Rev. Joel Ringma, pastor of Terrace Christian Reformed Church, British Columbia, recently helped lead the charge to keep slot machines out of his city.
Ringma, delegated by the ministerial association of his community, spoke out at a public forum held in October 2006.
“I challenged our city leaders to consider the social and spiritual cost,” he said.
Local churches joined in prayer and raised awareness through petitions. The city’s longtime mayor, Jack Talstra, a member of Terrace CRC, cast the deciding vote to keep slot machines out.
Ringma was thankful for the opportunity to be involved at a community level. “This may only stem the tide before the issue comes up again as a referendum, but we trust that in that case the citizens of this town will be a voice for justice again,” he said.
About the Author
Jenny deGroot is a freelance media review and news writer for The Banner. She lives on Swallowfield Farm near Fort Langley B.C. with her husband, Dennis. Before retirement she worked as a teacher librarian and assistant principal.
