New Intercultural Congregations Network

The Christian Reformed Church in North America has announced the official launch of an Intercultural Congregations Network, a groundbreaking initiative designed to equip and encourage CRC congregations across Canada in their pursuit of diverse and interdependent ministry. This development marks a significant step forward in the denomination’s ongoing commitment to unity within God’s diverse family.

The Intercultural Congregations Network arrives at a time of growing diversity within Canadian communities, and it calls CRC congregations to reflect the tapestry of cultures surrounding them. Led by Jeremiah Bašurić and Sebastian Maldonado, senior coleaders for Intercultural Ministry, the network aims to serve as a vital hub for encouragement, collaboration, and spiritual growth among congregations embracing this calling.

“We believe that every CRC church has a unique calling in God's kingdom, whether that’s serving in urban centers or rural communities or engaging directly with refugee populations and diaspora languages,” explained Bašurić. “This network is about coming alongside those congregations who sense a specific call to intercultural ministry, providing them with the practical support and connections they need to truly flourish and reflect the diversity right outside their doors.”

The network is poised to offer a comprehensive suite of resources and opportunities, including the following:

• A bimonthly newsletter highlighting relevant events and inspiring stories of God at work across diverse contexts.
• Intercultural coaching provided by trained and passionate leaders, tailored to each congregation’s specific context.
• A rich toolbox of resources built on many years of valuable intercultural work within the CRC in Canada.
• Opportunities for connection and collaboration with other churches across Canada that share a similar passion for intercultural ministry.
• Invitations to exclusive intercultural events, such as the Intercultural Cohort and the Diaspora Leaders Retreat.

Drawing from his own experences, Bašurić emphasized the transformative potential of the network. “For me, true intercultural engagement isn't just about diversity; it’s about interdependence,” he said. “It’s about intentionally building relationships across cultural lines in a way that allows us to truly impact and transform the dominant culture around us. My own life has shown me the beauty and the challenges of such relationships, and this network is designed to help churches navigate that journey with greater wisdom and support.”

Bašurić and Maldonado envision the network as a catalyst for churches to move beyond simply welcoming diverse individuals to actively fostering communities where different cultures are celebrated, integrated, and empowered to contribute to the collective mission. 

“We want to see churches become places where every child of God belongs and is cherished, where the messy beauty of God’s diverse family truly transforms hearts and communities,” Maldonado added.

Interested congregations are encouraged to reach out to Bašurić or Maldonado at [email protected].