NEWS, ANNOUNCEMENTS & EVENTS

CHURCH NEWS

MINISTERIAL CALLS

Extended

To Rev. L. Blok of Nunspeet, The Netherlands, by the St. Catharines, Ontario congregation.

Declined

By Rev. C.J. Meeuse, Rotterdam, The Netherlands, to the Kalamazoo, Mich. congregation.

CHURSH ANNOUNCEMENTS

SERVICES IN BRADENTON

The Lord willing, this winter Sunday church services will be held again at the Bradenton Academy, 6210 17th Ave. West, Bradenton Fla., commencing Nov. 5, 1989 through to April 17, 1990, except for Dec. 17, 24, 31.

Services will be starting at 3 pm during the period Nov. – Dec. and 10:30 am and 3 pm from Jan. to April.

When vacationing in Florida, please join us. You are heartily welcome. May the Lord add His blessing.

—HM

100th ANNIVERSARY SERVICE

It was on the evening of August 9, 1989, that the Kalamazoo congregation gathered to commemorate and acknowledge the ever-faithful God of heaven and earth for His providential care throughout the years in the midst of an unworthy people. It was on the evening of August 6, 1889, a century before, that the meeting took place which by the grace of God may still have its benefits even unto the present. Rev. Herman Hofman of Sioux Center, Iowa, who had served the congregation from December, 1983 to July, 1988 was present for this occasion to conduct the service. Very fitting were the words from Psalter 134 which were sung at the commencement of this service.

Within Thy temple, Lord,
In that most holy place,
We on Thy lovingkindness dwell, The wonders of Thy grace.

In prayer Rev. Hofman humbly acknowledged the Lord for His providential care and also brought before Him the present as well as the future needs of the congregation. His text for the occasion was Isaiah 51:1–2. “Hearken to Me, ye that follow after righteousness, ye that seek the Lord: look unto the rock whence ye are hewn, and to the hole of the pit whence ye are digged. Look unto Abraham your father, and unto Sarah that bare you: for I called him alone, and blessed him, and increased him.” He called the attention of those gathered that evening to the lessons of the past which are an encouragement for the future and considered the following threr oughts:

1) the past tells of our insignificance;

2) the past tells of God’s mercy and care; and

3) the past tells of God’s redemption.

Rev. Hofman explained how that Isaiah was the mouth of the Lord to His people in captivity, who were then residing in the country of Babylon. It was a miracle that God spoke to them, and it is also a wonder that God still speaks to us. By means of Isaiah the Lord yet calls unto us, “Hearken unto Me.” The Lord claims our attention with these words, speaking to us who are sinful people, unworthy creatures. He speaks to us in His Word, but also in His providence. Commemorating this one-hundredth anniversary, God speaks to us.

To exist as a congregation for one-hundred years is not a work of man, but is the work of God—of God alone—and He uses simple and sinful means. He claims our attention for this special occasion. Did we come to God’s holy place tonight with that frame of heart, saying, “Lord, speak to me”? Perhaps you think you are too sinful and have too cold and hard a heart. Israel was not in Babylon to do good, but the Lord had a word for them: “Hearken unto Me.”

There is also a name, an address, for these words of God. “Hearken unto Me, ye that follow after righteousness, ye that seek that Lord.” Is that our address? Who are such people? They are the people of God who have been regenerated by His Word and Spirit. It makes a distinction between them and the people of the world. That is how the Church of God ought to be—standing in the midst of the world, passing through this world, having the righteousness of the Lord Jesus Christ, and stripped of their own self-righteousness. They have found the world worthless and their own works worthless, the world empty and their life empty without Christ. Those who follow after righteousness cannot be happy in the world and in sin. They see the high value of the service of the Lord, and they esteem the work of Christ highly. It is their only desire and their all to follow after righteousness. They follow after righteousness and seek the Lord prayerfully, diligently, and progressively.

