What does it mean
to be Christian Reformed?

The word "Reformed" comes from the Protestant Reformation 500 years ago.  John Calvin was one of the church reformers of that time, and we hold to a doctinal outlook that is "Calvinist".  Around this time, other Reformed Christians clearly stated their theological beliefs in three documents, which we call our church's confessions: they are the Heidelberg Catechism, Canons of Dort and Belgic Confession.

Since we emphasize the authority of the Bible, we have much in common with other Christian church denominations.

We believe our human rebellion against God has corrupted the earth and people with sin. Our salvation is a free gift of God that only comes through the grace of Jesus Christ (salvation is not because of what we do, but what Jesus has done for us). As fully human and fully God, Jesus paid the punishment we deserved for our sin. We respond with obedience out of gratitude to God.

We believe all our work is a calling from God. As his followers we engage our culture and transform it, so that our world can become more like the perfect creation God intended for us. But, this will not be fully realized until Jesus comes again to make all things new. We declare God is in control, and nothing will prevent his perfect plan.