CRC MinistRy RepoRt 2012 MoRe DoinG toGetHeR · Front-Line Evangelism Garba Umar is an evangelist in Kabusa, Nigeria, a village about five miles from the center of the capital city,

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C R C M i n i s t R y R e p o R t 2 0 1 2

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ORE

www.crcna.org

33888 Annual Ministry Report 2012.indd 1 10/18/12 8:06 AM

2 Ministry Report 2012

TOGETHERDOINGMORERev. Joel R. Boot is the executive director of the Christian Reformed Church in North America.

Being Jesus’ Hands

At the conclusion of his wonderful book Fearfully and Wonderfully Made, Paul Brand tells

the story of some German students who, after World War II, volunteered to help rebuild a

cathedral in England that had been severely damaged by the Luftwaffe bombings.

The students debated how best to restore a large statue of Jesus with arms extended.

At the base of the statue was the inscription “Come unto Me.” They could patch most of the dam-

age, but the hands were beyond repair. Should they try to rebuild them? They reached a decision

that stands to this day. There are no hands on this statue of Jesus. But the inscription now reads,

“Christ has no hands but ours.”

I suppose that is not completely true. But you get the point. Christ, in his mercy, love, and pow-

er, has chosen to use us to accomplish his work here on earth.

In a very real way, the ministries of the Christian Reformed Church in North America are the

hands of Christ. These ministries offer the love of Jesus and the invitation that he still issues:

“Come unto me.”

Your Ministry Shares make these ministries possible. Ministry Shares are not assessments. They

are not dues. They should not be construed as bills. They are the exercise of our faith. They are

opportunities to serve in ways we would otherwise not be capable of and in places we would not

otherwise be able to reach. They are the hands of Jesus. Think of them this way.

Through Back to God Ministries International we can speak the Word in tongues we do not

even understand, conveying the invitation of Jesus. Through Calvin College we can encourage in-

depth study of the ways and wisdom of God with a view to reclaiming this world for him. Through

Calvin Seminary can we train others to go next door and to the ends of the earth to bring the

good news of grace.

Through Faith Alive we can prepare publications and curricula that extend and explain his offer

of life. Through Home Missions we can reach into the neighborhoods of North America to invite

others into the family. Through World Missions we can bring the message to places we would

otherwise never go.

Through World Renew (even though this ministry is supported by voluntary offerings and not

by Ministry Shares) we can rebuild and restore, following the example of those German students.

Through Denominational Management Services and Ministries we can supervise and support

those hands, as Aaron and Hur supported the hands of Moses. Through Specialized Ministries we

can love and support and guide one another and others.

We not only can be but we are the hands—and feet and mouth and eyes and heart—of Jesus.

Will you take a few moments to consider these “hands”? Will you thank God for them? Will you

ask God to strengthen and use them? Will you generously support them? Will you help them

reach a whole world with Jesus’ love? In wonderful ways our hands are Christ’s. Let’s open them

for him.

Cover photo: People gathered to pray at the CRC Prayer Summit held at All

Nations Church in California in April. A second Summit is being planned for 2013.


TOGETHERDOINGMORE

Ministry Report 2012 3

Together Doing More

Where the Money GoesThe money you give to Ministry Shares

provides more than $25 million each year

to fund programs that enable your church

to send missionaries around the world,

start new churches, train pastors and lead-

ers, use media to spread the gospel, and

much more. Ministry Shares provide vital

support for almost all our ministries.

About 85 cents of every dollar raised

through Ministry Shares goes directly into

ministry programs. Ministry Shares pro-

vides about 40 percent of the budgets for

CRC mission agencies, 50 percent of the

budget for Calvin Theological Seminary,

and between 60 percent and 95 percent of

the budgets for CRC Specialized Ministries.

To learn more about how God is using

your Ministry Shares to transform lives

and communities, visit www.crcna.org/

MinistryShares.

The Christian Reformed Church (CRC) is

not huge in numbers. But together we

are doing big work.

From the streets of Santo Domingo,

Dominican Republic, to the front lines of sec-

tarian violence in West Africa; from the scat-

tered islands of Indonesia to university cam-

puses right here in North America, your church

is changing lives and communities through the

transforming power of the gospel.

All of this is made possible by the grace of

God, by the power of the Holy Spirit, and by

you, through your Ministry Shares, prayers,

gifts, and offerings.

Here are a few examples of how God used

your ministries during the past year.

Patience and PersistenceIn Japan, the patience and persistence of Back

to God Ministries International (BTGMI) leaders

paid off when Hiroshi Kojima was baptized.

Kojima, an unbeliever, attended a sum-

mer camp with his wife, who is a Christian.

Sponsored by BTGMI Japanese staff, summer

camp is a time for isolated believers and seek-

ers to come together for spiritual growth and

Christian fellowship. For Hiroshi, it was an op-

portunity to explore his wife’s faith.

The journey lasted for 17 years, but last sum-

mer Hiroshi, at the age of 79, committed his life

to the Lord. This spring he publicly professed

his faith and was baptized.

Front-Line EvangelismGarba Umar is an evangelist in Kabusa, Nigeria,

a village about five miles from the center of the

capital city, Abuja.

Umar works in a difficult area where conflict

is frequent, but he is undaunted. For the past 15

years, he has been helping to spread God’s Word

to the Gbagyi, Gwandara, and Gede people.

Umar is one of several evangelists sent by

the Christian Reformed Church of Nigeria, in

partnership with Christian Reformed World

Missions, to spread the gospel among Nigeria’s

unreached people groups.

Random Acts of GraceOnce each month, members of The Village

Church in Thorold, Ontario, target a park, home,

or business and take it over—with kindness.

It’s all part of Random Acts of Kindness, which

the Christian Reformed Home Missions church

plant uses to renew its community by encourag-

ing people to act kindly and pass it on.

“The residents of Thorold are getting to

know the Village Church as the community-

involved church that offers different groups

and services to Thorold and its residents,” says

Pastor Mike Collins.

Members of The Village Church



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Educating Pastors OnlineCari Fydirchuk wanted to study for the ministry

but did not want to uproot her family to attend

Calvin Theological Seminary (CTS) in Grand

Rapids, Mich. This fall, the Calgary, Alberta,

resident joined 14 other students in the first

cohort to participate in a five-year distance-

learning Master of Divinity program offered

through CTS.

“We are a young family with an energet-

ic 2-year-old girl and developing careers,”

Fydirchuk said. “We are blessed to be a part of

a church community where both my husband

and I are involved in a local street ministry.”

Rev. Jul Medenblik, president of CTS, noted

that the new technology “brings us closer

together and allows for someone who is in

Alberta to sit in a classroom with someone from

Houston and San Francisco and Grand Rapids.”

Training Pastors for CubaRev. Luis Pellecer, the Latin American regional

leader with Christian Reformed World Missions,

has brought the Timothy Leadership Training

Institute program (TLTI) to Cuba.