Why did this congregation have a beginning and where did its beginning come from? Humanly speaking, there were those who did not feel at home in other churches—couldn’t find food for their souls, etc. Yes, that is true, but that was not the beginning. The beginning was from all eternity. The beginning was God’s sovereign good pleasure. If there is one person here upon earth who follows after righteousness and who seeks the Lord, his beginning is in God. It is the heart-renewing power and life applied by the Holy Spirit. Behind the human action, the desire of their hearts was the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and that work continues throughout the years.

Were all the people who came together at the beginning converted people? Were they all filled with the same Spirit? Only God knows them. Only the Lord knows who are His. But in all those years God has had His people in this congregation. Is this not a wonder? This opens the door for the future, but it also brings a serious question tonight to each and every one present. Are you following after righteousness? Are you seeking the Lord? Do you esteem it highly to belong—not to a perfect church—but to a church where the Word of God and the work of Christ are proclaimed?

What will happen in the future? There seemed to be no future left for Israel. They were in Babylon. Everything seemed to be closed and cut off for them. We read in Isaiah 49 that Zion complained that the Lord has forgotten me and the Lord has forsaken me. But now the Lord comes, saying as it were, look to your beginning. How small that beginning was! Isaiah refers to the beginning with Abraham; and that was only God’s work and God’s sovereign will. Abraham did not ask for the Lord. Everything in Abraham was against the Lord. He served idols. When God came and opened his eyes and his heart, it was a miracle. That is what Isaiah wants to teach Israel, namely, the wonders of God’s grace.

Look what the Lord has done: A multitude, a whole nation, came forth out of this rock, out of this pit, out of the dead womb of Sarah. Look backward. On a day like this the Lord is saying, “Look backward to the hand of God, to the wonders of God.” In the beginning the congregation of Kalamazoo could not see what they would become. They could not even think of a one-hundred year existence. By the grace of God it went from year to year. It was often impossible to exist and to continue, but it was God’s work. The consideration of the past and the Rock, the consideration of Sarah and Abraham, should fill us with low thoughts of ourselves. It is our place tonight to humble ourselves, reflecting on what God has done. His faithfulness, His might, His power, His grace, are the only things that we see.

God has fulfilled His promises to Abraham; God has fulfilled all His promises. Thus, there is hope for the future—not in us as a congregation, but a hope in God alone. That is what Isaiah desired to teach Israel in Babylon. Look back upon the history of our church and God’s care and keeping during the past one-hundred years. The same God is the hope of the future. Oh, there is hope in God, not only as a congregation, but also in personal life, in the lives of God’s children. Let our eyes be upon Him. There is a future for those who seek the Lord, for those who follow after righteousness, because God is the unchangeable God. May the Lord give in our midst in the future that there may be many who follow after righteousness, many who seek the Lord and see the emptiness of the world and themselves. May they receive the garment of Christ’s righteousness and the fulfillment of all their needs out of His fullness.

Rev. J. Beeke, moderator of the Kalamazoo congregation, expressed the best wishes of his consistory and congregation and of Classis East. He spoke briefly on the words of the Lord Jesus found in Matthew 16:18, “And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Rev. Beeke pointed out that the living Church (1) was established from eternity, (2) is built in time despite opposition, and (3) shall be preserved to all eternity.

Elder Garret Moerdyk, as president of the Kalamazoo consistory, acknowledged Rev. Hofman and Rev. Beeke for their presence and words, and spoke a few words about our further responsibility. This very special occasion was closed with the singing of Psalter 247 and the benediction by Rev. Hofman.

—CM

CLASSIS EAST YOUTH DAY 1989

On July 1, 1989, the Annual Youth Day of Classis East was held at the Netherlands Reformed Congregation of St. Catharines, Ontario. Approximately 400 young people gathered together for the conference. There were several present from the West and even a few from overseas, while most of the congregations in our Classis were well-represented.

