History

Early Beginnings 

The Christian Reformed Church (CRC) has embarked on an enduring journey through the annals of history, one that encapsulates the essence of its commitment to addressing matters of race and diversity within its faith community. Spanning over six decades, this journey unveils a narrative of transformation, introspection, and resilience as the CRC has grappled with issues of race, segregation, and the pursuit of justice. From its humble beginnings in 1957, when it first confronted the specter of segregation, to its modern-day endeavors in anti-racism and reconciliation, the CRC's history provides a testament to the power of faith and conviction in the pursuit of unity and equality. This narrative offers a chronicle of milestones, challenges, and pivotal moments that have shaped the CRC's evolution, reflecting the unwavering commitment of its members to live out the principles of love, justice, and inclusivity rooted in the Christian faith.

The Christian Reformed Church (CRC) has a rich and dynamic history of actively addressing issues related to race and diversity within its community. This transformative journey began in 1957 when the CRC launched a concerted effort to address race relations, particularly in the context of a racially segregated society. During this pivotal period, the CRC emphasized the teachings of Scripture regarding the unity of the human race, leading to a resolute declaration that segregation was fundamentally contrary to biblical principles. Congregations were fervently encouraged to embrace all members, transcending racial and ethnic boundaries.

As the 1960s and 1970s unfolded, the CRC faced a myriad of race-related challenges on both domestic and international fronts. Notably, in 1965, members of Lawndale CRC sought to enroll black children at Timothy Christian School in Cicero, Illinois, yet their request was met with resistance due to prevailing concerns about deeply entrenched community racism. Simultaneously, the CRC embarked on dialogues with the Reformed Churches in South Africa, grappling with the complex issue of apartheid policies. During this period, the Christian Reformed Board of Home Missions established a Race Commission, laying the groundwork for the eventual creation of the Synodical Committee on Race Relations (SCORR) in 1971. The establishment of SCORR marked a pivotal moment, underlining the CRC's commitment to addressing racial issues. By 1981, SCORR had achieved standing committee status within the denomination.

Study Committee - God's Diverse and Unified Family 

In 1992, the CRC responded to a request from the Multiethnic Conference by establishing a Committee to Study a Racially and Ethnically Diverse Family of God. The culmination of this committee's work was the adoption of the transformative report titled "God's Diverse and Unified Family" in 1996, a document that continues to guide the CRC's stance on race relations. The late 1990s witnessed a renewed emphasis on enhancing diversity and unity within the CRC, with various agencies and institutions launching an intensive antiracism initiative, which was committed to engaging all staff members in these efforts.

In a proactive move to better represent ethnic minority communities within the CRC, Synod 1995 introduced the role of ethnic adviser to synod. This significant development was reaffirmed by Synod 2000, signaling the denomination's unwavering dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion. Concurrently, SCORR underwent a name change, emerging as the Office of Race Relations (ORR).  Recognizing specific needs on the Canadian side, the ORR had a Canadian mobilizer from 2000: Steve Kabetu (2000-2012), Humberto Lopez (2012-2015), and Bernadette Arthur (2015-2019)

Office of Race Relations - Widening the Circle

The year 2004 marked a milestone as Synod approved a visionary statement of purpose and a revised mandate for the Office of Race Relations (ORR). Empowered with new authority, the ORR initiated collaborative antiracism training efforts, including the development of the acclaimed "Dance of Racial Reconciliation" (DORR) curriculum. This curriculum is known as "Widening the Circle" in Canada.

The early 2000s witnessed Synod's call for an ethnically inclusive group tasked with developing a vision and strategy for increasing multiethnic representation within CRC leadership. Although this endeavor was underway, it was not yet ready for presentation at Synod 2010, resulting in the adoption of resolutions reaffirming the CRC's steadfast commitment to ethnic diversity and requesting annual reports on denominational initiatives aimed at fostering diversity and advancing racial justice.

In 2011, a pivotal moment arrived as the Diversity in Leadership Planning Group presented a series of recommendations, ultimately leading to the formation of a dedicated task force. Synod 2012 called for ongoing repentance in the face of racism and further strengthened the denomination's resolve to pursue diversity.

