EDITORIAL
by Dr. John B. Hulst, Executive Secretary
Keeping the Light Alive

In this issue of CONTACT, in the section titled "Books," the reader will find a reference to and a brief description of The Dying of the Light, by James Tunstead Burtchaell (William B. Eerdman Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, Michigan,/Cambridge, U.K. 1998). The subtitle, The Disengagement of Colleges and Universities from their Christian Churches, describes precisely what this book is about, and clearly implies that the Light died in "countless colleges and universities . . . Founded under some sort of Christian patronage" because they no longer claimed or acknowledged "any relationship with a church or denomination" (p. ix).
The book has been well-received, also in evangelical academic circles. It has been recommended as a "must read" for presidents, administrative cabinets, and boards of colleges and universities concerned to maintain the Christian distinctiveness of their campuses and their academic programs. In my judgment, these recommendations are well-deserved. The Dying of the Light should be read and taken seriously for what the author intended it to be, i.e., a "supplement" (p. ix) to what George Marsden wrote in The Soul of the American University: From Protestant Establishment to Established Nonbelief (Oxford University Press, New York/Oxford, 1994).
At the same time, however, I have some reservations about what Burtchaell has written. Let me explain. The Dying of the Light is a very large book of 868 pages. Therefore, Burtchaell suggests that "most readers will and probably should begin with stories of the denomination they know best, and then browse through other chapters of special personal interest. Most will want to go to my overview chapter, 'The Story with the Stories,' . . ." (p. xi). Following this suggestion, I began my reading with Chapter 7 "The Evangelicals" and the story about Dordt College -- a college with which I have been associated from its beginning, at which I taught, and which I served for 14 years (1982-1996) as president. Frankly I was surprised, puzzled that the author included Dordt as one of the colleges in which the Light is dying, because I know of no college that is more concerned to maintain its distinctive Christian character and its connection with its founding church community than Dordt College.
And that sense of puzzlement, continued until I read Chapter 8, "The Story within the Stories," in which Burtchaell indicates, among other things, the perspective from which he views the relationships between the various colleges and universities and their churches. It's immediately clear that when Burtchaell speaks of the church he is thinking primarily of the instituted church or churches, as represented by "preachers, priests, pastors, and nuns" (p. 819). Further, he is convinced that the Light would have continued to shine in the colleges and universities founded by churches if, in policy and practice, they remained officially identified with their specific "church or denomination" (p. 822). But, yearning to be free, "it required only the possibility of emancipation and-survival to provoke the educators' preference for
autonomy. The cordage that held college and church together began to unravel" (p. 823) -- the implication being that at that point the Light began to die.
From that perspective Dordt College is definitely to be faulted. Because, while Dordt is concerned to stay close to the church, it does not believe that it is the responsibility of the instituted church to establish, maintain, or govern a college. (Scripturally-Oriented Higher Education, p. 27) Therefore, and rightly so, it does not depend upon a close relationship to the church for fueling the Light; but seeks to keep the Light burning by faithful adherence to the Word and an educational creed based upon the Word of God. Therefore, even when the Statement of Purpose speaks of academic freedom, it states that "academic freedom on its campus is restricted and bounded by the Word of God and a Reformed view of academic life" (The Educational Task of Dordt College, p. 17).
It is also evident that Burtchaell believes that to retain a vital relationship to the church, colleges and universities must take theology seriously. He decries the fact that at some colleges there never has been "vital theological inquiry" (p. 822); and then goes on to note that many institutions, which did engage in scholarly theological discourse, eventually "decided that serious theology was not appropriate" (p. 822). As a result, theological discourse was marginalized -- and, once again, the implication is that at that point the Light began to die.
It is not surprising, therefore, that Burtchaell criticizes Dordt for limiting theology (and philosophy) to one small department and making it accessible only in very limited courses. (p. 805) In response, however, it should be noted that, while Dordt takes theology very seriously, it does not find in theology (philosophy or any of the disciplines) the key to retaining its relationship with the church or to maintain the burning of the Light. That key is to be found in a biblical world view which acknowledges that "true meaning and coherence (also in theology) remain inaccessible without the light of the Bible, a heart committed to Christ, and the operation of the Holy Spirit" (The Educational Task of Dordt College, p. 6). Dordt's commitment to this world-view is set forth in The Educational Framework of Dordt, which is intended to assist present a future faculty in articulating a biblically sensitive view of curricular content and design -- not only for theology, but for all of the disciplines viewed individually and in relationship to one another.
I've waited a long time to make these brief comments (obviously much more could be written in evaluation of Burtchaell's work) because I did not want to appear defensive in regard to Dordt College. I am making these observations now, because I have been encouraged to do so by colleagues who, along with me, believe that it is important to continue the discussion about what makes our colleges Christian and how their Christian character can be maintained and enhanced, i.e., how we can keep the Light alive. Our thanks to James Tunstead Burtchaell for his significant contribution to the discussion.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Fifth Annual Kuyper Lecture
Dordt College, Sioux Center, Iowa
by Fred Van Geest, Dordt College