Developed by professors at Calvin seminary,

TLTI is a leadership development program for

church leaders around the world who don’t

have ready access to theological training.

Cuba has become more open in recent years

to the work of such faith-based groups, Pellecer

says. “There has been a lot of enthusiasm in ev-

ery participant. They love the program and are

excited with the results they have seen.”

BTGMI also broadcasts radio programs into

the island nation and sends copies of its daily

devotional to people in Cuba who want to

know more about Christianity.

And Many, Many MoreOther ministries you supported in 2012 include

the Christian Reformed Home Missions univer-

sity chaplain program, which places chaplains

at colleges and universities in Canada and the

United States.

Cuban pastors and leaders gathered

to study stewardship.

Chaplain Mike Wassink with the football team

Chaplain Mike Wassink serves on the cam-

pus of Ferris State University in Big Rapids,

Mich. He also serves as chaplain to the univer-

sity’s sports teams, praying with and counsel-

ing the athletes.

There’s also a Christian Reformed World

Missions program that works with parents and

teenagers in the U.S.-Mexico border town of

Tijuana.

When missionaries saw a gulf widening be-

tween parents and families, they called them

together for a day of prayer and reconciliation.

Facundo, a father of five, was one of those

who attended. A quiet man, he is not known

for coming to church events. But on this day,

he, his wife, and their two teenage daughters

were there, seeking assistance.

At the end, everyone in Facundo’s family was

crying, hugging, and praying for one another,

seeking each other’s and God’s forgiveness

They tasted reconciliation and transformation.

Most of all, Facundo says, a huge burden was

lifted from his heart.

Your ministries are transforming lives.

Working together, by the grace of God, we are

doing more. —CRC Communications


TOGETHERDOINGMORE


Partnerships in Sierra Leone“Come life or death, God and

his work is my habitation,” says

Rev. Ezekiel James Sudu, a mis-

sionary in Sierra Leone with the

Christian Reformed Church of

Nigeria (CRC Nigeria).

Sudu responded to an altar call as an 11-year-

old, becoming involved in church activities

soon after. Not until seven years later did he

fully acknowledge God as Lord of his life. From

that moment on, he has

served God as a pastor

and an evangelist.

Sudu is one of more

than 200 ministry lead-

ers who receive support

from Christian Reformed

World Missions (CRWM).

These leaders are teach-

ers, pastors, evangelists,

and other church leaders

serving with CRWM part-

ner organizations.

CRWM is increasingly

partnering with nation-

al churches and local

leaders such as the CRC

Nigeria and Sudu, recog-

nizing the gifts and ac-

cess they have for spreading the gospel. Many

leaders are part of the communities in which

they work. Others come from similar cultures,

enabling them to adapt to their new setting

more easily than would someone from another

continent.

As a former missionary in Nigeria’s Niger

state, Sudu is familiar with the hard work of

church planting and evangelism. His parents

followed African traditional religions, and he

has ministered among many people who fol-

lowed similar practices or Islam.

These experiences have prepared him for liv-

ing and ministering in Sierra Leone.

Sudu is a leadership training coordinator

with the Christian Reformed Church of Sierra

Leone. His ministry represents the commit-

ment of CRC Nigeria, CRC Sierra Leone, and

World Missions to working together in Sierra

Leone. CRC Nigeria covers his salary, CRC Sierra

Leone provides housing, and CRWM assists

with transportation and home service costs.

In return, Sudu works to build up leaders for

the rapidly growing CRC Sierra Leone.

“The CRC Sierra Leone’s major challenge is

raising and training competent servant leaders

who will care for the pastoral needs of the de-

veloping congregations,” Sudu says.

The CRC Sierra

Leone has expanded

from 36 churches to

over 60 churches and

5,500 believers in just

a few years. As a young

church, many of its lead-

ers are relatively new

Christians with little

experience or training

on discipling people to

serve God.

Sudu’s task is to men-

tor and train leaders for

guiding the church to

maturity. He disciples

leaders, organizes con-

ferences, and facilitates

leadership training

events. He also supports evangelism efforts

throughout the country.

“CRC Sierra Leone is the only church denom-

ination that is doing evangelism and church

planting in remote areas and cities,” says Sudu.

“My greatest joy in this ministry is seeing

how God is doing a tremendous work through

the CRC Sierra Leone’s holistic ministry. Many

unbelievers testify how the church is reaching

out in their communities with the gospel of

love in words and deeds.

“I have been blessed to see God building the

faith of emerging leaders.”

—Sarah Lin,

Christian Reformed World Missions

Rev. Ezekiel James Sudu is a CRC Nigeria

missionary to Sierra Leone.



TOGETHERDOINGMORE

Serepta Onyango thought she might be too

old to start learning a new way to earn an in-

come.

But after she attended a training session by

World Renew, formerly the Christian Reformed

World Relief Committee, in her Ugandan vil-

lage, she changed her mind.

“I realized that I could support myself ad-

equately, despite my old age,” Onyango said. “It

is something I thought I could never do.”

With 29 other members of the Mamba wom-

en’s group, she learned about beekeeping

from World Renew’s partner organization, the

Church of Uganda’s Nebbi diocese.

“I learned that bees were friendly and that

the quality of beehives has a big effect on how

they are colonized by the bees,” said Kareng

Joyce, another group member. “Using this

knowledge, I have identified the right plants

to have on my garden that will attract the bees

and encourage the production of more honey.”

Following exchange visits with other bee-

keepers, the group received 30 beehives from

World Renew and its partner. In exchange for

the hives, participants agreed to use their own

funds to purchase at least one additional hive.

Kareng Joyce (far right) and other members

of the Mamba women’s group examine

improved bee hives during a learning ex-

change visit.

Never Too Old To Learn

“By being exposed to new learning, the

women in the Mamba group have been able

to improve their beekeeping practices and

increase their income,” said World Renew staff

member Joseph Mutebi.

“The encouragement and motivation they

get from each other and from neighboring

beekeepers helps everyone

learn and achieve. There is high

enthusiasm and synergy built

among these women. They

have become a model in their

own community.”

This is a huge accomplish-

ment for women in a society

where men have traditionally

been responsible for earning

income and women have been

encouraged to stay at home.

To further support these

women, World Renew and its

partner also trained local men

and women to provide ongoing

support in beekeeping.

“After attending training in Kenya, we are

connected to other beekeepers there. We have

identified markets for selling our honey,” said

one of the trainees.

As for Serepta Oyango, for the first time in

her life she is earning a sufficient income of her

own.

“Since I received one beehive through the

Mamba women’s group, I have managed to

purchase three more,” she said. And three of

the four of the hives have already been colo-

nized. Praise God.”

