How to Use This Guide

This guide is a jumping-off point to the Agenda for Synod 2025 and to the Agenda Supplement for Synod 2025 (some of which is available at this time of writing).

This is a digital document and does not contain references to page numbers in the printed Agenda. Instead, hyperlinks will take you to the page being referenced in the electronic version of the Agenda.

The parts of the agenda that most synod-watchers usually focus on are the following:

  • reports and recommendations from synod-appointed study committees and task forces
  • overtures (requests) coming from church councils and classes, and sometimes from individuals (see Rules for Synodical Procedure, pp. 9-12)
  • how the Council of Delegates has fulfilled assignments given to it by previous synods 

In addition, this guide includes summaries of reports from CRCNA ministries and denominationally-affiliated educational institutions. 

Table of Contents

Reports from Synodically-Appointed Study Committees
   Assisted Suicide Taskforce
   Virtual Church Task Force
   Report from the Team to Clarify Distinctions in Synodical Pronouncements, Decisions, Reports, Positions and Advice

Reports from Synodical Standing Committees
   Candidacy Committee
   Ecumenical And Interfaith Relations Committee
   Report from Historical Committee

Report from the Council of Delegates
   Program Matters
   Polity Matters
   Financial Matters

Reports from CRCNA agencies, institutions, and ministries
   Calvin Theological Seminary
   Calvin University
   Canadian Justice Ministries
   ReFrame Ministries
   Resonate Global Mission
   Thrive
   World Renew
   Christian Reformed Church Loan Fund, Inc., U.S.
   Pensions

Overtures to Synod 2025
   Overtures regarding church transfers
   Overture concerning concealed weapons
   Overtures concerning The Banner
   Overture concerning denominational boards
   Overture concerning the Nicene Creed
   Overtures related to the Covenant for Officebearers
   Overtures related to the gravamina process
   Overtures related to human sexuality and follow-up discipline
   Overtures concerning ministry and leadership development
   Overture regarding the CRC’s binational denominational structure
   Overture concerning church planting
   Overtures Regarding Ecumenical Relationships
   Overture concerning church polity and assemblies

Communications to Synod

Reports from Synodically-Appointed Study Committees

Assisted Suicide Taskforce

This report was commissioned by Synod 2023, requesting “a definitive and comprehensive report on the practice of assisted suicide in all its forms” (Acts of Synod 2023, p. 981). The taskforce understood that the main question posed to them was as follows: Given the growing availability and endorsement of medically assisted suicide, how should Christians think about this matter biblically, within the medical context, and in support of practical Christian living? In their report, the taskforce argues that Christian theology and pastoral-care practices encourage compassionate palliative care and support of suffering, disabled, and/or dying people and their families instead of acting to cause death. 

In consideration of medically assisted suicide (MAS), they began by reviewing a biblical view of human life. Life comes from God; it is a generous outpouring of his love for humans. By placing his image on humankind, God has imbued us with value and dignity that is intrinsic and enduring. The preciousness of life is not diminished by age, disability, disease, accident, or deformity. This is in contrast to a secular notion of human value and dignity as dependent on any other means, whether autonomy, ability, health, or wealth. 

The taskforce also explains that suffering is part of being human. Jesus suffered greatly during his time on earth; he understands our suffering, and he walks with us when we suffer. Further, Scripture repeatedly ascribes value to suffering, producing perseverance, character, and hope (Rom. 5:34). However, we do not seek to suffer. Indeed many in the Bible and throughout human history have despaired of life itself in the midst of profound suffering or misery. A Christian response to suffering and existential fear is grounded in our call to love one another. “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Gal. 6:2). 

Indeed, the report says, a loving community plays a vital role in helping people to persevere in faith when they are suffering. We must acknowledge that we have often failed in our duty to care compassionately for each other in our suffering. James 1:27 calls us anew to care for people who are vulnerable and for those whom our society devalues or ignores, and to work to alleviate situations that cause their suffering. However, even in the most supported circumstance, suffering is real. Therefore an important aspect of our response to suffering is individual or communal lament. Like the psalmist, we lament the brokenness we experience on earth. Yet out of lament can arise profound expressions of faith and hope: “My heart and my flesh may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever” (Ps. 73:26). This lament can and should take place in the context of communal worship, where we support each other and ask God for mercy. 

MAS is available today throughout Canada and in several U.S. states. So in many cases when people are facing unbearable suffering, the health care system can provide either palliative care or medically assisted suicide (Appendix A outlines the history and current state of MAS). Whereas palliative care provides medicines and caring resources to optimize quality of life until a natural death, medically assisted suicide uses medicines to purposefully cause the death of a suffering individual who has chosen to die. Importantly, the suffering that most often leads people to seek out MAS is existential: a person fears loss of control, loss of dignity, or loss of purpose as capability diminishes. 

Palliative care has developed considerable expertise in addressing many elements of suffering to enhance comfort. A team approach provides personal, emotional, and spiritual care and addresses many physical symptoms contributing to suffering such as pain, shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, bladder/bowel dysfunction, loss of energy and appetite, and so on. If suffering becomes unbearable, palliative sedation can be used (eliminating conscious awareness of pain, like an anesthetic during surgery)—the intent being to relieve suffering, not to cause death. In contra-distinction, MAS addresses an individual’s despairing of life due to suffering by offering medicine protocols designed to rapidly cause death—whether directly injected via an intravenous line (euthanasia) or prescribed and self-administered (assisted suicide)—thus ending the person’s suffering.

When confronted with an illness in which their suffering is increasing without expectation of cure, a person faces decisions about whether to continue with health care’s offer of life-prolonging treatment (Appendix C provides information for medical decision making). A positive view of the value of life within the context of a loving community would not typically lead to early abandonment of all medical care. However, believers who have entrusted their life to Christ should not feel required to pursue medically futile interventions but are free to decline treatment that might prolong but not enhance one’s life. In this context of allowing one to die, the taskforce notes that the term “passive euthanasia” is misleading and should not be used.They also distinguish between an individual who has lost hope, declining intake of food and water as a means to end their life, in comparison to an individual’s declining nourishment in a terminal situation when it can no longer sustain their life. 

Medically assisted suicide is not limited to the context of a reasonably foreseeable death. In Canada, “Track 2” MAS allows a person whose death is not reasonably foreseeable but who has intolerable suffering to receive MAS if they also have a disability. In a society where people with disabilities are devalued and experience high rates of social isolation and poverty, the church must work to understand the disabled person’s experience and must respond with compassionate action. Indeed, a supportive community is particularly important in this context: we are called to serve by breaking down barriers that prevent communal participation, whether via physical, financial, technological, or other means. 

While MAS presents an evolving ministry context for pastors and churches today, the Christian community is uniquely gifted to respond to and care for people who are hurting. Pastoral care is an important service for persons who suffer; caring Christians walk with these persons in matters of life and death. The power of presence through visitation and personal communication cannot be overstated (Appendix B offers suggestions to help equip laypersons for visiting persons who are dying). We are called to persevere in suffering through love, lament, and liturgy. We seek to protect each image-bearer, working compassionately. And we hold out the promises of the gospel: God’s sustaining hand in the present, and the hope of our resurrection and eternal life in God’s presence. 

