about the crc

Christian Reformed Churches

The name Christian Reformed Churches gives expression to the fact that these churches desire to be Christian churches as well as Reformed churches. The first part of the name (Christian) indicates that we are one with the catholic (universal) church of all ages. The second part of the name (Reformed) expresses that we have our origin with the 16th and 17th century Refor­mation, which shaped the churches in the Nether­lands, thus following in the footsteps of John Calvin, the great reformer of Geneva. This was especially expressed at the general synod of 1618-1619 (Dordrecht) when the reformed confes­sional standards, the Belgic Confession of Faith, the Heidelberg Catechism and the Canons of Dort (the Three Forms of Unity) were adopted.

In addition to the three ecume­nical creeds, these so called Three Forms of Unity are the confes­sional basis of our churches. All our office bearers have signed a document that they promise not to teach anything that contra­dicts this basis. With respect to church government, we abide by the Church Order of Dordrecht adopted by the 1618-1619 Synod, which is adapted according to changing circum­stances. Our confes­sional basis is not meant to be a purpose as such, but is to function as a pilot to be a reformed church in a secula­rized society. By means of this basis we try to under­stand our call to be the salt of the earth.