Synod 2013 saw the adoption of recommendations from the Diversity in Leadership Planning Group II, focusing on enhancing recruitment, training, equal opportunity actions, and more. To implement these transformative changes, the Diversity and Inclusion Working Group (DIWG) was established in 2014. Its commendable work continued through Synod 2016, which approved several measures aimed at promoting diversity, including comprehensive training, enhanced reporting mechanisms, and clear guidelines for diversity in hiring and promotion.

As the years passed, ORR's mission continued to evolve, placing a growing emphasis on anti-racism efforts. The early 2000s marked a significant shift in focus within the CRCNA, pivoting from a multicultural approach to a resolute commitment to dismantling racism in all its manifestations.

Kinism - A Heresy

In 2019, Synod received an overture from two classes, urging the declaration of Kinism as heresy due to its unbiblical teachings regarding interracial marriage and racial separation. Synod concurred, unequivocally stating that “Kinist theology is neither biblical nor Reformed,” and admonishing councils and classes to uphold confessional fidelity and apply discipline where necessary. With a commitment to clarity and precision, synod tasked the Council of Delegates with the important mandate of researching and refining the denomination’s definition of the term heresy.

In 2020, the internationally recognized issue of systemic racism, compounded by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, took center stage. Following a period of prayer and lament for nations and the world, the Special Meeting of the Council of Delegates, convened on behalf of the synod, adopted a resolute resolution. This resolution expressed abhorrence for the sin of systemic racism, extended support to denominational leaders who had signed statements regarding the tragic deaths of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor, and expressed the hope that the transformative power of the gospel of justice and grace in Jesus Christ would shine brilliantly in the ongoing struggle against racism.

Decolonization and Anti-Racism Collective

In 2021, the commitment to advancing race relations took significant steps forward on the Canadian front with the appointment of Pablo Kim Sun as Senior Leader for Anti-Racism and Intercultural Conciliation, a full-time senior leader staff for ORR – Canada. In this video Pablo reflects on his time leading these efforts.

In just a matter of months, the Canadian Ministry Board approved the establishment of the "Decolonization and Anti-Racism Collective," a national advisory committee. The year 2023 marked another milestone as Adrian Jacobs assumed the role of the first senior leader staff for Indigenous justice and reconciliation, underscoring the CRC's unwavering dedication to advancing reconciliation efforts. On August 3rd of the same year, a momentous celebration took place, commemorating the binational 50th anniversary of CRCNA’s steadfast commitment to racial reconciliation.

2023 Canadian National Gathering

In 2023, CRCNA Canada hosted a National Gathering with a primary focus on reconciliation with Indigenous communities and justice-related issues. The collaboration between three Canadian justice committees—Decolonization and Anti-Racism Collective, Canadian Indigenous Ministry Committee, and Committee for Contact with Government—was significantly strengthened, underscoring the CRC's continued commitment to the ongoing journey of racial reconciliation and justice.

Moving Forward

The Christian Reformed Church's remarkable journey in addressing issues of race and diversity stands as a testament to its unwavering commitment to the principles of justice, reconciliation, and biblical fidelity. Over the decades, the CRC has evolved from its early efforts to confront segregation to a dynamic, multifaceted approach that encompasses anti-racism, inclusivity, and active engagement with both internal and external challenges. As it continues to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of racial justice, the CRC remains committed to its mission to promote unity, equity, and the transformative power of the gospel of justice and grace. With the establishment of dedicated committees, transformative initiatives, and the tireless work of passionate individuals, the CRC exemplifies a faith community dedicated to building bridges, fostering understanding, and pursuing justice for the flourishing of all its members and communities. The ongoing journey of the CRC serves as an inspiring example for congregations and denominations worldwide, demonstrating that the pursuit of racial reconciliation is a sacred and enduring mission, one that bears witness to the values of love, unity, and justice espoused in the Christian faith. Nevertheless, it also acknowledges that there is much work to be done, for the journey toward justice and equality is an imperfect one, marked by challenges and opportunities for growth.