CRC to Close Its Grand Rapids Printing Plant

The Christian Reformed Church in North America announced today that it will close its Grand Rapids printing plant operations effective mid-January 2008 and move much of the work to RBC Ministries, also in Grand Rapids.
 
“The decision to close the plant has come after months of analysis that focused on evaluating our priorities in terms of the type of ministries and services the CRC provides, as well as on the future space needs for the building,” said John Bolt, the CRC’s director of finance and administration.
 
In announcing the decision, Bolt said that the CRC will transfer a number of its printing projects and move equipment to RBC Ministries, formerly known as Radio Bible Class. “We found a great solution by partnering with RBC Ministries,” he said.
 
Employees working in the printing operation will be transferred to other responsibilities within the CRC or will be offered a position at  RBC Ministries, Bolt said. There are 10 employees who will be affected by the change.
 
RBC Ministries has 300 employees at its southeast Grand Rapids headquarters. It has international offices in 20 countries plus partners throughout the world who distribute RBC resources. RBC is best known for its daily devotional publication “Our Daily Bread.”
 
The CRC printing plant operation publishes a variety of materials, including the denomination’s monthly magazine, The Banner.
 
“Our desire is to provide a smooth transition for those who wish to consider employment with RBC Ministries,” said Bolt. “As we considered closing the plant, one of our primary goals was to find viable employment options for staff members who would be laid off.”
 
CRC Product Services, which has been part of the printing operation, will continue to coordinate all creative, print and distribution projects for the Christian Reformed Church.