A Reformed congregation in Milan, Italy (Chiesa Evangelica Riformata ‘Filadelfia’ [CERF]), hosted a conference on April 25-26, 2014. Speaker Rev. William Boekestein (Covenant URC in Carbondale, PA) addressed six subjects related to marriage and family, based primarily on Colossians 3:17-21.In his introduction on Friday, Rev. Boekestein discussed family dynamics. “Without question, relationships can be difficult,” … Continue reading Milan annual conference on family
Photographer Fritz Liedtke: An eye for incarnational art
The following interview with Fritz Liedtke by Glenda Mathes appeared on pages 47-49 of the April 16, 2014, issue of Christian Renewal. Viewing the extraordinary fine art photography of Fritz Liedtke opens your eyes to the unique beauty of each person created in God’s image. “Everybody has a history, everybody has secrets, everybody hurts,” he says. … Continue reading Photographer Fritz Liedtke: An eye for incarnational art
Cloverdale CanRC: Anniversary celebration
Cloverdale Canadian Reformed Church in Surrey, BC, marked its 60th anniversary on March 7, 2014. The church’s celebration concluded with the unveiling of a unique mosaic titled: Broken people made whole in Christ. Artifacts from the congregation’s early years were displayed at a program that featured speakers, greetings from former pastors and civic officials, a … Continue reading Cloverdale CanRC: Anniversary celebration
Short meeting for URC Classis Central US
In contrast to the September meeting of Classis Central US of the URCNA—which ran out of time to discuss the four overtures on its agenda—the March 3 & 4, 2014, meeting was the shortest in most delegates’ memory. A contributing factor was an abbreviated exam with a prompt decision. Another reason was that discussion on … Continue reading Short meeting for URC Classis Central US
Wolterstorff’s expanded view on the arts: Practical activity, meaningful memory, and intrinsic worth
In 1987, Nicholas Wolterstorff wrote Art in Action, promoting practical application of art in contrast to the prevailing view of purely aesthetic contemplation. Rather than keeping art cloistered within the walls of elitist museums and exclusive galleries, Wolterstorff advocated putting art into action to elevate urban areas and ennoble private homes. The book caused some … Continue reading Wolterstorff’s expanded view on the arts: Practical activity, meaningful memory, and intrinsic worth
Rev. Edward J. Knott’s journey and leadership
Members of the United Reformed Churches owe Rev. Edward J. Knott a debt far greater than most realize. He provided biblical servant leadership at crucial points in the federation’s history, but this humble hero would be the first to downplay his role and redirect all glory to God. Few ministers have accomplished more during their … Continue reading Rev. Edward J. Knott’s journey and leadership
Confirmation in the Lord’s timing: Mark Vander Pol ordination
Mark Vander Pol was ordained to the gospel ministry during morning worship on February 2, 2014, at Christ United Reformed Church in Santee, CA. Christ URC’s pastor, Rev. Michael Brown preached from Ephesians 4:1-6 on Christ’s gift of pastors to his church. Dr. Michael Horton, Associate Pastor, gave the charge to the minister from 2 … Continue reading Confirmation in the Lord’s timing: Mark Vander Pol ordination
Hillsdale OPC dedicates former depot
Instead of sheltering passengers waiting for trains, a former railroad depot now harbors people hearing God’s Word. Rev. Everett Henes, pastor of Hillsdale OPC in Hillsdale, MI, relates how the church utilizes this newly-purchased unique structure, which consists of the original brick building and a newer steel addition. “I believe the train depot portion of … Continue reading Hillsdale OPC dedicates former depot
Cultivating amazement for God’s grace: Rev. Robert De Vries
While Rev. Robert W. DeVries has officially retired twice, he continues to be active in the ministry. He served for several years as the Clerk of Classis Eastern US of the URCNA, and still fills the vacant pulpit of the New Haven URC in Vermont a few times per month. Christian Renewal recently interviewed him … Continue reading Cultivating amazement for God’s grace: Rev. Robert De Vries
NAPARC changes by-laws and constitution
When the North American Presbyterian and Reformed Council (NAPARC), met on November 19-20, 2013, in Flat Rock, NC, it adopted new by-laws and approved changes to its constitution. The new by-laws are already in effect, but changes in the constitution must be approved by NAPARC member churches. Those actions arose from a report by the … Continue reading NAPARC changes by-laws and constitution
Glenda Faye Mathes 