MFCA News and Information

The seminar participants include Paul Heidebrecht, Zach Garris, Clint Richardson, Dr. Jaco Hamman, Adriana Ostapenko, Justin Wallick, Liz Testa, Chet Carlson and Chris Reinertson

This week has a group of eight MFCA candidates gathered at Camp Geneva for the residential week of the Seminar for Pastoral Formation. The seminar has been meeting online since early March and the week on the shores of Lake Michigan will complete the program that serves as an alternative to a unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE).

The facilitator of the seminar is Dr. Jaco Hamman, professor of pastoral care at Western Theological Seminary (WTS). Hamman has been leading the seminar since its inception five years ago.

This past week Dr. Hamman announced that he will be leaving WTS for a new position with Vanderbilt University in Tennessee. It is the hope of MFCA that he will remain available to facilitate the seminar in years to come.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Rev. John DeGroff was recently ordained and installed at Calvary Reformed Church in Monroe, South Dakota. John completed his Certificate of Fitness for Ministry through the Approved Alternate Route (AAR).

Rev. Felix Theonugraha has been appointed as the Dean of Students at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (TEDS). Theonugraha, who is also completing his PhD this summer, had been serving as interim Dean of Students. This position leaves him responsible for all student life programs for graduate programs at Trinity International University.

Dr. Paul Heidebrecht has accepted a promise of a call to be the pastor at Calgary Community Church in Calgary, Alberta. He comes to the RCA from the Evangelical Presbyterian Church in the Chicago area. Heidebrecht will be seeking ordination in the RCA through the AAR process. In the past he has served as teacher, theological educator and administrative pastor. Paul and Priscilla plan to move to Calgary in July after completing numerous MFCA requirements in May and June.

The MFCA will again be hosting a dinner at General Synod. On Monday, June 25^th, around 5:00 PM the annual celebration dinner will be occurring at Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights, IL. All candidates, alumni of TEA and MFCA and those interested in finding out more about MFCA are invited. If you have not registered for the dinner as a delegate at General Synod and would like to attend, please contact Amy White in the MFCA Office at 562-408-2520 or awhite@rca.org.

SUMMER INTENSIVES

The following courses remain available… at this time late registration fees may apply…

RCA Standards – Rev. Dr. Scott Sherman                        

June 4 – 8, 2012

RCA History & Missions – Rev. Dr. John Coakley

June 4 – 8, 2012

RCA Polity – Rev. Dr. Al Janssen

June 11 – 15, 2012

RCA Worship – Rev. Dr. Timothy Brown & Rev. Dr. Gregg Mast

June 11 - 15

Things are gearing up at the MFCA office as June approaches. Summer intensive courses and committee meetings create much work for the MFCA staff. Many candidates wait until the end of their seminary semester before thinking about registering for MFCA courses in June. At the moment, many candidates are registering and the phone continues to ring as people have questions. There is also much more mail than usual with candidates providing documentation in preparation for interviews.

The agenda and schedules for the certification committees are in place and those being interviewed should have received the information regarding their interview. If you expect to be interviewed and have not received a meeting date and time, please contact the MFCA Office immediately. The AAR Certification Committee meets June 8 and 9; the RCSC Certification Committee meets June 16 – 20, 2012. All the courses and interviews are held at Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan. The MFCA Board of Trustees plans to meet by conference call on the evening of June 20^th for the purpose of awarding the Certificate of Fitness for Ministry (CFM).

The RCA Standards and RCA Worship classes are almost filled to capacity at the time of writing this news feed. The RCA History & Missions and RCA Polity classes are undersubscribed. The decision has been made to cap courses at twenty-four students and to go ahead and offer the undersubscribed courses even though they are under the previously announced minimum. This is the first year that the courses will all be offered at 3.0 semester credits. For those signing up for credit there will be an extra four weeks of online work expected in order to meet the hour and work requirements.

The following is the course listing:

RCA Standards – Rev. Dr. Scott Sherman                        

June 4 – 8, 2012

RCA History & Missions – Rev. Dr. John Coakley

June 4 – 8, 2012

RCA Polity – Rev. Dr. Al Janssen

June 11 – 15, 2012

RCA Worship – Rev. Dr. Timothy Brown & Rev. Dr. Gregg Mast

June 11 - 15

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Congratulations to Emily and Clint Richardson on the adoption of Asher Robert Richardson. Asher was born March 18, 2012 in Birmingham, Alabama. Clint is a graduate of Sioux Falls Seminary and serves as an Associate Pastor at Calvary Reformed Church in Monroe, South Dakota.

Blaine Crawford has accepted an informal Promise of a Call from Lakeview Community Church in Rochester, New York. Blaine is completing his M.Div. from at Denver Seminary in Colorado and has been under care of the Classis of East Sioux. If all works as planned, Britnee and Blaine hope to move to New York in August…

James H. Eastland will be ordained to the office of Minister of Word and sacrament on Sunday, June 3, 2012 at First Reformed Church in Hudson, NY. Congratulations go out to Jim and Rev. Vicky Eastland (also an MFCA graduate).

Missing from the last News Feed list of candidates who are graduating with the M.Div. degree this spring was Doug Meyerink of Platte, South Dakota. Meyerink will be graduating from Sioux Falls Seminary – our apologies Doug! Doug’s son Brandon will also be graduating this spring. He is graduating from High School… it should be noted that Brandon was in a skiing accident in January and broke his back. The Meyerink family is grateful that Brandon is healing well.

Alan Salwei has accepted a Promise of a Call to be the Associate Pastor at First Reformed Church of Sanford. He will be in charge of outreach and discipleship. He is also graduating from Sioux Falls Seminary with an M.Div. degree this month.

TRAVEL SCHEDULE

The following is Cor’s travel schedule…

May 15 – 17                                   Chicago, IL

May 20 – 22                                   Holland, MI

June 2 – 20                                    Holland, MI

June 21 – 26                                  Palos Heights, IL

The MFCA is at a disadvantage to seminaries when it comes to impacting its candidates in the realm of spiritual formation. And yet, from the start of its inception in 1984 the agency has declared that it offers guidance for the spiritual formation of its candidates. The other four areas are academic preparation, ministry competence, personal wholeness and denominational identity.

Despite the challenge, the MFCA is making efforts to become more intentional about the spiritual formation of its candidates. It is our sense that with the help of the Holy Spirit, candidates can be directed toward spiritual growth as they meet in their own communities, serve in internship churches, and study at seminary. The MFCA is also giving consideration to intentional growth experiences during times when the MFCA candidates gather, such as intensive courses.

With that in mind we hold to the following outcomes of spiritual formation for our candidates and request the assistance of the Certification Committees, supervising pastors and mentors, and the MFCA teaching faculty in determining that such formation is nurtured.

By the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, candidates will*:

1. Recognize and develop the narrative of their spiritual journey by engaging their own cultural context and heritage and deepening personal awareness of identity and vocation in Christ through intimacy with God. (Identity)

2. Be exposed to the practices and disciplines that shape faith and character specific to their callings. In particular, candidates will learn to draw upon the resources of Christ’s church and the MFCA community so as to root their lives in Scripture, worship, corporate and personal prayer, ministries of service, and other Christian practices. (Practice)

3. Develop a capacity to integrate their academic training, and their vocational formation with their life in the Spirit, growing in wisdom, skill, faith, hope, and love. (Integration)

4. Articulate a passionate and active participation in Christ’s mission in the world, refined in community and informed by tradition, global realities, and opportunities as well as their own gifts and skills. (Missional)

 *These four categories and their descriptions have been borrowed from Fuller Theological Seminary

 (FTS Faculty - April 2012).

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Esther and Rev. Dr. Meine Veldman announce the birth of a new daughter Élise… the Veldman’s serve in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Dr. Veldman serves on the faculty of the Evangelical Theological Faculty of Acadia University.

Congratulations to Sarah and Ryan Potter with the birth of William David Potter, born April 11th at 2:27pm.  He was 9 lbs and 21 inches. The Potters live in South Hamilton, Massachusetts where Ryan attends Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary.

Congratulations to Rev. Bethany and Rev. Corstian Devos with the adoption of twin sons – Christian and Luis Devos. The Devos family lives in Churchville, PA where mom and dad co-pastor North and Southampton Reformed Church.

At this time of year many candidates are completing degrees… If you are among those graduating please be sure to let us know about your graduation… Some we are currently aware of include the following:

John Arthur                    McMaster, Divinity College, Hamilton Ontario

Blaine Crawford               Denver Seminary, Denver, CO

John Compton                 Denver Seminary, Denver, CO

Terry Dwyer                    Fuller Theological Seminary, Menlo Park, CA

Shirley Folkerts               Bethel Seminary, Minneapolis, MN

Karen Jackson                 Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, NJ

Jeff Knol                         Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, NJ

Adriana Ostapenko          Tyndale Seminary, Toronto, Ontario

Alan Salwei                     Sioux Falls Seminary, Sioux Falls, SD

TRAVEL SCHEDULE

The following is Cor’s travel schedule…

May 1 – 3                                    Sioux Falls, SD

May 8 – 10                                  Cleveland, OH

May 15 – 17                                 Chicago, IL

May 20 – 22                                 Holland, MI

June 2 – 20                                  Holland, MI

June 21 – 26                                Palos Heights, IL

After being commissioned in February by the "Call, Care and Standards Collaborative" (CCSC) Group, the new Candidate Care website is now a reality and available for all those who are involved in candidate care -- especially the classis committees and candidates themselves.

It was decided by the CCSC Group that a website would serve the church better than an annual gathering where only a select number of individuals are able to attend. Travel costs, accommodations and meeting facilities all have their cost and it was the conclusion of the Group that it was not good stewardship to continue this model. Recognizing that candidate care committees seldom have consistent membership and that some classes design their committee to have a new chairperson or convener annually, the Group desired a resource that would be accessible when a need was identified. By turning to the Internet, the new committee member can now access much of the material and resources they need to serve on candidate care committees.

The project to create a website has been funded by four partners: General Synod Council (GSC), the Ministerial Formation Certification Agency (MFCA), New Brunswick Theological Seminary (NBTS) and Western Theological Seminary (WTS). Each of the partners is committed to collegial cooperation with each classis, as together they prepare candidates for ministry.

The Group commissioned Mr. Bart Strong to create the website. Strong is an elder at Westdale Reformed Church in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. He has recently retired as the Executive Director for Learning Technology at McMaster University, and brings amazing skill and expertise to this project. He serves on the MFCA Board of Trustees and on the RCSC Certification Committee. Strong has served WTS as a consultant for the Distance Learning program and the technology required for future pursuits.

Although the website has been designed for candidate care committees and those serving at the classis level, candidates enrolled in the Certificate of Fitness for Ministry (CFM) will also discover the site to be helpful. It will assist candidates in navigating the CFM process and provide access to most of the resources that are available to assist them.

Please check out the new site: www.candidate-care.org

SUMMER INTENSIVES

The following courses are offered in Holland, Michigan. These are MFCA courses, and students must register with the registrar Kelly Talsma (ktalsma@rca.org). The MFCA utilizes the facilities of Hope College and Western Theological Seminary. The daily schedule is 8:25 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Thursday. Friday's class ends at 12:00 noon.

Courses are offered on a credit and non-credit basis. The distinction between credit and non-credit is cost and workload. All students, credit and non-credit alike, are expected to complete the coursework and a grade will be assigned. To meet ordination requirements, a grade of "B" or higher is necessary.

RCA Standards - Rev. Dr. Scott Sherman                        

June 4 - 8, 2012

RCA History & Missions - Rev. Dr. John Coakley

June 4 - 8, 2012

RCA Polity - Rev. Dr. Al Janssen

June 11 - 15, 2012

RCA Worship - Rev. Dr. Timothy Brown & Rev. Dr. Gregg Mast

June 11 - 15, 2012

TRAVEL SCHEDULE

The following is Cor's travel schedule...

