Gathering 2019

What’s happening thus far?

The 2016 CRC Canadian National Gathering in Waterloo, Ontario, is long over. It was a wonderful, Spirit-filled experience for attendees. However, the spirit of the conference continues.  As such, the Christian Reformed Church has been mandated to organize a Canadian "gathering" every three years and a new planning team was created to organize the next Gathering in 2019 at King's University in Edmonton, Alberta from May 24-26, 2019. 

As part of the planning committee, I am excited by the possibility of the Edmonton gathering in 2019 becoming a stimulant for further and deep reflection about where God may be leading the CRC. I sense that God may be calling the CRC to a new reformation - one of deeper engagement with local neighbourhoods and communities, one where the church which exists in different forms and from different traditions seeks to fulfill Jesus prayer, “May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” (John 17 : 23)  

How this hope might be accomplished in a church world so divided will be a focus of discussion and prayer supported by fasting and contemplation. It begins with Canadian classes of the Christian Reformed Church being asked to choose people from churches in their own classis who love to see local CRC congregations grow in their desire and ability to be channels of God's love and grace in their neighbourhoods, communities and beyond. 

This classical "team" will be requested to do some pre-Gathering reflection and be available to their classis and local churches after the Gathering as a resource group equipped to keep the vision of that mission moving forward. If you are interested in participating, watch for further announcements. 

What can I do?

All CRC members who want to explore where God is leading his church in Canada are invited to think about whether or not God would have them attend this strategic event. Please also pray for the Planning Committee as it prepares the structure and events of Gathering 2019. So block off the dates in your calendars and keep an eye on the website for further information and requests as these become available.

Also feel free to connect with Darren Roorda and the planning team at if you have questions! We'd love your comments below.