(due to my schedule not lining up with Synod’s, some of these will be out of chronological order)
Rev. Joe Vanden Akker brought up a motion to supplement the reponse to Communication 2 from his classis last night, saying that the supplement to Church Order article 45b does not deprive a classis from the right to send communications of protest. The problem was with the language of what was 
adopted last night, “…delegates (not classes) may register protests…”; this seemed to say that classes did not have a right to send communications of protest. This drew a large amount of discussion.
One delegate called up advisor Henry De Moor, who argued that having delegates register protest rather than classis was a wise decision of Synod 2007. He brought up the distinction between declaring things like “we don’t like Synod’s decision” and being able to do what is necessary to come to Synod in good conscience. Having delegates do this is the correct avenue. Rev. Vanden Akker, however, noted that what is actually in the Church Order supplement or Acts of Synod don’t say anything about classes.
Rev. Joe Kok, reporter of the study committee that put forth what was adopted last night, supported this motion. He explained that living in “Christian multiculturalism” required an attention to every detail, especially the language of statements sent back and forth. By being mindful of the messages between those who do not necessarily agree makes sure everyone feels included and needed.
In the end, this motion was carried.
The NLT was adopted as acceptable for use in worship, with reservations. Surprisingly, there was no discussion on this issue.
The Faith Formation Committee gave their presentation, and I believe their discussion luncheon is happening right after this session.
And I caught this on for only a few seconds before the session webcast was cut off, but to whoever made this and put it up: it’s simply awesome.
Tags: CRC, synod, Synod 2008