 On Thursday, October 28, 1999 on the campus of Dordt College, Sioux Center, Iowa, U.S.A., 219 students, scholars, local political representatives and public justice advocates, gathered to hear the fifth and final Kuyper Lecture, held in honor of Dutch statesmen Abraham Kuyper (1837-1920). The Kuyper lecture this year, on Economic Stewardship in a Global Context, was co-sponsored by Dordt College, The Center for Public Justice (CPJ) in Washington D.C., and a local justice organization, Siouxland Association for Public Justice.
Speaking this year was Bob Goudzwaard, professor emeritus of economics at the Free University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Goudzwaard's paper titled Wake Up! Breaking Free from the Hypnosis of our Age challenged the audience to critically discern and evaluate the spirits of our age, especially as they are manifested in the global economy. Goudzwaard encouraged reform that would promote restraint in consumption, an economy that focuses on quality more than ever increasing quantity, more personalized transactions, protection of the world's ecosystems and reform of the international financial and information systems.
The following day a round table discussion of Goudzwaard's lecture was held, chaired by Dr. Jasper Lesage of Dordt College and Dr. James Skillen of the Center for Public Justice. Twenty-four participants and fifteen observers heard a formal response by Adolfo Garcia de la Sienra, professor of economics at the University of Veracruz, Mexico. Dr. Garcia de la Sienra developed the concept of a 'system of needs' and emphasized the importance of redirecting the global economy in this direction. He also agreed with Goudzwaard on the need to reform the international financial system in order that it better protect and serve the needs of poorer countries like Mexico.
Participants came from various professions and backgrounds, making it a profitable time together as there was good discussion and exchange of ideas. One thing that was clear from the discussion was that even more Christian scholarship is necessary to further develop this field.
For those not in attendance, there is good news as these papers will be made available to the public at a later date. As it has for previous Kuyper lectures, The Center for Public Justice plans to publish, in cooperation with Baker Books, the Goudzwaard paper, along with the response from Garcia de la Sienra as well as an additional response by Dr. Brian Fikkert, professor of economics at Covenant College in Georgia.
 

Faith and Learning Network
In cooperation with IAPCHE, the Institute for Christian Studies is developing a new project called the "Faith and Learning Network." The purpose of this project is to alleviate the difficulty many Christian scholars face in identifying and accessing resources (books, articles, etc.) on the integral role of faith in learning. In North America, for example, faith-based academic resources are accessible at many Christian colleges. But Christian professors and students at mainstream universities have very limited access to material of this kind. Relevant materials are often published by small presses or in specialized academic journals. Journal subscriptions are rising in cost at an alarming rate, making it difficult for individual scholars and institutions to stay up to date.

Even more acute are the challenges facing Christian scholars in places like Latin America, Africa, and the former communist world. Scholars in these areas often lack even the most basic Christian books required for their task. Many have no access to libraries with Christian scholarly resources. High currency exchange rates and low salaries put journal subscriptions out of reach.

 In the first phase of the Faith and Learning Network project ICS, in cooperation with other institutions, will create a comprehensive database of resources for Christian scholars in various fields of study. Resources reflecting a reformed or neo-Calvinist perspective will receive special emphasis. The database will include information about where the resources are available (libraries, publishers, etc.) and whether they can be obtained through inter-library loans. The data will be made available by ICS in a published bibliography and in electronic format, via the world-wide web.

During the bibliographic data-gathering phase of the project ICS will further develop its own collection of key Christian scholarly resources. On this basis ICS plans to move to the next phase of the project @ providing a document delivery service. This will include not only a lending service to libraries or individuals, but also the sale of paper or electronic copies of specific items (within copyright regulations). Materials will be made available on a fee-for-service basis to scholars in developed nations. For scholars in developing countries, materials will be available at subsidized rates. Once the Faith and Learning Network database is fairly complete and the number of requests rises, ICS will consider preparing and distributing anthologies of frequently requested materials.

 The Faith and Learning Network project can draw on some excellent previous work. For example, in The Transforming Vision (1984) Brian Walsh and Richard Middleton published "A bibliography we can't live without." More recently, Marcille Frederick, former ICS Director of Library and Information Services, prepared a pamphlet, A short bibliography of Christian faith and learning in various disciplines. Scholars at other institutions have developed bibliographic databases in specific fields. ICS hopes to build on this experience in this project.

 The role of IAPCHE in this venture is to provide vital promotion for the project, to assist ICS in networking with institutions and individual scholars and identifying resources, and to assist in raising funds for the project.

The preparatory phase of the project is currently underway, with the help of a generous grant from the Priscilla and Stanford Reid Trust. Additional funding commitments make it possible for ICS to approach the launch of this project with confidence and excitement.
 

