“We unhesitatingly recommend…”
Barry Gritters examines the biblical and ecclesiastical importance of the Certificate of Dismissal and Testimonial—the letter of recommendation that consistories must provide when a minister accepts a call to another congregation. This practical article encourages church leaders to be intentional about this often-overlooked document and emphasizes its significance in Reformed church polity and pastoral accountability.
These words -- "we unhesitatingly recommend" -- could well be hung on the wall of all consistory rooms of Reformed congregations. In large enough print, that every time the council members walk into the room they see and are aware of them. These words are the heart and center of the "Letter of Recommendation" that a council must give to their minister if he leaves for another church. The elders and deacons must declare: "We unhesitatingly recommend our minister to you." One of the more...
Full article available on sb.rfpa.org
Related Resources
The Gospel And AI: Why God Will Never be Pleased With an AI-Generated Sermon (Nor with the Minister Who Tries)
Barry Gritters
Standard BearerFor it Seemed Good to the Spirit and to Us*
William Langerak
Standard BearerEditor’s Notes
Unknown
Standard BearerSynod 2025 Summary
Joshua Engelsma
Standard BearerThe Minister’s Relation to Christ’s Body*
Douglas Kuiper
Standard Bearer