—Kristen deRoo VanderBerg, World Renew


TOGETHERDOINGMORE


Jamie didn’t know what to ex-

pect when his friend invited

him to an Alpha evangelism

course at a mall in St. Thomas,

Ontario. Out of curiosity, he

decided to check it out.

To his surprise, Jamie formed a strong con-

nection with the leader of the course, who

then invited him to visit the church that spon-

sored the class: Home Missions-supported

Destination Church, which was started with

the help of Ministry Shares.

Some months later, Jamie came to faith

in Christ. He brought his girlfriend, Sarah, to

church with him, and she joined Jamie in tak-

ing the Alpha course.

The couple was married at Destination one

Sunday in March. At the same time, Jamie and

the couple’s new daughter were both baptized.

But the story doesn’t end there.

A large group of Jamie’s friends came to

Destination to witness the wedding and bap-

tism. This led to many new conversations

about the church and about God.

“I am praying for those visitors and suspect

that we will see a number of them come back

to explore a little further,” Pastor Beth Fellinger

says.

Finding Faith at the Mall

Growing Leaders, Growing the KingdomOasis Community Church,

started by Christian Reformed

Home Missions in Winter

Garden, Fla., in 1959, has

seen a lot of change over the

years. Members have come and gone, and the

sprawling community has grown bigger and

more diverse.

But two things have remained the same:

a passion for developing leaders and a close

connection to Home Missions.

Many evangelistic roots have grown from

Oasis. Pastor Stan Workman, who has led the

congregation for 22 years, formerly served as

a regional leader for Home Missions. During

his time as pastor, the church has supported

19 interns. It also is the parent of five regional

church plants.

Seven of the 19 interns were funded in

part by Home Missions and are still pastors at

church plants Home Missions helped start.

Ever since planting a Hispanic church 12

years ago, Oasis has been passionate about be-

ing multicultural.

Today half of the church’s members are from

ethnically diverse backgrounds.

One of those members, Javier Torres serves

as Hispanic Ministries adviser for the Home

Missions Ethnic Ministry Council.

“Javier is a great example of someone who

was trained and mentored through our church,

and is now working hard to lift up Hispanic

ministry in the denomination,” Workman says.

“That shows God’s hand in this story.”

Oasis Community Church

Pastor Beth Fellinger marries Sarah and

Jamie.



TOGETHERDOINGMORE

The economic crisis that began

in 2008 deeply affected churches.

When giving fell and congrega-

tions had to slash already-lean

budgets and tighten purse strings, the ripple

effect was felt by church-owned publishers

across North America, including Faith Alive.

That reality, among others, has caused some

extremely tight years for the CRC’s publishing

arm. Faith Alive staff have been working hard to

close the financial gap by ramping up curricu-

lum promotion efforts, seeking to broaden the

customer base, increasing retail sales, and more.

But even in the midst of financial strain, God

has blessed this ministry. During the past year

there were many wonderful things to celebrate:

� The success—beyond projections—of sev-

eral products, including the daily prayer

book Seeking God’s Face and the worship

resource Psalms for All Seasons, both in their

third printings.

Peter Vander Meulen saw a good

opportunity for ministry when he

learned that a couple of recent

Calvin Theological Seminary gradu-

ates were moving to Egypt.

Vander Meulen, director of the Christian

Reformed Church’s Office of Social Justice, says

he hoped the CRC would be able to partner

with Anne Zaki and Naji Umran as they began

working in Cairo.

Zaki, formerly the CRC’s Middle East team

coordinator now teaches at the Presbyterian

seminary in Cairo. Umran who, like Zaki, is

also a pastor, is finishing language and culture

studies and will be involved in a variety of pro-

grams.

Vander Meulen says having the couple in

Egypt allows the CRC to have a presence amid

the turbulence in that part of the world.

Prior to leaving for Egypt, Zaki and Umram

served a CRC congregation in Canada. In Egypt

they have sought to be healers for people, es-

pecially Christians, who have been deeply hurt

or threatened by violence.

Blessings in Tight Times � The refreshing of Faith Alive’s youth catego-

ry, including the debut of the new Who, Me?

Bible study series.

� The completion of Faith Alive’s new Dwell

curriculum.

� The growth of the WE family of resources for

intergenerational faith formation.

� The growth in global sales of Spanish-

language resources, including a kids’ Bible

storybook, a prayer book, four Bible sticker

books, and the release, after several years in

development, of John Calvin’s Institutes of

the Christian Religion in Spanish.

� Other products from Faith Alive’s World

Literature Ministries.

� The continued ministry of The Banner and

Reformed Worship.

� Exciting preparations for the 2013 release

of a new hymnal called Lift Up Your Hearts,

which will serve both the CRC and the RCA.

Being Salt and Light

They also serve as guides for CRC members

who visit Egypt to see how the country is far-

ing since last year’s political upheaval known

as the “Arab Spring.”

Vander Meulen said he hopes the CRC will be

part of a larger “learning community” in Egypt.

“This core learning task—how to be salt and

light, how to be the church of Christ in soci-

ety—is a universal need and is best done in

community,” he says.

Anne Zaki and Naji Umran with their boys.



TOGETHERDOINGMORE

Back to God Ministries International

How would you share the gospel

with 3.5 billion people? Back to

God Ministries International is

reaching people through media.

Our 10 indigenous ministry teams effec-

tively communicate Christ in the “heart lan-

guage” of those we are reaching. Through

discipleship ministries and leadership

training programs we are Telling His Story . .

. Sharing His Love.

HIGHLIGHTSBTGMI is thankful for the appointment of

Rev. Kurt Selles as our new director. Thanks

to your support, people are coming to Christ and growing in their walk of faith.

� Approximately 100,000 people have enrolled in the French Bible study correspondence

course in Africa since launching this program 10 years ago.

� A text-message response system enabled our Arabic staff to disciple several Muslim seekers

and lead them to faith in Christ—and to share the gospel with their friends and relatives.

� Working with partners in Eastern Europe, we developed new Russian programs, including

several short video blogs designed to reach younger seekers.

� Increasing our web presence in mainland China resulted in more than 1 million responses.

� A new radio program produced in partnership with the Reformed Church of Japan provided

hope and spiritual encouragement for earthquake survivors in northern Japan.

� Smart phone apps and the digital delivery of Today devotionals has increased our ability to

reach new audiences—nearly 110,000 people through electronic delivery alone.

� In spite of ongoing threats to the spread of the gospel our

Hindi ministry celebrated the baptism of 22 new believers.

� Working with Indonesian Christian churches and several

CRC agencies, our media team helped launch the Global

Coffee Break Bible study ministry in Indonesia.

� Our Portuguese TV program Truth and Life draws more

than 2.5 million viewers each week.

� Our Spanish ministry team assisted Moody Broadcast

Network with the development of a 24-hour daily Hispanic

radio outreach that features BTGMI Spanish programming.

