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Ecumenical guests of the CRC’s Synod 2026 gave uplifting presentations of unity and growth, along with the heart to share the gospel in their denominations and organizations.

The Bible doesn’t talk about hospitality like it’s a gift that some people have and others don’t, and if you don’t have it, you’re exempt from practicing it.

Her broken heart thirsts for acceptance and love that seem out of reach—until an encounter at the well reveals what her soul truly longs for.

Synod 2026 spent time celebrating milestones of its affiliated Christian colleges and universities and recognized the 2026 closure of Trinity Christian College.

Synod says a study to articulate CRC ecclesiology is not necessary.

Synod 2026 voted to extend a church in cooperation relationship with the Nederlandse Gereformeerde Kerken, a new Dutch Reformed denomination that formed in 2023. Synod also provided directions for a memorandum between the denominations.

Lee Carter, newly ratified director of the CRC’s Thrive ministry, told Synod 2026 that the agency’s mandate is to be a companion and guide for churches.

Darrell Delaney told delegates ReFrame’s digital ministry is a way into the world’s darkest corners.

Synod 2026 ratified changes the CRC Loan Fund made to its articles of incorporation, expanding lending eligibility to CRCNA-related organizations.

The Ecumenical and Interfaith Committee of the Christian Reformed Church’s report to Synod 2026 included joy over a communion relationship with the Alliance of Reformed Churches and prayers for the CRC in Nigeria experiencing violence and persecution.

Responding to a request from a regional assembly, the Christian Reformed Church’s synod affirmed its historic teaching on church and state and approved a study committee to define the parameters of Christian Nationalism and offer pastoral response and guidance.

Responding to a request from Classis Red Mesa, Synod 2026 agreed to remove no-longer-relevant text from two articles in Church Order.

Future synods will continue to convene on Friday and conclude the following week on the fourth day of plenary sessions.

Host Lora Copley, The Banner’s interim editor-in-chief, talks with guest Tim Blackmon, pastor of Second CRC (Grand Haven, Mich.), the convening church of this year’s synod. Lora and Tim talk about the important vision put forward through the four plenary messages of Saturday evening and Sunday’s joint worship.

Drawing from the parables of the leaven and the mustard seed, pastor Tim Blackmon reminded Synod 2026 that the Kingdom of God operates on a radically different scale.

Imagine your body is a castle. This castle is amazing, but sometimes sneaky invaders called germs try to get in.

Tim Sheridan presented to Synod 2026 the 10-year strategic plan for church planting, requested by Synod 2025.

Reminding that Jesus is at the center and every church has a place in God’s mission, Thrive’s Elaine May led Synod 2026 through the ministry’s plan to help churches learn and discern.

Delegates rising to their feet after a speech is rare in the Christian Reformed Church, but that’s how Synod 2026 reacted to general secretary Zach King’s encouragement to embrace God’s mission.

Dawn and Gary Brouwers started a trend 22 years ago when they brought their kids to synod while Gary was a delegate. In 2026, son Will is back as a delegate, kids in tow.

“The Lord be with you, And also with you; El Señor esté contigo, Y también contigo; 주께서 우리와 함께하시나니, 항상 함께하시리이다,” Synod 2026 delegates greeted one another Saturday.

Synod’s annual women’s dinner was a time of fellowship, encouragement and reflection.

Host Lora Copley, The Banner’s interim editor-in-chief, talks with guest Joshua Jiang, a first-time observer of synod, to get his take on the proceedings so far. Jiang is a member of Princeton CRC (Grand Rapids, Mich.) and a South Korea-based Chinese pastor working with Resonate Global Mission.