How about a church that embodies multiculturalism. Hillcrest Christian Reformed Church is such a place. Welcome. I am excited to share its unique story with you.
Hillcrest Christian Reformed Church is more than just a building. It is a vibrant community. This community welcomes everyone. It draws broken people together. They build healthy relationships. These relationships are with God and each other.
In October 1961, a new chapter began. Several Christian Reformed churches in Denver were becoming too crowded. The Hampden Hills Baptist church at 3000 S. Race St. was purchased. This marked the beginning of a new congregation.
In March 1962, fifty-nine families plus four individuals found a new church home. That’s a total of 363 people. They named it Hillcrest Christian Reformed Church. The first worship service took place on March 4, 1962.
After years of ministry, a significant change occurred in 1995. Many members left. They helped form another CRC in Highland Hills. This led to a decline in Hillcrest CRC. It became difficult to sustain.
In 2004, a new element was added to the story. Several Chinese families sought deeper faith. These were mostly first-generation Christian converts. They began meeting and fellowshipping together.
On January 3, 2005, they held their first worship service. It was at their leader’s residence. This was the birth of the Chinese Christian Assembly in Denver. It’s also known as CCAID. They focused on ministry to Chinese immigrants.
Sensing a need to reach Chinese students and scholars, they moved in 2009. They found a location near the University of Denver. This new home became shared with Hillcrest CRC.
Soon, Hillcrest CRC saw a possibility. Both congregations could unite. Together, they could enhance their ministries. In 2010, the churches began combined services once a month. This became an effective period of courtship.
Each church brought unique strengths. CCAID had productive outreach to Chinese-speaking residents and students. Hillcrest had a strong theological tradition and broad resources within the CRC.
In 2012, the two churches decided to merge into one. They would operate under the CRC. On October 7, 2012, Hillcrest Christian Church became the new home for both Hillcrest CRC and CCAID.
Today, Hillcrest Christian Reformed Church embraces its multicultural identity. It welcomes people of all backgrounds. Some are young, some are old. Some speak Chinese, some English. Some are new to faith, others are long-time Christians. Some are searching. The Gospel of Jesus Christ unites this diverse community. They strive to be one family.
The church’s mission is clear. They want the world to experience God’s deep love. They bring diverse people together. They invite you to join them. Celebrate what God is doing within their community. They faithfully teach the Bible. They equip people to share their faith. They create an atmosphere of grace. They develop close relationships with their neighborhood. They are faithful stewards. God’s blessings flow through them locally and globally.
Hillcrest Christian Reformed Church stands as a testament to unity. It embraces diversity. It shares the love of Jesus Christ. It is a beacon of hope.