Retirement of Bennie van der Walt
1. A tribute to Prof. Dr. B.J. van der Walt
by  N.T. van der Merwe, Potchefstroom

 I am delighted to be able to respond to a request for expressing a few words of thanks and appreciation at this juncture in the life of Professor B. J. van der Walt. My response is focused specifically on his work as director of the "Institute for Reformational Studies" (IRS) - the Institute which has already for some decades surveyed and expressed publicly in word and act the life view of the Reformed Christian community.

 In line with the Calvinist life view this specific occasion is in the first place intended to thank, praise and glorify God who provided and equipped somebody to undertake this glorious but demanding task, and who could in fulfilling his calling in life experience so much blessing from the Lord. These blessings are perceptible in the growth, output and impact of this Institute, way beyond what could be expected or desired. For this reason it is secondly an occasion of festivity - a festival of the harvest of the first born of intellectual work of decades ago, and of the collected harvest at season's end after many years. For just as the Israelites in the pagan world of their time could and had to fulfil the Ten Commandments in their conduct, so the Potchefstroom University has been privileged to be able to bring the Word of the living God into practice for a largely secularized world for some time already: it is indeed God's blessing that we did not need to appear before the Lord with empty hands (Ex. 23:15).

Not with empty hands! For the part which our colleague and friend Bennie had in it, we want to thank and honor him, and in his person also the dedicated staff of the IRS as well as the P.U. for C.H.E., who brought this Institute into being and has carried it and supported it for many years. For who would, as Zachariah said (4:10), despise the day of small things, while the seven eyes of the Lord move through the whole world, while it is God who founds the building and chooses His servants for it? The small beginning of the IRS in 1962 as the "Institute for the Promotion of Calvinism" was initiated by dedicated hearts of Christians for whom the Bible was the source of power and a lamp for the feet - the divine Word which speaks to heart, understanding and hand. Supported by the "Afrikaans Calvinist Movement" and assisted by the Potchefstroom University under the leadership of its rector in those days, Prof. H.J.J. Bingle, its then enthusiastic and dedicated part-time director, Prof. S.C.W. Duvenage, could soon experience an opening up of possibilities with the appointment of the first full-time director, Dr. B. J. van der Walt.

 Soon the "voice of Potchefstroom" became stronger internally and externally. This Institute became known over a wide front for its diversity of publications, like the smaller orientational study pamphlets, the clarifying and illuminating brochures, the popular but thoroughgoing and scholarly founded collective works, and the special delicatessen numbers of Orientation. Jumping over decades I mention only four examples of these minor studies illustrating the wide wingspan of these guidelines - so timeless (!) that they could be published without date: No. 100, J. C. Coetzee: Charismata - spiritual gifts; No. 200, C. J. Malan: Materialism: our most deadly enemy; No. 300, M. Scott: A Christian perspective on motivation; and finally one of the most recent, No. 381, B. J. van der Walt, P. G. W. du Plessis and G. J. de Klerk: Christian values in the new South Africa. Of the almost 400 pamphlets a large number was written by Prof. B. J. van der Walt.

 To the 70 brochures published to date he contributed 16, among which his studies on the history of Calvinism as well as on humankind and culture - especially in Africa - are significant. About fifty collective works saw the light under his inspiring leadership and sustained perspiration. Thanks to his skillful leadership with think tanks this project could be founded solidly, but also be of interest to a wide readership, not merely a small elite group of intellectuals. To many of them he himself made valuable contributions, which furnished new perspectives or - expressed in a more applicable and well known metaphor - opened a window on the topic. The "Windows" series provided a panoramic view from a framed point of departure on themes about which not much literature existed. His four monographs in this series gave standing to it. His personal involvement with the contact journal for Christian institutions in the Reformational tradition involved with higher education, Orientation, well assisted by Mrs. Rita Swanepoel, made this publication unique in the world of Christian training. Through his many contacts worldwide he was able to devote himself enthusiastically to the objectives and interests of the "International Association for Christian Higher Education".

 But the "voice of Potchefstroom" did not remain limited to the written word: it rippled outwards and resonated in diverse supplementary foundational criticisms as well as in the mutually enhancing sounds of a choir of word and action. As director of the Institute Professor Van der Walt often participated in discussions on radio and television, organized many local, national and international conferences, and conducted several surveys and courses deep into the heart of Africa, often with personal sacrifices and hardship.

 An institute like the IRS has both a "material" and a "personal" side. To the ("objective") material side belongs the growth of the "Institute for the Promotion of Calvinism" into the present IRS with committed members and supporters around the globe. Briefly stated one can say that in close collaboration with other Christian institutions worldwide it progressively surveyed, deepened and unwrapped the heritage from the past, going back to the Reformation of the 16th century - among which the deep insight of the semper reformanda motive for the practical application of a reformational lifeview. With actuality and relevance as prime objectives of its intellectual task the Institute applied all its resources to protecting and defending communal Biblical values courageously. Brochure no. 21, the Festschrift on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Institute in 1982, offers a splendid indication of this. Prof. S. C. W. Duvenage points to the importance of radical (non-revolutionary) reformation and multidisciplinary teamwork for the advancement of the task of the IRS and Prof. T. van der Walt to the necessity of expanding, deepening and strengthening the unique service of the IRS as a power station of radical Biblical thought and action in the future.