Contact info:Website: www.BackToGod.net

Email: [email protected]

United States: 800.879.6555; 708.371.8700

Canada: 800.730.3490; 905.336.2920

Total $9,981,000

Total $9,619,000

Expense

BACK TO GOD MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL

Revenue: $9,981,000

Expenditure: $9,619,000

Ministry Shares

36%

Donations

42%

Estates 20%

Grants & Misc 2%

Program Services

73%

Support Services

27%

BACK TO GOD MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL

Revenue: $9,981,000


Ministry Shares

36%

Donations

42%

Estates 20%

Grants & Misc 2%

Program Services

73%

Support Services

27%

Income



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Calvin College

Founded in 1876 as a Christian

Reformed seminary with one

teacher and seven students,

Calvin now offers more than 100

majors and programs and serves more

than 4,000 students from 46 U.S. states,

six Canadian provinces, and 53 coun-

tries worldwide.

Calvin is committed to academic ex-

cellence, equipping students with the

knowledge, skills, and virtues to allow

them to impact culture in a meaning-

ful way.

Calvin’s mission statement says: “Through our learning, we seek to be agents of renewal in the

academy, church, and society. We pledge fidelity to Jesus Christ, offering our hearts and lives to

do God’s work in God’s world.”

HIGHLIGHTS � Added a major in public health, becoming the first undergraduate institution in West

Michigan to do so.

� Celebrated the 25th edition of the Symposium on Worship with a record 1,800 attendees

from 30-plus countries.

� Ranked second nationally among baccalaureate institutions by the Institute of International

Education for the total number of students who study abroad.

� Inaugurated Michael K. Le Roy as the college’s 10th president. (Outgoing president Gaylen

Byker served Calvin for 17 years.)

� Earned “Full Partner” status from Partners for a Racism-

Free Community.

� Hosted 2,000 writers, poets, and literary enthusiasts for

the Festival of Faith and Writing.

� Received a record three student and two faculty

Fulbright Scholarships.

� Landed four Calvin professors in The Princeton Review’s

“The Best 300 Professors.”

� Provided The January Series to 34 sites across North

America and abroad. The award-winning lecture series

drew a record 39,000-plus attendees. www.calvin.edu/

january

Contact info:Website: www.calvin.edu

616.526.6000 or 800.688.0122


CALVIN COLLEGE

Revenue: $98,205,000


Ministry Shares

3%

Donations

3%

Estates 1%

Tuition, Room & Board

and Sales 92%

Grants & Misc 1%

Program Services

61%

Support Services

39%

CALVIN COLLEGE

Revenue: $98,205,000


Ministry Shares

3%

Donations

3%

Estates 1%

Tuition, Room & Board

and Sales 92%

Grants & Misc 1%

Program Services

61%

Support Services

39%

Total $98,205,000

Total $98,161,000

Expense

President Michael K. Le Roy at a basketball game.

Income



TOGETHERDOINGMORE

CALVIN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Revenue: $7,249,000


Ministry Shares

40%

Donations

11%

Estates 1%

Tuition & Sales 31%

Grants & Misc 17%

Program Services

68%

Support Services

32%

CALVIN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY

Revenue: $7,249,000


Ministry Shares

40%

Donations

11%

Estates 1%

Tuition & Sales 31%

Grants & Misc 17%

Program Services

68%

Support Services

32%

Calvin Theological Seminary

Calvin Theological Seminary (CTS) is

“Called to Serve.” That ongoing theme

was illustrated at the most recent com-

mencement ceremony in which 81 stu-

dents received their degree, diploma, or certifi-

cate as well as a serving towel with the inscrip-

tion “CTS—Called to Serve.”

CTS is called to serve the church. It does this

in many ways, but primarily by training the

next generation of church leaders. This training

involves the whole person. CTS is committed

to formation for ministry by helping students

develop character, knowledge, and skills in the

context of a Christian community.

HIGHLIGHTS � 12+ students are included in the inaugural cohort (group of students) in our first-ever

Distance Education M.Div. degree program.

� The student body at CTS includes more than 270 students representing more than 20 nations

from at least 30 denominations.

� Professor Michael Goheen takes up his responsibilities as Professor of Missiology.

� CTS continues to develop an “Institute of Global Church Planting and Renewal.”

� Rev. Jeffrey Sajdak begins ministry as Dean of Students alongside Ms. Sarah Chun, who be-

gins her ministry as Associate Dean of Students.

� CTS successfully completes a fourteenth year of “Facing Your Future” during the summer

months, a program in which young people discern their calling before God.

� CTS launches a planned giving society called “The

President’s Legacy Society” to help CTS supporters be

strategic in planning their estates and trusts.

� This fall around 100 new students were welcomed to

various degree programs.

� CTS offers programs geared toward church members

and church staff who are interested in specialized train-

ing but are not planning to complete a degree program.

Certificates are available in various areas of study, includ-

ing youth ministry, pastoral care, worship, and missions

and evangelism.

Contact info:Website: www.calvinseminary.edu

800.388.6034 or 616.957.6036

You can receive regular updates about CTS on Facebook.

Total $7,249,000

Total $7,622,000

Income

Expense

CTS Distance Learning Class 2012



TOGETHERDOINGMORE

Christian Reformed Home Missions

God is working through Christian Reformed Home Missions in expanding the reach of his

kingdom. We serve the congregations of the CRC by partnering together to plant new

churches and start new campus ministries, develop diverse missional leaders, and en-

courage and support mission-shaped churches.

Seven ministry teams led by regional leaders, together with four ethnic leaders and advisers,

coordinate and support the work of the mission regionally so that persons are brought to Christ

and welcomed into our denominational community of faith.

MissionIt is the mission of Christian Reformed Home Missions to transform individuals and communities

by catalyzing and cultivating gospel movements.

MandateHome Missions shall give leadership to the CRC in its task of bringing the gospel to the people of

Canada and the United States and drawing them into fellowship with Christ and his church.

This mandate has these aspects:

1. Encourage and assist churches and classes in their work of evangelism.

2. Initiate, support, and guide new church development in cooperation with local churches and

classes.

3. Initiate, support, and guide other evangelistic ministries in cooperation with local churches

and classes.

HIGHLIGHTS � 1,080 churches served

� 100+ ministries funded in the U.S. and Canada

� Seven regional leaders, four ethnic leaders, and three goal specialists training, equipping,

supporting, and encouraging

� 47 classes connections through regional, ethnic, and

goal specialist leaders

� 80 new churches receiving financial assistance

� 34 campus ministries supported

� 10+ Leadership Development Networks and pastor/min-

istry team clusters

� More than 500 Christian Reformed churches and nearly

400 congregations from other denominations active in

Coffee Break and other Home Missions-supported small

group ministries.