Rev. Spaans had the first topic: The Choice of Abraham and Lot. He pointed young people to the blessedness which followed Abraham’s choice and contrasted it with the follies of pitching our tents in Sodom as did Lot. Rev. Spaans made it clear that although the world appears to offer an easier and more attractive future, yet a life without God will surely lead to sorrow and destruction.

Herman den Hollander, a youth of the St. Catharines congregation, presented an essay entitled, The Place of Praise in Worship. Reference was made to Calvin and Luther’s views on this matter. Biblical principles were given and applied in answering the questions that followed. When we worship we must do so “with the understanding” and always with God’s glory in mind. After singing some appropriate psalters, Rev. Beeke closed the morning with prayer and a hearty lunch followed.

The afternoon session was opened by Mr. Sommer after which the children participated in the traditional “Bible Quiz” under the direction of Principal Foppe Vander Zwaag. Thereafter choir members of our various churches together sang a grouping of Psalters.

How to Spend our Leisure Time was the title of Rev. Beeke’s topic. With the aid of a printed outline he briefly but broadly touched on “time” and the duty we all have to redeem it. Practical suggestions regarding the time we devote to studying God’s Word were given. He continued with some positive remarks on the things we “may/might” do as leisure restorative activities, and concluded with several admonitions relative to the misuse of leisure time. After a question period Mr. Slingerland recalled his attendance at the first St. Catharines Youth Day 29 years ago and closed the day with prayer.

The supper and activities which followed at the Niagara Glen Park went as planned. All things proceeded smoothly, respectably, and enjoyably.

On Sunday Rev. Beeke preached twice in our midst; in the morning about the rich young ruler and in the evening on the beatitude, “blessed are the meek.” Both were particularly relevant to the youth. After the evening service the youth stayed to sing psalters and for an opportunity to ask Rev. Beeke questions.

The St. Catharines youth and other volunteers enjoyed hosting their guests and hope the weekend benefited their friends in a positive and lasting manner. May the fruits of the spiritual and practical instruction that the Lord has been pleased to lay upon our youth be seen in the salvation of sinners.

REV. M. HEERSCHAP

In speaking with Rev. Heerschap on the occasion of his 78th birthday last week, we were glad to hear that he was enabled to perform a short service connected with baptism. In coming months, he is hoping to be able to perform a few marriage services.

We are grateful to the Lord who is granting a gradual return of strength to this aged servant of God, and pray that he and his wife both be blessed and continue to be a blessing.

ANNIVERSARIES

45th Wedding Anniversary

On Nov. 2, 1989, the Lord willing, we hope to commemorate our 45th wedding anniversary with our seven children and thirteen grandchildren. We pray that the Lord will continue to bless us in future years together.

Mr. and Mrs. John P. DeBruin

412 Cascade Way, Lynden, WA 98264

60th Wedding Anniversary

The Lord willing, on October 31, 1989, our beloved parents,

Mr. and Mrs. Laurus Sinke

hope to commemorate their 60th wedding anniversary. That the Lord may be with them in the evening of their lives is the wish of their children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren.

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”

Psalm 103:2

99A Scott St., Apartment 7

St Catharines, Ontario, Canada L2N 1G8

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

Rev. A.W. Verhoef

Keizersmantel 57, Beekbergen, Nederland

Post Gode 7361 ZM

Tel. 05766-1675

Elder Carl Koudys

7 Demeyere Ave., Tillsonburg, Ont. N4C 4Z2

Battel Elshout

122 Cyril Ave. Prospect Park, NJ 07508

201-956-7282

OBITUARIES

MEEUWSE, Maatje — Age 85; August 26, 1989; Kalamazoo, Michigan; Husband — Marinus; Sons — Gerard, Jacob, Anthony; Daughters — Nellie, Mary, Clara; 17 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren. (Rev. J. Spaans)

NEDERVELD, Neil —Age 81; September 19,1989; Greenville, Ml; Wife — Marian; Daughter — Betty (Mrs. Ronald Hall); 2 grandsons. (Dr. J.R. Beeke, Psalm 27:14.)