April 24 - 27                                Hamilton, Ontario

May 1 - 3                                    Sioux Falls, SD

May 8 - 10                                  Cleveland, OH

May 15 - 17                                 Chicago, IL

May 20 - 22                                 Holland, MI

June 2 - 20                                  Holland, MI

June 21 - 26                                Palos Heights, IL

It has become common practice for leaders to be evaluated according to their emotional quotient (EQ) or emotional intelligence (EI)… the better leaders possessing high emotional intelligence. In some circles, EQ is considered more important than a high intelligence quotient (IQ). This has been evidenced in the business world more than anywhere else, and, I suggest that it is important in church leadership as well.

Emotional Quotient or Emotional Intelligence (EI) “refers to the ability to perceive, control, and evaluate emotions. Some researchers suggest that emotional intelligence can be learned and strengthened, while others claim it is an inborn characteristic.” (About.com-Psychology – March 30, 2012)

Although there are some tools available to assess EQ, it has been my experience that it is readily observed as people interact, especially in high stress and conflict situations. High EQ demonstrates itself through a calm demeanor and the ability to assess personal emotions and control reactions in an objective yet caring manner. The expression: “To keep one’s wits about them while everyone around them is loosing theirs” expresses well, at least one of the traits of those with high EQ.

I would suggest that high EQ is a combination of one’s personality, socialization and learned behavior. For me personally, I discovered my Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) experiences to be the most valuable in identifying emotional self-awareness and how to express and manage emotions. CPE gave me the opportunity to receive external and objective feedback regarding my emotional self. I discovered that my strong “NF” score as assessed by the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), along with certain passions, would often determine the quality of my relationships, both with peers and those to whom I was ministering.

I have experienced those with high EQ to be confident and differentiated as individuals. They are less likely to become triangulated, and as the commercial suggests – “they are comfortable in their own skin.” These individuals tend to trust their “inner voice” and for those in ministry, they have a spiritual sensitivity that is often founded in a sense that the inner voice they trust is the Holy Spirit.

Relationships are important to the person with high EQ. Appropriate interaction and emotional connection occur for those with high EQ, and boundaries are maintained and respected. A good biblical illustration of a developed high EQ is profiled through the life of David as he  expresses himself in the Psalms. David is by no means perfect, but I believe he illustrates the elevated Emotional Quotient through his self-awareness, his relationship with others and his relationship with God. I would suggest that Psalm 26 portrays an individual who possesses and continues to grow toward a high EQ…

“Vindicate me, O LORD,

for I have walked in my integrity,

and I have trusted in the LORD

without wavering.

Prove me, O LORD, and try me;

Test my heart and mind.

For your steadfast love is before

My eyes,

and I walk in faithfulness to you.

I do not sit with the worthless,

Nor do I consort with hypocrites;

I hate the company of evildoers,

And will not sit with the wicked.

I wash my hands in innocence,

And go around your alter, O LORD,

Singing aloud a song of thanksgiving,

and telling all your wondrous deeds.

Psalm 26:1-7 (NRSV)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

We wish to express our condolences to Amy White in the death of her mother, Frances Faber. Mrs. Faber passed away peacefully last week after multiple strokes. Amy is the administrative assistant with the MFCA. The memorial service was held this Tuesday, April 3rd at Bethany Christian Reformed Church.

SUMMER INTENSIVES

The following courses are offered in Holland, Michigan. These are MFCA courses, and students must register with the registrar Kelly Talsma (ktalsma@rca.org). The MFCA utilizes the facilities of Hope College and Western Theological Seminary. The daily schedule is 8:25 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Thursday. Friday’s class ends at 12:00 noon.

Courses are offered on a credit and non-credit basis. The distinction between credit and non-credit is cost and workload. All students, credit and non-credit alike, are expected to complete the coursework and a grade will be assigned. To meet ordination requirements, a grade of “B” or higher is necessary.

RCA Standards – Rev. Dr. Scott Sherman                        

June 4 – 8, 2012

RCA History & Missions – Rev. Dr. John Coakley

June 4 – 8, 2012

RCA Polity – Rev. Dr. Al Janssen

June 11 – 15, 2012

RCA Worship – Rev. Dr. Timothy Brown & Rev. Dr. Gregg Mast

June 11 - 15

TRAVEL SCHEDULE

The following is Cor’s travel schedule…

April 3 – 5                                    Newark, NJ

April 8 -16                                    Family Vacation (Hawaii)

April 19                                        San Jose, CA

April 24 – 27                                Hamilton, Ontario

May 1 – 3                                    Sioux Falls, SD

May 8 – 10                                  Cleveland, OH

May 15 – 17                                 Chicago, IL

May 20 – 22                                 Holland, MI

June 2 – 20                                  Holland, MI

June 21 – 26                                Palos Heights, IL

The RCA group that oversees theological education recently asked me to oversee the creation of a website that could serve as a resource and training site for those charged with the responsibility of candidate care. The group is called the “Call, Care and Standards Collaboration” (CCSC) Group, and a small budget was approved to kick start the effort at its meeting in Phoenix in January.

For the past two months the assignment has been one of the extra projects on my “to do” list.  With the hard work and expertise of Bart Strong of Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, and only a little effort on my part, the website is close to being launched. Bart has done a phenomenal job to make the website a reality in a very short time.

My work on the website did include creating a resource that would anticipate questions which candidates and classis committees overseeing the candidates, might ask.  In this week’s newsfeed I would like to share a sampling of some of those questions with the answers best meeting the needs anticipated. They are as follows:  

What are the initial steps for an individual who believes they are called into ministry?

Those who believe they are called to fulltime, ordained ministry should begin the process with their home church consistory. Once the consistory is convinced the individual is appropriately called and gifted, they refer the individual to the classis of which the church is a member. The classis normally has a committee which interviews the candidate; and once the committee is able to affirm the call identified by the consistory, the committee recommends the individual to be “taken under care” of the classis. The classis then takes action at a stated meeting of classis to officially take the person under care. The classis is then required to submit the completed and signed Form V or Form 5A to the “agent” of the General Synod of the Reformed Church in America (RCA).

There are various forms available to individuals, consistories and classis to assist in navigating these steps.

How does one discern if they are “called?”

Different persons experience call in different ways. In Reformed circles there is usually an emphasis on the “Internal Call” and the “External Call.” Some have been quoted as saying that “One knows they are called if they possess a deep love for God, others and self.” There are numerous resources available on the website under the tab labeled “Care Information.”

What role does the classis play?

The classis is considered the “bishop” in RCA polity. The Book of Church Order (BCO) describes the exact role it plays in satisfying itself that the individual is competent and sound as a ministerial candidate. The classis is required to determine whether or not the person’s character, faith and orthodoxy qualifies them to be a Minister of Word and sacrament.

Who are the agents overseeing the Certificate of Fitness for Ministry (CFM)?

The “agents” of the General Synod consist of the two RCA seminaries (New Brunswick Theological Seminary and Western Theological Seminary) and the Ministerial Formation Certification Agency (MFCA). A classis refers a candidate to the appropriate “agent,” and once the agent determines that the candidate is adequately fit and prepared, the agent’s board of trustees awards the CFM. The CFM is the permission, or ticket, for the classis to conduct the examinations for Licensure and ordination.

What “tracks” exist that lead to the CFM and ordination?

There are two basic tracks toward ordination in the RCA: 1) the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree; and 2) the Approved Alternate Route (AAR).

The M.Div. degree can be earned at either RCA seminary: New Brunswick Theological Seminary (NBTS) and Western Theological Seminary (WTS), or, at an ATS accredited seminary implying that the MFCA would oversee the CFM process.

The AAR process would be overseen by the MFCA and exists for those who are not able to earn the M.Div. degree and yet have the capability of meeting the standards of the CFM. The AAR process should not be confused with the Commissioned Pastor (CP) process that requires less preparation and is restricted in scope. The CP process is exclusively the domain of the classis.

What does it mean to be “under care” as well as enrolled in the CFM?

The RCA expects candidates to be in a dual process as they prepare for ordination. The dual process has two distinct procedures running in parallel as the classis cares for the candidate and the agents guide the candidate through their theological education and ministerial formation. If all goes as it is designed, the classis and the agent communicate regularly so that everyone is informed regarding progress, and all are aware of problems and concerns when they arise.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Rev. Dr. Mitch Kinsinger was ordained on Sunday February 19^th at American Reformed Church in Orange City, IA. Mitch is on the faculty of Northwestern College and is a graduate of Western Theological Seminary.

Rev. Jason Wiersma was ordained on Sunday, March 18^th as a specialized minister, and commissioned to pastor the brand new "Living Stone Prison Church" (joint effort between Dakota and West-Sioux Classis) within the walls of the Mike Durfee State Prison in Springfield, SD. Jason is a graduate of Sioux Falls Seminary (SFS).

Rev. Greg Ten Brink was ordained on Sunday, March 25^th and installed at Beechwood Reformed Church In Holland, MI. His son-in-law, Rev. Jeremy Visser, also an MFCA graduate, preached the sermon. Greg completed his ordination requirements as an AAR candidate and did most of his coursework at Western Theological Seminary.

TRAVEL SCHEDULE

Cor's travel schedule...

March 28 – 30                        Holland, MI

April 3 – 5                              Newark, NJ

April 8 -16                              Family Vacation (Hawaii)

April 24 – 27                           Hamilton, Ontario

May 1 – 3                                Sioux Falls, SD

May 20 – 22                            Holland, MI

June 2 – 20                             Holland, MI

June 21 – 26                           Palos Heights, IL

On occasion, as I teach the RCA Polity DL course, a student submits an assignment that is not only stimulating for me as the instructor, but also begs to be shared with a larger audience. The remainder of this newsfeed is the work of Andrew Fields, a soon to be RCA missionary who presently resides in Chicago. Fields is a graduate of Wheaton College.

What challenges face congregational leadership today?

In no particular order, I would argue that the following challenges loom over congregational leadership in North America.  Leading a congregation in a cultural time governed by fast paced technological advance, the ruling cult of celebrity, and the omnipresent entertainment industry, presents some unique challenges to leading congregations in communal growth as disciples of Christ.  How can a consistory compete for attention and focus amid the constant clamor of text messages, the next blockbuster movie, or the emotive expressiveness of Saturday night’s concert?  How does a board of elders and deacons communicate a unified vision for the mission of a church amidst the various appeals and rants that come to people through social media?

Related to this issue is how the teaching, worship and life of the church appeals to the whole person: intellectually, emotionally, and physically.  Congregational leaders would do well to examine whether they are unable to preach to those outside their church because their worship is too intellectual, or their ministries do not appeal to our embodied natures.  Does their worship appeal to the heart or invite the indwelling of the Spirit? Do their mercy ministries dispense food without attending to the emotional and social damages that may perpetuate poverty?

Another difficulty for church leaders yesterday, today, and tomorrow is navigating ethical disputes such as sexual conduct, materialism, creation care, or the issue of the day.  Since the early church, congregations have struggled to balance proclaiming God’s love for all people, prophetically denouncing those aspects that are unjust or ungodly, and maintaining integrity across a wide range of ethical concerns.  As the world becomes more linked and the connections between local and global political, economic, and ethical concerns grows ever more close and more public, it is difficult for congregations to faithfully proclaim the Word of God as it addresses the concerns of our day.  To look at a pertinent North American example, what does it look like for a local church hold out the promise of redemption to the homosexual community while also wrestling with prohibitions on the homosexual lifestyle in Scripture?  This is definitely a challenging question!

Another issue that combines the above two concerns is how a consistory is supposed to practice church discipline in a consumerist culture.  Discipline, as outlined in the BCO, seems almost meaningless when the person disciplined can just walk down the street to another church and consume the worship and preaching.  Unless congregational leaders work to develop church communities, not just religious commodities of “worship” and “teaching,” that are in constant engagement with Christian communities of differing traditions, the third mark of the Church will remain somewhat erased.

