Al Mulder

The NIV translates Paul in 1 Cor 13:12 this way: "For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror..." (i.e., re true knowing, vs 9). I grew up on the old language of "For now we see through a glass, darkly..." which in my 80 years I resonate with even more. Unless all Bible believing Christians hear the Spirit saying the same thing, the Spirit's fruit of humility demands a certain amount of uncertainty, and it may not even be wholly holy. Thanks Syd,

Denise and others -- what I appreciate about this post is that it helps us to lament our own racialized behavior, rather than the all too simple act of lamenting the sins of others in a very different context.

Co-chairing the congregational meeting: "Did you really say that!?"

Paul, I appreciate your treating this subject, including the statistics for the past several decades. I also appreciate your graphic writing style. 

Not knowing what’s coming in your next installment, and not having read other posts when I wrote thisI will make two simple points. 

First, today’s Article 17 is written not only for ‘no-fault divorce’ but for a variety of situations that are occurring with increasing frequency.  Examples include:

• Pursuing an advanced degree program full-time, with a view to remaining in ministry but not returning to one’s current pastorate.
• Moving to another city, state, province, or country due to a spousal career, in which more time may be required to secure another ministry assignment.
• An existing ministry position (whether pastor, chaplain, or other) is phased out for financial reasons or other circumstances through no fault of the minister affected.
• Requested release from one’s call due to increased care needs – for an undetermined period of time -- of a young family or other special family responsibilities.

 Second, as Article 17 is applied increasingly to varied situations, we need to find more neutral language and images. Article 17 is not a divorce. It is not necessarily a flag. It is a release from one’s call to a specific position, for a variety of possible circumstances and considerations. Relevant positive, negative, and neutral aspects of a release can be recorded in the action taken by classis and in other ways, so that future employers are appropriately in-the-know. However, let’s use kinder, more inclusive, and more accurate language in referring to the use of Article 17.

To all -- a few additional thoughts about the function of Art 17 or something like it. 

An underlying principle at work is that ordination is granted only in relation to ministry functions that the church regards as sufficiently important to warrant ordination. Elders and deacons are considered ordained only when they are serving on council, or perhaps under mandate of council in some way. SImilarly, ministers are eligible for ordination only after they have received a call. If they receive another call, they can (usually) simply be released from one call to accept and minister under another call. 

When an ordained minister is released from one call without having another call in place, this is when Art 17 comes into play. It provides additional structure, accountability, and support for the minister without call -- in collaboration with the classis and synodical deputies -- to remain eligible for call so long as reasonable opportunities exist for receiving another call. Generally there is a two year grace period, and eligibility for call can be extended on an annual basis for weighty reasons. Eventually, however, a minister cannot retain the status of minister without being under call to a specific ministry. 

In principle, the only exception to this is when a minister reaches retirement age and may be granted emeritus status, i.e., retain the status of ordination without a specific call.