To send letters to the editor, please see our guidelines at thebanner.org/letters.
Thanks
Over the years I've developed a real appreciation for the writings and wisdom of Rod Hugen. However, in this last piece (“Thanks for What You Do,” January/February 2026) Hugen hit a new high. Thanks for what you do!
Steve Van't Hof // Grandville, Mich.
I always enjoy Rod Hugen’s stories, especially his most recent, “Thanks For What You Do.” The message tells us to “serve the Lord with hand and feet” (Math. 25:35-40). Going to get groceries, I picked up what I needed and went to the counter. Attempting to pay the $68.50, my credit card was denied. I said to the cashier, “Can you put this aside? I will go to the bank.” She answered, “The banks are closed sir; it is Family Day.” I stood there for a minute when the cashier said, “Here. Take your purchase. It has been paid for.” “Pardon me?” “A man just before you paid it; he’s just leaving.” I ran after him and said, “Incredible! Thanks for what you did.” “That's OK. It is Family Day.”
George Lieuwen // Langley, B.C.
Interim Editor
I found the latest editorial column to be one of, if not the, best in recent memory (“Lifted Eyes,” January/February 2025). Not only did Lora Copley provide some interesting data and newsworthy information, but she pointed us to Christ, without baggage. There was no lament over something that half of the denomination celebrates. Rather, she directed us to the One to whom all our allegiance is due. Keep it up!
Rob Golding // Artesia, Calif.
Lora Copley is one of the most skilled writers I have ever read. She writes from her soul directly to our hearts. … She makes the Bible personal and relational. That is so needed in today’s technological world. I hope she stays on as our senior editor.
Ren Vandesteeg // San Antonio, Texas
It was refreshing to see Synod 2025 take action to reform The Banner to better reflect the confessional standards of our denomination. Many at my church, First Artesia Christian Reformed Church, have expressed excitement at this news. We’re excited to see how Lora Copley will lead the magazine!
Kenneth Gonzalez // Artesia, Calif.
Schizophrenia
The author of the article (“The Least of These,” March/April 2026) talks about curing the homeless man’s schizophrenia. At the risk of sounding picky, as a former regional advocate living with schizophrenia since 1986, there is no cure for schizophrenia. The only thing the medication does is control symptoms. But you have to take that medication until the day you die.
Michèle Gyselinck // Montreal, Quebec
Supporting The Banner
I just sent a check to The Banner in response to your letter about the annual appeal because The Banner is truly a magazine that binds our denomination together. It consistently gives insightful, challenging, and spiritually uplifting articles. Classis and Synod updates have been vital to share the denomination’s vision. News articles about other churches have been an inspiration to all congregations. Every editor has had unique gifts that were used for the church’s benefit. Lora Copley brings a wonderful new way of discerning things. God bless all of you as you continue to further His Kingdom. Soli Deo Gloria!
Margaret Brasser // Sheboygan, Wisc.
We received your letter this morning, requesting ongoing financial support for the Banner. Unfortunately, Synod 2025's decision regarding the mandate of The Banner and its expression, which led to the former editor's resignation, was a huge disappointment for our family. We have been longtime financial supporters of The Banner and have been enriched by the intelligent, thoughtful, and open-minded conversations the former editor facilitated. Synod 2025's decisions and the manner of discussions and the comments made by many who spoke caused us much concern, pain, and grief for the direction in which our denomination is headed. We have been actively engaged members of the CRC for more than 67 years. We feel like we are the ones described by some at Synod as “not in” but “outside.” … It is with heavy hearts that we can no longer financially support The Banner or the direction in which Synod 2025 pushed the CRC.
Susan and Art Schaafsma