In addition, the increasing number of revelations coming from both Roman Catholic and Protestant churches of sexual abuse should remind church leaders that congregations have not always been places of peace and healing.  For all those who have been harmed by sexual abuse in churches, there are myriads more that have been maimed by unbalanced teachings, unkind politicking, burnout, and careless words in our churches.  It is a tremendous task for leaders in our church to navigate these issues with love and seek to invite these wounded people back into peaceful and healing church communities. 

A final challenge facing congregational leaders is an unhelpful sense of professionalism.  While high standards and a focus on best practices are quite helpful, I notice a large number of church leaders treating their positions more as a job than a calling.  When this happens, a congregation becomes a business that has to be efficiently run and is judged on quantitative growth of programs, converts, buildings, members, budget, or number of weekly services.  To maintain this growth the church must constantly be marketing its brand, the pastor must maintain a carefully manicured persona, and members are pigeon holed into market segments that are carefully designed to meet their “needs.”  It is easy to slip into this plan for success, but it is not easy to reflect on whether this is the healthiest way for a church to be a sign of the Kingdom of God.  I would argue that when church leadership begins down this path of thinking, they inherently neglect vital aspects of what it means to be “a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God.”

TRAVEL SCHEDULE

Cor hopes to be able to travel again starting this week…

March 20 – 23                        Philadelphia, PA

March 28 – 30                        Holland, MI

April 3 – 5                              Newark, NJ

April 8 -16                              Family Vacation (Hawaii)

May 20 – 22                           Holland, MI

June 2 – 20                            Holland, MI

June 21 – 26                          Palos Heights, IL

After twelve years of existence, and ten years of Certificates of Fitness for Ministry (CFM) being awarded, the MFCA Board of Trustees has decided to review the Approved Alternate Route (AAR) process. A committee has been created to take a close look at the process and its effectiveness in what it purposes to accomplish.

Committee members will complete a thorough assessment of the process, and ask crucial questions about all aspects of the program. Some of the proposed questions are listed below. Readers, especially those who have been directly involved in the AAR are invited to assist the committee in this task. If you are willing and have some observations about the AAR process, we ask that you send those to me at ckors@rca.org. 

1. Is the AAR procedure relevant and fair? 

2. Are the eligibility criteria relevant, and do they provide fair accessibility to those who wish to seek ordination in the RCA?

3. Given the fact that we have more than twelve year's experience with the AAR process, what have we learned; what should we add; and what should we eliminate?

4. The Call, Care and Standards Collaboration (CCSC) group is reviewing the eight criteria that serve as the standards for the Certificate of Fitness for Ministry (CFM)... what might we want to say about those standards from the AAR perspective?

5. Program proposals are extremely important and require input from both the classis and the MFCA... Has this piece been done adequately with equal contribution, and, has it taken the candidate and the standards into full consideration in a fair and objective manner?

6. The Case Study Examination (written and oral) and a final interview have been the final pieces of the process. Have these provided the necessary assessment tools, and do we believe them to be the most effective manner to assess the candidate?

7. Are we able to create new case studies, or the equivalent in order to keep the final assessment fresh and effective?

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Rev. Jeff Wenke has accepted a call to be the Associate Pastor at The Bridge in Portage, Michigan (near Kalamazoo).  Wenke has been the pastor of a new church plant, The Journey, in San Jose, California for the past ten years and has also served at Church of the Chimes in San Jose. He is a graduate of Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena.

Rev. Scott Bonestroo has accepted a call to be the pastor at Alton Reformed Church in Iowa (Just outside of Orange City, IA). Bonestroo has been serving Spring Valley Reformed Church in Fulton, Illinois.

OPPORTUNITIES

Pastoral Resident for Youth, Discipleship, and Small Groups Niskayuna Reformed Church:

The position was created to offer a seminary graduate the opportunity to apply their gifts for ministry in a congregational setting. Principle responsibilities include developing and directing the youth program, leading and developing discipleship offerings for all ages. Along with the pastor, Rev. Dr. Scott DeBlock, the candidate will develop and coordinate small group ministries, and work with the consistory to implement its rolling five year Vision for Ministry and Mission.

This is a one-year, full-time contract position with potential for permanent placement as the Assistant Pastor. This opportunity is based upon effectiveness in meeting position requirements through a one-year probationary period with quarterly reviews by the pastor.

Remuneration includes a base salary (determined by consistory), plus housing allowance. Also included: payment of seminary-provided health insurance student fee.

SUMMER INTENSIVES

The following courses are offered in Holland, Michigan. These are MFCA courses and students must register with the registrar Kelly Talsma (ktalsma@rca.org). The MFCA utilizes the facilities of Hope College and Western Theological Seminary. The daily schedule is 8:25 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Thursday. Friday’s class ends at 12:00 noon.

Courses are offered on a credit and non-credit basis. The distinction between credit and non-credit is cost and workload. All students, credit and non-credit alike, are expected to complete the coursework and a grade will be assigned. To meet ordination requirements a grade of “B” or higher is necessary.

RCA Standards – Rev. Dr. Scott Sherman                        

June 4 – 8, 2012

RCA History & Missions – Rev. Dr. John Coakley

June 4 – 8, 2012

RCA Polity – Rev. Dr. Al Janssen

June 11 – 15, 2012

RCA Worship – Rev. Dr. Timothy Brown & Rev. Dr. Gregg Mast

June 11 - 15

With forced time at home and a schedule that does not require early departures of flights, and back-to-back meetings in cities far from California, my home state, I have had the opportunity to read and reflect more than usual.* Amongst the books in my stack of things to read was the book “A Play-Full Life: Slowing Down and Seeking Peace” by Jaco Hamman. Believing this to be an appropriate subject for someone whose ankle did not allow him much mobility, and to whom had been given the gift of seeking peace and solitude, beyond that which was normal, I read this book by friend and colleague Hamman.

 Dr. Jaco Hamman teaching the seminar.

I enjoyed the book, even though on more than one occasion, it correctly identifies practices in my own life that might not be healthy. Hamman shares some of my interests in that we both love to get out and ride our motorcycles (BMW, not Harley Davidson – which suggests something about the type of riding we prefer), and we both work hard at seeking a healthy pastoral balance for ourselves and the candidates for ministry with whom we work.  He serves on the faculty of Western Theological Seminary (WTS) in Holland, Michigan and teaches the Seminar for Pastoral Formation for the MFCA. A similar course at WTS is called The Pastor as Person.

I found the book extremely helpful in guiding my thoughts about how I relate to God, how I relate to my wife and children, and how I relate to those I serve in my vocation. Hamman forced me think about my ability to live my life in a real and transcendent manner, asking questions about my need for control, my tendency to be a consumer and whether or not I was engaging life creatively?

Prior to beginning the book, my wife Jane came home and shared with me that she had been approached by a college student in a restaurant while having breakfast with a friend, and that this student was conducting a survey. One of the questions in the survey was “If you are a parent, what do you like about having children?” Jane asked me what I would have answered before telling me what she answered. My response was that “I appreciate the relationships it added to my life.” I have loved the opportunity to relate to my children and grandchildren at all stages of our lives. These relationships, and the opportunity to invest in them, have given me immense gratification and meaning to my life.

In reading “A Play-Full Life,” I suspect that Hamman would tell me that I had caught on and discovered at least part of what is important for our lives. Real and authentic relationship with God, others, and self is key to a fulfilled and meaningful existence. This is true for our personal, family, and vocational life.

Hamman has much more to say about this in his book and I highly recommend it to everyone; candidates for ministry as well as those who desire a better understanding of life itself and how to better understand family, our society, creation and ourselves. I encourage candidates to consider taking the Seminar for Pastoral Formation starting next week. As is evidenced in Hamman’s book, and can be experienced in the seminar, there is so much that we can learn about ourselves and the relationships we have, making us healthier individuals who are capable of serving in ministry in healthy and meaningful ways.

Cor

*Explanation – On February 14^th, while doing my regular exercise of cycling to the ocean and back, I was hit by a pickup truck on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). I was catapulted off my bike and my foot was caught in my peddle-cage, severely spraining my ankle; the same one  broken six years ago. The doctor speculates that the main reason it didn’t break this time was the screws, plate and pins holding it together. The healing process is slow and could be at least six weeks.

Jaco Hamman provides a wonderful list of questions for individuals who desire to be real and faithful in their life and ministry. Here are some of the questions:

• Have I been criticizing or consuming too much?
• When am I bored and what can I do to experience vitality?
• What parts of me might others experience as a sharp edge?
• How can I be vulnerable toward others?
• Who would I be if I were more resilient than I now think?
• In what ways am I hurting others and myself?
• What “crazy” or disturbing thoughts do I have that I best need to contain or share only in appropriate relationships?
• Who am I when I lose my temper or my patience?
• How do I shape the world I live in to become a better place for tomorrow’s generation?
• In what parts of culture, including religion, do I partake?
• How does my partner or family experience me when I retreat into isolation?
• What would realness look like for me?
• How do I befriend my own death?

(Pg. 125)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Susan Cox has accepted the call to First Church of Albany as an associate pastor. She has begun her duties at First and will be officially installed on March 18^th. Cox was serving several Methodist churches and was counseling as a therapist before taking on this new role. She also serves the MFCA as a member of the AAR Certification Committee and is a graduate of the AAR process herself.

Greg Ten Brink will be ordained as Minister of Word and sacrament on March 25^th at 4:00 pm at Beechwood Reformed Church in Holland, MI. Greg is a graduate of the AAR process and will continue to serve at Beechwood Reformed Church.

The sister of Jane Kors and Bethany and Corstian Devos, Antonia Devos, has been diagnosed with a brain tumor. She will have surgery on Friday, March 2^nd in Vancouver, British Columbia. Corstian has been at her bedside this past week and Cor and Jane will be with her this week. Please keep Antonia and family in your prayers.

OPPORTUNITIES

The MFCA is aware of opportunities in a number of RCA ministries… a brief list is offered below. Please contact Cor and the MFCA Office about the status of these positions:

Athabasca, Alberta               Pastor

Calgary, Alberta                   Pastor

Niskayuna, NY                        Pastoral Resident for Youth, Discipleship, and Small Groups

Orland Park, IL                    Pastor

San Jose, CA                       Pastor

Sheboygen, Wisconsin          Pastor

TRAVEL SCHEDULE

Cor’s travel schedule…

February 29 – March 4          Vancouver, BC

March 20 – 23                      Philadelphia, PA

March 28 – 30                      Holland, MI

April 8 -16                            Family Vacation

May 20 – 22                          Holland, MI

June 2 – 20                           Holland, MI

June 21 – 26                         Palos Heights, IL

The popular course, that serves as an alternative for a unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE), the Seminar for Pastoral Formation, begins in a couple of weeks. The course, taught by Dr. Jaco Hamman of Western Theological Seminary (WTS) commences as an online course and ends with a one-week intensive at Geneva Shores Conference Center on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Those interested in taking the seminar should register ASAP since there will be books to acquire and reading to be accomplished for the start of the first session. If you are thinking of taking this course, please contact MFCA Registrar Kelly Talsma at ktalsma@rca.org.

 The 2011 Seminar for Pastoral Formation group with Dr. Jaco Hamman on the right.

Course Description

This seminar explores the ways in which a minister’s life history, spiritual growth, and vocation intersect and shape his/her personal and professional identity. Students will reflect in-depth on their own psychological and spiritual development. Through message board conversation, weekly summaries, case studies, autobiography, and critical reflection on selected readings, students will identify the self they bring to their ministry. Personal and ministerial challenges that can trigger personal and systemic reactivity or responsiveness are identified. Paths of personal growth will be identified. Focusing on mindful, spiritual, and ethical leadership, students will critically engage their autobiography as persons called by God into pastoral leadership.

The MFCA Board of Trustees met in Orlando, Florida this past week prior to the denominational “Conversations” event. The meeting was the first attempt by the Board to operate according to Policy Governance. This includes policy-generating discussions such as what the Board needs to consider in determining the Certificate of Fitness for Ministry (CFM) and monitoring reports by the Director. What it excludes is involvement in the day-to-day operations of the Agency.

