Our denomination, the Reformed Church in America, is the oldest continuous Protestant denomination in America. It arrived in America in 1620 and settled what is now known as New York City. In those days it was known as the "Dutch Reformed Church."

We are part of the "Reformed" family of Christians which includes the Christian Reformed Church, Presbyterians, the United Church of Christ, and many other denominations. We have the name "Reformed" because our history goes back to the Reformation in the early 1500's, as do our belief statements. Our congregation is also part of the Dakota Classis, the local collection of RCA churches, and the Synod of the Hearthland, the regional Collection of RCA churches covers the center of the US from North Dakota to Texas.      

We can explore the doctrines of grace using the acronym F.A.I.T.H.

Fallen Humankind.  People, by nature, are dead in sin and therefore com-pletely unable to save themselves from sin and its consequences.

Adopted by God. In love, God has chosen some people to be members of his family.

Intentional Atonement.  Jesus died to save his people from their sins.

Transformed by the Holy Spirit.  The Spirit regenerates those who are chosen by God, giving them faith in Jesus.

Held by God.  Believers are held safe in God's hands for all eternity.

(The Acronym FAITH comes from:  FAITH unfolded,  A  FRESH  LOOK  AT THE  REFORMED  FAITH, JIM  OSTERHOUSE, CRC Publications, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 2000.  Available @ http://www.faithaliveresources.org/ )