TIMMER, Rachael Lynn — Age 14; September 22, 1989; Kalamazoo, Ml; Parents — David & Sandra Timmer; Brothers — Craig, David; Sisters — Dana, Melinda; Grandparents — Dena & Chris Beeke, David & Alberta Timmer; Great-Grandparents — C.W. Timmer, Peter Oudshoorn. (Dr. J.R. Beeke, 2 Kings 4:26; Hebr. 9:27,28.)

VANT FOORT, Evert — Age 42; September 18, 1989; Sioux Center, Iowa; Wife — Janis; Mother — Mrs. Van’t Foort; Brothers — Jack of the Netherlands, John and Dick of Canada; Sisters — Elizabeth (Mrs. William Heikoop), Klagina (Mrs. Kees Van Beek), Jacoba (Mrs. Henry Heikoop), Wilma (Mrs. Wim Overbeek), Deini Van’t Foort. Father — preceded him in death. (Rev. H. Hofman, Psalm 62:8.)

TEACHERS

NETHERLANDS REFORMED CHRISTIAN SCHOOL, Corsica, SD, will be needing an elementary teacher either for grades K-3 or 4–8 for the 1989–90 school year. Phone Cerrit Hup (605) 946-5503 or Jay Ymker (605) 724-2221.

CALVIN CHRISTIAN SCHOOL, Lethbridge/Ft Macleod.

Applications are still being sought for both the elementary and high school level. For more information contact the principal: Mr. A.H. Verhoef (403) 381-3030 — School; (403) 381-4434 — Home. Please send applications with references to the secretary of the school board: Mr. A.M. De Wilde, P.O. Box 142, Monarch, Alta., Canada T0L 1M0

REHOBOTH CHRISTIAN SCHOOL, Norwich, Ont. For this school year (89–90) we invite applications for a teacher to take the place of one of our teachers, a mother with several children at home, for the Intermediate Grades 7–10. We are looking for a teacher with a background in English with a willingness to teach some other subjects. For more information or an application, please contact Mr. Henry Scholten, President, (519) 468-2714 or Mr. Martien Vanderspek, Principal, (519) 863-2403 (school) or (519) 863-3119 (home). Rehoboth Christian School, 43 Main St. E., PO Box 220, Norwich, Ont. N0J 1P0.

SCHOOL NEWS

TEACHERS’S CONFERENCE

The Synodical Education Committee and the principals of each school held their annual meeting on August 15 at the Rock Valley/Sioux Center school. The chairman of this year’s meeting was Mr. Dick Ten Elshof from Plymouth Christian High School in Grand Rapids. It was a very peaceful meeting. Above all the business items could be felt a unified feeling of the necessity to teach from a Christian perspective and to set up red flags of warning against the ever-pervading influences of humanism in every aspect of our lives.

The conference was preceded by a prayer service conducted by Rev. Hofman. He spoke on John 5:39, “Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me,” emphasizing 1) a commendable search and 2) a sad failure.

The teachers’s conference began the following day at the same location. It was attended by about 100 representatives from the various schools including teachers, school board members, consistory members, prospective teachers, and those interested in Christian education.

The Reverends Beeke, den Hoed, Hofman, and Vogelaar spoke on doctrinal items and the purpose and focus of Christian education. Many small sectionals were led by principals and teachers which dealt with practical classroom teaching of subject material. Coming from New Zealand via tape and slides was a presentation on the Ponatahi Christian School in New Zealand.

The conference ended on Friday with mixed feelings by those in attendance. Some were inspired and encouraged to begin a new year. Others were reluctant to end the worthwhile three days. The fellowship with other educators was very beneficial. May we all have felt the weightiness, importance, and necessity of the task of Christian teaching but also our total inability to perform the task in our own strength. It is our wish that the Lord will bless the schools in the season we have begun and richly bless the education which takes place for time and eternity.

