As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner. The Banner h
What is the CRC stance and Christian view of MAID (Medically Assisted Induced Dying)? How can we support loved ones who are asking about this and making these decisions?The CRC has a strong word on this. Synod 2025 unanimously voted to approve this language: “that synod deplore the legalization and
It's 200 pounds. It's six feet tall. It smells incredibly horrible—like a dead animal.Is it your great-uncle Fred? Surprisingly, no! It's the world's stinkiest plant: the corpse flower.The corpse flower, or carrion flower, got its name because of the disgusting stench it emits when its flower blooms
Pastor Jim had always prided himself on his tireless dedication to his congregation. But one evening, as he prepared yet another sermon late into the night, his young son walked into his study and climbed onto his lap. "Daddy, when do you rest?" the boy asked. Pastor Jim hesitated, realizing he had
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner.It was the mi
Too often, sin is reduced to a list of wrong actions—lying, cheating, stealing. But Scripture shows us that sin is far more than bad behavior. At its root, sin is a broken relationship: with God, with one another, and even with creation. It’s not just about doing wrong; it’s about turning away from
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner. The Banner h
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner.After World W
Fall has me thinking of birthdays. Mine and my two siblings’ are within a month of each other in October and November. Last year, a significant round number for me, had me wanting to spend it with them—a rare treat since we live four Canadian provinces apart. This November, as I take my turn for a g
To send letters to the editor, please see our guidelines at thebanner.org/letters.Maddi’s BraceletI enjoyed reading Andrew de Gelder's column about the bracelet he wears to remind him of a spiritual insight (“Maddi’s Bracelet,” June 2025). Many years ago, I picked up a small stuffed rooster at a cra
When prayers are not answered the way we want, how do I help my child understand?Children sometimes can think of prayer as a way to present God with a list of things they’d like God to do. This makes sense because, in Philippians 4:6 we read, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner.I remember it
"She's a smart and good student; her problem is that she never speaks in class." This was the comment I dreaded hearing from teachers each year growing up. While these comments probably came from a good place, they led me to believe there was something wrong with the way I was. I've always been a na
The landscape of corporate worship has shifted dramatically with the surge of livestreaming. Shortly after our church launched livestream services, along with thousands of other churches following the pandemic, I heard a comment that has haunted me ever since: “I’m so glad our church started offerin
I just dropped my child off at college. I’m not coping very well, and I sense that my child is not either. What can I do?This is a big change for a family. As a college professor, I get a front-row seat to campus visits, move-in day, and the difficult goodbyes. What I also get to observe is how stud
We’ve been talking about the spiritual disciplines at the church I serve. You know, those historic practices of the Christian faith that monks, nuns, and your great-grandma Jean are famous for?As part of that, we recently wrapped up a four-week sermon series on the historic Christian disciplines of
As I Was Saying is a forum for a variety of perspectives to foster faith-related conversations among our readers with the goal of mutual learning, even in disagreement. Apart from articles written by editorial staff, these perspectives do not necessarily reflect the views of The Banner. The Banner h
Time is a fascinating topic. On Earth we often think of it as simple and consistent—a straight timeline. For example, in 1776 the United States was founded. In 1876 we marked 100 years. In 1976, 200 years had passed. And next year, we’ll celebrate 250 years. Time seems fixed, and we mark it with cal
On Epiphany Sunday, offering baskets filled with slips of paper with a word and star on each were passed through the congregation. Our pastor of worship, Elly Boersma Sarkany, explained that a star gift, the word we received, might be used by God in the coming year to inspire us on our faith journey
Are Christians obligated to observe Sunday as the Christian Sabbath?Christians sometimes vigorously debate what is appropriate to do on Sundays. Is it permissible to go shopping or eat at a restaurant? To play sports? To do homework? To mow the lawn? Do I have to go to church?Behind such questions i