Finally, the taskforce recognized that many people today are caring for people who pursue MAS, both within and outside the church. Their survey and roundtable discussions with pastors made this clear. In the body of their report they provide guidance on how to respond when someone is contemplating medically assisted suicide. They also discuss funeral proceedings after a medically assisted death. They note that MAS, while a grievous and tragic act, is not an unforgivable sin. They hold on to the promise that not even death can separate us from the love of God (Rom. 8:38-39). They acknowledge as well that those caring for an individual who proceeds with medically assisted suicide may experience moral injury and may also require pastoral support. 

In conclusion, medically assisted suicide is accessible and endorsed across North America today. Suffering people are vulnerable to despair and may desire action that intentionally causes their death. Honoring God as the author of life, the report points to palliative care as the proper service that health care provides to address suffering, and pastoral care as the church’s duty in responding compassionately to suffering. We do not fear death; we wait for death in hope, trusting that "the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus. . . . Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day” (2 Cor. 4:14, 16). 

Recommendations: The report concludes with several recommendations for synod, including:

  • Affirming the value of human life and the Christian duty to care for all lives, especially in suffering.
  • Reminding CRC members that compassionate palliative care is the appropriate Christian response, not MAS.
  • Instructing CRC members to ensure meeting spaces and programming are accessible to demonstrate the equal value of all humans.
  • Encouraging workshops and training on end-of-life issues.
  • Recommending the appended resources.
  • Encouraging churches to develop lists of local palliative/hospice care organizations.
  • Encouraging training and resources for pastoral caregivers.
  • Reminding members to give generously to support vulnerable and suffering individuals and to advocate for compassionate care.
  • Recommitting to engagement with public policy makers to advocate for readily available hospice and palliative care.
  • Commending the report to the churches.

Virtual Church Task Force

The Virtual Church Task Force was created by Synod 2023 to provide a theological framework for the possibilities and parameters of being a completely online church. Prompted by the increased reliance on online ministry during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the launch of some congregations with the intent of meeting solely online, questions arose about whether such purely virtual churches align with CRCNA confessions and polity.

The task force sought input from Calvin Theological Seminary, Resonate Global Mission, and Thrive. Their mandate included referencing the marks of the true church as articulated in the Belgic Confession. The mandate was later expanded to include theological, missiological, pastoral, and polity implications.

  • Discussion of Key Terms and Scope: The report defines key terms such as "church," "virtual/digital church," "hybrid church," "livestream worship," and "ministry". It clarifies that its scope is limited to virtual churches and not online components of traditional in-person or hybrid churches.
  • Marks of the True Church: The task force considered the three marks of the true church from Article 29 of the Belgic Confession in the context of virtual churches:
    • Pure preaching of the gospel: The report concludes this can be done by virtual churches under the oversight of ordained officebearers.
    • Pure administration of the sacraments: This is more complex. While no theological reasons were found to deem online administration of the Lord’s Supper or Baptism impossible, the report also states that the elements of these sacraments should be real and tangible, not virtual. Administering the Lord's Supper online appears more adaptable than baptism. In-person administration by an ordained pastor or elder who shares it virtually could help.
    • Practice of church discipline: The practice of church discipline presents challenges in virtual spaces. Online we may present a curated version of ourselves, rather than who we truly are. This limits our ability to disciple one another.
    • Overall, the task force agreed it is not impossible for a virtual church to embody these marks of a church, but it does require intentionality.
  • Additional Reflections on the Belgic Confession: The report considers whether the definition of the holy catholic church in Article 27 and the call to join the assembly in Article 28 can apply to virtual churches, particularly for those unable to attend physical churches. It raises the question of how God might establish a church in a digital age.
    • Theological Perspectives: While the incarnation of Jesus does not have a direct 1:1 relationship with the shape of the church, it underscores the value of embodied existence. Virtual churches offer a missional opportunity to reach those without access to physical churches. There are no inherent theological reasons to believe virtual churches are Gnostic, but vigilance against neo-Gnosticism is advised, and using real names and images is recommended. While virtual church may not be ideal, there are no confessional or theological reasons to declare it is not a church.
    • Insights from Media Studies: Technological shifts have historically impacted the church. Responses should avoid utopian or dystopian extremes. Digitization both connects and separates. Churches should consider the specific technology used, its purpose, and potential consequences, recognizing that online platforms have inherent biases. Experimentation with digital ministry is essential but should be done cautiously and intentionally.
    • Insights from Neuropsychology: Experiences solely through digital media place real limitations on experiencing community. Physical interaction is vital for relational connection. Online communities may struggle to fully express the shared life of the kingdom and may have a lower ceiling for empathy, emotional regulation, modeling Christian behavior, building trust, and expressing care.
    • Insights from CRCNA Practitioners: Virtual ministry can reach those spiritually far from church, those with negative church experiences, younger generations, persons with disabilities, and those in contexts of persecution. Missional opportunities include reaching beyond geographical limits and engaging those unlikely to attend conventional church. Challenges include passive content consumption, follow-through engagement, developing care and "one another" interactions, and engaging in discipleship and discipline. Helpful insights for practitioners include designing content for the disconnected, offering clear engagement pathways, inviting one-on-one discipleship, recognizing the capacity for pastoral care in text and video calls, and encouraging in-person connections.
  • Summary of Conclusions: Virtual church ministry offers blessings and opportunities in reaching new people and forming online communities. However, there are challenges and limits related to human functioning and relational community, particularly in mutual care and discipline. Many questions remain as the church navigates the digital revolution. It is also important to note that virtual churches would fall under the Church Order rules for emerging churches and require supervision from a local church council.
  • Recommendations to Synod 2025:
    • Acknowledge room for intentional experimentation in digital ministry, including virtual church planting, while noting that churches preferably gather in person.
    • Encourage classes and calling churches to support virtual church planters.
    • Encourage networking among those experimenting with digital ministry and virtual churches.
    • Direct the Office of General Secretary to be a resource for supporting virtual churches and planting.
    • Encourage virtual church plants to provide a clear ministry plan to their classis, detailing how they will fulfill the marks of the true church.

Report from the Team to Clarify Distinctions in Synodical Pronouncements, Decisions, Reports, Positions and Advice

The Team to Clarify Distinctions in Synodical Pronouncements, Decisions, Reports, Positions, and Advice was appointed by Synod 2024 in response to an overture seeking clarification on the different categories of synodical pronouncements and how binding they are on members, officebearers, and churches within the Christian Reformed Church in North America (CRCNA).

This arose from differing interpretations, particularly regarding "pastoral advice" as it related to the Human Sexuality Report, and a lack of clear understanding on the status of synodical pronouncements within the confessional structure. Previous attempts at clarification had not fully resolved these questions. The team's mandate was to clarify the distinctions between synodical pronouncements, decisions, reports, positions, and advice, and the extent to which each is "settled and binding".