 In line with these ideals the IRS also developed a stronger social involvement and focus on Africa. Who will ever forget the joyful faces of two Christians who, by foot, boat, bicycle, train and bus, finally arrived at an IRS conference, to be filled there with a new vision? The Festschrift on the occasion of the 25th anniversary in 1987, Vision and Mission - IRS 25 years, witnesses to this vision in a very special way. It is remarkable that Prof. Van der Walt here characterizes the task of the IRS in the kingdom of God not as a window but as a bridge - a strategic bridge which carries in a missionary way and with a sacred calling the liberating perspectives of a reformational, evangelical view of life into the world (p.5). This vision encompasses also a greater mission for the Potchefstroom University: in 1982 Prof. T. van der Walt (then rector) already referred to the importance of international involvement, embracing also the East. The director of the IRS contextualized this task in 1987 very specifically: Africa calls! We thank and honor Prof. Bennie van der Walt for his publications on Christianity in Africa, for his different journeys all over Africa in which he explored the spiritual climate of quite a number of countries and introduced the Potchefstroom University to many communities by elucidating the significance of a Reformed Christian life view for Africa in simple, clear and meaningful terms. The decisive question today - twelve years later - is how this basic task can be fulfilled both locally and worldwide according to the demands of the time.

 To the "subjective" personal side of the Institute belongs inter alia the input of its director. Accordingly we have to mention his extraordinary hard work and punctuality (usually ready a year in advance!), his inspiring sense of calling and dedication, his example in the reformation of scholarly ideas, and his courageous witness for the message which his Institute has elaborated into a mission - even if at times it brought in its trail vilification and alienation, when some people demanded that the Institute raise its aim higher while others insisted that it should be lowered, some were of the opinion that the IRS was too hasty in addressing contemporary issues, while others felt that feet were being dragged, and so on. Remarkable is his openness to criticism and constructive proposals on condition that they be well-founded, as well as to alternative approaches originating from the same principial root. Inspiring is his sense of humor and the warm dynamic power of attraction radiating from his personality, which gave many visitors to his Institute a new view of Calvinism and Christianity. These characteristics would often inspire his students to devote themselves to interesting creative communal research projects, which in the end sent them off into "real" life with a vision and a clear sense of a personal task to be accomplished. As servant in the kingdom of God he was surely a missionary in various shapes and cloaks.

 As friends he and his wife, Hannetjie, are generous, charitable and hospitable - often more concerned to provide rest, peace, and spiritual healing at home or in nature to others than their own needs would dictate. She has really understood the intent of Psalm 90: "teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom". Her inner strength and wisdom sustained her to endure the continuous long hours which he had to work in his office, and also assisted her to encourage, guide and sharpen him in a positive way. The success of the IRS is due also to her. For this reason I conclude with a salute to both of them. I pray that the elevating words of this Psalm may frame their future:
"May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us;
establish the work of our hands for us -
yes, establish the work of our hands."

 A short word of thanks and appreciation to Professor B. J. van der Walt for his work as director of the Institute for Reformational Studies on the occasion of his retirement at the University of Potchefstroom for C.H.E. on 1999-11-12.

 2.) ASPECTS OF BENNIE VAN DER WALT'S PHILOSOPHIZING

As a philosopher Bennie van der Walt covered an enormously wide terrain. How does one evaluate the life work of somebody whose work has covered such a wide area as Bennie's? We can only look at aspects of his enormous work. I am focusing here, on subjective grounds, on three aspects of his work which rise above the surface - aspects which in each came to the forefront in one phase of his work, yet all three of them were always present. From the beginning Bennie was a reformer and therefore at times controversial; form very early on he was interested in the role of the life view in philosophy; also from the very beginning there was a strong interest in Africa and the importance of the Reformational vision for Africa.

The Reformational scholar

From his Master's thesis he was a reformational thinker. Therefore he was prepared to take on the own tradition, and was at time controversial. In some measure controversy remained with him. Well-founded research kept him safely, however. Bennie was always widely literate in philosophy, en has therefore also produced some strictly scholarly publications (next to his wide range of more accessible publications). Especially his work on the Greek and Mediaeval philosophy influenced generations of students. He was the one stimulated research on Calvin and Calvinism at the Potchefstroom University, which includes the translation of Calvin's Institutes into Afrikaans. In this way he became an example of turning attention the neglected own tradition.

