The CRC is losing members. Last summer's synod has talked about it. We have tried to find the causes. We wondered what to do about it. Church-growth creates its own momentum. Growth creates an atmosphere of growth. Is the opposite also true?

Here is a truism...: Pastors and elders must regularly discuss both the quality of the worship services and the pastors' sermons.  

Yes, you knew that you should make that sick-visit but you postponed it. But think about this... it could be your best half hour.

"...  no office-bearer shall lord it over another office-bearer." -- Article 85 of the CRC Church Order. Elders and Deacons belong together, their offices complement each other, their  tasks, though distinct, have the same purpose: building the Church of Christ.

Friendships never stand alone. Friendship is a special room in the bigger house of relationships.

All three offices share in the great challenge of the church leadership: the equiping of the saints, together, but also each in its own way.

Stories have a strange fascination for most of us. A story well-told is a bit of an extension of our individual lives. We can relate to the story teller as well as to the people in the story. The reverse is also true. The story-teller feels affirmed in our attentive ear.

Synod 1910 made some imaginative recommendations to the local church regarding missions. And today, more than a century later, we may take a lesson.

Have you watched people having an animated conversation? Every event related with gusto leads to reciting similar events. Observations, remarks, assertions, and comments outdo each other and are plowed under by further talking.

Two short words, but behind them a world of regret.