  • Distinction Between Members, Officebearers, and Churches: The report highlights that officebearers have a higher standard than other CRC members as they sign the Covenant for Officebearers, affirming their agreement with the CRCNA's confessions as fully agreeing with the Word of God and promising to conform their life and ministry to them. Unordained members do not sign this covenant, but they do verbally agree to the confessions during profession of faith and baptism of children, generally acknowledging that the confessions faithfully reflect Scripture and agreeing to the guidance and discipline of the church. Churches, through their officebearers collectively, submit credentials affirming their adherence to the doctrinal standards and diligent engagement in ministry within the classis and denomination.
  • The Role of the Confessions: While not the team's primary focus, the report briefly notes that Scripture is the ultimate authority, and the confessions are subordinate to it. Confessions are subject to change and revision over time. They serve various purposes in the CRCNA, including expressions of faith, forms of unity, and standards for denominational decisions.
  • Categories of Synodical Decisions: The report proposes using three broad categories for clarity, noting that a single synodical document can contain various types of statements:
    • Doctrinal affirmations: These are official statements affirming Scripture or the confessions in response to questions. They can deepen or broaden doctrines and may be declared as having confessional status. They are settled and binding for officebearers, churches, and members, though the level of expected commitment may change over time.
    • Adjudicatory decisions: These arise from specific disputes within the churches (appeals, protests, Judicial Code invocations). They apply to the particular situations unless synod specifies universal and binding application and may set precedent.
    • Doctrinal applications: These apply Scripture and the confessions to contemporary contexts, including guidelines, testimonies, and pastoral advice. They are settled and binding but allow for discernment in local application. Officebearers are expected to teach in line with these, and members should expect consistent pastoral care.
  • The report clarifies that the "report" itself is a document before synod, and only the recommendations synod approves are settled and binding. "Advice" (including "pastoral advice") provides strong recommendations that churches should receive with respect and normally act in harmony with. However, when advice articulates the scriptural or confessional basis, those statements are binding.
  • Applying Synodical Decisions to the Churches: Church Order Article 29 states that decisions of assemblies are "settled and binding" unless they conflict with Scripture or the Church Order. "Settled" means the matter has been discussed and adopted by synod and is considered final. "Binding" means the church community is obligated to adhere to these decisions. Churches and members are obligated "to live up to the decisions" of denominational assemblies, requiring respect for these decisions publicly and privately, especially in official duties.
  • While officebearers have a high expectation of agreement with confessions, on subordinate matters, disagreement and recording a negative vote are permitted. Cooperation with synodical pronouncements is governed by mutual respect and trust rather than strict agreement required by the confessions. The report briefly addresses synodical decisions on human sexuality, noting they contain a mixture of pastoral advice and interpretations of confessions, with doctrinal affirmations being binding on officebearers but not necessarily dictating the same pastoral application in every situation.
  • Conclusions: The team concludes that "settled and binding" matters are those adopted by synod, obligating churches to act in conformity and use them as guides. Officebearers covenant to align with synodical pronouncements, while members agree to accept the church's spiritual guidance and "acquiesce" in decisions they cannot actively support. The report emphasizes that mutual trust is crucial for denominational unity, even more so than administrative categories.
  • Recommendations: The team recommends that synod
    • Acknowledge the challenge of maintaining trust, the inadequacy of administrative categories for harmony, and encourage seeking peace and mutual edification
    • Recognize the three broad categories of doctrinal affirmations, adjudicatory decisions, and doctrinal applications for future use
    • Receive the report and its definitions, commend them to the churches, and dismiss the team with thanks.

Reports from Synodical Standing Committees

Candidacy Committee

Established in 2004, the Candidacy Committee oversees the process for those seeking ordination in the Christian Reformed Church. The committee members meet three times per year and report the following to Synod 2025:

  • Ecclesiastical Program for Ministerial Candidacy (EPMC): The EPMC program is intended for those who have earned their M.Div. degree at a seminary other than Calvin Theological Seminary, and desire to become candidates in the Christian Reformed Church. The EPMC Facilitation Team supports this process. A key focus for this subcommittee has been developing binational connectedness by revising the "connection" events to include trips to both the U.S. and Canada, ensuring all participants engage with CRCNA staff and resources on both sides of the border
  • Review of Standards for Commissioned Pastors: The committee conducted a review of the standards for the office of commissioned pastor due to its growth and complexity. This included a survey of existing commissioned pastors to gather feedback on their training and connectedness. The survey revealed varied training methods, generally positive ratings for effectiveness and mentoring, and a desire for more consistency in learning plans, particularly regarding core subjects like Bible knowledge, CRC history, and polity. The survey also indicated that around 60% of commissioned pastors are interested in further training for ordination as Ministers of the Word.
  • The committee also reviewed the Church Order Article 24-b "bridge ordination" process. This process is used when a person has not yet fulfilled all the eligibility requirements for ordination as a minister of the Word and is instead ordained to a term call as a commissioned pastor, with an agreement to make progress in completing the education required for ordination as a minister of the Word. The term call is renewable as long as progress continues to be made. The committee noted several challenges that have arisen from the use of bridge ordination for individuals without prior commissioned pastor training.
    • Proposed Changes: To address the challenges with Article 24-b, the committee proposes changes to the Church Order Supplement, Articles 24-a and 24-b, and the Commissioned Pastor Handbook. These changes aim to ensure the "bridge ordination" route is for those already ordained as commissioned pastors and to enhance accountability and training
  • Temporary Unordained Stated Supply: The report suggests a process for hiring temporary unordained individuals as stated supply in exceptional cases where no ordained candidate can be found, though this is not proposed as a formal addition to the Church Order at this time
  • Updates to the Commissioned Pastor Handbook: The handbook has been revised based on the Study of Bivocationality Task Force report and the Church Order Review Task Force report, addressing topics such as the theological framework of commissioned pastors, proper support, and release from a call. This includes clarifying the application of guidelines for noncongregational ministers (like chaplains) to commissioned pastors in similar roles.
  • Recommendations: The committee makes several recommendations for synod's consideration, including approving revisions to the Church Order Supplement and the Commissioned Pastor Handbook, and affirming the suggested process for temporary stated supply.

Ecumenical And Interfaith Relations Committee

The Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations Committee (EIRC) is appointed by synod to engage and participate in the life of the global church, particularly interacting with churches and ecumenical organizations that share the heritage of the Reformed understanding of the Christian faith, and offering advice on matters of interfaith dialogue. The committee report lists the current members of the EIRC and notes that the committee met in person and virtually during the past year. It also includes nominations for new and returning members. Here are a few additional highlights:

