Six young adult representatives are present at Synod 2022, eager to see what happens.
The Christian Reformed Church has welcomed young adult representatives to its synod since 2010. This year, Daniel Choi, Leah Sweetman, David VanDokkumburg, and Hope D. Zigterman are attending synod for the first time. This is the second synod for representatives Rebecca Bokma and William Krahnke.
“Like in 2019, I'm noticing how much our voices as young adult representatives matter,” said Bokma. “Delegates want to hear our thoughts on what is being discussed, and they want our input.”
Krahnke is encouraged by how things are “off to a good start and flowing well.”
He said the three issues he’s most attentive to are the human sexuality report, penal substitution, and discipline.
Choi is encouraged by his experience. He said, “There is an eagerness to listen and ask God for wisdom and discernment.” Choi enjoys studying penal substitution academically and would have loved to discuss it with his advisory committee.
“I recognize the significance that this (in-person synod) holds after years of pause and desire to see thoughtful resolutions to each area of the agenda,” said Sweetman. “The human sexuality report is critical for the shaping of the future of our denomination, and I hope to voice some perspective as we approach that.”
VanDokkumburg also is particularly interested in the human sexuality report. “The results of this discussion are sure to impact the lives of young people in our congregations,” he said.
Zigterman said she appreciated “the intentionality and deep thinking that undergirds every aspect of the Christian Reformed Church” and she is hopeful to see it continue to play out in synod’s plenary sessions.
Choi said, “While many topics are important, and the outcome for some is uncertain, I am sure what will happen is God’s will.”
Synod 2022 is meeting at Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Mich., from June 10-16. Find daily coverage from The Banner news team at thebanner.org/synod, download the Banner app on your mobile device, or follow The Banner Magazine on Facebook. On Twitter follow #crcsynod or twitter.com/crcna. Synod is the annual general assembly of the Christian Reformed Church (it did not gather in 2020 or 2021). Connect to the meeting’s livestream, read advisory committee reports, and find other resources at crcna.org/synod.
About the Author
Kristen Parker is a freelance writer. She has a passion for words and creativity. Kristen and her husband Chris, enjoy board games and thrift shopping. They attend Stratford CRC in Stratford, Ont.
