Synod 2026 noted that the expectation of commitment to our Reformed creeds and confessions (doctrinal standards) is higher for officebearers than for members, and consistories have the privilege and responsibility of discipling members “faithfully towards a deeper understanding of the gospel as articulated in the Reformed confessions.”
The discussion was in response to a task force that studied the difference in commitment to the confessions required by members and officebearers.
The task force, created as a result of a request to Synod 2024, noted that the local consistory holds the responsibility for admitting confessing members as well as discipling them.
It noted that the confessions are central to our identity as a Reformed denomination and that officebearers have additional obligations to defend and teach the confessions. But becoming a professing member is a continuum from agreement with to full understanding of the confessions, under the guidance and instruction of the local council.
Synod encouraged churches to use liturgical forms produced by the CRC or adaptations of them that conform to synodical guidelines for communion, baptism, and professions of faith. “The use of these liturgical forms will foster a greater shared understanding of membership across the denomination,” the recommendation said.
Synod also encouraged churches to use materials for membership and profession of faith classes that foster a commitment to the Reformed confessions. “A number of churches are using resources developed outside the Reformed theological tradition to invite people to membership in their congregations,” synod noted. “Discernment is important both to identify teachings that connect us to the wider Christian tradition and to recognize teachings that may tend to undermine our understanding of Scripture.”
Brandon Seaver, Classis Georgetown, said that this allows churches to accept members while they are being taught to affirm the confessions.
Jim Kirk, Classis Wisconsin, agreed that “(membership) is the beginning of a process. We can have a high regard for our confessions, but we can distinguish between general membership and leaders.”
Synod also noted the necessity to translate liturgy resources into languages used across the denomination for communities where English is not spoken.
Synod 2026, the annual general assembly of the Christian Reformed Church in North America, is meeting June 12-18 on the campus of Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Mich. Go to crcna.org/synod for the livestream, photos, reports, and a live blog of synod proceedings and decisions. Find daily news and our video Synod Recap at thebanner.org/synod.