When a Church Chose New Life

After many years in ministry, Pastor Rob Hogendoorn witnessed countless ways God moves within His church. But one of the most powerful experiences came recently when he watched a church choose new life instead of slow decline—a decision that has completely transformed their future.

Bethel Christian Reformed Church had a long and faithful history, but in recent years, numbers had dwindled, and momentum had faded. Like many churches, they were facing a difficult truth: Bethel was dying. It would have been easy—and understandable—for them to hold on tightly to what had been, slowly shrinking until they quietly closed their doors.

But that’s not what happened.

Instead, Bethel’s leadership bravely named their reality. In a council meeting, a member spoke with raw honesty: “We’re dying. We have to do something.” That moment became the turning point. They reached out to the Center for Church Renewal to explore what could be next.

Our first step wasn’t strategies or programs. It was prayer. For 40 days, the people of Bethel committed to prayer and Scripture, seeking God’s will for their church’s future. They asked not, “How can we save Bethel?” but “What does God want for this community?”

What followed was a journey of transformation. After months of conversation, prayer, and discernment, Bethel made a courageous decision: to close—and be reborn. Bethel Christian Reformed Church ceased to exist and relaunched as Fora City Community Church in East London.

It wasn’t easy.

There were tough conversations and moments of deep vulnerability. But there was also a rising sense of hope—a glimpse of resurrection. The facility was retrofitted, new ministries were launched, and a fresh vision captured the hearts of those both inside and outside the church.

Today, the difference is breathtaking.

Where once there was decline, there is now vibrant life. Children’s ministries are thriving. Alpha courses and Starting Point dinners are bringing new people into relationship with Jesus. “Villages”—small groups rooted in Scripture—are helping people grow in their faith. Stories of life change are everywhere.

One young woman, invited by a friend to try Alpha, showed up unsure and skeptical. She cried through the first session, overwhelmed by a sense that she was exactly where she needed to be. Another man, after years of feeling disconnected from the church, now says he loves coming to worship again. The echoes of death have been replaced by the sounds of laughter, worship, and new life.

This story is a powerful reminder: sometimes even a church must die to experience resurrection. The choice to trust God with their future has allowed a once-declining church to become a beacon of hope for a new generation.

Are you ready to help your church take its next faithful step?

At the Center for Church Renewal, we walk alongside churches just like yours, helping you discern God’s call and find new life. Reach out to us today—let’s begin your renewal journey together.