Hello, my name is Al Lindemulder and have been asked to be the new guide for the Elders section on The Network. I am retired minister and my wife and I attend Palm Lane CRC in Scottsdale, AZ where I have served as an elder.

I am a graduate of Calvin College, Calvin Seminary and a D.Min degree from Western Conservative Baptist Seminary, in Portland, OR.  Since 1972 I have served three churches full time; Momence CRC, North Haledon CRC and most recently as the founding pastor of Christ’s Community Church in Chandler, AZ.  I also was a volunteer Associate Pastor at Celebration Community, Phoenix, AZ.  

I was also employed as a Deputy Director at Conciliation Services Maricopa County Family Court and I worked briefly as a caseworker for CPS. I have taking courses in mediation and have also applied my mediation training in counseling marriages and family conflict as well as business disputes.  

I look forward to reflecting on the office of elder from the perspective of the church order. The Christian Reformed Church during my ministry has gone through many changes in how it worships, functions and reaches out to the community. Change is a good thing. We believe that in the reformed tradition we continue to be reflective and always "reforming". I will reflect on changes from my personal experience as a "Church Planter" and as a minister in the Christian Reformed Church since the 1970s and ask you to share your personal experiences as well with your comments and suggestions.