The spring meeting is also when the Board elects its officers for the year. This time it voted in a complete new slate of individuals. Those chosen were Rev. Dwight Bailey as moderator, Rev. Miriam Ippel-Barnes as vice-moderator, and Mr. Bart Strong as secretary. These individuals will begin their terms on July 1^st.  Dr. Bradley Lewis, current moderator, is completing his second term.

Lewis is an elder at First Reformed Church in Schenectady, NY. Bailey is pastor of Church of the Chimes in San Jose, California and Ippel-Barnes is pastor of Canajoharie Reformed Church in New York. Strong is an elder from Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.

The MFCA Board of Trustees awarded five Certificates of Fitness for Ministry at its meeting in Orlando, FL this past week, February 9 & 10… three by way of the regular M.Div. program (RCSC) and two by way of the Approved Alternate Route (AAR). The individuals were:

RCSC

Susan Hetrick                         Classis of the Southwest

Mitch Kinsinger                       Classis of East Sioux

Jay Wilson                              Classis of the City

AAR

Greg Ten Brink                        Classis of Holland

Paul Thé                                 Classis of California

All the individuals either have a promise of a call or serve in a ministry in which they plan to continue. The following is the information we have on these individuals…

• Susan Hetrick has the promise of a call to be an Associate Pastor at The Garden (formerly Glass & Garden Community Church) in Phoenix, AZ. She earned her M.Div. at Phoenix Seminary.
• Dr. Mitch Kinsinger is a religion professor at Northwestern College in Iowa. He earned his M.Div. at Western Theological Seminary and his PhD. At the University of Iowa. His ordination service is scheduled for Sunday, February 19^th at 2:00 PM, American Reformed Church, Orange City.
• Jay Wilson will continue to be a therapist at the Counseling Center of the City Church San Francisco. He is a graduate of Reformed Theological Seminary (RTS) of Orlando, FL.
• Greg Ten Brink will continue to serve as an Assistant Pastor at Beechwood Reformed Church in Holland, MI. He did his graduate studies through Western Theological Seminary and RTS online of Charlotte, NC.
• Paul Thé is the pastor of The Bridge, a church plant in the Classis of California. He has been serving the church as a Commissioned Pastor.

Ordination and installation services will be announced as we learn of them.

Twenty-fifth Anniversary of First TEA/MFCA Class

These are the individuals who received the CFM in 1987 and who are celebrating their 25^th anniversary…

Steven Allison
Alan Baker
Dale Bovenkamp
Celaine Bouma-Prediger
Steven Bouma-Prediger
David Crump
Andrea Godwin-Stremler
Kevin Harney
Rita Joyce Honcoop
Daniel Kroeze
Kent Landhuis
James Lankheet
Scott Manetsch
Scott Rees
David Van Lant

TRAVEL SCHEDULE

Cor’s travel schedule… Cor has had a major ankle injury and may not be able to travel as planned over the next few weeks… please see this schedule as tentative:

February 15 – 16        Chicago, IL (CANCELLED)

March 20 – 23            Philadelphia, PA

March 28 – 30            Holland, MI

April 8 -16                  Family Vacation

May 20 – 22                Holland, MI

June 2 – 20                 Holland, MI

June 21 – 26               Palos Heights, IL

As predicted, the enrolment numbers for the MFCA has declined and the number of candidates, which stood as high as “103” two years ago, is at “84” at this point in time. More candidates are graduating and withdrawing from the program compared to applicants being added. Three candidates were admitted to the regular program at the RCSC Certification Committee this past week whereas the RCSC Committee recommended three candidates for the Certificate of Fitness for Ministry (CFM), thus, not changing the bottom line. The three candidates admitted by the RCSC Committee all come from the Regional Synod of the Heartland and the Classis of Dakota, Classis of Central Iowa and the Classis of West Sioux.

As well, two RCSC candidates withdrew over the last month and thus the enrollment for the RCSC program again declined.

The AAR Certification Committee recommended two candidates for the CFM earlier in January. Although the AAR Committee considered three applications, not one was deemed eligible at this time. The committee is carefully applying the eligibility criteria and even though the three applicants may be eligible in the future, the committee decided that the respective classes had not provided the rationale and information to the committee for an affirmative decision to be forwarded. The last news feed explains the criteria for eligibility.

In total, between the MFCA, New Brunswick Theological Seminary (NBTS), and Western Theological Seminary (WTS) there are 245 candidates preparing for ordained ministry in the Reformed Church in America. The MFCA, when active applicants are included, represents 42.5% of those candidates.

Western Theological Seminary (WTS) represents over 51% of the candidates. The WTS numbers have been increasing steadily as the “Distance Learning” (DL) program has grown and become established as one of the best in the country. The addition of the Newbigin House of Studies (NHS) has also impacted the WTS numbers since NHS is a new presence for WTS on the West Coast.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Katie and Nic Pope proudly announce the birth of Emmy Louise Pope on Monday January 23 at 8:19 pm.  She weighed 10lb 4oz. Nic has been the pastor of Sequoia Community Church in Fresno, California and is completing his ordination requirements with MFCA. He is a graduate of Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary.

TRAVEL SCHEDULE

Cor’s travel schedule…

February 1                      Orange City, IA

February 2                      Sioux Falls, SD

February 8 – 12               Orlando, FL

February 15 – 16             Chicago, IL

March 20 – 23                 Philadelphia, PA

March 28 – 30                 Holland, MI

Winter and the AAR Certification Committee both arrived in Schenectady, NY this past week. For the first time, the committee met in this wonderful upstate city at First Reformed Church. The location is the home church of committee member Dr. Bradley Lewis, and having the meeting there allowed him to teach his economics class at Union College on the Friday morning.

This somewhat unique location was also within driving distance for three other committee members and one of the candidates being interviewed. The other two candidates who had to be interviewed flew from California and Michigan.

The Approved Alternate Route (AAR) committee meets a couple of times per year, and has three responsibilities  for the MFCA. The committee determines eligibility for those wishing to pursue the Certificate of Fitness for Ministry (CFM) process by way of the AAR, agrees on a program that each admitted candidate will be asked to complete, and assesses the candidates fitness for the CFM according to the standards set by the General Synod.

The committee welcomed a new member at this meeting; Mrs. Norma Coleman – James, an elder at Six Mile Reformed Church in New Jersey. The committee comprises of seven members, two elders, three ministers of Word and Sacrament, one of which is in specialized ministry, and two General Synod Professors. The General Synod Professors represent both RCA seminaries, New Brunswick Theological Seminary (NBTS) and Western Theological Seminary (WTS).

Determining a candidate’s eligibility for the AAR process in order to seek ordination in the Reformed Church in America (RCA) is a responsibility that must first be visited by the classis. The Book of Church Order states:

“The classis shall determine: (1) the candidate has at least five years’ experience in leadership in the church; (2) the consistory has demonstrated compelling need for the candidate’s ministry; (3) the candidate provides evidence of the call, gifts, and experience for the ministry of Word and sacrament; and (4) the candidate, for compelling practical reasons, cannot complete a master of divinity degree at an accredited seminary.”

When a classis is able to satisfy itself that the four criteria have been met, the classis explains each criterion and submits the application to the AAR Certification Committee. The committee will consider the application and will either admit the candidate or determine that the candidate does not adequately meet the four criteria. It is not unusual for the committee to deny an application and ask a classis to explain their reasons and if the classis desires to re-submit the application, the arguments will have to be more clearly stated. As was the case this past week, the committee can question one or two of the criteria.

If a classis has not documented that at least five years of experience in leadership in the church had been part of the applicant’s past, the committee will request more information if it is available. Often, criterion #4 is questioned, especially when a candidate is young and if they reside close to an accredited seminary. Even when a candidate does not live close to a seminary, the availability of a distance M.Div. program such as offered through WTS and now Newbigin House of Studies, can provide reasonable access. 

Although there continue to be those for whom the AAR process is the only means for attaining ordination in the RCA, there is also a growing trend that more individuals choose to earn an M.Div., or choose to serve as Commissioned Pastors.  The Ministerial Formation Certification Agency (MFCA) being the agent assigned to oversee the AAR process, along with the AAR Certification Committee, remains committed to help candidates meet the RCA requirements for ordination to the office of minister of the Word and sacrament.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

We wish to express our condolences to Susan Hetrick in the passing of her mother on December 24^th. Susan wrote:  “My mother Nancy Peck, went home to heaven on Christmas Eve. She was only 71 and had been fighting a long battle against PSP (Progressive Supra-nuclear Palsy), a very rare neurological disorder. It finally won after stealing her ability to control her muscles, speak, and swallow – she was down to 72 pounds at her death. My family considers it a gift that she went to heaven on the day we celebrate Jesus’ coming to earth - my dad had been praying for a peaceful end to her struggle for a year. We are all glad that she is at peace now, despite the fact that we’ll miss her dearly.”

Congratulations to our own Amy White on the birth of a new grand daughter on January, 16^th. Stella Marin White was born on Martin Luther King Jr. day and weighed 7 lbs. 15 oz.  Home is Long Beach, California.

Candidate Suzanne Vogel will be starting a new position this coming week. Upon coming back from winter intensives at the University of Dubuque Theological Seminary (UDTS) she will begin her role as a corporate chaplain. She will be serving at Vermeer Manufacturing in Pella, Iowa.

We apologize to those who planned to take RCA History & Missions DL this winter. We had to cap the course at 20 individuals and place a number of you on a waiting list. It appears that everyone in the course will remain, and the waiting list will have to be carried over to our summer intensive course in Holland, Michigan or to next year’s DL course.

TRAVEL SCHEDULE

Cor’s Travel Schedule

January 17 – 19                        Des Moines, IA

January 18                                Dubuque, IA

January 23 – 25                        Phoenix, AZ

January 31 – Feb. 2                   Sioux Falls, SD

February 1                                Orange City, IA

February 8 – 12                        Orlando, FL

March 20 – 23                           Philadelphia, PA

Register Now for Winter Courses!

Time is running out for those who plan to take one of the MFCA courses commencing next week. Our records indicate that many more folks were planning on taking the online courses than are presently listed on our registered rosters. Three courses begin on January 16 and registration needs to occur ASAP. Please email or call the MFCA registrar, Ms. Kelly Talsma, at ktalsma@rca.org or 562-408-2520.

Basic Hebrew Tools                   (Non-credit)                      Rev. Dr. Chad Pierce

RCA History & Missions DL         (3.0 or Non-credit)            Rev. Dr. Dennis Voskuil

RCA Polity DL                           (3.0 or Non-credit)            Rev. Dr. Cornelis Kors

Also, registration for denominational event “Conversations” closes on Wednesday, January 4^th. If you desire to go and hope to have MFCA scholarship money, please register today. https://www.rca.org/2012conversations

Rev. Johannes Bekkering

I learned of the passing of Rev. John Bekkering this week; he was in his 96^th year. Rev. Bekkering was our pastor at First Reformed Church in Hamilton, Ontario when we arrived as immigrants from the Netherlands in June of 1960. I remember well the time that he came to our house with a box of groceries because my dad could not find work during the first few months of our time in Canada… we literally did not know in those days where our next meal was going to come from.

John (Joop) Bekkering was the first person to ever suggest that God might have a special plan for my life and that I might be called into ministry. He was the one to push me out of my comfort zone as a 10 year old, by having me share some words from the pulpit at the closing service of VBS. He was the one, every time I encountered him during my visits back to Ontario, who assured me he was praying for me in my position with the MFCA. He never lost track of me, and I am confident that he was truly praying for me throughout the many stages of my career.

I honor Rev. Bekkering on this page because I believe his life and ministry display what all of us should strive for. In total humility he served the Lord, keeping prayer at the center of his ministry, while time and time again challenging young people to be attentive to God’s plan for their lives. Praise God for the life of John Bekkering!