  • Bilateral Relationships: The CRCNA maintains relationships with 23 churches in communion and 20 churches in cooperation across various continents. A significant portion of the report focuses on the relationship with the Reformed Church in America (RCA), addressing synodical assignments to clarify the RCA's stance on confessional heritage, doctrine, practice, and specifically on issues related to unchastity and same-sex marriage. The report also mentions ongoing ambiguity in the relationship with the Christian Reformed Church of East Africa and updates on pursuing closer communion with the Alliance of Reformed Churches.
  • The Reformed Church in America: Synod 2024 tasked the EIRC with reviewing and evaluating the CRCNA’s ongoing relationship with the RCA. The report details the EIRC's correspondence with the RCA on this matter, and provides recommendations regarding the continuation of the communion status, The EIRC recommends that synod adopt a change to Church Order Supplement, Article 8, D, 6. The proposed change adds that RCA office-bearers serving in the CRC should be prepared to sign the Covenant for Officebearers on the occasions stipulated by council, classical, and synodical regulations. The grounds for this recommendation are that due to changes underway in RCA polity, this would clarify that accountability rests with the receiving church’s council and the Covenant for Officebearers. It also states that signing the Covenant signifies a deeper level of commitment than merely demonstrating knowledge and appreciation. If this recommendation is adopted, the EIRC recommends that synod affirm the current status of the CRCNA’s relationship with the RCA to be that of a church in communion. Additionally, the EIRC recommends that the CRCNA synod, classes, and congregations respect and act according to the “orderly exchange” provisions of Church Order Article 8 and its Supplement with regard to the calling of RCA ministers to serve CRCNA congregations.
  • Formal Exchanges: The report notes that CRC representatives will participate (or have participated) in the general synods/assemblies of the RCA, the Reformed Church in Japan, and the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
  • Multilateral Relationships: The CRCNA is part of various ecumenical organizations and dialogues, including the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC), the Canadian Council of Churches (CCC), the World Reformed Fellowship, the National Association of Evangelicals (NAE), the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada (EFC), and the U.S. Roman Catholic-Reformed Dialogue. The report highlights participation in their events and the service of CRCNA members in various roles within these organizations.
  • Interfaith Activities: The Interfaith subcommittee continues to emphasize regional and local engagement and collaborates with the RCA's Interreligious group.

Report from Historical Committee

The Historical Committee is tasked by synod with the responsibility of preserving and promoting the history of the Christian Reformed Church in North America. They are responsible for the official Archives of the CRCNA and its agencies, with administrative oversight by the Hekman Library of Calvin University and Calvin Theological Seminary. The committee also aims to cultivate knowledge and appreciation for the CRCNA's history. The committee met four times in the past year. They report:

  • Ongoing Multiethnic Initiatives to gather information about the history of Navajo and Korean participation in the CRCNA. This will eventually expand to include other ethnic groups and relationships with Reformed denominations globally.
  • Compilation of bibliographies of theses related to D.Min. degrees and other advanced degrees awarded to CRC ministers, which will be posted on the Heritage Hall website.
  • Archives report: William Katerberg, curator of the archives, also submitted a report introducing archive staff and appreciating volunteers. He noted the completion of library renovations making Heritage Hall more accessible and the reception of a large collection of records from the CRCNA's former Grand Rapids offices. He also notes current projects, including the digitization of Chimes (Calvin University student newspaper) in preparation for the 150th anniversary of Calvin University and Calvin Theological Seminary in 2026.
  • Relations with Churches and Classes and Significant Anniversaries: The committee communicates with classical stated clerks to encourage timely submission of church records to Heritage Hall. They are also reaching out to disaffiliating CRC congregations regarding their records. The report lists significant anniversaries for ordained ministers (50, 55, 60, 65, 70, and 75 years of service) and churches (25, 50, 75, 100, and 125 year anniversaries) in 2026.
  • Recommendations: The report provides a slate of nominees for two appointments to the committee. It also requests that synod take note of and encourage the committee's activities, and recognize the service of retiring members and Heritage Hall staff.

Report from the Council of Delegates

The Council of Delegates (COD) is an ecclesiastical body accountable to synod. The U.S. delegates on the COD make up the U.S. corporation, the legal entity governing the ministry activities in the U.S. The Canadian delegates make up the Canada corporation, the legal entity governing ministry activities in Canada.

The COD Report to Synod 2025 covers its activities and recommendations from the interim period between the 2024 and 2025 synods. This includes following up on synodical assignments from Synod 2024. It also includes oversight of the ministries, financial matters, and recommendations.

Program Matters

The "Program matters" section of the COD Report addresses work related to the ministry programs and personnel of the denomination, as well as program work that is beyond the scope of or in addition to material in the reports of the agencies, ministries, and institutions.

Gather Initiative: Synod 2023 directed the general secretary to “work with the Council of Delegates, each agency, and churches and classes to develop a comprehensive unified strategy and plan to arrest and reverse the trend of decline and bring about a positive trend of membership growth to our denomination” (Acts of Synod 2023, p. 976). In partnership with our CRCNA agencies and with the help of funding from a generous donor, the general secretary brought classes together to help address membership decline in our churches. This initiative is called “Gather” (crcna.org/gather) and has been led by Rev. Elaine May of Thrive. Ten events have been held. The data collected will be shared later this year.

Global Vision: Synod 2024 approved the recommendations of the Global Vision Team report (Acts of Synod 2024, pp. 690-709), which provided vision and advice for churches and classes that are engaging with leaders and congregations outside North America. During the 2024-2025 ministry year, several tasks were completed, including communication of the findings of the Global Vision report to the classes and congregations. The recruitment of a Global Vision Implementation Team is in process as well. The Office of General Secretary facilitated engagement with leaders of the Venezuelan congregations connected to Classis California South and has been working with our denominational agencies and institutions to strengthen the partnership among ethnic minority leaders, congregations, and denominational ministries. Since many of our denomination’s global relationships are moderated by our immigrant CRCNA pastors, denominational leadership staff have intentionally addressed this partnership as a part of strengthening the global connections of the CRCNA.

Legal Entity for the Office of General Secretary: Synod 2022 tasked the Council of Delegates with the formation of a separate legal entity to house the Office of General Secretary (Acts of Synod 2022, p. 929). Due to implications related to the Global Visioning process, this task was delayed and brought to the COD at its October 2024 meeting. As a result of the work of the Global Vision Team, the lack of issues resulting from the organizational restructuring, and the healthy interdependence between the CRCNA U.S. and CRCNA Canada legal entities, the COD recommends forgoing the creation of a separate legal entity to house the Office of General Secretary.

Report of the Bible Translations Committee: The Bible Translations Committee reviews Bible translations for possible use in worship by CRCNA congregations. Following up on a request to review the Easy-to-Read Version (ERV) of the Bible, the committee reports that it does not recommend it for general worship. It can only commend the ERV with reservations for discretionary use in public reading for new believers or children’s worship, devotional reading, or in litanies, prayers, or storytelling.

Polity Matters

The polity matters section of the COD Report deals with actions taken in the past year that relate to CRCNA church polity and procedures. Most of these actions were in response to the direction and decisions of previous synods.

Governance Handbook Updates: The COD has updated its Governance Handbook to align with Synod 2024 decisions regarding the nomination process and to reflect structural and staff changes in the Office of General Secretary.

Rules for Synodical Procedure: The COD reviewed and is proposing to Synod 2025 updates to the Rules for Synodical Procedure concerning technology use, the virtual convening session, staffing, and other items. Further in-depth review is planned for submission to Synod 2026.

Appointments: In the interim of synod, the COD appoints people to vacant positions as synodical deputies and alternates based on classical nominations. It also appoints people to the Judicial Code Committee, and the Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations Committee. The COD report includes these appointments. Additional information will be forthcoming in the supplement report following the COD’s May meeting.