The expert on life view

From his days as lecturer at the historically Black University of Fort Hare, I guess, dates his interest in the African life view, but together with this, he also studied a large number of other life views. Of course this is rooted in the Reformational sensitivity for the importance of a life view. It is also indicative of Bennie's deep roots in the Reformation that the intellectual dimension was not given priority above the experience of the ordinary believer. From Bennie's lifelong struggling with these problems, among many others, his prize winning book, The liberating message, needs to be mentioned.

The visionary African scholar

Long before any of us Bennie saw the accessibility of the Reformational life view and philosophy for Africa and disclosed this. Potchefstroom academics will have the advantages of these contacts for a long time to come. He dragged me with him and taught me how to love Africa. Bennie adjusted much more than the rest of us to Africa. His literacy, research and knowledge he made known in accessible format here and in the rest of Africa. He chose this popular way of presentation - an option for which he sometimes was blamed - but which is now clearly imposed onto all academics in South Africa. In this he was prophetic again!.
 

In conclusion: One needs a sense of irony and paradox to be able to write a word of appreciation at Bennie's retirement. How does one write about such great work done under the grace of the Lord, when there is no clear vision of how this will be continued? Of all of us, he worked hardest, he saw into the future, and he published most. We appreciate this, and for this reason a word of thanks to God who gave Bennie the talents and strength, is needed.
 

 Russian translation of Calvin's Institutes completed
(report written by John De Jager, for CRC Source, winter 2000)
Russian Christians can now read John Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion in its entirety and in their own language. In October 1999, World Literature Ministries published the third and final volume of a Russian-language translation of the Institutes.
The seed of the project were planted in 1992. Christian Reformed Church agency leaders and others began developing a comprehensive ministry plan for Russia in response to synod's' decision to focus ministry energy there. A growing openness to the gospel presentation in Russia confirmed that the timing was right.
This group of leaders endorsed a request from Russian Christian intellectuals to publish classic Christian material in the Russian language. Among other titles, they requested a translation of John Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion.
Russian Christians want to read Calvin because they believe that he, more than any other reformer, provided a new framework for thinking about life and provided the basis for civil societies in the West. Christian intellectuals want the same for Russia. They believe a biblical worldview will change lives?marriages will be stronger, governments will serve rather than be served, the economy will rebound, and the orphans and the destitute will be cared for. They believe that a biblical worldview will bring a new day to Russia.
Letters from grateful Russian readers who had been challenged by volumes one and tow of the Institutes encouraged World Literature Ministries to complete the project.
At one time the Reformation was barred from occurring in Russia. Now there is a new opportunity. World Literature Ministries takes delight in being able to respond to this great opportunity on behalf of the Christian Reformed Church. This project was made possible through the generous support form people who identified with the vision.

Russian-language Calvin's Institutes Wins Christian Book Award
(from REC news exchange, January 2000 issue)
Nearly five years ago, Christian Reformed World Literature Ministries began the task of translating John Calvin's Institutes of the Christian Religion into Russian. The third and final volume was completed this year. At the St. Petersburg Christian Book Fair, the work was honored with first prize in the theological book category.
In a country dominated by the Russian Orthodox Church, John Calvin is often considered a heretic, said World Literature director John De Jager. "This award will elevate the credibility of Calvin's work," he said. Moscow State University was the publisher of the book, publishing it as a work of philosophy, now being read by hundreds of intellectuals. World Literature offered support with project management and financial support. "Our hope is that over the next 100-200 years Calvin's work will be foundational in building a new Russian society, in th same way that it has been foundational in Western society," De Jager said.

Latin American conference for Christian university professors to be held Quito, Ecuador
(report written by Sidney H. Rooy, IAPCHE executive committee member)
The second regional meeting for Christian university professors from the Latin American region will be held from September 3 to 7, 2000, in Quito, Ecuador. It will be an integral part of the Fourth Latin American Congress of Evangelization together with fifteen other mini-consultations. The first meeting of the professors was held in January of 1999 with 112 registered participants from nineteen countries. Since then, an edition of 1000 copies of the proceedings have been published in Spanish and are being distributed throughout the region. Several national meetings of professors are being planned previous to the continental gathering.

 Final plans for the program are being arranged on a consultative basis via e-mail. Each mini consultation will have five afternoons from 2:30 until 6 p.m. for their respective programs. A total attendance of 1000 at the Congress of Evangelization is expected, with proportionate representatives from the different ethnic, age, church, gender and leadership groups. Morning and evening meetings will be held in a large tent for all attendants at the Congress. Participants of the various mini-consultations will be lodged together with other members of their respective groups to increase personal contact and provide opportunity for personal interchange.

 The previous congresses of evangelization were held at Bogota in 1969, Lima in 1979, and Quito in 1992. The first was organized by missionary associations from the United States, after which was founded the Latin American Theological Fraternity. The second and the third congresses were called by the Fraternity, as is the fourth.

