First of all, welcome! We are glad you found us! Whether you are new to our church or new to Christianity, it can be an overwhelming position to be in. We want to help by providing you with some basic answers up front. If you don’t see what you are looking for here, you are always welcome to give us a call (616-866-2308) or email us (connections.rrc@gmail.com). Of course, meeting in person is best, so we invite you to come and experience our community for yourself at one of the many opportunities offered!
Rockford Reformed Church has been a part of the Rockford community for over 50 years. We have a long tradition of supporting and partnering with many local organizations to help those in our community, as well as supporting many missionaries across the globe. We are a part of the Reformed Church in America, the oldest Protestant Church in America with an uninterrupted ministry, which began in 1628.
>> Learn more: RCA, Global Missions, Local Ministries, Member Care
RRC is also a great place for families. We have excellent children’s programs, youth groups, and adult education opportunities.
>> Learn more: children, youth/students, adults, download a flyer
And now, some Very Basic Questions:
What are your services like?
Worship Services are Sunday mornings at 8:45 and 11:00am. Click here for building map.
Our worship services: We begin the service with singing. Feel free to stand, sing, dance, or just listen as we express our worship to God. If you don’t know the songs, don’t worry, just follow along with the words on the screen!
The message: This is a time of practical teaching from the Bible. Often, multi-media presentations are incorporated to supplement the message. There is space in the bulletin to take notes If you wish. If you don’t have a Bible, ask for one at the information desk, and it’s yours to keep!
The offering: This is a time to share with the church how God has blessed us financially. If you are new, don’t feel you have to contribute.
Prayer time: We will pray together a couple of times throughout the service. On the last Sunday of each month, elders will be available to meet confidentially after services with anyone desiring spiritual, physical, emotional, or relational healing.
Refreshments: Join us for coffee and cookies in the back of the sanctuary after service! Stop by to introduce yourself, grab a treat and talk with other members and guests! Visitors may pick up a complementary gift mug and welcome packet at the Information Desk. If you have any questions, this is the place to find answers!
Formality: We have no dress code. Whether you are in jeans or a tux, we’re just glad you’re here! You are also welcome to sip your coffee or read along with scripture passages on your mobile devices. We just ask that you silence your phones as a courtesy to others.
What do you have for kids?
Your children are welcome to remain with you throughout the service! We love that our church is a welcoming place for families. We do have a nursery for children ages 0-3 years if you would prefer to use that. A cry room is available at the back of the Sanctuary (Room 4) for fussy children and nursing mothers. The room is equipped with in-house speakers so you may listen to the sermon. Children ages 3-7 are invited to participate in Children & Worship, an age-appropriate worship and learning time. Children start service with their parents and will be dismissed part way through. If you are unfamiliar with this program, you are encouraged to accompany your kids the first time. They can be picked up after each service in Room 5 on the lower level. Children 8 and older are encouraged to remain in the service with their parents. If they fill our a sermon notes card, they can turn it in at the information desk for a special treat!
During the school year, Christian education opportunities are available for children and adults. Learn more on our Groups page.
Where is the nursery?
The nursery is located on the second floor in the Family Life Center (see building map). Please sign your child in. Pagers are available if you wish to use them. We love babies and kids! Our nursery staff are caring and devoted to our little ones. We have toys, books, and activities galore to keep your little one busy! They might color and have a cup of cheerios, too!
How long is the service?
Services typically last about one hour.
What time should I get there?
Most people arrive 10-15 minutes before services begin. You may sit wherever you wish. Don’t worry if you are running late – we know it happens!
Where are you?
All of our contact information, including directions and a map, can be found on our Contact page.
How often do you serve communion?
Communion is typically served on the first Sunday of the even months.
Where should I park?
Our building has many entrances and ample parking (see building map). The North Entrance is the closest to the Sanctuary, the East and South Entrances are the closest to the gym, and the Southwest Entrance is the closest to the elevator. Don’t get worried or frustrated if you feel lost. We have lots of friendly faces. Just ask and we’ll point you in the right direction!
What if I want to become more involved?
Take a look at our Groups section if you are looking for Sunday school, youth groups, adult groups, etc. If you are looking to volunteer or participate in other service ministries, check out the Get Involved page and our Outreach and Support section.
What if I want to become a member?
Those considering membership should participate in one of our Discovery Classes (offered periodically throughout the year). We explain the basic beliefs and background of the Reformed Church in America and answer questions regarding our worship, ministry, and doctrine. Attending class in no way obligates you to join. Contact the office to find out when the next class is.
Who can I contact with questions or concerns?
You can contact our front office, and we will direct your call. If you prefer email, general questions can be sent to connections.rrc@gmail. If your email contains personal information of a sensitive nature, you can send it directly to Marcia in the front office. Staff email addresses can be found here.
Where can I learn more about Christianity?
Whether you are new to Christianity or just looking to further your faith, here are a few resources you may find helpful.
RCA: what we believe, the big questions, questions of faith, creeds/confessions
RCA: Our Reformed Church by Howard Hageman
Bible online: biblegateway.com
Bible online: biblia.com
Bible study tools: biblos.com
How to know God personally: from Campus Crusade for Christ (Cru)
