Christian Reformed churches in Canada heard from two groups this summer: one a grassroots movement looking for congregations ready for an independent Canadian CRC, and one the CRCNA Canada Ministry Board saying councils weren’t obligated to respond.

Welcoming a new pastor during its anniversary service, Alameda (Calif.) Christian Reformed Church heard preaching from past, present, and future ministers of the 100-year-old congregation.

Invited by Terrace (B.C.) Christian Reformed Church’s visuals committee, nine congregation members contributed illustrations for Pastor Joel Ringma’s spring sermon series on the parables of Jesus.

Deacons attending Synod 2024 gathered to share stories of the work they and their congregations are doing to serve God and their neighbor at their annual dinner.

A July conference at Gordon College in Wenham, Mass., offered Bible studies for men, women, and children on the theme “Inspired by Hope,” based on 1 Thessalonians 1:3.

From “Dominee Vanden Ende” to “Pastor Tony,” Anthonie Vanden Ende’s pastoral ministry spanned 43 years, two countries, and three Canadian provinces.

As a pastor, church planter, and home missionary, Don Griffioen spent his ministry career bringing churches together, focusing on similarities rather than differences. He died May 26 at age 92.

A pastor who saw his calling as being “a Storyteller with a capital ‘S,’” Herm Van Niejenhuis loved to help others explore the wonder and truth of the Christian faith. He died July 24 at age 75.

Calvin University’s Nagel Institute for the Study of World Christianity is using a $1.9 million grant to explore the impact of a seminary education on the spiritual, character, and virtue development of Christian leaders worldwide.

Invited and encouraged by their pastor, attendees of Grace and Peace Church in Chicago Ill., are waking up in the early hours to read their Bibles, pray, and encourage one another.

Oct. 31 is marked as Reformation Day in Protestant churches to remember the onset of the Protestant Reformation that began in 1517. 
 

Chris Schoon, co-director of the Christian Reformed Church’s Thrive agency, is stepping down as of Sept. 20: “I feel that I can no longer carry out my responsibilities … with integrity to my own convictions.”