Sanctity of Life
In “Canadian Justice: Happy to Talk More,” you noted concerns and ignorance about our resources, with specific mention of sanctity of life and the KAIROS Blanket Exercise. I’d like to remind Banner readers that our Canadian justice ministries and Thrive do provide and promote resources related to the sanctity of human life, including both abortion and opposing legislation on Medical Assistance in Dying. I also wanted to remind readers that the KAIROS Blanket Exercise is something that synod has, itself, participated in and encouraged for all CRC churches. We also continue to adapt our ministries to support Canadian churches in robust public witness. I am happy to respond to any additional questions and hope that it will help future synods fully express appreciation for these valuable ministries.
Rev. Al Postma // executive director, Canada
Synod 2025
Synod 2025’s decision to remove the word “diverse” from the mandate of The Banner is a significant step toward limiting the voice of The Banner and its readers (“The Banner’s Mandate Curtailed,” July/August 2025). It is difficult to envision how The Banner will be able to encourage biblical and Reformed thinking without being able to present diverse positions. Will The Banner still be able to “provide prophetic and responsible criticism and evaluation” if it cannot present diverse positions held within the church, or “permit people of the church to voice their views and reactions even though some of these views may be unacceptable to others in the church” (Synodical Mandate 2015 The Banner) or in line with Synodical decisions?
Joanne Spoelstra // Hamilton, Ont.
Synod’s 2025 decision on a new mandate for The Banner is indicative of a fear of its readers, that they might be led astray into erroneous thinking by contrarian writers. It’s not The Banner’s task to be the guardian of correct theological thought. The CRCNA is to be highly admired for allowing vigorous exchange of ideas in its official paper. Such debate is indicative of minds and hearts that care deeply in the cause of engaging minds and hearts in seeking God’s truth. Synod’s action comes out of a white Caucasian silo, hardly reflecting the cultural, regional, and educational diversities that exist in our blessed North American context. What does need “policing” to my mind is the appalling political-theological indiscretions that come from CRC pulpits.
Bernie De Jonge // Kitchener, Ont.
Synod 2025 curtailed freedom of speech for both Calvin University and The Banner. I have sympathy for both sides of the argument. If the university and this magazine belong to the CRC, should their teachings not reflect CRC confessions? Yes, but school is more than an echo chamber and media more than propaganda. Both sides have some truth. The problem is the church should not own schools and magazines. That ownership must end. Without such separation, schools and media cannot attain their God-ordained purpose. Abraham Kuyper saw that very clearly. In the meantime, The Banner should continue to speak to matters of faith. … If we love God, we will act justly and love mercy. Please keep pointing out how we can love God by bringing healing to a broken world. Then you will shape our faith, which is your mission. Your work is not done.
Nick Loenen // Richmond, B.C.
The decision of Synod to muzzle voices in The Banner deeply disturbed us. Shiao Chong was an editor who we deeply admired for his integrity and pastoral leadership. We wish him blessings as he moves through new open doors. Funds which in the past were given as support for The Banner will now be directed elsewhere.
Jim Jacobs and Henrietta Hunse // St. Catharines, Ont.
Editor Resigns
I’m sorry to see editor Shiao Chong leave his position but am supportive of the new mandate determined by Synod 2025 (“Banner’s Editor-in-Chief Resigns,” July/August 2025). Less controversial issues should serve The Banner well, as a publication of the CRCNA. Having said that, I believe it should be incumbent on the denomination to financially bear all costs associated with its publication.
Alex Krikke // St. Catharines, Ont.
I'm saddened and dismayed by editor Chong's resignation. I've been deeply blessed and encouraged by his nuanced and thoughtful editorials against the backdrop of an increasingly polarized denomination. Thank you, Shiao Chong, for the years and gifts you shared with the CRC. May you and your family know God's richest blessings as you explore new avenues in an environment of greater freedom.
Diana Boot // Oshawa, Ont.
Though not surprised, I read your resignation with sadness. Your writing has consistently been faithful, insightful, and inviting. Under your leadership, The Banner offered a rich mix of content that informed, encouraged, and challenged its readers. I've saved and reread countless pieces during your tenure. In contrast to the thoughtful deliberations that shaped The Banner's previous mandate, this year's synodical decision feels rash. Your departure grieves me especially because the church needs more of your kind of hospitable, open-handed leadership, not less.
Stanley J. Groothof // Rock Valley, Iowa
I want to extend my sincere appreciation for the remarkable work of Shiao Chong in the nine years that he has done his work. Personally I have loved his balanced editorials and his emphasis on reconciliation in our polarizing times. In my opinion, his resignation is a loss, though very understandable in light of the decision of Synod to force editorial strictures of compliance and conformity to “official views.” I will continue to receive The Banner because I appreciate news from the CRC, but I will miss Chong. May the Lord bring someone of equal skill and integrity to this important position.
Rev. Edward Brouwer // Canton, N.C.