New Year’s Reflection

“It is better to fix problems than to prevent errors” is a statement made by Peter Sims in his recent book Little Bets. This book was a Christmas gift given to me by my son-in-law (we pick names and he was the one responsible for my gift this year),and I decided to read it before starting the New Year. The book was written for a business audience, and according to the back cover description was sold as a book that “offers a whole new way of thinking about how to break away from the narrow strictures of the methods of analyzing and problem solving we were all taught in school so that we can navigate uncertain situations and unleash our untapped creative powers.”

I also decided to read the book because the upcoming New Year appears to be presenting me with a daunting number of challenges for change and innovation, and thus I was ready to have someone provide me with a map for my journey into 2012. So, with a Bible in one hand, and this business book in the other, I spent the last days of 2011 and the first couple of days of 2012 reflecting on how I might navigate a number of fragile and volatile decisions. Prayerfully, I have attempted to understand the challenges ahead while seeking divine insight and courage.

Sims encourages readers to “fail forward” - to fail quickly - in order to facilitate a quick learning process for perfecting procedures and tasks. He seems to feel that if we find out what doesn’t work through our up front failures during experimentation, we can correct our direction and get things right. He suggests that we identify the problems and get down to fixing them in the shortest time possible. Although this strikes me as counter intuitive, past experience has taught me that one does learn significantly from failure. When I think of Jesus’ disciples, I see them time and again falling short and learning quickly what needed to be learned. After all, Jesus was with them only a short time and Jesus had to equip his disciples for the greatest task ever undertaken in the history of the world. Jesus seemed to model the “fixing of problems” approach as opposed to “creating preventative measures.” He was clear in his instruction “go and sin no more.”

My time of reflection has allowed me to name where I hope not to fail, while at the same time not suffer the paralysis of analysis by my attempts to prevent failure. According to Sims I should be willing to fail at small things as I strive toward perfection. “Healthy perfectionism is internally driven in the sense that it’s motivated by strong personal values for things like quality and excellence.”

So where will my experimentation take me? And, where might failures and retry attempts occur? The following come to mind:

• The development of the Graduate Certificate program that is being developed with Newbigin House of Studies / Western Theological Seminary.
• The inaugural classes that will be offered in Paramount, California with the new Video Conference equipment.
• Program adjustments with a lower enrollment and the major shift of candidates toward the eastern part of the continent. (87% of MFCA candidates reside east of the Rocky Mountains).
• Spanish speaking candidates continue to have difficulty gaining access to seminary training and MFCA needs to better position itself to fill the gap.
• More efforts are being coordinated with the Christian Reformed Church (CRC), and Formula of Agreement partners are adapting to new challenges in theological education in ways that may impact the RCA.

Therefore, I ask for your understanding and cooperation as we make changes in our program. Failures will happen as we attempt to achieve a perfected program to serve the RCA…

Cor

Picture Above: When not reading and reflecting, Cor spent time with his grandchildren... The two Seattle grandchildren were not only thrilled with the weather in Southern California, but also loved going on bicycle rides.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Susan Hetrick has received a promise of a call as Associate Pastor to Glass and Garden Community Church in Scottsdale, AZ. Susan is in her final stages of the CFM process and hopes to be ordained by the Classis of the Southwest this winter.

The installation service for Marijke Strong is scheduled for January 22, 4 p.m. at Fellowship Reformed Church, 300 N 168^th Ave., Holland, Michigan. Anyone who is in the area is welcome to attend.

We received word that Debbie Braaksma's mom, Phyllis Williams, passed away.  She was 91 years old and had been ill for some time now. Deb presently works for the PCUSA in Louisville, KY in their mission office.

TRAVEL SCHEDULE

Cor’s Travel Schedule

January 11 – 13                        Schenectady, NY

January 17 – 19                        Des Moines, IA

January 23 – 25                        Phoenix, AZ

February 8 – 12                        Orlando, FL

The equipment is in my office and installed, and it’s now all about anticipation. The equipment I am referring to is video conferencing equipment that will facilitate “live” interaction for instruction and meetings. The “anticipation” I am referring to is future uses of the equipment, and the possibilities for services for not only the MFCA, but  various others as well.

Much of what the MFCA hopes to accomplish with the equipment remains on the drawing board while other partners are beginning to think of ways to use the system.  Other partners include Emmanuel Reformed Church (ERC), various Christian colleges, Classis of the City, and the Hispanic Training Program that Rev. Eddy Aleman offers in Southern California, Central California and possibly Northern California. MFCA is committed to sharing the equipment with others during times when it is not in use by the MFCA.

ERC has an aggressive church-planting goal and there is a need for quality preparation of dozens of individuals to lead those churches. The MFCA shares facilities with ERC and thus the partnership is a natural development.

The MFCA is negotiating with Western Theological Seminary (WTS) a means for offering a Graduate Certificate in Urban Ministry through Newbigin House of Studies (NHS). The program would involve a combination of online courses and interactive multi-site video-conferencing classes. Starting with online courses presently offered by the MFCA this January, students could possibly be meeting in class in Paramount, California while receiving live instruction from the Eastern time zone…. as soon as this spring. Conversations are under way with Western Theological Seminary (WTS) about the possibility of a New Testament course and New Brunswick Theological Seminary (NBTS) about a Church History course in the spring of 2012. A full program would be offered in the late summer of 2012 if the arrangements are finalized. 

The concept of a “Graduate” Certificate is extremely attractive for the Paramount location because it will allow individuals to prepare for various ministries with the possibility of earning graduate credit from an accredited seminary. Prospective candidates for church planting and urban ministry in Southern California, from both the Reformed Church in America (RCA) and the Christian Reformed Church (CRC), would be able to have access to affordable seminary education on location. Those who might later want to earn a graduate degree such as an MA or M.Div. could use the credits earned as part of the certificate program toward such a degree.

Although it will require some changes on the part of the Association of Theological Schools (ATS), the accrediting agency for seminary programs in North America, there is the hope that the MFCA will be able to host cohort groups of students seeking to earn the MA or M.Div. degree in Southern California. This would be a future possibility and would most likely be a few years away. If ATS does not make the necessary changes, MFCA would have available the option of creating a Graduate Certificate program that would be designed around the Approved Alternate Route (AAR) requirements. The AAR program is designed for those who are called to be a Minister of Word and Sacrament, but for compelling practical reasons are not able to earn an M.Div. degree.

Since these developments are all under discussion it is not possible to provide more specifics at this time. But let us emphasize one thing… with the equipment installed and working; there is plenty of reason to believe that the implementation of the Graduate Certificate program will soon become reality.

 Testing the new interactive equipment in Paramount, CA. @ the Reformed Theological Studies Centre

CHRISTMAS GREETING

The staff at the MFCA Office wishes everyone a blessed Christmas and prosperous New Year. May the joy and hope brought into the world by the birth of our Lord Jesus reside in everyone’s heart!

Amy, Kelly and Cor

ANNOUNCEMENTS

The congregation of Trinity Reformed Church in Orange City, where MFCA alumni Rev. Jon Opgenorth, Rev. Bob DeBoer and candidate Rob Vanderlune serve, has been asked to stay out of their worship space due to an unsafe roof. An engineering firm has deemed the sanctuary space “off limits” and thus the congregation has been forced to move to Northwestern College and use Christ Chapel. This could result in some major changes for the Orange City congregation…

Rev. Jay Carroll will be wed to Cora Watkins on December 16^th at Brunswick Reformed Church in Brunswick, Ohio. Congratulations Cora and Jay!

Devon Kors will be marrying Carizza Sioco on Sunday, December 18^th. Father of the groom, Cornelis Kors will be conducting the ceremony.

Rev. Mike Altena has accepted a call to the American Reformed Church in Luverne, MN. Their last day at Hope Reformed Church in Montevideo, MN will be on Christmas, and then Lord willing; they will join with ARC on January 9.

CREDO CLUSTER “C” REGISTRATION OPENS

Cluster “C” of the online Credo course beginning January 30, 2012 has space available for a few more students. The course will begin with orientation on January 16,  allowing candidates to complete their credo by early June. MFCA candidates who hope to be awarded the Certificate of Fitness for Ministry (CFM) can complete the credo requirement by successfully completing Cluster “C.” Those interested should contact Kelly Talsma at ktalsma@rca.org.

For the second year in a row the MFCA has not been able to offer an RCA course in Spanish; the reason being that there are only a few eligible candidates to take such courses. Given the mission of the MFCA to prepare and credential candidates as Minister of Word and sacrament at a graduate level, it is outside the agency’s mandate to offer the courses to a larger audience if there are no MFCA candidates who enroll.

   A goup of Spanish speaking students at the Paramount location two years ago.

Despite some setbacks, creative efforts are being spun. Beginning in January, special arrangements are being made for Spanish speaking students who wish to take RCA History & Missions DL and RCA Polity DL. Select students will be able to do written assignments, including discussion blogs, in Spanish. These two courses are exclusively online courses and Rev. Janelle Koolhaas – Lopez will be assisting the instructors with the Spanish-speaking students.

Although the students will have to do much of the reading and listening in English, efforts will be made to provide as many resources as possible in Spanish.

A similar program will be offered as part of two summer intensive courses. RCA Standards and RCA Worship will include a section directed by Rev. Koolhaas – Lopez as the teaching assistant. Students will participate in the English speaking class and have the support of the teaching assistant available. The students who prefer this will complete assignments in Spanish.

If there is a large enough enrollment of Spanish-speaking candidates, consideration is being given to the possibility of having Rev. Koolhaas – Lopez lead a separate RCA Worship class that will be led exclusively in Spanish at the same time as the English class. Dr. Tim Brown and Dr. Gregg Mast will teach the English-speaking class. DR. Scot Sherman will teach the RCA Standards course. In being offered as coinciding experiences, there will be efforts to have overlap, especially in times of community worship and meals.

Both RCA Standards and RCA Worship will be offered in Holland, Michigan in June. Dates are June 4 – 8 and June 11 – 15, 2012. Those interested in these courses should contact the MFCA Office in California at 562-408-2520.

OPPORTUNITIES

First Reformed Church of Waupan, Wisconsin is seeking an Associate Pastor.

The Associate Pastor will partner with Senior Pastor for the spiritual welfare, overall programs, growth and life of the church.  This person will provide spiritual leadership in areas of Seeking God, Nurturing one another, and Reaching others through discipleship.  In cooperation with the Senior Pastor the Associate is responsible for outreach, worship, family ministry, assimilation, personal evangelism, and assist the Senior Pastor as needed.

The MFCA office has a more detailed position description on file. Contact Rev. Bob James for more information @ pastorbobjames@gmail.com 

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Aimee Peterson, spouse of candidate Paul Peterson, had back surgery in Minneapolis, MN this past week. She remains in hospital and hopes to go home to North Dakota soon. Please remember the Petersons in your prayers.

Ben Kappers was ordained as Minister of Word and sacrament this past Sunday. Ben is called to and serving at Baileyville Reformed Church in Illinois. He is a graduate of Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson, Mississippi.

Josh Lickter was ordained to Minister of Word and sacrament this past Sunday in Roseville, California.

Registration is now open for the three courses starting on January 16, 2012. If you have not received the registration material from MFCA registrar, Kelly Talsma, please contact her ASAP and have her email the material to you. The courses are:

Basic Hebrew Tools                        Instructor: Dr. Chad Pierce

RCA History & Missions DL              Instructor: Dr. Dennis Voskuil

RCA Polity DL                                Instructor: Dr. Cornelis Kors

These courses are online courses and do not include a residential component. The Basic Hebrew Tools course is non-credit only. The other two courses have the option of credit or non-credit.

Courses are designed for MFCA candidates. Others, such as Commissioned Pastor candidates are eligible if they provide transcripts of an undergraduate degree and a statement declaring the purpose for taking the course.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Kevin Karhoff continues to improve after his surgery and remains as an out-patient in Omaha, NE.