Contact info:Website: www.crhm.org

United States: 800.266.2175 or 616.224.0772

Canada: 800.730.3490 or 905.336.2920


Total $7,315,000

Total $6,397,000

Income

Expense

HOME MISSIONS

Revenue: $7,315,000


Ministry Shares

52%

Donations

23%

Estates 16%

Tuition & Sales 1%

Grants & Misc 8%

Program Services

79%

Support Services

21%

HOME MISSIONS

Revenue: $7,315,000


Ministry Shares

52%

Donations

23%

Estates 16%

Tuition & Sales 1%

Grants & Misc 8%

Program Services

79%

Support Services

21%



TOGETHERDOINGMORE

WORLD MISSIONS

Revenue: $14,731,000


Ministry Shares

34%

Donations

51%

Estates 12%

Grants & Misc 3%

Program Services

85%

Support Services

15%

WORLD MISSIONS

Revenue: $14,731,000


Ministry Shares

34%

Donations

51%

Estates 12%

Grants & Misc 3%

Program Services

85%

Support Services

15%

Christian Reformed World Missions

For over 125 years Christian Reformed

World Missions (CRWM) has been help-

ing Christian Reformed churches to ful-

fill the Great Commission. Today CRWM

has more than 200 missionaries serving in

over 40 countries; through partnerships, our

work extends to more than 50 countries. We

focus our efforts around the world on

� multiplying believers and churches.

� equipping and connecting leaders.

� reaching teachers and students with a

biblical worldview.

� strengthening churches and organiza-

tions.

HIGHLIGHTS � The Spirit moved more than 14,000 peo-

ple to commit their lives to Christ this past

year through the work of World Missions

missionaries and partners.

� Nearly 1,150 new worshiping communities were established.

� Over 27,000 people participated in CRWM-related leadership training programs.

� Over 200 local ministry leaders are partially supported through CRWM grants to partner or-

ganizations.

� 22 new missionaries appointed by CRWM serve in countries such as Nepal, Nigeria, Uganda,

and Zambia.

� 81 teachers and administrators serve in international

schools through CRWM.

� 289 volunteers serve in various countries.

Website: www.crwm.org

Canada800.730.3490905.336.2920Email: [email protected]

United States800.346.0075616.224.0700Email: [email protected]

A Russian evangelist baptizes a new believer.

Total $14,731,000

Total $13,997,000

Income

Expense



TOGETHERDOINGMORE

World Renew (Christian Reformed World Relief Committee)

The Christian Reformed World Relief Committee, now

known as World Renew, is compelled by God’s pas-

sion for justice and mercy to respond to poverty,

hunger, disaster and injustice around the world in

Jesus’ name.

During the 2011-2012 ministry year, World Renew staff

walked alongside Christian leaders from churches and

community organizations in 25 of the world’s poorest

countries to equip them to recognize and respond to needs

in their communities. As a result, 913,003 individuals and

their families improved their lives through community-

based programs and were able to work towards their God-

given potential.

World Renew also continued to respond to disasters and

crisis situations as they arose. This included severe drought

in East and Western Africa, flooding in Pakistan, tornadoes

in the United States, and flooding in Canada. Thankfully,

every time a need arose, members of the CRC responded

with generosity. These gifts were then leveraged through World Renew’s international alliances,

enabling it to reach 946,492 disaster survivors with food, water, shelter, and other emergency aid

and rehabilitation programs.

HIGHLIGHTS � World Renew responded to disaster and provided long-term community programs in 47

countries.

� World Renew supported the work of 76 community-based churches and partners to help

them improve lives in 4,486 communities.

� World Renew’s ministry helped a total of 1,859,495 people.

� World Renew’s ministry was supported by 3,477 volunteers who donated 279,998 hours—

roughly the equivalent of 135 full-time employees for one year.

� World Renew’s Disaster Response Services volunteers assessed the needs of 36,159 North

American disaster survivors and repaired or rebuilt 555 homes.

� World Renew does not receive Ministry Shares and relies on gifts and offerings to support its

work.To learn how you can get involved, please visit worldrenew.net.

Contact info:Website: worldrenew.net

United States

800.552.7972 or 616.224.0740

Canada:

800.730.3490 or 905.336.2920


Note: Facts, figures, and financial data are prelimi-nary. An official annual report will be available in January 2013. Look for one in your church or visit worldrenew.net for more information. Total $42,870,000 Total $41,054,000

Income Expense

WORLD RENEW

Revenue: $42,870,000


Ministry Shares

0%

Donations

29%

Disaster 16%

Estates 6%

Grants & Misc 49%

Program Services

91%

Support Services

9%

WORLD RENEW

Revenue: $42,870,000


Ministry Shares

0%

Donations

29%

Disaster 16%

Estates 6%

Grants & Misc 49%

Program Services

91%

Support Services

9%

Farmers in Guatemala received

training from a World Renew local

partner.

Phot

o b

y D

avid

Sny

der



TOGETHERDOINGMORE

FAITH ALIVE

Revenue: $4,989,000


Ministry Shares

20%

Donations

6%

Estates 0%

Sales 68%

Grants & Misc 6%

Program Services

88%

Support Services

12%

FAITH ALIVE

Revenue: $4,989,000


Ministry Shares

20%

Donations

6%

Estates 0%

Sales 68%

Grants & Misc 6%

Program Services

88%

Support Services

12%

Faith Alive

Faith Alive is the publishing ministry of the CRC and the resource provider of the Reformed

Church in America. We produce curriculum, books, Bible studies, worship resources, and

other materials to help people grow in faith.

We serve people from preschoolers through adults, youth groups, small groups, people

with special needs, worship planners, and church leaders. We also provide a growing family of

resources for intergenerational ministry.

NEW RELEASES � A Place at the Table: Welcoming Children to the Lord’s Table

� Body & Soul: Reclaiming the Heidelberg Catechism

� Deep Down Faith

� Dive Devotions 2

� God With Us: Quick & Easy Christmas Program

� Helping Kids Include Kids with Disabilities (second edition)

� Infuse Bible study series: Proverbs: Just So You Know; Acts:

Are We There Yet? (Part 2)

� Longing for More: Devotions for Advent

� Multiplication Moves: A Field Guide for Churches Parenting

Churches

� Psalms for All Seasons: A Complete Psalter for Worship

� Seeking God’s Face: Praying with the Bible through the Year

(compact edition)

� Song of a Scientist

� Twilight: 366 Daily Devotional Readings (revised edition)

� (Un)Hurt: The Healing Power of Forgiveness

� WE series for intergenerational ministry: Enter the

Tabernacle and The Unshakeable Promise

� What We Believe (third edition)

� Who, Me? Bible study series for high schoolers: studies

on Jonah, Joseph, Mary, and Peter

� You’re Invited: A Week of Family Devotions on the Lord’s

Supper

For more information and downloadable samples of these

products, visit FaithAliveResources.org.

See story on page 8 for additional 2012 highlights.