Limited Suspension: Synod 2024 instructed the Office of General Secretary to prioritize the development of resources to help classes and churches navigate the process toward repentance and restoration or toward disaffiliation, and instructed classes to submit a biannual report to the Office of General Secretary and to the Council of Delegates on the progress made (Acts of Synod 2024, p. 887). The Office of General Secretary has been developing these resources and reports that eighteen classes have responded with reports on their work in this area.

Church Order Updates: Synod 2024 received the Church Order Review Task Force Report (Agenda for Synod 2024, pp. 63-166; Acts of Synod 2024, pp. 853-864) which included a number of proposed changes to the Church Order and Its Supplements as well as recommendations concerning the application of Church Order. Synod’s adoption of these recommendations led to additional updates being required in the introduction to the Church Order, emphasizing its purpose in supporting ministry and fostering discernment.

Synod 2024 instructed the Office of General Secretary to take steps “to address the growing number of Article 17 releases, and to address concerns over the stigma of releases via Article 17” (see Agenda for Synod 2024, pp. 137-39). The Office of General Secretary is working with Thrive on this assignment with resources expected online in fall 2025.

Synod 2024 instructed the Council of Delegates to “review Article 84 and its Supplement and propose appropriate updates to synod to bring the process for reinstatement of disciplined pastors into harmony with the procedures for readmission of released pastors” (see Agenda for Synod 2024, p. 140). In response, the COD is proposing several updates.

Synod 2024 instructed the Council of Delegates “to review any denominational policies for the translation of the Church Order and Its Supplements” (see Agenda for Synod 2024, p. 139). This is an ongoing project to balance the need, budget, and resources available. The introduction to the Church Order was edited to highlight the importance of translating polity materials.

In addition to these proposed Church Order updates, the COD Executive Committee also worked with the Pensions Committee and Thrive to propose changes to Church Order Supplement, Article 15 to address mandates given to previously separate ministries that now form Thrive.

Disaffiliation Resources: Synod 2024 instructed the Office of General Secretary “to pay particular attention to the needs of disaffiliating churches and of classes who are supporting them to ensure that the proper support is available” (Acts of Synod 2024, p. 906). The Office of General Secretary and Thrive have updated disaffiliation resources accordingly. Note that the CRCNA Archives will continue to hold historical documents of disaffiliated churches.

Convening Churches and Locations for Synod: Synod 2024 approved Calvin University as the host site for Synod 2026 as part of the celebrations of Calvin University and Calvin Theological Seminary’s 150th anniversaries. It recommends that Synod 2025 approve Second CRC of Grand Haven, Michigan, as the convening church for this synod. In addition, because Synod 2019 decided that synod should take place in Grand Rapids, Michigan, for three years in succession followed by a fourth-year meeting in a region elsewhere in North America (Acts of Synod 2019, p. 813), the COD recommends that synod approve Calvin University as the host site for Synods 2027 and 2028

Advisers and Representatives to Synod 2025: The COD has appointed seven young adult representatives and two ethnic advisors to participate at Synod 2025.

Financial Matters

The last part of the COD Report includes financial matters for the CRCNA and its ministries.

Finance Matters Advisory Committee: Synod 2024 instructed the Office of General Secretary “to provide a clear mandate to the synodical finance and administration advisory committee” (Acts of Synod 2024, p. 901). The COD has approved this new mandate, and presents it for information.

Consolidated Financial Statements: Consolidated financial statements of CRCNA agencies, institutions, and ministries are shared for information.

Reports from CRCNA agencies, institutions, and ministries

Each year, the official ministries of the Christian Reformed Church in North America provide an update on the work they have done in the past year as well as their plans for the year ahead. Here is a bit of what was reported this year:

Calvin Theological Seminary

Whether you’re following a call, seeking to enrich your faith, or looking to impact your corner of the world, your calling is at the heart of what is stewarded at Calvin Theological Seminary (CTS): Reformed tools, training, and education. Through the seminary’s institutes and centers, they offer opportunities for whole-person development and formation. Here are a few recent highlights:

  • Calvin Theological Seminary is CTS is planning its 150th-anniversary celebration in 2026. The CTS Board of Trustees has also approved a strategic plan to guide the seminary for the next 150 years.
  • CTS has a fully remodeled building with updated technology and collaborative learning spaces. A new 46-apartment student housing project is under construction, anticipating move-in by the end of October.
  • CTS recently completed its master of arts and master of divinity curriculum revision, focusing on ministry context, gospel engagement, God's calling, and servant leadership
  • The Center for Excellence in Preaching (CEP) continued its work, including peer learning groups for pastors and the "Compelling Preaching Initiative," with its website reaching over 2 million page views in 2024
  • CTS has also started some exciting partnerships. With Lilly Endowment Inc, they have started the Lilly "Pathways for Tomorrow – Next Steps" initiative, which includes the Empower program and an online Master of Arts degree in leadership formation (in Spanish) to equip adult learning and ministry leaders. A Lilly Endowment grant also helped establish the "Ancient Practices for Missional Churches" initiative. Meanwhile, a formal partnership with the Missional Training Center (MTC) in Phoenix, Arizona, has been established.
  • The faculty and Board of CTS are asking that Synod 2025 approve the appointment of Dr. Jessica Joustra as a new professor in systematic theology

In response to decisions of the past two synods, CTS also included in its report that the seminary does not have gravamina policies. Instead, faculty are expected to sign a "Statement on Our Confessional Commitment." This was affirmed by Synod 2024.

Calvin University

Founded in 1876, Calvin University is a globally recognized, top-ranked, liberal arts institution rooted in the Reformed Christian tradition. With a mission to equip students

to think deeply, act justly, and live wholeheartedly as Christ’s agents of renewal in the world, Calvin serves a diverse student body from 48 U.S. states, 66 countries, and five Canadian provinces. Calvin offers more than 100 undergraduate majors and programs, as well as an expanding portfolio of graduate-level offerings designed to prepare students for leadership in a rapidly changing world. Here are some recent highlights:

  • The university invites participation in its 150th-anniversary celebrations in 2026, especially a worship service on March 29, 2026.
  • Calvin University welcomed its largest incoming class in a decade, with total enrollment exceeding 3,600 students.
  • They introduced new programs, including two degree-completion programs, an aerospace concentration, and the Wayfinder program.
  • The university appointed its first dean of graduate studies.
  • Significant investments were made in new athletic, community, and academic spaces.
  • Calvin was recognized by U.S. News & World Report as the best university for undergraduate teaching in its category.
  • As of January 15, 2025, Calvin is supported by over $45 million through 64 active grant awards

In addition to providing these general highlights, Calvin University’s Board of Trustees provided a report to Synod 2025 in response to Synod 2024’s request that it clarify and align its approach to confessional differences among staff and faculty.

