Founded in December 1951 the Christian Reformed Church of Sydney is a significant part of Sydney’s history. It’s one of the original congregations of the Christian Reformed Churches of Australia. Many Dutch migrants settled in Australia after World War II. They sought a spiritual home reflecting their Reformed heritage.
Initially these migrants were encouraged to join existing Presbyterian churches. However cultural and worship differences led to the formation of the Reformed Church of Sydney. Rev John Vander Bom a minister from the Netherlands played a vital role. He tirelessly travelled across Sydney connecting with Dutch migrants.
The church’s early years involved moving between several locations in Sydney’s city centre. This included St George’s Presbyterian Church Wembley House and St Phillip’s Anglican Church Hall. This constant movement reflects the challenges faced in establishing a new church community.
Eventually the congregation moved to the suburbs first using the Willoughby Congregational Church. In 1986 they purchased their own property in Ryde. Over the years people joined from many countries including Great Britain the USA Canada Japan New Zealand and Indonesia. A significant influx of South African migrants occurred since 1998. The church has provided a haven for migrants before they settled elsewhere.
In 2009 a new preaching place opened in Castle Hill. This area was home to many members and new migrants. The Christian Reformed Church of Sydney has been a spiritual anchor for generations of migrants. It continues to serve as a welcoming and inclusive community.