CRC in Sierra Leone and BC Partnership Moving Forward!

It was exciting, revolutionary and a bit scary when, at their fall meetings, both classis BCNW and BCSE endorsed the formation of a joint classical committee to instigate a partnership between the CRC in Sierra Leone and BC. Relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the members of this joint committee eagerly begin their work of learning and working together.

On the BC side, our committee is composed of:
Chairperson Dave Mayer (Smithers)

John Richey (Vernon – East Hill)
Secretary Rev. Joel Ringma (Terrace)

Ted deVries (Langley – Bridge)
Dr. Sonya Grypma (Langley – Willoughby)

Dr. Barry Lester (Smithers)

Dr. Martin Grypma (Langley – Willoughby),

Asher deGroot (Vancouver),
ex officio members:

Rev. Martin Contant (Home Missions)

Rev. Sid Ypma (Port Alberni)

Dennis deGroot (Langley – Willoughby)

and Al Karsten (CRWM North America Director).

These comments from committee members reflect on this opportunity:
“The greatest things we can bring to this partnership, if it is to truly be that, is not our money, but our skills and knowledge and willing minds to discover and learn from this incredible community as we begin get to know one another.”

“I believe in the intrinsic value of all people as image-bearers of God. I want to make a difference in people’s lives. I don’t want to just talk about it; I want to do it.”

“Missions need to be mutual and my hope is that a partnership will be an opportunity for the Sierra Leone church family to impact our churches in BC and subsequently our culture.”

Our work over these initial months needs your prayers! We are excited about what God is already doing in Sierra Leone. We are eager to engage the work, yet wary of pushing our agenda. We are aware of our riches, our responsibility and much-needed humility as we anticipate joining with our Sierra Leonean brethren in transforming lives and communities worldwide.
We crave your feedback, ideas and reservations as we move forward. If you want to track the progress of this partnership and our developing plans; if you can commit to praying; if you have an area of expertise or passion; or if you simply feel nudged to become involved: Please join the conversation by subscribing to this weblog (http://crcinslandbc.blogspot.com/). Feel free to comment here or email us directly at sierraleonepartnership@gmail.com.

On Behalf of The BC/Sierra Leone Partnership Committee

Joel Ringma
Secretary