  • The university reaffirms their partnership with the CRCNA and committed to its confessional standards and synodical interpretations.
  • An updated developmental framework for faculty confessional subscription will be implemented that aligns more closely with Church Order while also considering the differences between the university and the church. This includes an annual active reaffirmation of confessional commitment, an initial three-year onboarding period during which faculty will be expected to affirm only the ecumenical creeds while also attending Reformed tradition seminars, and a revision of confessional difficulties as two-to-three year periods of discernment and mentoring. This will be revisited annually. Faculty who continue to have a confessional difference must submit a confessional difficulty gravamen at the three-year reappointment. There will be limited indefinite exceptions possible and only after at least six years with high standards and conduct alignment, and a period of discernment and mentoring that would feature serious theological study and prayerful consideration.
  • A tiered alignment model for trustees will ensure the majority are convictionally aligned with synod’s confessional expectations. Classis Region Trustees will be expected to be convictionally aligned, and there will be a preference for convictional alignment as well as an expectation of conduct alignment for At-Large/Alumni Trustees. These commitments will be reaffirmed annually.

Canadian Justice Ministries

The CRCNA has three uniquely Canadian ministries. This includes the Centre for

Public Dialogue which promotes a positive voice of Christian faith in Canadian

public life through political dialogue, and active citizenship. It includes Indigenous Ministry which supports healing and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in Canada; and Intercultural Ministry, which helps the church to become a place of belong-

ing for people of all backgrounds. Here are a few recent highlights:

  • The Centre for Public Dialogue (CPD) is undergoing visioning and rebuilding, focusing on refugee rights, Indigenous justice, and climate justice
    • A new "Justice: An Everyday Spiritual Journey" workshop has been completed
    • The ministries actively collaborate with other organizations on justice and reconciliation issues
  • The Indigenous Ministry continues to support healing and reconciliation through urban ministries and resources
  • The Intercultural Ministry appointed co-senior leaders and focuses on equipping churches to embrace belonging for all members

ReFrame Ministries

Relying on the guidance of the Holy Spirit, ReFrame Ministries (formerly known as Back to God Ministries International) creates contextual media resources that proclaim the gospel, disciple believers, and strengthen the church throughout the world in 10 major languages. Their vision is that the lives and worldviews of all people around the globe will be transformed by God’s gospel message. Here are a few highlights:

  • ReFrame Ministries reaches people in nearly every country through the internet and mobile applications
  • In 2024, their website surpassed 2 million page views, with over 94,000 monthly visitors
  • The Russian-language ministry provided special pastoral and evangelistic programming for displaced Ukrainians and established a hotline with Christian psychologists
  • ReFrame and its partners distribute about 2 million printed devotional guides annually
  • They continue to broaden the reach of devotional content like Today and Seeking God’s Face in multiple languages and formats
  • Church Juice helps churches effectively communicate using media tools

Resonate Global Mission

Resonate is your Christian Reformed mission agency formed by the joining of Christian Reformed Home Missions and Christian Reformed World Missions. They partner with churches in three key ways which they call our Core Initiatives: Global Mission, Local Mission, and Church Planting. These broad categories help Resonate continue more than a century of passion for God’s mission around the globe—and lead the CRCNA to join in. During the 2024-2025 ministry year, Resonate finalized this Core Initiative structure and implemented a plan to reduce their expenses in order to respond to the uncertainty in ministry share and other revenues. They believe that God has a special calling for the CRCNA in the sphere of mission work, and Resonate has a special niche as a “Big-R Reformed” mission agency in more than 40 countries where your missionaries and church planters are at work. Here are a few highlights:

  • More than 3,200 young adult leaders participating in mission with Resonate
  • More than 7,100 lay leaders participating in mission with Resonate
  • More than 140 missionaries serving in 43 countries
  • More than 250 individual and group volunteers
  • Partnering with 60 churches in North America, 3 new in the past year
  • Supporting 55 campus ministers and 33 campus ministries across 42 college and university campuses

Thrive

Thrive equips CRC churches and ministry leaders with the encouragement, connections, and tools they need to flourish. As churches and ministry leaders

identify needs within their local contexts, Thrive works to connect them with practitioners, peers, and resources to support their growth and renewal. Thrive staff are

pastors, seasoned ministry leaders, and practitioners in the areas of disability access, worship, faith formation, pastoral support, justice, abuse prevention, and more. They

are eager to develop tools or serve as compassionate resources to equip every CRC congregation to thrive. Here are a few highlights:

  • Thrive is tasked with supporting and encouraging church renewal within CRCNA congregations
  • Thriving Essentials workshops engaged 705 participants from 61 congregations
  • They are revamping the pastor search process to address vacancies and shortages
  • Thrive is supporting congregations and classes through Next Steps Discernment related to disaffiliation discussions
  • They continue to facilitate intercultural congregation cohorts to promote diversity and welcome
  • A new consultant for pastor well-being has been hired.

World Renew

Compelled by God’s deep passion for justice and mercy, World Renew joins communities around the world to renew hope, reconcile lives, and restore creation. This non-profit organization reaches out in Christ’s name to support people who are facing extreme poverty, hunger, and disaster. This includes community development programs focused on food security, economic opportunity, community health, and peace and justice. It also includes providing food, shelter, and other essentials to survivors of human conflict and natural and man-made disasters. Here are some recent highlights:

  • In 2024, World Renew reached 559,987 participants worldwide experiencing deep need
  • They facilitated the sponsorship and resettlement of 148 refugees in Canada
  • World Renew does not receive ministry shares and depends on generous donations
  • They are committed to gender justice and implemented a global gender strategy in their programs
  • Their work includes community development, disaster response, and peace and justice programs in numerous countries
  • World Renew received accolades from nonprofit monitoring organizations for its financial and management practices.

Christian Reformed Church Loan Fund, Inc., U.S.

The Loan Fund helps CRC congregations finance capital improvements through low-interest loans

  • They are exploring opportunities to lend to CRC-affiliated organizations such as Christian schools
  • The Loan Fund is recovering from a lending slump following the COVID-19 pandemic, with loans receivable increasing
  • To attract more investors, investment rates have increased for fiscal year 2025.

Pensions

The CRCNA has defined benefit pension plans for ordained ministers of the Word serving in the United States and Canada. Here are some recent highlights:

  • The day-to-day administrative duties of the ministers’ pension plans have been outsourced to CEB Services
  • The pension trustees are exploring broader retirement benefit options, potentially including a blend of defined-contribution plans
  • They are working on providing more information and education to pastors and churches about the current pension plans
  • The church assessment for the ministers' pension plans for 2025 is $37.20 per member (or $7,704 in direct costs) in both the U.S. and Canada.

Overtures to Synod 2025

In CRC polity, an overture is a formal written proposal that is sent to an assembly such as council, classis, or synod. An overture raises a question or concern about something the assembly has authority over, and requests action.Here is a summary of the various overtures being sent to Synod 2025:

Overtures regarding church transfers

When congregations wish to transfer from one classis (usually a geographical grouping of churches) to another, it requires a decision of synod. With this in mind, Overture 1 from Classis Hudson and Overture 2 from Classis Hackensack both request synod to permit the transfer of Grace Community Chapel (a Korean and English congregation in Teaneck, N.J.) from Classis Hackensack to Classis Hudson. The grounds cited include Classis Hudson's bicultural and bilingual approach aligning with Grace Community Chapel's identity, and the geographical location of Grace Community Chapel's church plant, Cornerstone Church of New York, within Classis Hudson's territory. Both classes have agreed to this transfer.