Contact info:Websites:

www.FaithAliveResources.org

www.TheBanner.org

www.ReformedWorship.org

www.LibrosDesafio.org

Mark Rice, director

Phone: 1.800.333.8300

Facebook: www.facebook.com/faithalive

Total $4,989,000

Total $6,572,000

Income

Expense



TOGETHERDOINGMORE

Chaplaincy and Care Ministry

The office of Chaplaincy and Care Ministry recruits,

endorses, encourages, and promotes the ministry of

chaplains in hospitals, hospice care, prisons, the mili-

tary, workplaces, and other locations throughout the U.S.

and Canada (with some military personnel serving over-

seas). Most of these chaplains are ordained clergy with

additional specialized training, called Clinical Pastoral

Education. The map gives an idea of their broad distribu-

tion (not including overseas military).

In addition, Chaplaincy and Care Ministry is tasked with

encouraging churches and classes to recognize and support the chaplains in their area while also

encouraging chaplains to share their pastoral care expertise with the local church.

HIGHLIGHTS � 129 CRC chaplains touch the lives of thousands of individuals in crisis and their families. This num-

ber represents an all-time high since chaplaincy began over 71 years ago. Of these, 96 work full

time, 25 part time, and 8 are endorsed but unemployed (a new category in today’s economy).

� Because chaplains are paid by the institutions for which they work, every dollar invested

through donations and Ministry Share yields more than $50 in ministry.

� 66 chaplains work in hospice, health, VA, or long-term care centers.

� 21 serve in the military (active and reserve).

� 16 work as pastoral counselors or clinical supervisors; the rest work in corrections, agencies,

seafarers, and other workplaces.

� 23 students are involved in chaplaincy-oriented training.

Contact info:Website: www.crcna.org/chaplaincy

Rev. Ron Klimp, director

616.224.0733, cell: 616.295.8686


Total $4,726,000 Total $4,856,000

Income ExpenseSpecialized MinistriesSPECIALIZED MINISTRIES

Revenue: $4,726,000


Ministry Shares

77%

Donations 13%

Estates 0%

Tuition & Sales 10%

Grants & Misc 0%

Program Services

98%

Support Services

2%

SPECIALIZED MINISTRIES

Revenue: $4,726,000


Ministry Shares

77%

Donations 13%

Estates 0%

Tuition & Sales 10%

Grants & Misc 0%

Program Services

98%

Support Services

2%

Denominational Services

This ministry office supports the work of synod, the Board of Trustees, Synodical Services,

the office of the executive director, the offices of communications and advancement, and

specialized ministries, including the following:

� Safe Church

� Race Relations

� Disability Concerns

� Social Justice

� Chaplaincy and Care

� Pastor-Church Relations

� Sustaining Congregational

Excellence

� Sustaining Pastoral Excellence

� Urban Aboriginal Ministries

� Christian Reformed Centre for

Public Dialogue

Map does not show overseas

military chaplains



TOGETHERDOINGMORE

Pastor-Church Relations

The staff of Pastor-Church Relations is available to help pastors, church staff, ministry leaders,

councils, and congregations.

HIGHLIGHTS � The Specialized Transitional Ministry (STM) program has continued to grow and develop dur-

ing the past year. Currently 16 pastors are endorsed by our office as STMs; another five are in

the process of becoming endorsed. These seasoned pastors have received specific training to

help a congregation during a time of transition. STMs normally serve for 10 to 20 months; they

are well-suited to helping congregations adjust to the departure of a long-tenured pastor or to

help congregations that have experienced a period of difficulty or conflict in recent years.

� A training tool for congregations on the topic of pastor search committees was written; it will

be available for distribution in early 2013.

� Pastor-Church Relations has joined Sustaining Congregational Excellence, Sustaining Pastoral

Excellence, Safe Church Ministry, and the Staff Ministry Committee in a cluster that is being called

(for now) “Congregational Life.” This grouping is intended to provide a more effective use of personal

and financial resources so that the ministry delivered by each of the constituent parts may be more

efficient, effective, and responsive to the dynamic and varied needs of congregations in the CRCNA.

Contact info:Website: www.crcna.org/pcrRev. Norm Thomasma, director616.224.0764Email: [email protected]

Jeanne Kallemeyn, staff ministry specialist616.726.1152Email: [email protected]

Rev. Cecil VanNiejenhuis, pastor/congregation consultant616.224.0746Email: [email protected]

Laura Palsrok, administrative assistant616.224.0837Email: [email protected]

Disability Concerns

Churches flourish when everybody belongs and everybody serves. Disability Concerns (DC)

seeks to bring about the full participation of all people with disabilities in the life of the

church and the full participation of the church in the lives of people with disabilities.

HIGHLIGHTS � This year DC celebrates 30 years of service to Christian Reformed churches. Ministry Shares

provide two-thirds of our financial support; the rest comes from individuals and offerings.

� Disability advocates in over 600 Christian Reformed churches help their congregations be-

come communities that welcome, include, and minister with people who have disabilities.

� People spent over 200 hours this past year finding resources, reading, and interacting on DC’s

website and Network pages.

� DC works closely with the Disability Concerns ministry of the Reformed Church in America

(RCA), including the publication of our newsletter, Breaking Barriers, and our resource for

churches, Inclusion Handbook. Together we sponsor an annual conference for RCA and CRC

Disbility Concerns leadership.

Contact info:Website: www.crcna.org/disability

Rev. Mark Stephenson, director

Phone: 888.463.0272

Facebook: www.facebook.com/disabilityconcerns

Network: network.crcna.org/disability




TOGETHERDOINGMORE

Race Relations

The Office of Race Relations seeks to bring about biblical reconciliation within the church.

We encourage CRC churches to embrace their identity as God’s diverse and unified family

through workshops we offer such as the Dance of Racial Reconciliation (DORR), Widening

the Circle (WTC), and Cultural Intelligence Building. In conjunction with Faith Alive and Home

Missions, we have released Facing Racism, a DVD with study guide for churches. A copy has been

sent to each congregation; additional DVDs are available from Faith Alive Christian Resources.

HIGHLIGHTS � Approximately 10 students attending CRC-sponsored colleges have received scholarship

money from offerings in response to All Nations Heritage Sunday.

� The Office of Race Relations invites and encourages people of color to be active in their

churches and to serve on committees, denominational boards, and synod. When people

serve in this manner, valuable experience and leadership qualities are the reward, and they

add new voices to decisions and directions that are crucial to the life of the CRC.

� The CRC continues to face the challenge of placing high value on the dignity of all persons,

on the inclusiveness of multiple cultures, and on the integrity of that identity. Race Relations

continues to lead and encourage the churches, and we attribute the progress that has been

made in this ministry to the grace and goodness of God. We covet your prayers.

Contact info:

Safe Church Ministry

Safe Church Ministry comes alongside churches to provide resources for abuse awareness,

prevention, and response.

