Highlights

Of the May 11, 2004 meeting of Classis Chatham

 

Opening devotions were led by Rev. Richard VanderVaart of the host church

         Wallaceburg and included some inspirational singing by the delegates. The

         Theme of the Day was “Assurance That Is Ours in Christ.”

All the organized churches of Classis Chatham, 26 in total, were present.

        Deacons also were present for this meeting and 21 first time delegates.

        Rev. Norman Visser, pastor elect of the Ingersoll CRC, was seated by motion.

Chairman for the day was the pastor of Wallaceburg, Rev. Richard

       VanderVaart with Vice-Chairman Rev. Darrell Edgar pastor of the Windsor

       Ambassador CRC.

New members appointed to the London Campus Ministry Committee were

        Tom Posthumus, Willemina Zwart and Lynne Thorvardson.

A recommendation that classis endorse a $500.00 donation by each church in

        classis for the work of missionary Rev. Gerald Hogeterp in Nigeria was

        approved.

A proposal for Classis’ next meeting be held on Saturday, September 11, 2004 carried.

        John DenHarder was appointed for another 3 year term on the Finance Committee.

The Denominational ministry shares submitted by the churches in Classis

        Chatham were on average 60% of total. Churches are urged to increase their

        giving to 100%.

Several requests for Students Loans were approved.

       Classis’ Youth coordinator, Steve VanMeekeren, informed the delegates on the

       various programs available for the Y.P. in classis. Participation in the All Ontario

       Youth Convention to be held in Ottawa promises to better than ever.

Rev. Albert Dreise addressed classis on behalf of Salem. Rev. Dreise is now

        retired after a 35 year ministry 15 of which with Salem.  

Rev. John Koole was appointed to the CRCNA Historical Committee.

       Ambassador CRC invites the churches to a building addition celebration service May 30.

Rev. Edgar shared with classis the ministry joys experienced by the

        Ambassador congregation.

Mr. Tim Wolfert addresses classis on behalf of Redeemer University. During its

       22 years of existence many blessings were received and 850 students attend at

       the present.

Due to a positive response from the churches, the World Missions anticipated

        year end shortage is reduced from $800,000 to $400,000. Rev. H. Mennega is

        retiring from CRWM.

The London Campus Ministry Committee is trying to determine this ministries

         future direction and a Vision Statement indicating this.

Ms. Trish de Jong presented an inspiring account of her work among the

        people in Kazakhstan on behalf of World Missions.

Classis’ delegates were led through a Visioning Session by Thea Leunk, of the

        Classis Renewal Ministry Team for the purpose of formulating a Vision

        Statement that is a clear, challenging picture of the future of classis.

Various reports attached to the agenda or verbal were received with thanks.              

A nominating committee has been appointed to look into replacements for the

        vacant positions in classis.

Classis rejoiced and praised God with the Van Tils for Ellen’s recent scan that

        showed improvement.

Rev Vander Vaart led in closing devotions and following the benediction the

        meeting was adjourned. Next meeting of Classis will be held on Saturday,

       September 11, 2004.