When Classis Michigan of the URCNA met on October 11, 2016, the primary item on the agenda was the candidacy examination of Arjen Vreugdenhil. According to Classis Clerk Greg Lubbers, delegates took most of the day to conduct a through exam before determining “without dissent” that Mr. Vreugdenhil had sustained all sections of the examination. … Continue reading Classis Michigan declares URCNA candidate
Caffeinated Thoughts Briefing percolates Christian worldview
The Caffeinated Thoughts Briefing, a Christian worldview conference for students and adults on October 15, 2016, in Johnston, IA, featured an impressive line-up of speakers and panelists. “The conference speakers sounded a clarion call to the church not to retreat, but to stand firm in their public witness as Western culture grows increasingly hostile to … Continue reading Caffeinated Thoughts Briefing percolates Christian worldview
URC seeks right house for worship in DC
For the last five years, Christ Reformed Church (URCNA) has met for worship in the historic Grace Reformed Church building, located on 15th Street in downtown Washington, DC. Like other Gothic Revival style churches, the building features lofty spires and luminous stained-glass windows. But the architecture stands alone in its sculptural tributes to key … Continue reading URC seeks right house for worship in DC
Rosaria Butterfield offers a Gospel perspective
How should Christians participate in today’s culture wars? Christ Presbyterian Church (PCA) in New Braunfels, TX, addressed that question by hosting a conference at which Dr. Rosaria Butterfield spoke about “A Welcoming Gospel.” Rosaria Butterfield is the well-known author of The Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert, which chronicles her journey from a tenured professor, … Continue reading Rosaria Butterfield offers a Gospel perspective
RCA: Somber synod affirms joyful marriage
The 2016 General Synod of the Reformed Church in America affirmed marriage as “a joyful covenanting between a man and a woman,” but Synod’s atmosphere was more melancholy than joyful. And a similar level of disunity would strain any marriage. Some delegates, who anticipated difficult decisions regarding denominational affiliation, felt a sense of reprieve. … Continue reading RCA: Somber synod affirms joyful marriage
Mid-America appoints new Vice President of Advancement
On May 4, 2016, Mr. Michael B. Deckinga began his position as the Vice President of Advancement at Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, IN. The VP of Advancement nurtures the Seminary’s external relationships and advances its mission through marketing, communications, and development. Mr. Deckinga’s work includes managing fundraisers and gifts as well as providing … Continue reading Mid-America appoints new Vice President of Advancement
Mid-America no longer going with the “Flo”
Vice President of Administration retires after 35 years Over 100 people gathered on the evening of May 11, 2016, to celebrate Florence Kooiman’s 35 years of faithful service to Mid-America Reformed Seminary . The bittersweet celebration also marked her retirement in the summer of 2016 from her position as Vice President of Administration. Anyone … Continue reading Mid-America no longer going with the “Flo”
Smooth Sailing for RCUS Synod in California
No controversial issues came up during the 270th Synod of the Reformed Church in the United States, when it met from May 16-19, 2016, at Grace Reformed Church in Bakersfield, CA. “I would have to say that this year’s Synod was unique in that there were no major decisions or position papers to approve,” … Continue reading Smooth Sailing for RCUS Synod in California
Sioux Falls church plant organizes
In a joint worship service held with Hills URC on May 8, 2016, the Sioux Falls United Reformed church plant formally organized as Christ Reformed Church (URCNA). Rev. Spencer Aalsburg led the service, installing two elders and two deacons as Christ Reformed’s first council. Attendees participated in a fellowship meal after the service and … Continue reading Sioux Falls church plant organizes
Pella’s heritage: Broken teacups and blooming tulips
During the first week of May, 300,000 tulips in beds lining streets and filling parks of Pella, IA, usually bloom. Whatever the condition of blossoms, local people celebrate their Dutch heritage with an extravaganza of colorful parades, folk dancing, interesting exhibits, and delicious food. Copious amounts of food. Visitors can feed their inner child … Continue reading Pella’s heritage: Broken teacups and blooming tulips
Glenda Faye Mathes 