 This is the first time that other groups working in Latin America have been invited to collaborate in the working out of the program and to assume responsibility for a significant part. We expect between fifty and eighty professors to choose to participate in the mini-consultation organized by IAPCHE. The published proceedings of 236 pages from the last Conference provide solid foundational materials for preparatory reading. Included are the lectures given by well known scholars such as: Daniel Schipani (Argentina-USA), Bob Goudzwaard (Holland), Jose Ramon Alcantara (Mexico), Nelly Garcia (Costa Rica), Rolando Mendoza (Costa Rica), Elsie Powell (Argentina), Carmen Pagan (Puerto Rico), Samuel Escobar (Peru), and Juan Rogers (Argentina USA ). Also included are the translated History of IAPCHE by John Vander Stelt and the lecture given by Nicholas Wolterstorff at the Lusaka, Zambia, conference on "Secularized Culture and Christian Higher Education". Copies in Spanish are available for $5 US through the Secretariat.

 Persons interested in more information about the regional conference in Quito, are invited to direct their inquiries to Sidney Rooy, Apartado 901 - 1000, San Jose, Costa Rica, or by e-mail: srooy894@expressmail.net
 

Latin American conference proceedings printed
(report written by Sidney H. Rooy, IAPCHE executive committee member)
EDUCANDO COMO CRISTIANOS EN EL SIGLO XXI, Sidney Rooy, ed.

 The title of this book, "Educating as Christians in the XXI Century", was the theme of the IAPCHE regional conference for Latin America held in San Jose, Costa Rica, from January 18 to 22, 1999. One hundred twelve participants from nineteen countries listened to and participated in the program and workshops that are included in this volume. The book of 236 pages, with a two color cover and eleven black and white photographs of the proceedings, makes a quality addition to the published materials of previous IAPCHE conferences. Its chief difference from the others is that its text is published in Spanish, reflecting the language used during the conference.

 Of great value to the contents are the five plenary addresses which attempt to view the various educational disciplines from a Christian base in the Latin American context. The first, presented by the Peruvian scholar, Samuel Escobar, former member of the IAPCHE governing committee, follows the conference theme in its various aspects: educating from a particular cosmovision, educating for human dignity, educating for cultural creativity, educating for integrality, and educating for salvation. He concludes: "the hedonism of our culture requires believers with profound self-discipline who live differently and who are also able to articulate a defense of the ethical exigencies of the gospel which are understandable for the modern person." (41)

 Bob Goudzwaard defines four ways in which our social economic reality as science and practice may be integrated with our faith in the educational process: the standard way, the way of proceeding from principles to practice, the contextual method, and "the way of confidence". He opts for the last. It proceeds from practical observation and experience via science and learning to faith. That is,it goes directly to a guided communication with the students concerning the complexities of our turbulent society. In the elaboration of this theme he treats empathetically and soundly two aspects: the overwhelming and growing poverty of large sections of society and the theme of Christian hope in the midst of worldwide globalization.

 The double presentation on literature and art from the Christian perspective, given by Jose Ramon Alcántara and Nelly García, visualize forms in which artists and writers integrate their philosophy of life in their creations. Alcántara contrasts the classical and the biblical views, particularly from the Latin American scene. With reference to the latter, he suggests "that the way in which the Bible is configured conforms to the reality which is rooted in the human conscience since creation. It is the reality of the fundamental integral character of Creation and the separation which humans experience but at the same time desire to attain. Theologically the Bible narrates the re-encounter of the human person with his or her origin as History of Salvation. But, at the same time, the poetical construction of the Scriptures requires that Revelation be not understood only as a purely intellectual act, that is, as theology, but as that which appeals to all the dimensions of the human nature." (65) García relates in a beautiful way how such a vision is concretely portrayed in some Latin American authors and the challenge their presentation of our reality demands of the Christian scholar.

 The presence and contribution of Carmen Julia Pagán Cabrera opened the horizons of the conference participants to the urgent question of ethnicity, peoples identity and multiculturalism. She represented the Afro-american community, as did Jorge Taylor in the workshops, but also the various indigenous communities who were present. No pure culture or race exists, rather the concept of cultural, ethnic, psychological hybrid can today be applied to human groups due to the globalization brought about by the communications media. She affirms with the anthropologist Joan Josep Pujadas that "race is an erroneous concept that divides humanity .in order to classify and systematically exclude members of certain groups from participation in a social system controlled by the dominant elite." The challenge she presented to us is not easily dismissed, and has significant meaning for Christian higher education.

