A friend and recent CTS grad has been a houseguest this week--has moved on in life but will never fully recover from the wounds inflicted by the seminary. Wounds in both our cases that were so unnecessary--similar, in that they gave the perpetrator(s) at least a temporary sense of dominance and power, but so hurtful to so many people over the long haul.

RECENT RESPONSES

Many people have written to me regarding the BANNER article and my ongoing search for justice. Two reponses recently came from well-known denominational insiders: one commenting, "All I can say to you is , I'm very, very sorry," another saying, "Ruth, I feel badly for all involved, but especially for you, how all of this unfolded over time. I wish for you the strength and freedom to "let it go," to live in the confidence that you tried to do the right thing and to accept the things you cannot change."

Another message came from a French man teaching English in China: "How are you these days? Getting over the bitter experience at Calvin? (Remember, the real, historical John Calvin drowned his opponents, so you must be lucky the 21st century Calvin let you go scott free!)"

Still another writes: "What you no longer teach in the classroom, you are now teaching in a much more public arena. Was that God's plan afterall....just wondering...I guess that is why your journey, your story has drawn me in." She goes on to speak of going through a somewhat similar experience and ends up saying, "You are much more articulate than I will ever be."

So how do I respond to these and many more messages giving me advice and asking for support. Well, I don't think old Calvin actually drowned anyone, but I certainly can be glad I was not burned at the stake. And, I do appreciate those who offer words of sadness and sympathy.

But should I "let it go" or should I seek to articulate what others are less able to do? Is God's plan that let it go or that I speak out so that hopefully I can prevent this from happening to others?

My life is very full, and "My Calvin Seminary Story" is only one part of a very busy schedule. This "ordeal has led me to many new friends and acquaintances, including the writer of this message:

Dear Ruth: To let you know I've added to my mobbing mainpage a link to your site. Again thanks for exposing these shenanigans to public view. Have a happy Christmas, best wishes for the new year. Ken

NO APOLOGY

To date there has been no apology from board president Sid Jansma, Jr. or anyone from the BANNER regarding the falsehoods in an article in the December issue. I have a new site that briefly summarizes the three flagrant falsehoods of the seminary officials: CALVIN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY.

THE BANNER (December 2006)

I just received an email asking if I was going to comment on the recent news story in the BANNER about my situation at CTS. I've been out of town and I've been waiting responses from some key individuals. Three have responded--all kindly, but with no power (or will) to do anything. I was also waiting to see if the BANNER would contact me with an apology.

My response in one sentence to what was reported: This is a continuation of 4 years of dishonesty by the those involved and those covering for them.

They can get by with these lies and they take advantage of that opportunity; that's the only way I can explain it. The BANNER reporter says in one paragraph that the administrators can't speak, "citing confidentiality" and in another paragraph quoting Sid Jansma, Jr. (CTS Board president) "that this was aired in front of everyone" (an outright falsehood). Now how can an honest reporter include both statements without asking questions? Someone's lying. But beyond that Sid claims I was "awarded back wages." That, too, is a blatant falsehood. I have never been offered or given "back wages" or "retroactive pay to 2003" (as the mediators called for). There are pay stubs and a salary history that prove beyond a doubt that this is a lie.

But apparently nobody in the CRC is going to challenge them and they will perhaps get away with this blatant dishonesty.

It continues to be a sad day for CTS and the CRC.

I might add that the BANNER also labeled me "Rev. Ruth Tucker." Is that official? Can I now marry, bury, and baptize?

See THE BANNER article