part of the community. Please continue to pray for the adjustments that changing circumstances, growth and new opportunities bring.
Some of the members of the Living Mosaic were affected by the large (9 family) fire in Burlington. Contact Pastor Kevin DeRaaf or Pastor Leo Gatotos to help with this need.
Classis Hamilton youth services have been planned for this church season. There will be 11 services between September of 2008 and June of 2009, generally 3 or 4 weeks apart. See the Classis website at www.classishamilton.ca for dates and times of these services.
The churches of Classis Hamilton agreed to cover the costs a prayer coordinator would incur while encouraging and enhancing the practice of prayer and intercession within Classis.
Classis adopted the following vision statement: "Classis Hamilton Exists to be used by God to renew the greater Hamilton region through a gospel movement of healthy and vibrant churches, ministries, and members."
The Classical Ministries Team presented a revised structure of Classis which was adopted. This is the beginning of a change in the way Classis conducts ministry and meetings in the years to come.
The overture to
re-examine the practice of May evening meetings of Classis was referred to the
CLT.
Submitted by Pastor Jeff Janssen