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NWC, OC, & the RCA: The Reformed Church in America

Brief Historical Sketch

The Reformed Church in America (RCA)

The Dutch Reformed Church of the Netherlands was founded in 1572 during the Protestant Reformation and was shaped theologically by John Calvin and other reformers. The name "Reformed" was originally used by churches to distinguish themselves from the Roman Catholic Church. 

About 400 years ago, Dutch settlers were the first to colonize what is now New York City, and they established the first Reformed Church in the United States in 1628. As a result, the Reformed Church in America is recognized as one of the oldest denominations in America. 

During the 19th century, Dutch immigrants began settling the newly opened frontier of the American West, resulting in the establishment of a domestic mission field for the eastern-based RCA. Between 1850 and 1860, 150 new Reformed churches were established. 

After the Dutch founded a new colony in Sioux County in 1870, the Board of Domestic Missions helped establish the First (Reformed) Church in Orange City in 1871. 

While the theological tenets of the Reformed faith remained consistent, the churches were slow to shed the use of the Dutch language in worship. For 140 years, Dutch was spoken in East Coast churches. This trend continued in the churches of the Midwest; church services in the First Reformed Church of Orange City were conducted in Dutch for nearly 90 years. 

The RCA is no longer a predominantly Dutch immigrant denomination and has actively tried to welcome people of all backgrounds. 

No, The RCA Isn't a Radio, Brochure, c. 1950s-1960s

"Reformed and always reforming." - RCA motto

Recognizing that humankind's sinful nature can corrupt God's church, the church adopted the word "reformed" in its denominational title because Christians are called to be "faithful to God's vision and reforming the church to follow God's will."

350th Commemorative Plate

Reformed Church in America, 1978

This plate features the RCA crest, an adaptation of the coat of arms of William the Silent, Prince of Orange, to whom the Netherlands owes its civil and religious independence. The town of Orange City is named after him. 

Two mottos: 

Nisi Dominus Frustra (Latin)– Without the Lord all is in vain 

Eendracht maakt Macht (Dutch) – In unity there is strength 

350th Commemorative Plate

Reformed Church in America, 1978

In 1628, Dutch immigrants founded New Amsterdam (now New York City) and established the first Dutch church in the United States. 

Delft Urn

Rev. John D. Dykstra (1885-1965)

Rev. Dykstra was the principal of Northwestern Academy from 1925-1927 and then became the pastor of the American Reformed Church in Orange City from 1927-1933. During the Depression years, Dykstra asked the congregation for a reduction in salary.  

The family of Rev. Dykstra donated this urn in his memory. This blue and white pottery, made in Delft, Netherlands, is a distinctive and popular form of Dutch ware. 

Further Reading