TOGETHERDOINGMORE
C R C M i n i s t R y R e p o R t 2 0 1 2
TOGETHERDOINGM
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.
33888 Annual Ministry Report 2012.indd 2 10/18/12 8:06 AM
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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4 Ministry Report 2012
TOGETHERDOINGMORE
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
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Ministry Report 2012 5
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.
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6 Ministry Report 2012
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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
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TOGETHERDOINGMORE
Ministry Report 2012 7
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.
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8 Ministry Report 2012
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.
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Ministry Report 2012 9
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
Expenditure: $9,619,000
Ministry Shares
36%
Donations
42%
Estates 20%
Grants & Misc 2%
Program Services
73%
Support Services
27%
Income
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10 Ministry Report 2012
TOGETHERDOINGMORE
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
Email: [email protected]
CALVIN COLLEGE
Revenue: $98,205,000
Expenditure: $98,161,000
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
Expenditure: $98,161,000
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
33888 Annual Ministry Report 2012.indd 10 10/18/12 8:06 AM
Ministry Report 2012 11
TOGETHERDOINGMORE
CALVIN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY
Revenue: $7,249,000
Expenditure: $7,622,000
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
Expenditure: $7,622,000
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
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12 Ministry Report 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
Email: [email protected]
Total $7,315,000
Total $6,397,000
Income
Expense
HOME MISSIONS
Revenue: $7,315,000
Expenditure: $6,397,000
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
Expenditure: $6,397,000
Ministry Shares
52%
Donations
23%
Estates 16%
Tuition & Sales 1%
Grants & Misc 8%
Program Services
79%
Support Services
21%
33888 Annual Ministry Report 2012.indd 12 10/18/12 8:06 AM
Ministry Report 2012 13
TOGETHERDOINGMORE
WORLD MISSIONS
Revenue: $14,731,000
Expenditure: $13,997,000
Ministry Shares
34%
Donations
51%
Estates 12%
Grants & Misc 3%
Program Services
85%
Support Services
15%
WORLD MISSIONS
Revenue: $14,731,000
Expenditure: $13,997,000
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
33888 Annual Ministry Report 2012.indd 13 10/18/12 8:06 AM
14 Ministry Report 2012
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
Email: [email protected]
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
Expenditure: $41,054,000
Ministry Shares
0%
Donations
29%
Disaster 16%
Estates 6%
Grants & Misc 49%
Program Services
91%
Support Services
9%
WORLD RENEW
Revenue: $42,870,000
Expenditure: $41,054,000
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
33888 Annual Ministry Report 2012.indd 14 10/18/12 8:06 AM
Ministry Report 2012 15
TOGETHERDOINGMORE
FAITH ALIVE
Revenue: $4,989,000
Expenditure: $6,572,000
Ministry Shares
20%
Donations
6%
Estates 0%
Sales 68%
Grants & Misc 6%
Program Services
88%
Support Services
12%
FAITH ALIVE
Revenue: $4,989,000
Expenditure: $6,572,000
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
33888 Annual Ministry Report 2012.indd 15 10/18/12 8:06 AM
16 Ministry Report 2012
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
Email: [email protected]
Total $4,726,000 Total $4,856,000
Income ExpenseSpecialized MinistriesSPECIALIZED MINISTRIES
Revenue: $4,726,000
Expenditure: $4,856,000
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
Expenditure: $4,856,000
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
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Ministry Report 2012 17
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
Email: [email protected]
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18 Ministry Report 2012
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
Email: [email protected]
616.224.0735 (office)
616.485.4595 (cell)
Website: www.crcna.org/race
Rev. Esteban Lugo, director
877.864.3977
Email: [email protected]
Jan Ortiz, administrative assistant
Email: [email protected]
33888 Annual Ministry Report 2012.indd 18 10/18/12 8:07 AM
Ministry Report 2012 19
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
Email: [email protected]
Canada
Steve van de Hoef
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.crcna.org/servicelink
Carol Sybenga, program manager
800.730.3490
905.336.2920
Email: [email protected]
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20 Ministry Report 2012
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
Email: [email protected]
Holly Koons, administrative coordinator
877.279.9994 or 616.224.4267
Email: [email protected]
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
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TOGETHERDOINGMORE
Ministry Report 2012 21
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
Tim Postuma, web and e-communications manager
Chris Meehan, news and media relations manager
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22 Ministry Report 2012
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
Email: [email protected]
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
Email: [email protected]
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Ministry Report 2012 23
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
Ministry Report 2012 23
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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
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