Whether you're a new or experienced elder, let's use this place to compare notes, share experiences, and ask questions about being an elder in the CRC.
Keith
Syd
Tom
Larry
Michele
Change requires careful observation and preparation. Once you agreed on a certain program that necessitates the change, have you consistently backed the members who have been put in charge of it?
2014 has come to an end. Though the days were busy, thoughts multiplied. And so we think...we ponder. Who are we? How shall we live?
Today's pew-sitting Christian Reformed member knows a good sermon when they hear one. Whenever they asked that question about poor preaching, they subsequently wonder whether Calvin Seminary is to blame.
Sometimes I wish I had an in with God in such a way that I could read how He feels about me.
Youth is not always a time of innocence. Sins of our youth can be real. They can cling to us through subsequent years...
Bless the families in your congregation with this free Christmas devotional and plant a seed to encourage them to resolve to talk about faith and to spend time together in God's story each day in the New Year.
It is probably true that we, as denomination, are overwhelmingly family-oriented. The question may be asked: are singles sufficiently recognized and do they share realistically in pastoral care?
We thank God for whatever prosperity we may have. Compared to the Christians of Rome, we are rich people. But we all realize that it may not stay that way. Times of want may lie ahead.
As an elder, you cannot be expected to be an expert in this complex area of drug use. But chances are considerable that there are some addicted people in your district.
It's the same for all ages: we want to be liked. We are not proud of trying to look good. Still, the approval of people around us has its lure.
Paul, the apostle wrote: “Weep with those who weep.” We may assume that he did what he wrote. Look at that short sentence again. It's more than advice. Paul extends a challenge to us.
All believers have one gift in common: grace! It is the source of the other seven Christian gifts.
The great reformer, Martin Luther, was a man of towering conviction. But he also knew moments when faith seemed to have faded to a degree that there seemed nothing left.
Bereaved people need strength to cope with irretrievable loss. Perhaps we can start a discussion on these pages of our experiences in bringing Christian comfort.
While rebuilding this pickup I had the opportunity to visit junk yards. Not only did I eventually find all the parts, I made some valuable observations along the way...
What happens to our many young members-at-large?
The name: "Censura Morum." The name and practice have a nobler origin than it would appear...
For you to do your work as a care-giver you need a record-keeping system. In case you don't have one yet, here are some hints.
It would be interesting to see how our churches across the continent select the elders and deacons of their council. Whereas in a by-gone age the procedure was fairly uniform, there is now considerable variety.
Look here for helpful support for Elders!
It has not happened yet. But my mind pictures it, the bad thing that may happen. I experience some of it as if it is already happening.
To be a balanced person is to deal with problems and tasks, but also to safeguard happy thoughts, cherish good moments, and have fun.
Two short words, but behind them a world of regret.
What guidance do children and youth need from parents and the church in navigating the internet?
The ideal is that our young people will feel that they are known, loved and deeply cared for. Allow me ask a few questions about the young people of your congregation...