Synod 2012 approved 43 candidates for ministry within the Christian Reformed Church. The group included 37 men and six women, including three husband and wife pairs.
Thirteen of the candidates were present at synod for the welcoming ceremony, while another 12 gathered at the CRC denominational headquarters in Grand Rapids (Mich.) to watch the ceremony on the synod webcast.
Delegates welcomed the candidate class of 2012 with a lengthy standing ovation.
“This is one of those doorway moments of life,” Calvin Theological Seminary President Rev. Julius Medenblik told the candidates for ministry. “As you stand in that doorway, know that you are loved, supported, and encouraged.”
Delegates surrounded groups of candidates, laying hands on them and praying for them.
Medenblik used God’s words to Joshua, instructing candidates to be strong and courageous and not to be afraid.
“God loves you, we love you,” Medenblik said. “Now, love the church.”
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About the Author
Jeff Arnold is the Banner’s regional news correspondent for classes Kalamazoo and Lake Erie.