Marijke Strong received approval for her visa this week. Although there is much paper work left to complete, she hopes to move to Holland, Michigan in December to begin fulltime duty at Fellowship Reformed Church.

Greg Ten Brink's father continues to struggle with health issues... please remember him in your prayers. Greg is in the final steps of the AAR process.

Scholarships to attend the “Conversations” event in Orlando, FL are available to MFCA candidates. Please contact the MFCA office regarding application.

TRAVEL SCHEDULE

Cor’s travel schedule:

November 17 – 18                                   San Francisco, CA

Nov. 29 – December 1                             New York, NY

December 5 – 6                                       Minneapolis, MN

December 9 – 11                                     Seattle, WA

December 12 – 13                                   Grand Rapids, MI

January 11 – 13                                      Albany, NY

January 23 – 25                                      Phoenix, AZ

The MFCA Board of Trustees met in Paramount, California on November 3 – 4 and stepped into its life under policy governance.  The board now consists of eleven individuals, two from General Synod Council. New board members include Rev. Miriam Ippel – Barnes and the General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Thomas DeVries. Since Dr. DeVries was in Europe at the time of the meeting his designee, Rev. Dr. Ken Eriks sat in for him.

Rev. Miriam Barnes is a pastor from Canajoharie, New York. She is a Western Theological Seminary (WTS) graduate and is married to MFCA graduate Rev. Eric Barnes. We are thrilled to have Miriam on our board.

At the meeting this past week the Board of Trustees awarded six Certificates of Fitness for Ministry. Congratulations to the following:

Sally Coppersmith – Hovenga               Classis of Holland                   Fuller

John DeGroff                                       Classis of Dakota                   AAR

James Eastland                                   Classis of Columbia Green       Fuller

Jose Garreton                                      Classis of Ontario                  AAR

Ben Kappers                                       Classis of Wisconsin               RTS, Jackson

Julia Turner                                        Classis of New York                Union, NY

CONVERSATIONS

Conversations is an event designed to put a finger on the pulse of the RCA and allow us to share stories, learn from one another, and discern the future direction of the RCA. The event will be held in Orlando, FL and the purpose is to discern the leading of the Holy Spirit together as a denomination.

The MFCA will make six scholarships available to candidates who could not otherwise participate. Those interested in attending can apply directly to the MFCA Office. Applicants must be an active MFCA candidate and should submit a brief statement as to why they wish to participate.

The Details

• Conversations needs leaders from across the denomination--every church, church plant, chaplains, specialized ministers, emerging leaders, seminarians, and retired ministers.
• The event runs from Friday evening, February 10 through Sunday morning, February 12.
• During Conversations, you'll hear from RCA general secretary Tom De Vries, engage in small-group and large-group conversations, and celebrate the work of Our Call.
• On Saturday night we will gather to hear from Efrem Smith, an Evangelical Covenant Church (ECC) minister who planted a church called Sanctuary in North Minneapolis in 2003, launched a community development corporation out of the church, and now serves as the superintendent of the Pacific Conference of the ECC.

From CCT (Churches Coming Together)

“We hope to have 30 seminarians join us for Wednesday, February 15^th, at our 2012 Annual Meeting of Christian Churches Together in Memphis, TN. This is an excellent opportunity to help mentor future church leaders from each of our five faith families. On this day, we will be engaged in deep discussion regarding the impact of racism on domestic poverty. The seminarians and young church leaders will no doubt be able to contribute as well as to benefit. It will be an excellent day for seminarians and other young leaders to see CCT at work and to see the Holy Spirit at work within CCT.”

MFCA candidates interested in attending should contact the MFCA Office. There are no scholarships available for this experience and candidates would have to provide their own travel.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Congratulations to Rev. Sarah Naber - Samson on the birth of a son. The baby's name is David John Samson, born 10/12/11, 4:14 a.m., 8 lbs., 6 oz., 20 inches. Sarah is a Fuller Seminary grad and currently serves as a hospital chaplain in Cleveland, Ohio.

Rev. Keith Poppen recently had surgery for the second time on an ankle. Keith is a Christian therapist who resides in Sacramento, CA.

Rev. David Vandervelde has received and accepted a call to Ebenezer Reformed Church in Stoney Creek, ON, Canada. Dave and his family will be saying farewell to Bethel Reformed Church in Abbottsford, BC. He is a graduate of Regent College and serves on the AAR Certification Committee of the MFCA.

Rev. Bart Keefer was officially installed at Maranatha Reformed Church in Wainfleet, ON, Canada. He had been serving as interim at Ebenezer in Stoney Creek, ON.

Marijke Strong continues to wait on a visa to enter the United States. She has been called to Fellowship Reformed Church in Holland, MI and is eager to begin her duties. Pray for the visa to come through and patience for Marijke as she waits.

November has arrived, and with it a new season begins for the MFCA and its candidates. Various things need to happen as new courses appear on the horizon and registrations need to be submitted.

For those who must complete the Bible Content Exam, there is only a little over a month left before having to register for the February session of the PCUSA examination. The link for those who have to register is: http://gamc.pcusa.org/ministries/prep4min/bible-content-exam/

Cluster “B” of the credo course begins writing today, and if someone planned to complete their credo as part of cluster “B” and did not sign up, it remains a possibility to contact our registrar and sign up today… ktalsma@rca.org

Three MFCA online courses begin January 16^th… They include:

Basic Hebrew Tools – an online course designed for the AAR program; Dr. Chad Pierce is the instructor. Only offered on a non-credit basis.

RCA History & Missions DL – The MFCA requirement taught by Dr. Dennis Voskuil. It is exclusively online and has  credit and non-credit options.

RCA Polity DL – The MFCA requirement taught by Dr. Cornelis Kors. It is exclusively online and has credit and non-credit options.

MFCA courses are designed to meet the requirements for the Certificate of Fitness for Ministry (CFM) and thus are offered as credit and non-credit. The intent is that most individuals will take the course as non-credit. The non-credit option requires the same workload, but allows for  minimal tuition costs to participants.  The courses are offered at a graduate level and students must provide transcripts and documentation indicating that they are capable of doing Master’s level work.

Those taking the courses for credit will pay the full tuition and Western Theological Seminary (WTS) will record the credit. All WTS academic regulations apply to the courses. Credit transfer to the student’s seminary will occur by “Letter of Transfer” and the student has the responsibility to request the transfer.

Although still in the “negotiation” stage, the MFCA is making arrangements to begin a cooperative effort with Western Theological Seminary (WTS) and Newbigin House of Studies (NHS), which may begin as early as late January. The new effort will include a smart classroom at the Reformed Church Theological Centre in Paramount, California (Where MFCA Office is located). Classes will be offered synchronously between Holland, Michigan, San Francisco and Paramount, CA. MFCA hopes to sponsor a cohort group in Southern California that will allow candidates to complete courses toward the Certificate of Fitness for Ministry (CFM) at a significant savings of time and money in an urban context.

More announcements will be forthcoming as arrangements are completed. For now, the MFCA asks that individuals and churches keep this new initiative in their prayers and to consider assisting the MFCA financially. The equipment to make this possible will require a significant investment on the part of the MFCA. Please contact the office at 562-408-2520 if you would like more information or would be interested in helping financially with this new venture.

 The smart classroom at the Reformed Church Theological Centre will be similar to the one pictured here.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Regina and Daniel Brunz announce the safe arrival of Samuel Jae William Brunz;  born October 8, 2011 - 7lbs. 3 oz.  - 21 and half inches. Daniel is an applicant to the MFCA process and attends Sioux Falls Seminary in South Dakota.

The Classis of Central California announces the ordination of Joshua Lickter on November 20 at 4:00 PM at St. John’s Episcopal Church, Roseville, CA. Joshua is a licensed candidate from the PCA and has recently completed the MFCA requirements.

Kevin Karhoff continues to reside in Omaha, NE receiving treatments for cancer. Please keep Kevin and his family in Mitchell, SD in your prayers.

OPPORTUNITIES

Associate Pastor: The Crossing, a church plant in Sioux Falls, SD is seeking an associate pastor to lead in the areas of discipleship, small groups and family ministries. Contact information is available at sethsundstrom@gmail.com or the MFCA Office.

Lead Pastor: Emmaus Church in Langley, British Columbia is seeking a lead pastor. The church leadership is hoping to enter into a new season of ministry with extra emphasis on prayer. The contact for this position is Albert Spaa - aspaa@shaw.ca.

TRAVEL AND MEETING SCHEDULE

Cor’s calendar includes the following:

November 3 – 4                      MFCA Board of Trustees

                                               Paramount, CA

November 9 – 10                    Candidate Consultations

                                               Fresno, CA

November 17 – 18                  Newbigin House of Studies Inauguration

                                                San Francisco, CA

December 9 – 11                     Seattle, WA

December 12 – 13                   Grand Rapids, MI

This past week I have been reading N.T. Wright’s book Scripture and the Authority of God: How to Read the Bible Today. I am in part trying to stay current with some of the latest scholarship in the Biblical and Theological fields. As well, I am attempting to get better acquainted with the work of N.T. Wright before I experience him in person at the inauguration of the Newbigin House of Studies next month. Wright will be a speaker at the event held in San Francisco on November 17 – 18, 2011.

Wright’s book is a refreshing read and it stimulated much thought for me. The book provides a view of scripture and how the mission of the church needs to be embedded in scripture in order to be effective and relevant. I would recommend the book to all MFCA candidates.

Wright concludes: “the shorthand phrase ‘the authority of scripture,’ when unpacked, offers a picture of God’s sovereign and saving plan for the entire cosmos, dramatically inaugurated by Jesus himself, and now implemented through the Spirit-led life of the church precisely as the scripture-reading community.”  (Pg. 115) He suggests we shape our mission as the church by discovering “what the shape and inner life of the church ought to be.” (Pg. 116) We are challenged by Wright to always place our mission efforts by first looking to “God’s purpose for the entire world” as revealed by God in scripture.

For me, this became more real this Saturday as I was part of our church’s efforts in Compton, California. The Compton Initiative involved a couple of thousand people volunteering their time and energy in restoring the City of Compton. This enormous project is founded in Emmanuel Reformed Church’s (http://erc.la) understanding of scripture and God’s purpose for the world; and in particular the urban centres’ of the world.

The more I discover God’s heart in scripture, especially in how it is portrayed through the story of Jesus when He walked this earth, the more convicted I become about participating in acts of mercy. I am also convinced that the Holy Spirit uses scripture to reveal new and fresh ideas that cannot only invigorate our mission, but also direct mission so as to require us to think in new ways and take risks.

Below are some opportunities that have recently come to our attention... please look them over and pray about whether or not the Lord is directing you to participate in these ventures. MFCA candidates are eligible to apply for $500.00 scholarships to use toward the costs of the opportunities listed as well as the Sankova Experience announced last week...

Pictures:The pictures above are taken at the Compton Work day this past Saturday, October 15, 2011. The visual images, as well as the words on the sign and T-shirt illustrate how God's purpose for the world can drive the mission of the  church...

OPPORTUNITIES

World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) - Global Institute of Theology (GIT) - Yogyakarta, Indonesia - June 2012

Are you a student of theology preparing for the Christian ministry, OR a pastor in your first years of ministry?

Would you like an opportunity to learn and interact with other theology students/pastors from different parts of the world?

The World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC) will hold its third Global Institute of Theology (GIT) in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, from 8 June to 1 July 2012. The Global Institute of Theology gives theological students and faculty from all over the world, an opportunity to learn, teach, and do theology in an inter-contextual and ecumenical way, situating the theological task in local, regional and world contexts.

Here are some things that former GIT students have said about it:

• The GIT is a great opportunity to meet and make friends with Christians around the world. I have really enjoyed the whole experience. I have been encouraged by the thoughtfulness and friendliness of the students and staff. I will remember you all fondly (James Church, United Kingdom).
• GIT 2010! Awesome!! And the students… I have no words to explain!! I have hope for tomorrow with these kinds of people. I am blessed a hundred (Lucy Wambui Waweru, Kenya).
• I am very glad to be able to mention a voice from my heart and my context that makes me clear of my identity and my vision as well. I learned a lot (Lal Hhim Puii, Myanmar).

