wfn.org | [CRC NEWS] Synod embraces restorative justice

["Henry Hess" <hessh@crcna.ca>]

June 16, 2005  Palos Heights, Ill. - In the face of the failures of a
justice system based on incarceration, synod called today for a strong
commitment by the Christian Reformed Church to preaching and teaching
restorative justice.

Delegates heard that restorative justice is based on biblical principles
of reconciliation, accountability, forgiveness, and healing.

Rev. Clayton Libolt, one of the authors of a study committee report on
the topic, told synod the idea is that "you don't just put people away,
but recognize them as imagebearers of God.... It's about restoration of
the community, of the victim, of the offender."

Delegates encouraged churches and leaders to preach, teach and embody
concepts of restorative justice. Synod also approved recruiting
volunteer justice coordinators in the United States and Canada in
coordination with the CRC's Office of Social Justice and Hunger Action.

In other matters, synod discussed the CRC's historical relationship with
the churches that have combined to form the Protestant Church in the
Netherlands (PCN).  It instructed its Interchurch Relations Committee to
clarify a number of theological differences that are threatening to
undermine the CRC's relationship with the PCN and to bring a
recommendation to Synod 2006.

At noon, delegates attended a testimonial luncheon to honor retiring
faculty and denominational leaders. These include professors James
MacKenzie, Derald De Young and Carl Huisman from Calvin College and
Robert De Vries from Calvin seminary as well as General Secretary David
Engelhard and Executive Director of Ministries Peter Borgdorff.

Rev. Engelhard, who has been undergoing treatment for a malignant brain
tumor, was able to attend the luncheon and he told delegates how blessed
he has been by the privilege of serving the church for the past 34
years, first as a professor at the seminary and later as general
secretary.

Coming up:
Synod is discussing a report on Christian Day School education.  It also
will continue a discussion about problems facing smaller churches,
especially those that are just starting or are in decline.

Contact Henry Hess, Synod News Officer, at 708-293-2108.