HIGHLIGHTS � The Safe Church Ministry Conference in April was attended by over 70 people; it featured

speakers and workshops on a variety of abuse-related topics.

� The following online resources for churches are available at www.crcna.org/safechurch:

Safe Church Ministry: A Church Leader’s Role A brief overview including the dynamics and

effects of abuse and helpful ways to respond.

Driver’s Training for Dating Teaching respect in relationships.

“The What, Why, and How of Safe Church Ministry” No longer live, this popular webinar is

still a great overview.

Safe Church Ministry on the Network Rachel Boehm provides informative blogs each week.

Abuse Awareness Sunday, 4th Sunday in September Shhhh . . . This year’s theme is Internet

pornography.

Contact info:Website: www.crcna.org/safechurch

Bonnie Nicholas, director


616.224.0735 (office)

616.485.4595 (cell)

Website: www.crcna.org/race

Rev. Esteban Lugo, director

877.864.3977


Jan Ortiz, administrative assistant




TOGETHERDOINGMORE

ServiceLink

ServiceLink is the volunteer services program of the Christian Reformed Church in North

America. It serves denominational agencies and ministry programs as well as churches

across Canada and the United States.

Through ServiceLink, members of Christian Reformed congregations can join agency and min-

istry staff in offering their time, talent, and treasure for meaningful involvement in ministry at

home and abroad.

Staff gathers and promotes a variety of diverse opportunities, partnering with agencies and

other Christian ministries for greater impact and enabling the CRC to stretch further in its mission

to transform lives and communities worldwide.

Mission and service experiences provide volunteers with first-hand glimpses of what God is do-

ing through the efforts of the Christian Reformed Church and generate enthusiasm for a deeper

commitment to its mission and vision.

ServiceLink provides volunteers, churches, and ministry organizations with resources that en-

hance the volunteer experience as well as training opportunities for greater impact in the volun-

teer engagement process.

Contact info:

Office of Social Justice

The Office of Social Justice (OSJ) educates CRC members, encourages and supports their en-

gagement in social justice issues, and occasionally is involved in direct advocacy.

HIGHLIGHTS � OSJ offers many ways for people to stay connected. Our most well-read newsletter, “OSJ

Prayers,” is a weekly digest of the most pressing justice issues around the world. It’s great for

use in small groups or for personal or congregational prayer.

� For a comprehensive overview of various social justice issues, visit www.crcjustice.org.

� We also have an active presence on both Facebook and Twitter for those who prefer shorter,

more immediate updates.

� Our Action Center at www.crcjustice.org has an increased capacity. Visit regularly for a Reformed

perspective on the hottest political topics, from the situation in the Middle East to immigration

reform and global poverty. Don’t know how to advocate? We can help with that too!

� Our congregational mobilizers are happy to speak or preach on any issue or to give a general

introduction to social justice.

� This fall we launched a new curriculum on immigration for churches called Church Between

Borders. Visit our website to learn more or to host a workshop at your church.

Contact info:Website: www.crcjustice.org

United States

Peter Vander Meulen

616.224.0807


Canada

Steve van de Hoef


Website: www.crcna.org/servicelink

Carol Sybenga, program manager

800.730.3490

905.336.2920




TOGETHERDOINGMORE

Sustaining Pastoral/Congregational Excellence

Sustaining Pastoral Excellence (SPE) supports and encourages pastors and pastors’ spouses

through pastor peer group grants, pastors’ spouses’ conferences, and pastor-couple learning

events. Sustaining Congregational Excellence (SCE) offers grant opportunities and learning

events for smaller congregations as they seek to foster health in their ministry setting.

HIGHLIGHTSSustaining Pastoral Excellence

� Over 100 pastors’ spouses attended the Journey of Joy conference in Miami, Florida, in

November.

� Funding for SPE transitioned from a Lilly Endowment Inc. grant to CRCNA Ministry Shares.

� Pastor peer learning grants have been awarded to over 200 groups.

Sustaining Congregational Excellence � To date, 74 percent of eligible Canadian churches and 66 percent of eligible U.S. churches

have participated in programming.

� Three learning events will be held this year. They’re great opportunities for ministry leaders

to gather for sharing and learning about healthy congregations.

� Recently the website was completely redesigned. It has a fresh look, lots of good information,

and encouraging stories from grantees.

Contact info:

Website:

www.crcna.org/pastoralexcellence

www.crcna.org/sce

Lis Van Harten, program director

877.279.9994 or 616.224.0805


Holly Koons, administrative coordinator

877.279.9994 or 616.224.4267


Canadian Ministries

Canadian Ministries help Christian Reformed churches in Canada respond to opportunities for

transformational impact and kingdom advancement.

Examples of ongoing projects and fresh initiatives include

� advocating for quality education of children in First Nation communities.

� providing pastoral support and encouragement to Aboriginal people in urban settings.

� preparing resources and ministry approaches for congregations to welcome and incorporate

new Canadians into the fellowship.

� encouraging and assisting in youth ministry initiatives such as the All Ontario Youth

Convention.

� advocating for the rights of refugees and seeking fair and generous treatment for them.

� actively engaging with the Canadian Council of Churches, the Evangelical Fellowship of

Canada, KAIROS: Canadian Ecumenical Justice Initiatives, the Reformed Church in America

(Regional Synod of Canada), and the Presbyterian Church in Canada.

Contact info:www.crcna.org/canadianministries

800.730.3490

Ben Vandezande, interim director of Canadian Ministries


TOGETHERDOINGMORE


CRC Communications

CRC Communications supports the Christian Reformed Church and its ministries by informing

and inspiring its members with a vision of how God is using the CRC’s people and resources

to build healthy churches and to transform lives and communities worldwide.

We do this in many ways, using print, photos, video, email, social networking, and websites. Our

communications include the following:

� “Together Doing More” in The Banner, both in print and online

� CRC Newsroom and weekly CRC News e-newsletter

� weekly church email and bulletin announcements

� weekly “For Pastors” e-newsletter

� Prayer Guide

� Annual Ministry Report

� quarterly Ministry Report to Congregations and Classes

Our websites include crcna.org and crcna.org/MinistryShares as well as the following:

crcna.org/NewsVisit our online Newsroom for the latest stories about what’s

happening in and through the CRC. Or get CRC News delivered

to your email inbox every Wednesday. Each issue features news

from your ministries and some of the latest conversations hap-

pening on The Network.

crcna.org/NetworkIn 2012 The Network web-

site celebrated its second

birthday. It has quickly

become one of the CRC’s

most popular websites. The site is all about “connecting

for ministry.” Every day, you’ll find church staff and volun-

teer leaders comparing notes, sharing tips, and receiving

encouragement from each other. The site covers dozens

of ministry topics and roles—deacons, elders, teachers,

youth leaders, librarians, small group leaders, sound techs, and more. One of the newer features,

“Ministry Q&A,” provides an easy way to find out how other churches do their ministries.

crcna.org/WebinarsEarly in 2012, CRC Communications launched a series of weekly webinars on a range of ministry

topics. These one-hour webinars make it easy for pastors, staff, and volunteers to get the training

they want—without the time and expense of travel. Anyone with a computer can participate in

these live, interactive sessions. On average, about 40 people attended each event this spring (the

maximum was about 100 for the webinar “Children at the Lord’s Table”). Additionally, many more

people watch the recordings that are posted afterwards on crcna.org/webinars.