You could be one of the participants for the GIT 2012, taking part in lectures, seminars, exposures, contextual experiences, the sharing of stories, and life of the churches in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

If you would like to know more about the GIT, visit our website www.wcrc.ch or send an e-mail to wcrc@wcrc.ch. The MFCA Office also has more information.

Fill in the registration form and send your completed application to us before December 1 2011.

WESTERN SEMINARY J-TERM BODERLINKS OPPORTUNITY

The WTS J-term experience at the Mexican border mentioned in last week’s news feed can be accessed at http://www.borderlinks.org/education

Since 1987, BorderLinks has been facilitating delegations in the Arizona-Sonora region and beyond the border to Chiapas, the Copper Canyon, Alamos, Chicago, and Santa Barbara.  These immersion visits offer groups the opportunity to interact with our neighbors in the U.S. and Mexico.  Our delegations visit with individuals and organizations that provide basic assistance to migrants, create community-based alternatives, advocate for just policies, and much more.  You will meet with people that are directly affected by current economic and immigration policies, and you’ll be given tools and resources to work for justice.  

Workshops:  Our Community Workshops provide educational dynamics and activities to groups who are either not able to participate in a delegation, or would like a shorter educational experience for their class, church, or civic group.  Offered on a sliding scale basis, Community Workshops provide interactive learning experiences around issues such as immigration, fair trade, economics, privilege, and intercultural understanding. 

Most years Western Theological Seminary (WTS) has cooperated with the MFCA and made available to the candidates the opportunity to join the J-term cultural immersion experiences. These have proven to be rewarding experiences for our candidates as well as a wonderful means to develop relationships with faculty and students at WTS. At the present time it appears that there remains space in the Mexican border experience and perhaps the Sankofa trip that is co-sponsored with the Reformed Church in America (RCA).

The RCA supports several training programs that help participants understand and combat racism, and engage with people of different cultural backgrounds. This is all part of “Our Call” and a “Multiracial Future Freed from Racism.”

Sankofa is a West African word that means "looking backward to move forward." It implies that as we engage the RCA's multiracial future freed from racism, we must look backward to see the contexts and experiences of our multiracial past punctuated with racism.

Sankofa is a cross-racial/ethnic three-day bus trip that helps Christians move toward righteous responses to racism. This intensive, interactive, cultural awareness training involves exploring historic sites and viewing videos and provides times for processing the experiences of African Americans, Asian Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Native Americans. In addition to consciousness-raising, the trip invites participants to grow to understand and value each other. Participants move toward healing the wounds and racial divides caused by hundreds of years of racial injustice in the United States. Participants become more equipped to fruitfully address racial righteousness in our church, our nations, and our world.

Here is a link:  https://www.rca.org/Page.aspx?pid=5699

Those MFCA candidates interested in participating with WTS students and other RCA folks are encouraged to contact the MFCA office and register their interest. Please contact AmyWhite at awhite@rca.org.

RCSC Certification Committee Meets in New Jersey

The RCSC Certification Committee met at New Brunswick Theological Seminary in New Jersey this past week. The committee conducted interviews of seven candidates as well as processing other business. The committee is recommending four individuals for the Certificate of Fitness for Ministry (CFM) and the MFCA Board of Trustees will decide on the recommendations at its November 3 – 4 meeting in Paramount, California. The committee also admitted eight applicants into the CFM process. Those admitted were the following:

Tim Grade                    Classis of the Rocky Mountains        (Denver)

Jesse Henkle                Classis of Pleasant Prairie                (UDTS, Dubuque)

Jeffrey Knol                  Classis of North Grand Rapids           (Princeton)

Christopher Meester       Classis of Pleasant Prairie               (Luther, St. Paul)

Grant Mulder                 Classis of Chicago                          (Northern Baptist)

Erick Schalk                  Classis of North Grand Rapids           (Grand Rapids)

Tricia Sheffield              Classis of New York                         (Princeton)

Brandon Van Marel        Classis of East Sioux                     (Covenant, St. Louis)

The new group of applicants portrays the trend that has been true for the MFCA in the past few years. Most of our candidates now reside east of the Rocky Mountains. Most of the potential applicants at the moment appear to be from New York with an increasing number attending Alliance Theological Seminary.

TRAVEL SCHEDULE

Cor’s travel schedule…

October 12 – 14                      Chicago, IL

October 18 – 20                      Sioux Falls, SD

October 24 – 26                      Chicago, IL

October 27 – 28                      San Francisco, CA

November 3 – 4                      Paramount, CA (MFCA Board)

November 17 – 18                  San Francisco, CA (Newbigin)

December 9 – 11                    Seattle, WA

December 12 – 13                  Grand Rapids, MI

The news feed has not been posted weekly as of late because the staff of MFCA has been extremely busy, in part travelling more than usual. There have also been numerous regularly scheduled events that have consumed our time such as AAR case study examinations, online courses starting, and preparations for committee and board meetings.

The MFCA staff is also immersed in looking to the future and how it can serve the RCA better. The last few weeks the staff ‘s attention has been given to the creation and development of video conferencing for the purpose of having live interaction between folks in Paramount, California and sites across the country. MFCA hopes to have state of the art video conferencing ability by January 2012 so that seminars, courses, and meetings can occur with live interaction between New Brunswick Theological Seminary, Western Theological Seminary and Newbigin House of Studies.

Church planting expert and pastor at Emmanuel Reformed Church, Rev. Eddy Aleman, hopes to be able to maximize his training of pastors by being able to teach classes in Spanish and have full participation of individuals in a room in Paramount, California as well as a group in Modesto, California. Aleman is also a member of the MFCA Board of Trustees.

Dreams for the video conferencing equipment include the possibility of providing Masters level courses to a cohort of students who reside near our Paramount, California site; many of them involved in ministry with Emmanuel Reformed Church and the new churches being planted in Compton, CA. Just as Western Theological Seminary is providing M.Div. possibilities to folks in San Francisco (and Newbigin House of Studies), it is our hope that they will be able to do the same in Los Angeles with MFCA.

Speaking of the future and MFCA endeavors to serve the RCA better, I have included in my planning the addition of program possibilities for MFCA candidates. It is a growing concern of the MFCA Board, as well as the denomination and mine, that future leaders in the RCA be adequately trained and made aware of racism, sexual ethics and sensitivity to disabilities. If a candidate’s seminary covers those areas well it is not a pressing concern for MFCA. When they are not covered, it is my belief that the MFCA in its oversight of the Certificate of Fitness for Ministry aught to provide training and awareness for those entering ministry in the RCA.  

I hope that as part of what we offer that we can include anti-racism training, a sexual ethics program (as we did in the 1990’s) and an awareness of disability concerns. How these will flesh out remains to be seen and I invite readers to assist me in this endeavor. For now, I am thinking that we will use the Saturday between our two weeks of intensive courses in June for workshops and seminars. Expanded use of our video conferencing equipment might also be an option.

PICTURES:  The upper picture above is of Greg Ten Brink meeting MFCA staff members Kelly Talsma and Amy White during RCA staff days held at Camp Geneva, Holland, MI

The lower picture was taken by Cor as he visited New Brunswick Theological Seminary - he was able to observe an experiment which allowed President Gregg Mast and Dean Renee House to navigate the NBTS campus in wheelchairs. The conclusion was that the campus was not wheelchair friendly and many obstacles encountered were such that both needed the help of others in order to access parts of the campus.

COR’S TRAVEL SCHEDULE

September 27 – Oct. 1            Toronto, Ontario

October 4 – 7                         New Brunswick, NJ

October 12 – 14                      Chicago, IL

October 18 - 20                      Sioux Falls, SD

October 24 – 26                      Chicago, IL

October 27 – 28                      San Francisco, CA

November 17 – 19                   San Francisco, CA

The MFCA office will be closed for most of this week; Monday through Thursday. The staff will be attending the RCA staff days in Michigan. If there is a crucial matter that needs your attention that cannot wait until Friday, please email Cor at ckors@rca.org or try his cell phone at 562-522-4189.

The special course designed for AAR candidates (but not restricted to them), Greek Basics and Tools, begins this week on September 15, 2011. This is an online, non-credit course taught by Dr. Chad Pierce.

Those interested in taking the course should contact Kelly Talsma this week by email (ktalsma@rca.org) and be prepared to purchase the latest edition of Bibleworks.

OFF THE BOOK SHELF

Cornelis Kors

Most summers I have the opportunity to read at least a dozen books that have been referred to me by colleagues. This summer I only managed four or five books recommended. Family obligations and an extremely busy schedule restrained and minimized my reading time. Included as part of my reading were two of Rob Bell’s books including Love Wins, Wes Granberg-Michaelson’s memoir, Unexpected Destinations, and the one I want to share some quotes from: How I Changed My Mind About Women in Leadership: Compelling Stories from Prominent Evangelicals, edited by Alan F. Johnson, Zondervan Press, 2010.

Convicted of my position, fully in favor of women in leadership, I did not need to be convinced or have my mind changed. That happened years ago and was reinforced as I served on the Commission for Women in the 1980’s. This book served more as an opportunity to read other people’s stories and to connect with individuals who debated the issues in very similar ways to me and who are recognized as solid evangelical Christians…

Cornelius (Neil) Plantinga wrote the following: “But why would God want women to be subordinate? What probable reasons could God have? Yes, Eve was created second, but Scripture tells all kinds of stories in which God elevates the younger over the elder. Yes, Eve sinned first, but why would a gracious God keep reminding good women of this unpleasant fact by subordinating them to men for the rest of human history? It struck me that the big command of God’s Son to do unto others as you would have them do unto you made it tough to subordinate women. I wouldn’t want to be subordinated for no discernable reason. So why would I be willing to subordinate women? And how about the command to love one’s neighbor as oneself? Doesn’t that command lead in the same direction as the Golden rule?

So here is my dilemma. I wanted to be inclusive where women in the church are concerned. I also wanted to be obedient to what seemed the plain teaching of Scripture in I Corinthians 14 and I Timothy 2.” Plantinga admits he finally came to terms with his dilemma when he understood the hermeneutic regarding slavery and Scripture as the same hermeneutic for women in leadership.

Bill Hybels explains how the folks at Willowcreek “concluded that before the fall, men and women related to each other as coregents, both bearing the image of God and called to join together in caring for the world He had created. Both men and women were responsible to fulfill their ministries of service.” Gilbert Bilezikian, professor emeritus of Wheaton College and member at Willowcreek wrote, “The more I advanced in the study of the Word of God, the more baffled I became at the suggestion that God would divide his people right down the middle, half chiefs and half Indians.”

John Armstrong, an ordained minister in the RCA writes: “I am struck by the comments of N.T. Wright when he said that after spending decades of academic study in Romans, he found Romans 16 to be one of the most important chapters in the entire letter. He says this because of the mention of women who were in leadership -  Phoebe, Mary, Priscilla, Mary, Tryphena, Tryphosa, Persis and Junia.

I encourage others to read this excellent book. It represents the predominant RCA position on this matter and even if it doesn’t change one’s mind, it provides wonderful food for thought.

Hurricane Irene has caused amazing amounts of damage along the Eastern seaboard, and included in its wake are numerous RCA churches. The flooding, more so than the wind, appears to be the main culprit. As I write this there remain numerous areas where individuals are stranded and locked in (or out) by water.

I recommend that individuals get the latest on the RCA churches at https://www.rca.org/Page.aspx?pid=7594. Churches where MFCA graduates serve; reporting damage to their sites include Rev. Jeff Kelley in New York, Rev. Vicky and James Eastland in New York, Rev. Sherri and Rev. Mike Meyer–Veen in New York, Rev. David Kahler in New Jersey, and Rev. Bethany and Rev. Corstian Devos in Pennsylvania. There are many more and the information on them is available on the RCA website.

