NR #1995-041: For Immediate Release
Beverly Christian Reformed Disbands After Receiving $125,000 Settlement from
Beverly CRC (Independent)

[Courtesy of The Trumpet]

WYOMING, Mich. (April 13, 1995) URNS - Beverly Christian Reformed Church
(Independent) has reached a final settlement with the minority members of the
former Beverly Christian Reformed Church. In September of 1992, the council
of Beverly CRC voted unanimously to leave the Christian Reformed
denomination. That decision was confirmed by the congregation two weeks
later. A tiny minority decided to attempt to carry on as Beverly CRC and
demanded a share of the church assets.

 The independent majority immediately agreed to a division of asset under the
rules of Acts of Synod 1970 which provides general guidelines for such a
division between continuing organized churches. After some early
communications between the groups, time was given for the Christian Reformed
minority to establish a continuing congregation. Preliminary negotiations
began in August 1993, and after several attempts to move forward with little
progress, serious negotiations took place in the fall of 1994.

 The $125,000 settlement was paid in full on October 25, 1994. Shortly
thereafter the minority, which documented a membership of 34 professing
members, voted to disband effective March 26, 1995. Beverly CRC (Independent)
continues to minister to 125 families with 351 members.


Contact List:

Rev. Art Besteman, Pastor, Beverly Christian Reformed Church (Independent)
 2420 Avon Ave. SW, Wyoming, MI  49509 * H/O: (616) 532-1708

Ken Boelema, Steering Committee Member, Beverly Christian Reformed Church
(continuing)
 2300 Sharon Ct. SW, Wyoming, MI  49509 * (616) 534-0794

Elder Ron Springvloed, Negotiator, Beverly Christian Reformed Church
(Independent)
 4097 Grandview Terrace, Grandville MI 49418 * (616) 530-3391




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