Church Stewardship in Times of Change

The Canadian Reformed Churches in the Fraser Valley have ample experience when it comes to church splits — the good kind, resulting from church growth. But we have less experience with the opposite problem. What happens when churches are shrinking due to migration? Are we as churches using our resources wisely and responsibly? Does the Church Order give guidance for small churches who want to explore options, including closure, merger with a neighboring church, or cooperation with other local churches — either inside or outside the federation? Finally, are there outside-the-box options, including cooperation with other Christian institutions such as schools, seniors’ homes, or homes for the handicapped? Rev. Dr. J. Visscher will give a brief introduction on the topic, followed by an extensive panel discussion with representatives from a number of our smaller Fraser Valley congregations. While the session is aimed at office bearers in the Canadian Reformed Churches and other NAPARC churches, all are welcome. A book table and refreshments will be available after the session.

Date: Friday, May 3, 2024

Time: 8:00 – 9:30ish pm

Location: Willoughby Heights Canadian Reformed Church
7949 202a Street, Langley

This event will be livestreamed. To access click here.

Cooperating in Mission

To what extent should churches within a federation of churches cooperate int he matter of mission, both domestic and foreign? Many NAPARC churches have federational boards, the Canadian Reformed Churches do not. The closest they come is the CRMA – the Canadian Reformed Missions Association. Is it time for the CanRC to create some sort of body to facilitate and assist local churches in mission activities. Should such a body be a committee appointed by general synod? Rev. Dr. A. de Visser, emeritus professor of missions from CRTS (Canadian Reformed Theological Seminary) has written on this topic and is coming out west to share his thoughts and field any questions and concerns. While the session is aimed at office bearers in the Canadian Reformed Churches and other NAPARC churches, all are welcome. Refreshments will be available after the session.

Date: Friday, May 24, 2024

Time: 8:00 – 9:30ish pm

Location: Yarrow Canadian Reformed Church
42285 Yarrow Central Road, Yarrow

This event will not be live streamed. A recording will be posted after the event.