When did you trust Christ?
I was raised in an environment where I was not expected to decide. Most of the church members were quite reluctant to do that. The background is that "we don't decide for Jesus, but God decides for us." I think my original decision was during my student years. But after that, I have been hesitating many times. Until my forties, when I finally was found by the words: Do you love Me? That was what brought me over the bridge. Looking back, I should have made this decision much earlier.
What do you hope to gain from participating?
It would be great to receive advice and coaching from experienced brothers and sisters.
As a professional individual, I know what I am doing, usually. But in leadership, you have a responsibility for others, too. And all those others have their expectations and experiences. Bringing all that together into a working unity is not easy. And I know many have had this challenge before, so I am happy to learn from them. Of course, others might be receiving mentoring who can help me.
I am looking forward to receiving mentoring in the context of ELF.
What is your ministry?
The first one is Christian journalism as (founding) editor of CNE. I am responsible for the editorial direction of the news platform, as well as regarding pressing issues nowadays such as same-sex marriage. Being fresh and innovative is a lot of work. But I enjoy it very much. The second ministry is being an elder in a Reformed Church congregation. I am also the secretary of the local consistory. So, this has a pastoral aspect (visiting, comforting, etc) and an administrative aspect (making policy together and taking the secretarial responsibility for that).
What is your leadership role or what were your past leadership roles?
As the chief editor, you have to enthuse others. To feed them and stimulate them. To lead them by example, etc. I have to ensure enough work for them at their level. And to ensure that the atmosphere is right, even when people are different from each other and have various levels and interests. As an elder, you must ensure the church keeps the Biblical course. On the other hand, you make policy together. That requires empathy and patience because you must wait until you find a common direction. As a leader, it is tempting to "lead" and walk ahead of all the others. But it is usually better to slow down and to try a pace together.