Contact info:Henry Hess, director of communication

[email protected]

Tim Postuma, web and e-communications manager

[email protected]

Chris Meehan, news and media relations manager

[email protected]



TOGETHERDOINGMORE

CRC Loan Fund

The Loan Fund, established by synod in 1983, offers loans to Christian Reformed churches

in the United States for the acquisition or construction of church facilities, parsonages, and

land. Loans are also made for improvements and repairs to church property.

The primary source of funds for lending activities is funds invested in the Loan Fund by mem-

bers, churches, and classes of the CRCNA, as well as organizations related to the CRC. The Loan

Fund also obtains funds from revenues generated by its lending activities and interest received

on deposits of its funds.

The Loan Fund is unique in that it does not solicit gifts nor does it receive Ministry Shares to

support any of its activities. The Loan Fund is managed by a six-member board of directors elect-

ed by synod to serve three-year terms.

HIGHLIGHTSDuring the past year the Loan Fund

� closed more than $2.8 million in new loans.

� helped a church in California by refinancing its bank mortgage with a loan at a much lower

interest rate, enabling the church to significantly reduce its monthly payments.

� financed the construction of a new worship center for a church in California.

� provided construction financing for a church in Michigan for a major building expansion.This information does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase. Offers will be made only by the offering circular in those

jurisdictions where it is lawful to make such an offer or solicitation of an offer. Investments in the Loan Fund involve risks more fully disclosed in the of-

fering circular.

Contact info:Website: www.crcna.org/loanfund

616.224.0829 or 800.332.0012


Christian Reformed Church Foundation

The Christian Reformed Church Foundation serves the denomination by funding priorities

that enable the CRC to focus on its mission.

The Foundation strengthens the capacity of the agencies and educational institutions to

develop innovative initiatives. It also encourages generosity and stewardship on their behalf and

works in partnership with them to add resources rather than compete for charitable gifts. Though

the Foundation may partner with an agency to develop financial resources, it primarily seeks

funds to develop new ideas and start-up programs that

� fall outside denominational agency mandates.

� integrate program resources on behalf of the denomination as a whole.

� support innovative efforts that are not funded through synod, classes, or agencies.

The Foundation works under the authority of the CRCNA Board of Trustees. It is legally estab-

lished in the United States and Canada.

Contact info:Website: www.crcna.org/foundation

616.224.0817 or 877.272.6299




TOGETHERDOINGMORE

Ministry Shares Receipts and Gift Income Summary

Gift Summary for Fiscal 2012God continues to bless the Christian

Reformed Church with the gener-

ous spirit of all those who support his

church with their financial gifts. Even

with the economic uncertainty around

the world, the ministries of the denomi-

nation’s agencies and institutions and

specialized programs receive the strong

support of dedicated members and

friends.

Ministry Shares were up by nearly

$300,000 over the previous year, gen-

erating over $25.9 million in revenue

through a system that costs almost

nothing to administer. We give thanks

to all the churches, large and small, that

help to provide this vital base of rev-

enue.

Special church offerings and individu-

al gifts (not including support for disas-

ter response projects) generated $32.9

million in support, an increase of over

$1 million from the prior year.

World Renew (formerly CRWRC) re-

ceived $6.6 million in designated disas-

ter relief funding from churches, mem-

bers, and other supporters, up 10.7 per-

cent from last year. World Renew also re-

ceived more than $20.2 million in grant

funding, up by $3.7 million over last

year. These grants include funds desig-

nated for various areas of their global

ministry, including community develop-

ment and disaster relief work.

In addition, the CRC was blessed with

gifts of nearly $8.3 million from those

who included the church in the distribu-

tion of their estates. This represents an

increase of 68.9 percent over the estate

gifts received during the previous year.

2012 2011

Back to God Ministries Ministry Shares 3,596,000 3,663,000 Gift and offerings 4,217,000 3,793,000 Estate Gifts 1,943,000 1,254,000 Total 9,756,000 8,710,000

Calvin College Ministry Shares 2,653,000 2,614,000 Gift and offerings 2,950,000 2,894,000 Estate Gifts 956,000 920,000 Total 6,559,000 6,428,000

Calvin seminary Ministry Shares 2,900,000 2,945,000 Gift and offerings 805,000 711,000 Estate Gifts 85,000 200,000 Total 3,790,000 3,856,000

Faith Alive Ministry Shares 1,017,000 1,035,000 Gift and offerings 317,000 300,000 Estate Gifts 0 0 Total 1,334,000 1,335,000

Home Missions Ministry Shares 3,792,000 3,709,000 Gift and offerings 1,677,000 1,320,000 Estate Gifts 1,213,000 258,000 Total 6,682,000 5,287,000

World Missions Ministry Shares 4,946,000 4,986,000 Gift and offerings 7,566,000 6,901,000 Estate Gifts 1,716,000 653,000 Total 14,228,000 12,540,000

World Renew Gift and offerings 12,510,000 13,007,000 Disaster Gifts 6,652,000 5,981,000 Grants 21,184,000 17,765,000 Estate gifts 2,524,000 1,569,000 Total 42,870,000 38,322,000

specialized Ministries Ministry Shares 3,614,000 3,363,000 Gift and offerings 629,000 543,000 Estate Gifts 4,000 13,000 Total 4,247,000 3,919,000

Denominational services Ministry Shares 3,337,000 3,265,000 Gift and offerings 99,000 22,000 Estate Gifts 0 0 Total 3,436,000 3,287,000

Foundation Gift and offerings 1,718,000 2,289,000 Estate Gifts 0 0 Total 1,718,000 2,289,000

special Assistance Fund Ministry Shares 37,000 96,000 Gift and offerings 0 0



CRC Agency 2011-12 Ministry Shares ReceivedBack to God Ministries International $3,596,000Calvin College $2,653,000Calvin Seminary $2,900,000Faith Alive $1,017,000Home Missions $3,792,000World Missions $4,946,000World Renew $0Ministers’ Special Assis. Fund $37,000Synodical Admin. Services $3,337,000Specialized Ministries $3,614,000 Total: $25,892,000

FA

HM


Documents

CRC MinistRy RepoRt 2012 MoRe DoinG toGetHeR · Front-Line Evangelism Garba Umar is an evangelist in Kabusa, Nigeria, a village about five miles from the center of the capital city,