Commitment

 

THE COVENANT OF OUR CONGREGATION
                             Adopted by the Congregation in 1962


We do hereby set forth the principles of the Christian faith as commonly held among us, believing that no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.


It shall be our aim to bring joy to little children, instruction and high ideals to youth, inspiration to men and women in the midst of life, and comfort to those in life's later years; and to labor together for the betterment of humankind.


Our fellowship shall not be dependent upon identity of theological opinion, or of outward circumstance, or of denominational concern, but shall grow from a common loyalty to Jesus, a common commitment to serve the world we touch, and a common purpose to do justly, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with God.


Our ideal is a church of the open mind, the warm heart, the hopeful spirit, and the social vision which ever seeks to express, in all walks of life, the mind of Jesus.

      

Basics

Parking

 to street parking, there are four areas set aside for your use when attending events and worship.  You may use all the lots within sight of the church for events here.

Office

Our office is open from 7 am to 3 pm weekdays all year long.   The library, the sanctuary, and church facilities are open for your use during these times.  Community groups and individuals may book space at the church by contacting the church office.

Membership

Membership in the First Reformed Church is open to all.  Classes are held on a regular basis to help orient people to the building, the leadership, and the programs of the church.  Call 377-2201 for more info.

Education

Childcare

is provided through our Kinderwyk program staffed by professionals and members located on the first floor of the house next to the church at 10 North Church Street.  Care is offered from 9 to noon every Sunday morning.

Church School

Children through Junior High are invited to leave worship after the children’s message and go to church school until 11:20 on Sundays of the school year.  From 11:20 to noon, activities are offered so that parents might attend the Sunday Forum.

Confirmation

These classes prepare youth for entry into adulthood and membership in the church.

Adult Education

Offerings include Sunday morning studies, Kerygma Bible study Wednesday mornings, and the Adult Forum that meets after worship most Sundays.

Worship

Our worship is open to all.

Sunday Morning Worship

We worship every Sunday morning at 10 am, but you may wish to come a few minutes early for our inspiring organ prelude that begins at 9:40.

Vespers

Every Sunday at 5 pm you are welcome to a reflective service of mostly music featuring professional musicians and some readings.  1st and 3rd Sundays have a Jazz focus, 2nd Sundays are Classical, and 4th Sundays are Celtic music.

Wednesday Evening Worship

Wednesday evenings we gather for a reflective liturgical service in the sanctuary.

Weddings and Funerals

Members and non-members are welcome to have their religious ceremonies in our worship spaces.

 

Denomination

The First Reformed Church is a member of the Reformed Church in America.  We are an historic protestant denomination that traces its roots to the Netherlands. 

Our denomination is a representative democracy, with elected church leaders making decisions with clergy at every level.

In the broadest possible terms, our denomination believes that a benevolent God is in charge.  This God is revealed in Jesus Christ.  This revelation rescues us.