What options do declining churches have? What might it look like to covenant with a neighboring Christian Reformed congregation for mission and renewal? How can churches cooperate to support one another in a time of shrinking memberships and vacant pulpits?
After two years of study, Synod 2026 adopted a framework for multi-site ministry. Derek Buikema—who helped shape that work—shares the story of one congregation's encouraging turnaround through a multi-site partnership. This episode explores this question: could multi-site expressions of the church become another valued tool towards renewal and growth in the CRCNA in this next decade?
Hosts
Sarah Eekhof Zylstra, of New City Church (CRC) in Kansas City; senior writer and editor for the Gospel Coalition
Contributor
Derek Buikema, pastor of Orland Park CRC in Orland Park, Ill.; chair of the Multi-Site Task Force.
Video editing - Noah Zylstra