In the fall of 1899, 14 immigrant families from the Netherlands, who had settled in the Pacific Northwest in Washington state, welcomed their first pastor Abel J. Brink. They formally organized as the Holland Christian Reformed Church of Lynden, Wash., the following summer: July 11, 1900. It was the first Christian Reformed congregation to be established west of the Rockies and came to be known as First CRC of Lynden when subsequent congregations formed.
Today First CRC is known for its motto, “A Church that Cares.” Galen Laird, council chair and head of First’s anniversary committee, said, “The people of this church reach out and care for the people of the community and beyond. Teaming up for missions is close to our heart.”
The congregation planted several new churches as the community grew: Second CRC in 1920 and Third CRC in 1938, both with English as their primary language. First CRC hosted its own last service in the Dutch language in 1953. Continued growth led to the formation of other daughter churches: Bethel CRC in Lynden, Faith Christian Fellowship in Everson (disbanded 2018), Hope in Christ CRC in Bellingham, and Sumas CRC.
The congregation worships at 1010 Front St. in a building the church built in 1903, remodeled 1953, and upgraded after the church’s centennial in 2000 to improve accessibility; provide youth, library, and administrative spaces; and increase large gathering areas.
Over the past 125 years the church has had 16 lead pastors. The current pastor, Robert Woodyard, called 18 years ago, is the longest-serving pastor.
The church’s recognition of its 125 years includes a video history, publishing a quadricentennial booklet, and erecting new signs in the church. The community will gather 125 years to the date of the church’s incorporation, July 11-13, to enjoy a concert and ice cream social, a visit from denominational prayer shepherd Jon Hoekema, storytelling memories from within the congregation, community tours, and an organ recital.
The church’s organ, a used pipe organ purchased and installed Aug. 10, 1913, is estimated to be older than First CRC’s 125 years. It was rebuilt in 1957, with another restoration in 1986, and was again revitalized in 2019. The church has three active organists who play for about half of the services.
Laird said the church looks forward to continuing ministry. “We are excited to be part of God’s greater plans for the future.”
About the Author
Jenny deGroot is a retired educator, farm-living art lover, and longtime contributor to The Banner's news and Mixed Media sections. She lives near Fort Langley, B.C., and attends Willoughby Christian Reformed Church in Langley, B.C.