TAPES OF 1989 TEACHER’S CONFERENCE

Tapes are available for $2.00 each (US funds; $14.00 for the set) of the seven “General Session” addresses given at the 1989 Teacher’s Conference held in Rock Valley, Iowa. These include the following:

General Session #1—“Building for the Future” (Principal D. Ten Elshof). General Session #2—”The Lord’s Supper and Confession” (Rev. C. Vogelaar).

General Session #3—“How Do We Motivate Our Children: The Fallacy of Humanistic and Christian Psychology” (Principal F. VanderZwaag).

General Session #4—“Teaching the Doctrine of the Trinity” (Dr. J.R. Beeke).

General Session #5—“Teaching Children to See: The Power of Example” (Principal J.W. Beeke).

General Session #6—“The Child and Our Responsibility” (Rev. J. denHoed).

General Session #7—“Finding Refuge in the Ark” (Rev. H. Hofman).

Send orders with remittance to “The Tape Room,” 540 Crescent, NE, Grand Rapids, Ml 49503.

CORRESPONDENCE WANTED

A prisoner who has been an avid reader of our Banner of Truth and Inheritance Publisher’s booklets for some time, would desire to engage in correspondence. Please write: James VandenToorn, #176376, 2400 S. Sheridan, Muskegon, Ml 49442.

OCTOBER 9: THANKSGIVING IN CANADA

We wish our Canadian readership grateful hearts as they commemorate Thanksgiving Day on October 9, D.V. How much better the Lord has been to us than we to Him! Notwithstanding, how unthankful and unbroken we remain by nature, and sadly, even after received grace, as long as we pursue thanksgiving in our own strength.

True thanksgiving always contains four elements:

First, it is exercised in the depths of conscious unworthiness. True thanksgiving is inseparable from a broken heart. Witness only Jacob (Gen. 32:10) and Peter (Lk. 5:8). Those who give thanks authentically are acutely aware of the truth that they have forfeited all rights for divine gifts received.

Second, true thanksgiving is exercised by taking refuge to the praying/thanking High Priest, Jesus Christ. The truly thankful remain aware not only of their ingratitude but also of both the impurity of the gratitude they feel and the continual need for the interceding High Priest whose thanksgiving is perfect on their behalf at the Father’s right hand. In Him alone are Prayer Day and Thanksgiving Day properly fulfilled and intertwined.

Third, true thanksgiving is exercised through true faith. It is faith that praises God with soul, heart, mind, and strength. Faith can’t honor or thank Him enough. Faith cries out, “What shall I render unto the LORD for all His benefits toward me?” (Ps. 116:12). Faith confesses: “Who am I, O Lord God? and what is my house, that Thou hast brought me hitherto?” (2 Sam. 7:18).

Finally, true thanksgiving seeks to return everything received to the worthy Over. Ultimately, proper thanksgiving returns to Christ, and through Christ, to the sovereign pleasure, abiding faithfulness, and everlasting love of God Triune in the face of Christ Jesus: “Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable Gift” (2 Cor. 9:15). The fruit of such “giving of thanks” will be the “thanks of giving,” for the whole person will then be laid upon God’s altar of dedication in joyful surrender to the worthy Jehovah and in love to our neighbor.

May God grace us this season with both the “giving of thanks” and the “thanks of giving.”

—JRB

Obituary notices are printed free of charge and are submitted by the officiating minister; marriage and anniversary notices will be charged at $5.00 per issue and must be individually submitted. Other announcements and/or requests will be approved by the editorial committee on an individual basis as received. (Church events or school needs, such as upcoming classical meetings, “teachers wanted,” office-bearer conferences or youth day conferences will be announced free of charge.)

To place an announcement, simply type (or print neatly) your information, enclose $5.00, and forward to “New and Events, “2115 Romence St. N.E., Grand Rapids, Ml 49503 by the 5th of the month preceding publication.

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