 The closing address of Daniel Schipani entitled: "The pedagogy of liberation in response to the challenges of globalization", placed squarely before us the pedagogy of Pablo Freire. The chapter richly displays gems from the thought of this world-renowned educator, organized in sections which treat: globalization and contextualization, resistance and hope, directions and priorities. As a personal friend and interpreter of Freire, Schipani relates how, on a memorable evening in Puerto Rico, Freire proposed that the best way to give tribute to a leader is not to follow only, but to renew and remake. So Schipani affirms: "Let us remember that what defines a Christian pedagogy of liberation . . . is the concrete and consequent commitment to justice in conformity with the ethics and the teaching of the kingdom of God. In other words, it is the manner, the process and the contents which define and characterize the direction of our educational praxis." (113)

 What more can one say. The three biblical studies of Irene Foulkes on the Pedagogy of Jesus are devotional and illuminating gems. The brief encounter with the humid tropical forest with Rolando Mendoza confirms and/or converts us to the grave ecological crisis that confronts humankind. Two poems communicate something of the richness of our communal experience with the soul of the forest. The three studies based on the workshops are profound and thought provoking: "Modernism and postmodernism: the struggle for the human person" (Elsie Powell), "Cyberspace and education: towards a theological evaluation" (Juan D. Rogers), and "Education, economics and sustainable development: reflections from the Christian viewpoint" (Fernando Bullón C.).

The translation of the paper of Nicholas Wolterstorff, given at an earlier IAPCHE conference in Lusaka, on "Secularized culture and Christian education" was distributed to all participants and served as nourishment and enrichment for the entire conference. The study is printed here for the challenge it presents to all Latin American educators.

 Also included in the book are brief descriptions of the eight workshops which apply Christian perspectives to the different fields of study, a letter addressed to the Christian university professors of our continent, a brief history of IAPCHE by John Vander Stelt (who also attended the conference), and a directory of participants intended to stimulate continued dialogue.

 Copies of the book may be ordered from the IAPCHE office in Sioux Center, Iowa, or by e-mail at: srooy894@expressmail.net The cost price is U.S. $8. The book was printed by the Adventist Press in Costa Rica (CETEBEDI, S. A.).

NOTE:
The proceedings from the other two conferences held in 1999 are currently being worked on.
 

"THE OPEN BOOK AND SCHOLARSHIP" Conference and Workshops, 2000
Redeemer College, Ancaster, Ontario, Canada, August 16-19, 2000. Plenary
speakers confirmed to date include Mary B. Hesse, Susan van Zanten
Gallagher, Roy Clouser, Nicholas Wolterstorff, Craig Bartholomew and David
Lyle Jeffrey. Paper proposals of no more than 250 words are being accepted. The deadline for abstracts is March 15, 2000. For more information and contribution guidelines and schedule, please contact Elisabeth Di Francesco at edifran@redeemer.on.ca or (905)648-2131 x4414.

INSTITUTIONAL MEMBER NEWS

Kampen and the Free University will not join
(from REC news exchange, November 1999 issue)
Although the Reformed Churches in the Netherlands (GKN) and their partners decided that the two GKN faculties of theology should merge, it appears now that this will not happen. Discussions between the Kampen Theological University and the Free University of Amsterdam have not been successful, and Kampen will now seek an affiliation with another university.
The original plan called for three faculties of theology for all three churches in the union process, Together on the Way. Kampen and the Free University were to join in Amsterdam. The faculties at Utrecht and Groningen, affiliated with the Netherlands Reformed Church (NHK), would have continues, while the NHK faculties at Leiden and Amsterdam would have dropped away. The plan would have blended Lutheran training in Amsterdam into the Kampen/Free merger.
Now the will probably implement a second plan. The churches will try to preserve education at Kampen, Leiden and Utrecht. However, they would end the relationship with the faculty at the Free University and with the faculty at Groningen.
Those faculties could continue to teach theology for up to four years, but ministerial candidates would have to complete two years of training at one of the three church-approved sites.
The combined synod of the three Dutch churches had set some conditions for the Kampen/Free merger, namely that all faculty members could be incorporated in the new training center, and that the union would be budgetarily neutral. Unfortunately, they could not easily blend the faculties. Different retirement dates for faculty left an imbalance in some departments, while the combined faculty would have a shortage of "religious studies" instructors, an area where the number for students is growing.
So the steering group that was managing the negotiations gave up its mandate, and returned the matter to the synod executive for decision. In its letter to the synod, the steering group pointed out that the board and faculty of the Free University objected strongly to the new educational profile. They objected in spite of an agreement on all sides about the general outlines in May 1999. Free University people suggested the profile for education was to heavily ecclesiastical, with little room for other forms of theological education currently offered at the Free University. The steering group said this was unacceptable, and they were unwilling to revisit the decisions made in May.
The synod executive agreed there was little chance for a successful outcome. They decided the church would have to opt for the second plan. "The plan for 'Amsterdam-Utrecht-Groningen' has now become impossible," the executive said in a press release. The proposal to adopt the alternate plan will go to the combined synod in early December.
Editors of Centraal Weekblad, an independent paper in GKN circles, noted that the smaller number of ministerial candidates reflects the declining number of youth in the churches. "A church that sticks mostly with the past will inevitable die," they stated. It is time "to give the highest priority to the church's mandate to bring the gospel in many ways to people in our plural culture, especially for our youth." They concluded, "In the crisis of theological education, the churches in Together on the Way are the losers."

