Farewell

Dear readers, this is, sadly, my last editorial. I have resigned in protest of Synod’s decision to change The Banner’s mandate.

Although in protest, I am not bitter or angry. I am disappointed, of course, but I have gone through a discerning process. Through prayer, separate conversations first with my wife and then with five other wise people, including my pastor, I discerned my decision a few days after synod ended.

This decision is not a reflection of the wonderful support and work of the Banner staff, staff and leaders of the Christian Reformed Church, and the many volunteers serving at various levels of governance.

I resigned for three main reasons. First, I discerned that God is releasing me from serving the CRCNA as editor. God gave me a clear vision of my editorial posture and leadership as peace seeking by standing in the middle of multiple polarizing voices. Synod 2025’s decision, with an overwhelming majority, made it abundantly clear that that posture and leadership is no longer wanted or required. Since I do not sense God asking me to change my ministry posture, I can only surmise that God is releasing me from this call and calling me to serve elsewhere. I do not know where at this time, but I trust in God’s providence.

Second, I resigned in protest of the decision. I read synod’s decision as disallowing diverse positions from being shared, a decision I do not believe will help the denomination’s collective spiritual health in the long run. When and why did we become so spiritually insecure? I believe in the power of God’s Word and truth to accomplish God’s purposes (Isa. 55:11). I trust in the work of the Holy Spirit. I do not need to either shield or prop up God’s truth by silencing different positions. Doing so suggests insecurity rather than confidence in God’s truth.

I believe this decision also curtails editorial freedom, even if it does not remove it entirely. Out of my personal sense of integrity, I feel I must resign in protest. This view is mine alone. I fully respect the decision of our award-winning Banner staff to stay. They are still committed to providing the same quality journalism under the new mandate. For that, they will need your support and grace.

Finally, though certainly not least, I resigned for my wife’s and my daughters’ long-term spiritual health. I no longer think it is good for them if I stay in this role under these conditions. Before God called me to be an editor, God called me to be a husband and a father.

My regret is that this comes at a challenging time for The Banner and for staff, who have to pick up the pieces from this decision. The excellent team has given dedicated quality service to the denomination. They deserve your appreciation, support, and prayers—now more than ever. I ask that you give them the support and encouragement you gave me these past nine years. I pray that the Council of Delegates would repeal its decision to defund The Banner.

Thanks to all our readers for their faithful support and prayers. May God bless the CRCNA for God’s kingdom. I am grateful for the honor of having served in this role.

To all, including those who have opposed my work: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace” (Num. 6:24-26). Amen.