Many have posted pictures of the damage incurred to church buildings on Facebook. Included here is a picture from Jeff Kelley’s Facebook page of Middleburgh Reformed Church in New York. Please keep these congregations in your prayers, and if you are in the vicinity please consider volunteering to clean up and restore. The RCA link also provides ways to donate to relief causes.

 Picture from Rev. Jeff Kelley's Facebook... note the water level on the wall.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Luke Baehr has received a “promise of a call” from Silver Creek Reformed Church in Minnesota. He is prayerfully considering this call. Luke graduated from Princeton Theological Seminary this spring and is in the final stages of the MFCA program.

The Gundlachs proudly announce the birth of Rowan August Gundlach. Rowan was born at 6:45 PM on 8/27, 8 lbs 3 oz. He has a 21 month-old brother, Noah. Rev. Jonathan Gundlach is on staff at City Church San Francisco and also serves as the stated clerk for the Classis of the City.

Board member Rev. Eddy Aleman is a grandpa for the second time… Aiden Caleb was born on August 24^th in Toronto, Ontario, and he weighed 7 lbs. 6 oz.

Susie and Tim Grade celebrate the birth of Russell Potter Grade born on August 25^th in Denver. Both Susie and Tim are MFCA candidates and serve Pathways Church in Denver. A picture slide show is available at this link: http://kateborgelt.myshowit.com/russell_potter_grade_8_2011_slide_show 

Marijke Strong will be ordained as a Minister of Word and sacrament on September 9^th at Forestview Reformed Church in Grimsby, Ontario, Canada. Marijke is still waiting on word from the INS regarding her visa to move to the US.

The MFCA office staff is busy with the preparations for the next round of AAR case study examinations. Six individuals are slated to write the case studies this fall. The actual process will not be completed until the end of January 2012 with oral examinations and personal interviews. Location is yet to be determined and effort will be placed into identifying the most central location for both the candidates and committee members.

At the same time, numerous new applications to the AAR process have arrived at the MFCA office. The AAR process is designed for those who for practical reasons are not able to earn the Master of Divinity degree. Once admitted to the process, the candidate, the classis and the MFCA director are asked to complete a customized program proposal.

The creation of the program proposal is a crucial component in the process; at the same time it is something that is often the most challenging for the candidate and the classis. In order to assist this process, the MFCA has posted a sample program proposal on the special blog site it has hosted for a number of years. Those charged with the creation of an AAR program proposal are encouraged to review the sample at: http://mfca4rca.wordpress.com/.

Program proposals are best when they utilize the eight criteria that are established as the standards for preparation process toward ordination; the Certificate of Fitness for Ministry (CFM). The sample does a good job of using the criteria, and those creating program proposals are encouraged to imitate the format of the sample posted.

The AAR Certification Committee, at its last meeting, also went on record saying that for assessment purposes, candidates will be asked to provide a complete bibliography identifying the books and resources that have been instrumental in the candidate’s formational and preparation process. Again, the committee would prefer to have the bibliography formatted according to the eight criteria. A sample bibliography is available upon request from ktalsma@rca.org.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Rev. Kevin Karhoff continues his fight with cancer and is dealing with much fatigue and nausea while he undergoes heavy chemo treatments. This new aggressive treatment process is being administered in an attempt to prepare Kevin for a bone marrow transplant. This is a busy time for the Karhoffs as school is starting up and Savanna (oldest daughter) is beginning college this month. Updates on Kevin’s situation can be found at: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/kevinkarhoff

Marijke Strong shared the following this week as she requests prayer… “Last month I received a call to the position of 'Minister of Congregational Care and Community Life' at Fellowship Reformed Church in Holland, Michigan. I am so joyful about this role and excited to see how the Spirit is already at work in the hiring process and in my new relationship with the church. It just feels right.

However, now there's the question of immigration. The lawyers say a visa petition like this one could take anywhere between 15 days and 6 months (!) and they seem to have their eye fixed on the longer term... maybe so that we (the church and I) don't get our hopes up and then get disappointed. No doubt, if this petition takes six months there are a lot of practical living issues to work through, including finances and living arrangements back here in Canada... but I'd like to pray that it only takes a few weeks -- surprise :) Why not? God is full of surprises :)”

Rev. Rob Horstman was ordained and installed by the Classis of West Sioux on August 7th at the First Reformed Church of Inwood, Iowa.  Rob writes about the occasion: “God was glorified and praised and it was a great day for my family, the congregation and myself.” Rob is a recent graduate of Sioux Falls Seminary (SFS).

Rachel Daley has just completed a summer stint of CPE and will be flying to the Ukraine for a yearlong mission placement. She also graduated in May with her M.Div. from Princeton Theological Seminary (PTS) in New Jersey.

MFCA Board member Rev. Eddy Aleman requests prayer for his daughter Rebecca. She has type 1 diabetes and there have been numerous complications resulting in hospitalization this past week. Rev. Aleman serves at Emmanuel Reformed Church in Paramount, CA.

Rev. Andrew Schmidt had back surgery a week after his ordination and installation about four weeks ago. This week is his first week back at Celebrate Community Church in Knoxville, IA. Please remember him in your prayers.

OPPORTUNITIES

Emmaus Christian Fellowship in Langley, BC has established a search team and is seeking a new pastor to lead the congregation.  They are looking to become a praying church, with a praying leadership and therefore seek a praying pastor. Emmaus is a small diverse congregation in a large cosmopolitan area. 
Interested individuals can contact Mr. Albert Spaa at aspaa@shaw.ca or by telephone at 604-533-1340; cell 604-328-8880.

COR’S TRAVEL SCHEDULE

August 19 – 21                        Seattle, WA

August 23 – 25                        Grand Rapids, MI

September 6 – 8                      Grand Rapids, MI

September 12 – 15                   Holland, MI

September 20 – 22                   Newark, NJ

October 4 – 7                           New Brunswick, NJ

October 24 – 26                       Chicago, IL

GENERAL SYNOD APPROVES POLICY GOVERNANCE FOR MFCA

By approving the new bylaws for the MFCA the General Synod of 2011, at it’s meeting at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, MI., affirmed the move to Policy Governance. The MFCA Board of Trustees has worked diligently to adapt Policy Governance to its procedures. With the leadership of Board Moderator, Dr. Brad Lewis, Ms. Anne Mead and Mr. Bart Strong, the adaptation has worked out marvelously according to MFCA Executive Director, Cornelis Kors.

Policy Governance is driven by the formation of clear goals for the life of the agency. These goals are defined as “Ends Statements.”  The following ends statements will be what will determine the life of the MFCA:

E-l GLOBAL END:

The MFCA is to ensure the integrity of the Certificate of Fitness for Ministry for RCA candidates under its jurisdiction in order to strengthen the ministry of the RCA, as a faithful steward of the resources provided by the General Synod. 

Subends:

E-2   The RCA Standards for Preparation for Ministry are upheld and periodically reviewed

1. The process by which the standards are interpreted and applied is transparent to all
2. The RCA standards are upheld as defined and established by the General Synod

E-3   The Certification Committees will be provided the resources, information and support needed to conduct their work effectively; they will be equipped and held accountable to:

a.    Ensure that the RCA’s Standards for Preparation are adequately covered in the  examination of candidates;

b.    Engage candidates as brothers and sisters in Christ, respecting their privacy, rights and privileges and speaking the truth in love;

1. Deliberate with care and objectivity concerning the fitness of candidates, both for the sake of candidates and the RCA’s ministry.

E-4   Candidates will be provided the information and support needed to fulfill the requirements for the Certificate of Fitness; will receive careful, clear and timely feedback on their progress as candidates for ministry in the RCA; will be engaged as brothers and sisters in Christ, with respect for their privacy, rights, privileges and hopes; will be spared undue hardship in fulfilling the requirements for the Certificate of Fitness.

E-5   Congregations and classes are provided with resources and counsel to aid them in the care and nurture of MFCA candidates.

E-6   The ministry of MFCA graduates will demonstrate the dispositions, knowledge and practices set forth in the standards for preparation for ministry.

E-7   The ministry of MFCA graduates will show increasing competence, depth and integrity.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Classis of Cascades convened in special session at noon on Sunday, August 7th, 2011 for the purpose of ordaining Ho Byong Lee as a Minister of Word & Sacrament in the Reformed Church in America. The service of ordination and installation occurred at Lighthouse Korean Reformed Church in Kent, Washington. Rev. Lee will serve as the Associate Pastor and in charge of English Ministries.

Brittnee and Blaine Crawford were married on July 29th at Willow Ridge Manor in Morrison, Colorado. Reverend Harlan VanOort, chaplain at Northwestern College officiated the ceremony. Brittnee is a Resident Service Coordinator for Denver Housing Authority. Blaine is entering his final year at Denver Seminary. Congratulations!

Wednesday, August 3^rd, at Faith Church in Dyer, Indiana, Jason DeVries was ordained as a Minister of Word and sacrament.  A highlight for Jason was the fact that his grandfather, Elmer VanDrunen gave the charge to the pastor. Jason will continue to serve overseeing Faith's Valparaiso Indiana campus and is a recent graduate of Bethel Seminary’s “In Ministry” program.

Marijke Strong has accepted a call from Fellowship Community Church in Holland, Michigan to be an associate pastor. Marijke is a recent graduate of McMaster Divinity College in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Ordination information will be forthcoming…

TRAVEL SCHEDULE

Cor’s travel schedule…

September 6 – 8                        Grand Rapids, MI

September 12 – 15                     Holland, MI

October 4 – 7                             New Brunswick, NJ

October 24 – 26                         Chicago, IL

Dr. Paul Fries has been serving the MFCA since 1993… 18 years. He has been an instructor of the RCA Standards course on a regular basis and he has been the only person to ever teach the credo online course.

As a General Synod Professor Emeritus who taught and was academic dean at New Brunswick Theological Seminary, Fries has been able to continue to utilize his wide array of gifts by serving the MFCA. Having come from a somewhat secular Lutheran background, he studied for years to acquire a broad and deep understanding of the Dutch Reformed tradition. Over the years he has established himself in the theological community and has made many valuable contributions to the Reformed Church in America and the Commission on Theology.

In August, Fries will again be leading candidates through the credo writing process. Cluster “A” has the largest enrollment on record and Dr. Fries will be busy this fall as he assists individuals in this important step of the Certificate of Fitness for Ministry (CFM) process. He has been kind enough to accept ten (10) persons in Cluster “A.”

LAST CALL ON CREDO

MFCA Registrar, Kelly Talsma sent out all the credo information to those candidates indicating interest in taking the cluster “A” of the credo course. The cluster has a waiting list and as mentioned above, we will accommodate ten individuals who must take the credo course this fall to meet other program deadlines.

If you did not receive the email announcing the cluster, which starts in August, and need to take it, please contact the MFCA office immediately. Amy White will record your interest and a decision can then be made regarding a second section. Call at 800-435-5136 or email at ktalsma@rca.org.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Rev. Nathan Weller was ordained as a Minister of Word and sacrament in Columbus, Ohio on Wednesday, July 20^th. Nathan is a graduate of Ashland Seminary.

ANGEL CLEAN UP

The Learning Management System (LMS), Angel, was upgraded to version 7.4 on July 20, 2011. In order to fit the new structure of managing the users and courses/groups and reduce the administration overhead the Western Theological Seminary LMS staff have deleted inactive user accounts. Once an account is deleted, everything associated with the user will be permanently gone.

The MFCA office staff have reviewed the accounts that were earmarked for deletion and requested that we retain the one’s that needed to stay active in the future. We suspect we may not have caught all the accounts that need to be kept and if you have discovered that your account was deleted and would like to have it activated, please email the MFCA and inform the staff of your desire to remain active on Angel. ktalsma@rca.org or awhite@rca.org