Dutch Synod Accepts New Centers for Theological Education
(from REC news exchange, January 2000 issue)
After years of exploring options for the future of theological education, the Dutch churches in the union process, Together on the Way, made what they hope is a final decision in December. They will train future pastors in Leiden, Utrecht and Kampen. This decision follows the breakdown of fusion discussions between the Theological University of Kampen and the FreeUniversity of Amsterdam in September. The trio-synod confirmed the recommendation of its executive to opt for this alternate plan. In so doing the universities in Amsterdam and Groningen will no longer train pastors, although they will continue to teach some theology.
It was a difficult debate. Both Leiden and Kampen had faced a synodical decision a year earlier that their universities would end. Now those who supported work at Amsterdam and Groningen found themselves hurt by the loss. Some delegates pleaded for a reopening of discussions, but a Kampen curator argued that had to decide now. With the uncertainty about its future, Kampen was losing students, and if there were no clarity, there would be nothing left to fuse.
Government rules will require Kampen to ally itself with some other university in The Netherlands. The synod proposed that Kampen make such efforts first with Groningen. That decision was a recognition that the regional dispersal of resources, which made Groningen a candidate in the former plan, was still a valid consideration. (Nederlands Dagblad)
 

Russian-American Christian University
(letter dated January 17, 2000)
Ministry in Russia is never boring! President Boris Yeltsin's dramatic end-of-the year and end-of the millennium resignation is just another example of the surprising events you come to expect when working in this country. Acting President Vladimir Putin is now clearly position to succeed Yeltsin when the presidential elections take place on Sunday, March 26th.

 In the short run, this transfer of power will bring positive benefits to Russia. After years of drifting and vacillation in the Kremlin, the stron, determined posture taken by Putin has made him enormously popular. Hie demeanor is that of a take-charge executive, and he is working hard to restore the confidence of the Russian people in their government. He is saying all the right things to his audiences, such as promising continued reform while maintaining a significant role for the state. He is also clear in his public statements about protecting freedom of speech and freedom of conscience. The real test will come soon. Within a few months of his election, which seems to be a certainty at this time, we will se if he means what he says.

 Meanwhile, the Russian-American Christian University begins its spring semester today. RACU is offering 39 courses this semester, 9 of which are new. We have a total of 34 faculty members this semester: 21 Russians, 11 North Americans, 1 British and 1 South African. Our programs continue to grow?so much so, in fact, that we no longer fit in our current facilities. Most of this year's courses will be offered in leased classrooms at Moscow State University' Center for International Education. We are continuing the serach for new campus facilities and will keep you updated as the process develops.

 We have two visiting faculty teaching with us in Moscow this semester: Dr. Larry Ort, a business professor from Spring Arbor College (Spring Arbor, Michigan); and Dr. John Prinus, a recently retired professor of theology at Calvin College (Grand Rapids, Michigan). John's wife, June, has also come to Moscow and will be working for the university as well. We rejoice that these experienced faculty have agredd to spend a full semester with us.

 Thanks for your interest in our work in Russia. Shalom!
John A. Bernbaum

The Free University
The College adopted the following proposals.

 1. The proposal of the Faculty of Psychology and Education that the honorary degree of doctor will be conferred on Dr Lindon J. Eaves (1944, Walsall, Staffordshire, England) at present professor at Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, U.S.A. The nomination constitutes recognition of his original, constructive and definite contribution to scientific contemplation of the nature of faith, particularly with regard to insights into the relationship between behaviour and genetics.
2. The proposal of the Faculty of Medicine that the honorary degree of doctor will be conferred on Mrs Irene Fernandez (1946, Malaysia) at present director of the NGO Tenaganita/CARAM-Asia in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The nomination constitutes recognition of her acclaimed social achievements on behalf of the disadvantaged, the dispossessed and the exploited, in the fulfillment of which she has been repeatedly prepared to jeopardise her own safety.
3. The College adopted the proposal of the Faculty of Sciences that the honorary degree of doctor will be conferred on Dr Ciprian Foias (1933, Rumania) at present Distinguished Professor at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana, USA. The nomination constitutes recognition of his exceptional academic contribution to mathematics, have had notable success in renewing the relationship between mathematics ands other academic fields.
4. The proposal of the Faculty of Theology to confer the doctorate honoris causa on Dr Keith Ward (1938, England ). At present he holds the Regius Chair of Divinity at Christ Church College, Oxford. The nomination constitutes recognition of his development of an authentically Christian vision of God, humankind and the world, from the perspective of an open, sympathetic and penetrating debate within both secular philosophers and thinkers of other faiths.

The graduation ceremony will take place at official public meeting of the College of Deans on Friday October 20, 1999 Amsterdam on the occasion of the celebration of the university's 120th anniversary (Dies Natalis).