
Al Lindemulder
Retired pastor living in Arizona. Besides being a pastor, I also worked in mediation for businesses, divorce and custody cases. I am the former Deputy Director of Maricopa County Family Court Conciliation Services. During my ministry in CHandler, AZ ( a church plant) I belonged to many community boards including hospitals, schools, social service agencies, etc. I am a past president of the Chandler Chamber of Commerce.
Posted in: How Do We Know Which Story is True?
When do the cows come home? But there is something like historical research so we can distinquish between a fairy tale anda story from a historical perspective.
Posted in: Check Out the Music
Appreciate all of the comments and clarification. Good dialogue.
al
Posted in: Are We ignoring Elders at Synod?
Thanks, Good Stuff!!!!
Posted in: Check Out the Music
I think it is possible to question the judgment of others in picking songs. The Hymnal has a history of scrutiny and approval by way of Synodical decisions. I am not certain each individual has the collective theological wisdom to scrutinize songss as well as the collective mind of the entire body (CRC). I know I don't. However the bigger issue is the role of consistories in giving leadership to our worship services and I am not sure that much time is spent in consistory meetings on the issue of worship.
Posted in: How Helpful are Disagreements?
My next "Blog" will be on mediation. I am trained in both General and Family Mediation and firmly believe that part of Pastor Counseling Courses should include a course on Mediation as it applies to both the church in general and counseling of family conflicts as well.
Posted in: Check Out the Music
I am a bit surprised that we did not receive more comments on "consistory supervision" of music, words, worship service in general. They seem to delegate without oversight.
One last try at "untameable". It means to me no control - God is controled by his own righteousness in which he wants us to be righteous as he is righteous. Love our neighbor as he loves us, etc.
Posted in: Check Out the Music
I am just pointing out what the church order states. I don't think you need to know music to check out the words of a song.
Posted in: Whatever Happened to Family/Household Visits?
I agree with you. But my point is how are we replacing the traditional "Family/Household visit" with meaningful contact by the elders. Your suggestion is certainly one way of doing it. I think the elders need to be involved in making that "meaningful" contact.
Posted in: Check Out the Music
Thank you for your response and information.
Posted in: Why Do You Attend a CRC Church?
I very much appreciate your response and your "faith journey". Thank you for expressing it.
Posted in: Check Out the Music
If I am not mistaken the Synodical delgations from each classis begins at the local level delegating to Classis and then delegating elders to Synod. So Elders at Synod make the final decision. Prior to that happening the proposed Hymnal is asked to be reviewed by the churches for feedback. So the whole process still places emphasis on "elder supervision and approval".
I mentioned in an earlier comment I was not completely against the word "untameable" but I still maintain it is not the best word to describe God. However to each his own interpretation of the word as used in the song.
Posted in: Why Do You Attend a CRC Church?
Great point.