Frequently Asked Questions

Why are you called the “Free” Reformed church?

Our name derives from the fact that our denomination was born out of a split with the Dutch state church. The Reformed church in the Netherlands, prior to 1834, was under the control of the Dutch government. In 1834, a group split off from this state-run church and saw itself as freed from state control. The document they wrote and signed on this occasion is here. This split is known in Dutch as the Afscheiding, and the current FRC denomination traces its roots to this secession. Read more.

How can I know what your church believes?

The beliefs of the FRC can be found in the Three Forms of Unity or here.

What are the Three Forms of Unity?

These three documents are a statement of what FRC members understand the Bible to teach. They are the Belgic Confession of Faith, the Heidelberg Catechism, and the Canons of Dordt.

What is the Belgic Confession?

The Belgic Confession was a document written by Guido deBres in defense of the Huguenots living in France. Younger children will enjoy this book, older children this book and this book is a complete exposition of the Belgic Confession.

What are the Canons of Dordt?

In 1618, a national synod was held in the city of Dordrecht. This synod was called to resolve a series of disagreements between the Remonstrants and the counter-Remonstrants. The Remonstrants had written up a Remonstrance which protested the Calvinistic beliefs of the Reformed church in the Netherlands. The counter-Remonstrants responded at this synod with the Canons. Hence, the Canons define our position on what is popularly known as the Five Points of Calvinism. Children will enjoy this book on the great synod.

What is the Heidelberg Catechism?

This document is written in questions and answers to facilitate the task of instructing children and young people. It was written by Zacharias Ursinus and Caspar Olevianus. You can read more about our catechism here.