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
Walker URC’s centennial celebration
As Walker United Reformed Church celebrated its 100th anniversary, its members remembered the past while looking to the future with thankfulness to God. The theme verse chosen for the occasion was Psalm 145:4, “One generation shall praise Thy works to another, And shall declare Thy mighty acts” (KJV). A special centennial celebration took place on … Continue reading Walker URC’s centennial celebration
Phoenix URC focuses on God’s mission to the city
Phoenix, AZ, named after the mythological regenerating bird associated with the sun, consistently tops the charts of the sunniest US cities. The legendary phoenix can symbolize Christian themes of rebirth and resurrection, and it’s those timeless truths that members of Phoenix URC seek to bring to the almost 1.5 million people living in American’s sixth … Continue reading Phoenix URC focuses on God’s mission to the city
The privilege of proclamation: Reflections on 55 years of ministry
In August of [2013], Rev. Arthur Besteman gave up preaching. He’d hoped to continue until he was 85, the age at which his wife’s father retired, but he was 80 and felt that it was time. He still goes out on pastoral visits and conducts funerals. In fact, the same week he gave up regular … Continue reading The privilege of proclamation: Reflections on 55 years of ministry
Word & Deed ministry expands it borders and broadens its reach
Word & Deed has a holistic approach to child sponsorship that addresses the physical and spiritual needs of the entire family. But it is much more than a child sponsorship organization. It also promotes Christian education, orphan care, disaster relief and vocational training as it addresses the spiritual and physical needs of people in the … Continue reading Word & Deed ministry expands it borders and broadens its reach
Glenda Faye Mathes 