Introducing you to …


the congregation of De Gereformeerde Kerk Zwolle and environs

At present our regional congregation has approximately 140 members. All age groups are represented. The local ward at Ermelo is also part of the church at Zwolle.

 

The members of our congregation have, over the past years, liberated themselves from the Reformed Churches (liberated). This is not a new church being formed but it is a continuation of these Reformed Churches. We believe that Christ gathers for Himself a church from the beginning of the world to its end and that we, as members of The Reformed Church at Zwolle and environs, belong to this church (Lord’s Day 21, H.C.). The LORD has, through the recent liberation, again preserved and restored His church.

 

In the autumn of 2003 our congregation was small. However, the LORD very soon gave growth. He also blessed us in January 2006 with an own minister of the Word.

 

Initially there was good growth, not only in Zwolle, but also in the sister-churches. That was cause for thankfulness to the LORD, Who gave continuance of His church.

 

Nevertheless, serious tribulations arose within the bond of churches which did not pass by Zwolle. Already in 2005 a movement of independentism developed that led to the breaking away of the congregation at Zwijndrecht from the young bond of churches. This happened in 2006. Shortly after, schisms occurred elsewhere through members who sympathized with the independentism of Zwijndrecht.

In December 2009 a large number of members broke away when 5 provisionally suspended office-bearers called the congregation away from under the supervision of the consistory.

In the years that followed peace and quiet returned in the church and church life flourished.

There were numerous meetings of the Bible Study clubs.

The Saturday Bible-school supported parents in their task of Biblical education.

Church days were organized to strengthen the unity in the congregation.

Courses for marriage and for confessing members could be started.

Office-bearers could also be elected and installed.

 

In 2013 the congregation at Dalfsen, with its minister Rev. E. Heres joined our bond of churches. Consequently, church members who lived in Dalfsen joined the congregation of Rev. Heres. Because of departures with attestations to other congregations and also some members passing away, the number of church members dropped to below 150

 

Yet, through all these trials and tribulations, the LORD kept and preserved His church. The LORD did not put our trust in Him to shame. He has done great things and has preserved for us His Word and preserved our faith.

 

Soli Deo Gloria, to God alone be the glory.

 

C. Baan, Zwolle, May 2014