Synod 2007 decided that church planters may vote at classis (regional meetings).
Pastors and elders of emerging churches (churches that have not officially organized) have been allowed to speak at meetings of their classes but have not been voting delegates.
“This is an issue of respect and incorporation,” said Rev. Matthew Ford of Classis Greater Los Angeles, a former church planter. “It goes a long way toward morale, unity, and participation.”
“[Not being able to vote] has been a hindrance in our area,” said Rev. Bobby Boyd of Classis Red Mesa. “We are part of the church, and we want to help them in their work.”
About the Author
Roxanne VanFarowe is a freelance writer who claims both Canadian and American citizenship and grew up in the Christian Reformed Church. She is a member of Blacknall Presbyterian Church in Durham, North Carolina.
