Synod president Rev. Bruce Persenaire invited Rev. Leonard Vander Zee to come to the podium with the words, “Come, sell yourself!” but added, “Len, you come with good credentials. Talk to us.”
A pastor in the Christian Reformed Church for more than 40 years, and a former theological editor for Faith Alive, Vander Zee admitted, “I’m nervous about it.” However, recognizing the vital place The Banner has in the life of an increasingly diverse church and world, he’s grateful for a “dedicated and competent staff.” He indicated his commitment to serve, and promised, “I’ll do my best to shepherd The Banner in this year of transition.”
He indicated he would appreciate “charitable criticisms . . . lots of ’em.” Synod’s laughter echoed their appreciation.
Vander Zee will assume his new role at the end of the summer when current editor Rev. Bob De Moor will retire from the job to return from half time to full time parish ministry. During Vander Zee’s interim year, a synodically-appointed committee will search for a permanent editor.
Synod 2015 is meeting at Dordt College in Sioux Center, Iowa, from June 12-18. For continuous Banner coverage, please follow The Banner Magazine on Facebook or @crcbanner on Twitter. You can find more tweeting by following hashtag #crcsynod. News stories will be posted at thebanner.org several times daily. For CRC Communications releases, webcast, and live blogging, please visit crcna.org. Unless noted otherwise, all photographs are by Karen Huttenga.
About the Author
George Vink is retired after 50 years as a Christian Reformed pastor. One of his sons is an accident investigator for the Calgary (Alta.) Police Service, and his two brothers are retired from that position. He and his wife, Shirley, are members of Covenant CRC in Cutlerville, Mich.