Hi, my name is Arjan van der Meer and with me is my lovely wife, Arina. We were both born and raised in South Africa, in the city of Pretoria. Our time in Canada has been a time of great joy, but not without its challenges. But when we look back, we see how God guided us on our way and through it all.

I am the second of five children. I was blessed to grow up in a Christian home, where, from a young age, we were taught and instructed in the knowledge of God. This laid a solid foundation for me to build on in the years to come.

Growing up, I always wanted to become a veterinarian or work in nature, like a game warden. I love creation and would have loved to work in nature. But God had other plans for me. Late in high school, I was convinced that I should pursue the ministry.

And so, after school, I moved away from my home in Pretoria to start my undergraduate studies. I completed my bachelor’s degree at the Theological School of Potchefstroom, which is the training school of the Reformed Churches in South Africa (aka GKSA). It was there, in my final year, that I met my wife.

After graduating in December 2021, I worked in a steel factory for several months before moving to Canada in September 2022 to start my studies at the CRTS. I stayed in Canada for a couple of months before returning to South Africa and completing my first and second years online. It was during that time that I got married to Arina. In September 2024, we moved to Canada, where I started my third year of studies. Meanwhile, Arina started working for EY as a Forensic Accountant.

Moving to Canada was not always easy, but we were richly blessed during our time here. The Seminary community, as well as the Church community, is wonderful, and we were much encouraged by them. We will always look back fondly on our time in Canada.

During my studies, I had the privilege of doing a couple of internships. I spent two weeks with Rev. Johan Buintjes in Cape Town. After my second year, I completed 7 weeks of internship with Rev. Erik van Alten in Pretoria as part of my long summer internship. I did another internship as part of the summer internship with Rev. Jeff Temple of the Providence Canadian Reformed Church in Hamilton. I completed my mission internship with Rev. Greg Davidson of the Blessings Christian Church. I am truly grateful for these ministers who helped me to grow in my love for the Lord and for the ministry.

Looking forward, we are going back to South Africa, where I will be doing a year-long internship/vicariate in Cape Town under Rev. Bruintjes. We look forward to moving back to our home country and see where the Lord leads us after that to serve him and build his Kingdom.