Overture concerning concealed weapons

The Council of Meadowlands Fellowship CRC in Ancaster, Ontario, is asking Synod 2025 (Overture 3) to amend the Church Order to prohibit concealed handguns at all ecclesiastical assemblies, regardless of local civil laws.

Two overtures to this year’s synod are related to the denominational magazine, The Banner. This magazine has existed since the 1860’s and is published by the Christian Reformed Church. Traditionally, The Banner has had a hedge of editorial freedom around it, allowing it to report openly and honestly about denominational matters, and foster a “kitchen table” conversation among CRC members. It does not report to CRC administrators, but is overseen by a committee of the Council of Delegates to ensure that it remains in alignment with denominational standards. Overtures sent this year suggest some revisions to this model.

Overture 5 from the council of First Christian Reformed Church of Artesia, California, asks Synod 2025 to create a committee to rewrite The Banner mandate to foster strict adherence to confessional documents and produce only edifying material promoting unity. This overture expresses concern that The Banner does not adequately represent conservative members' views and publishes material not in accord with the CRCNA's theological core.

Overture 6 from Classis Heartland also overtures Synod 2025 to amend The Banner's synodical mandate and guidelines to explicitly reflect its representative public nature, requiring it to speak from a distinctly Reformed perspective in line with confessions and synodical decisions. This overture raises concerns about The Banner's social media presence and the conflict between publishing controversial articles and representing the denomination publicly.

Overture concerning denominational boards

Classis Zeeland overtures Synod 2025 (Overture 7) to create a new Synodical Advisory Committee whose sole purpose would be to interview people and make recommendations to synod for all proposed denominational board positions, such as the boards of institutions, agencies, and ministries, as well as the Council of Delegates. These nominees would still be voted on by synodical delegates, but only after the advisory committee had interviewed and vetted them.

Overture concerning the Nicene Creed

Classis Zeeland is asking Synod 2025 (Overture 8) to celebrate the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed. It explained that this creed provides doctrinal clarity for Christ’s church, and that its teachings ought to be encouraged by CRC congregations. A synodical worship-service focused on this creed, a series of articles written in The Banner, an instruction that denominational agencies teach and celebrate all the doctrines found in that creed, or another observance could help to do this.

Overtures related to the Covenant for Officebearers

The last few synods have made several decisions regarding the Covenant for Officebearers, and how often it should be signed. In response, several classes have sent overtures asking for follow-up actions.

Overture 15 from Classis Ontario Southwest requests that Synod 2025 seat delegates from classes that have not implemented the annual re-signing of the Covenant for Officebearers that was requested by Synod 2024. This overture questions synod's authority to direct such actions while the relationship between assemblies is under study.

Overture 9 from Classis Hackensack proposes adding an additional item to the Covenant for Officebearers. It specifically asks that the Belhar Confession be included in the paragraph concerning contemporary testimonies. This is based on Synod 2017's adoption of the Belhar Confession as a contemporary testimony and would be similar to how Our World Belongs to God is treated in the covenant.

Overture 11 and Overture 13 both address the annual signing of the Covenant for Officebearers mandated by Synod 2024. Overture 11 from Classis Ontario Southwest requests Synod 2025 to reverse this decision, arguing it breaks covenant with officebearers and implies the original covenant was invalid. Overture 13 from the council of Covenant CRC Winnipeg also asks synod to repeal this decision, stating it does not align with the theological understanding of a covenant and diminishes its gravity.

Overture 12 from Classis Arizona overtures Synod 2025 to remove the word "fully" from the phrase "fully agree with the Word of God" in the Covenant for Officebearers. The grounds include challenges that churches and the classis face in finding leaders in new and unchurched contexts, and that this phrasing in the covenant hinders discipleship and leadership development.

Overtures related to the gravamina process

In addition to the Covenant for Officebearers, synod 2024 made several decisions regarding the process by which an officebearer could declare their difficulty with some aspect of CRC creeds and confessions. This process of making such a declaration is known as a “gravamen”, and can be utilized to declare a confessional difficulty, or to request that a revision be made. Synod 2024 set guidelines for how this process should run, and gave deadlines by which difficulties must be resolved. Several classes have sent overtures to Synod 2025 to request changes to last year’s decisions.

Overture 14 from the council of Palo Alto (Calif.) Christian Reformed Church contends that Supplement, Article 5-a of the Church Order, regarding the gravamen process, is internally inconsistent and needs revision. It argues that the current requirements make it nearly impossible for confessional-revision gravamina to be adopted.

Overture 16 from the Council of Ferrysburg Community Church (Spring Lake, Mich.) proposes revising the guidelines for the gravamen process to give discretion to local councils in setting timelines and nominating individuals with confessional difficulties.

Overture 17 from Classis Columbia asks synod to create a new category of gravamen called a "confessional-submission gravamen" for elders and deacons who have personal difficulties with confessions but agree to publicly support CRCNA teachings and avoid division.

Overture 18 from Classis Southeast U.S. seeks to amend Church Order Supplement, Article 5-a, to allow elders and deacons to be discipled through their confessional-difficulty gravamen within their term limits as volunteering officebearers.

Overture 19 from Classis Toronto proposes creating a "Formal Act of Confessional Submission" for officebearers with confessional-difficulty gravamina who have completed a process of learning but whose intellectual difficulties are not resolved.

Overture 20 from the council of The Journey (Longmont, Colo.) requests synod to retract the decision that council members who have submitted a confessional-difficulty gravamen are not eligible to serve in classical or denominational roles.

Overtures related to human sexuality and follow-up discipline

Several decisions at the last few synods have related to human sexuality and same sex marriage, with specific calls to discipline for those not willing to comply. As congregations and classes attempt to implement these decisions, there have been some challenges and also some things to celebrate. A few overtures suggest actions in response.

Overture 10 from Classis Grand Rapids South seeks to reaffirm the authority of local consistories when it comes to baptism. They feel that this is necessary to address potential confusion caused by decisions of Synod 2024 regarding the baptism of children of same-sex couples.

Overture 21 from Classis Iakota expresses concern about “open rebellion” within the CRCNA and asks Synod 2025 to declare the actions of Classes Alberta North, Grand Rapids East, Toronto, and others who have not adequately adhered to the decisions of synod, as rebellion. It asks that synod invite these classes to repent and be restored. It also proposes receiving overtures from these bodies as communications only and that special discipline be considered.

Overture 22 from Classis Northcentral Iowa suggests that synod have a feast to celebrate the repentance and return of those who came under discipline as defined by Acts of Synod 2024.

Overtures concerning ministry and leadership development

The lifelong equipping of leaders is essential for churches and ministries to flourish. With this in mind, the CRCNA attempts to identify, recruit and train leaders to be servants in the Kingdom of God. Several overtures to Synod 2025 offer suggestions for how to better identify and support such leaders.

Overture 4 from Classis Central Plains and Classis Rocky Mountain focus on the spouses of pastors. These men and women have unique needs that are often overlooked by our systems and structures. The overture encourages each congregation to provide funds that could support the spiritual health of pastoral spouses by providing resources for soul care.

