by Rev. Dr, Tim Verhey, February 2026

CHURCH

The Presbyterian Book of Order is impressive, even inspiring. If you haven’t studied it, I recommend you take a look. Far from merely a description of bureaucratic structures and processes, it is a theologically profound document. The first section, entitled “The Foundations of Presbyterian Polity,” includes the following paragraph about the church:

The mission of God in Christ gives shape and substance to the life and work of the church. In Christ, the Church participates in God’s mission for the transformation of creation and humanity by proclaiming to all people the good news of God’s love, offering to all people the grace of God at font and table, and calling all people to discipleship in Christ. Human beings have no higher goal in life than to glorify and enjoy God now and forever, living in covenant fellowship with God and participating in God’s mission. (Book of Order, F-1.0102)

At a retreat on Saturday, January 17th, the Session began discussing goals for the coming year, asking themselves what God is calling College Church to be and do in this time. The whole congregation had the opportunity to contribute to this discussion through the Reformed and Always Reforming Survey.

Together, the Session developed five broad goals or areas of focus for College Church as it participates in God’s Mission during this time and place:

1) Reaching Families and Young Adults by serving their needs;
2) Inviting Students more deeply into the Christian life and the church;
3) Renewing Opportunities for Spiritual Growth and Christian Education;
4) Organizing more opportunities for shared Community Service;
5) Membership Growth through outreach to the college and community

At their February Meeting, the Session will develop a new committee structure aimed at fulfilling these goals and drawing more people into active participation in the life and mission of College Church.

We enter Lent this month: a season of reflection on the road toward Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection. Over these forty days, I encourage you to consider ways that you can participate in College Church’s mission and help us reach the goals the Session is setting out for the coming years. Keep your eyes open for more details about the new committees and initiatives that are being developed. Your thoughts, prayers, and feedback are welcome. I am always eager to meet for coffee or lunch.

Shalom,
Pastor Tim