Overture 25 from Classis Heartland asks Synod 2025 to direct Thrive, the CRCNA’s congregational support ministry, to focus on officebearer training. This would include developing materials on the Covenant for Officebearers, confessions, church polity, and practical ministry aspects.

Overture 26 from Classis Heartland encourages every church to identify, train, and maintain at least one individual with a license to exhort by Synod 2027 to address the shortage of ordained ministers.

Overture 27 from Classis Heartland proposes adding a supplement to Church Order Article 3 to include a discipleship/educational component for all offices, including elders and deacons.

Overture regarding the CRC’s binational denominational structure

The Christian Reformed Church in North America is binational—that is, it has congregations in both the United States and Canada. This binationality offers unique opportunities and challenges to ministry.

Overture 28 from the Council of Meadowlands Fellowship CRC (Ancaster, Ont.), suggests a change to this structure. It asks Synod 2025 to envision the CRCNA as two distinct Christian Reformed Churches, one in Canada and one in the United States, and to make the necessary changes for this reorganization. The grounds include differing ministry contexts and the need for autonomous denominational structures in each country.

Overture concerning church planting

Taking note of the anticipated decrease in funding for church planting within Resonate Global Mission’s budget in the coming year, and the decision to reduce/eliminate all grants for church planting, Classis Southeast US sent Overture 29 to ask that synod direct the general secretary, Resonate Global Mission director, and the Church Planting Core Initiative to re-prioritize church planting within the denominational budget.

Overtures Regarding Ecumenical Relationships

Overture 23 from Classis Iakota overtures Synod 2025 to begin the process of ending the "in communion" relationship with the Reformed Church in America due to diverging beliefs and practices, particularly regarding human sexuality.

In addition to these this overtures, Synod also received two communications related to this same topic:

Classis Iakota followed up on their Overture 15 to Synod 2024 regarding the ecumenical status of the Reformed Church in America (RCA). They address concerns raised by the Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations Committee (EIRC) regarding the Ecumenical Charter. They argue that a change in their relationship with the RCA is not a violation of the Charter but a matter of honesty given the diverging beliefs and practices, particularly on human sexuality. They question the EIRC's broad application of the Charter's preface and express that they no longer recognize the RCA of 2025, urging synod to reflect this reality in their decisions.

Members of Third CRC, Kalamazoo, Michigan communicate their desire to remain in ecumenical relationship as a church in communion with the RCA and recommend that synod make no changes. They cite the shared heritage, the requirement for RCA ministers to respect CRCNA polity, the presence of RCA ministers serving CRC churches (including their own), and the difficulties in calling new pastors as grounds for maintaining the current relationship. This communication was not adopted by the Council of Third CRC or Classis Kalamazoo.

Similarly, Overture 24 from Classis Illiana also deals with ecumenical relationships. Rather than focusing on the RCA, this overture requests Synod 2025 to create a task force to present a comprehensive review of the CRCNA’s membership in the World Communion of Reformed Churches, citing concerns about doctrinal statements and a focus on social justice.

Overture concerning church polity and assemblies

Overture 75 was deferred from last year’s synod. It is from Classis Zeeland and asks synod to appoint a study committee to evaluate church polity in light of Scripture, theology, and history. The aim of this study committee would be to clarify the relationship between councils, classes, and synod. This review should take particular note of the authority of the church and its various assemblies in light of the issue of discipline and excommunication on the local level, and church discipline and disaffiliation at the classical and synodical levels. This overture argues that there is confusion over the authority of church assemblies, and that this confusion causes chaos.

Communications to Synod

A communication is another formal way of communicating in CRC church polity. A communication presents information, ideas, thoughts, opinions, or protests to an assembly. A communication is distinguished from an overture in that an overture asks for action, and a communication does not. An assembly is not required to take any action with respect to a communication. Here is a summary of the various communications being sent to Synod 2025 this year:

Classis Red Mesa sends a communication stating that they remain a classis in protest due to the changes in the gravamen process ratified by Synod 2024. Their protest specifically concerns the requirement for officebearers who file a confessional-difficulty gravamen to recuse themselves from classis and synod meetings. They emphasize that their protest is about Church Order and not about reservations regarding the creeds and confessions. Despite their protest, they believe there are no barriers to their full participation in classis or synod meetings.

Classis Grand Rapids East provides a progress report on conversations regarding the possibility of forming a new "Grand Rapids City Classis". This discussion is taking place due to a majority of their congregations moving towards disaffiliation after Synods 2022-2024. The communication outlines the potential nature and purpose of this new classis, including focusing on congregations in or bordering Grand Rapids, representing the city's diversity, addressing urban ministry needs, and having leaders committed to the CRCNA's covenants, a historic view of marriage, and growth in ministry regarding gender and sexuality. They note positive initial responses and several questions raised. They are not bringing an overture at this time but want to inform synod of these conversations.

Classis B.C. North-West shares the impact of the discipline-related and gravamen-related decisions from Synod 2024. They express concern about a potential loss of ways to guide individual officebearers and congregations. They report that some officebearers have resigned and members have left congregations due to these decisions. The communication notes an erosion of trust for individual officebearers and congregations, increased difficulty in communication, the preclusion of some members from the confessional-difficulty process, and the inability of some officebearers to serve. They also believe that the focus on "without reservation" has emphasized individual conscience at the expense of how officebearers serve, and the "limited suspension" process has led to a focus on disaffiliation and discipline over applying confessions. They recommend a trust-building process similar to the one they undertook.

The Council of Washington D.C. CRC submits an essay by member Ryan Struyk on faith and sexuality to contribute to the denominational conversation. The essay uses a creation, fall, redemption, and consummation framework, drawing on the theology of Herman Bavinck, to argue for a new understanding of marriage in light of the new creation, suggesting it could open the way for the affirmation of same-sex relationships.This communication was not adopted by Classis Hackensack.

Classis Minnkota sends a communication explaining the rationale for their annual protests against the ordination and seating of women at synod. They affirm the equality of men and women but believe in distinct roles based on Scripture and God's creative wil. They cite their understanding of the Belgic Confession and specific scriptures (Gen. 1:27-28, 1 Cor. 11:3, 1 Tim. 2:12-13, 3:2, 12, Titus 1:6) to support their belief in male headship in the family and church and that women should not be ordained to authoritative offices. They express concern that the CRCNA's 1995 decision to open all offices to women is contrary to Scripture and has led to division and their expulsion from NAPARC. They also note that synodical practice has become markedly egalitarian, making it difficult for complementarians.

The Council of Church of the Savior CRC, South Bend, Indiana writes regarding their previously submitted confessional-revision gravamen (to Classis Holland in 2023) concerning Synod 2022’s declaration that “unchastity” included “homosexual sex”. They detail the procedural issues and lack of engagement with their gravamen at both the classical and synodical levels. Given Synod 2024’s directive for churches not aligned with this definition to disaffiliate (which CotS is doing), they propose that the matter be set aside without resolution so that CotS and Classis Holland can part ways in peace. This communication was not adopted by Classis Holland.

Two additional communications are summarized in the “Overtures about ecumenical relationships” section.