Who We Are
OUR VISION
A renewed city, through a renewed people, to restore a lost and broken world, for God’s glory.
OUR MISSION
Multiplying churches, multiplying disciples, locally and globally
OUR VALUES
Gospel Centered
Intentionally-Formed
Embracing the Gospel, Applying the Gospel, and Proclaiming the Gospel
Prayer Saturated
Cultivating a culture of prayer and all we think, decisions we make, and priorities we set in our lives
Living a life where spiritual formation is integrated into everything we do
Missionally Driven
Embracing God's mission, understanding what mission demands of us, and living as mission, ambassador
What We Believe
The Nature of God
We believe in one God who exists eternally and simultaneously as three persons - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - each equal in divinity and authority. This mystery, known as the Trinity, reveals a God who exists in both unity and community. God has always existed in perfect love and fellowship within Himself and invites us to share in that love.
The triune God is the Creator of all things, sovereign over history, and full of grace and truth. God is holy and just, compassionate and faithful—worthy of our worship, trust, and obedience. (Gen. 1:26; Matt. 28:19)
The Person and Work of Jesus
Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God, fully divine and fully human. He entered our world to rescue and redeem. Through His sinless life, sacrificial death on the cross, burial, and bodily resurrection, Jesus made a way for us to be restored to relationship with God.
Jesus ascended into heaven, is seated at the right hand of the Father, and now reigns as King. One day, He will return to bring all things to their fulfillment - renewing creation, judging evil, and gathering His people to Himself. Until that day, we live as His disciples, proclaiming and practicing the good news of His kingdom. (Rom. 5:6–8; Acts 1:9–11)
The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is God's personal presence with us and within us. He draws people to Christ, awakens hearts to the truth, and empowers believers to lead lives filled with love, holiness, and purpose. The Holy Spirit grants us spiritual discernment and helps us understand God's Word. When a person places their faith in Jesus, the Holy Spirit comes to dwell inside them.
The Spirit gives spiritual gifts to be used for the good of others, the building up of the church, and the renewal of the world. He also sanctifies us, growing us more and more into the likeness of Christ. We depend on the Spirit’s guidance, power, and presence in every part of our lives with God. (1 Cor. 3:16; Eph. 1:13–14; 1 Cor. 12)
The Doctrine of The Church
The Church is the people of God who are called, gathered, and sent into the world to live in relationship with Him and one another. It is not a building or a Sunday event, but a Spirit-empowered community of people who confess Jesus as Lord. The Church is both universal and local, expressed globally through the body of Christ and locally through gatherings like Centerpoint.
Jesus is the head of the Church, and through the Holy Spirit, He gives each believer spiritual gifts to serve and build up the body. In Ephesians 4, we see that Christ has also given specific leadership roles, including apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds, and teachers, to equip the Church for works of service and to lead us into unity, maturity, and fullness in Christ. We believe the Church flourishes when the entirety of these gifts from each believer are active and aligned.
The Church is the community of all true believers across all times and places. Its purpose is threefold: ministry to God through worship (Col. 3:16; Eph. 1:12), ministry to one another through spiritual growth and care (Col. 1:28; Eph. 4:12–13), and ministry to the world through evangelism and acts of mercy (Matt. 28:19; Luke 4:40; Luke 6:35–36). We are a sent people, joining God in His mission of restoration and renewal in the world. At Centerpoint, we long to see a renewed city where the good news of Jesus transforms lives, families, and communities.
We gather regularly to worship, grow in Christlikeness, care for one another, and live on mission together—because faith was never meant to be lived alone.
(Eph. 2:19–22; Eph. 4:1–16; Acts 2:42–47; 1 Cor. 12:12–27)
Human Sexuality
We believe that every person is created in the image of God and is deeply loved by Him. At Centerpoint, we seek to be a church where all people are welcome, valued, and invited into a growing relationship with Jesus. We recognize that questions of sexuality, identity, and belonging are often deeply personal and complex, and we are committed to walking with people in grace, truth, and compassion.
As a church, we hold to the historic Christian view that God designed sexual intimacy to be expressed within the covenant of marriage between one man and one woman. This conviction is shaped by Scripture and rooted in our desire to honor God's design for human flourishing. At the same time, we acknowledge that every person’s story is unique, and we are committed to loving and respecting those whose experiences or convictions may differ from ours.
We do not see our role as gatekeepers but as fellow travelers, learning to follow Jesus together. We trust the Holy Spirit to do the transforming work in people’s hearts and lives, and we aim to be a community where everyone can wrestle with faith, ask honest questions, and take steps toward Christ.
Our invitation is the same for all: come, encounter Jesus, and discover what it means to live as a beloved child of God. (Gen. 1:27; Matt. 19:4–6; 1 Cor. 6:18–20; Eph. 5:1–2. See also: Rom. 2:4, 14:1; John 16:13)
Multicultural Ministry
We believe that the Church is meant to reflect the beautiful diversity of God's kingdom. From the beginning, God's redemptive plan has included people from every tribe, language, and nation. In Christ, we are made one—united not by culture, background, or status, but by the Spirit.
At Centerpoint, we desire to be a community that both celebrates diversity and pursues deep unity in Christ. We believe this kind of unity is only possible through humility, mutual love, and a willingness to learn from one another. Racial reconciliation, cross-cultural relationships, and shared leadership are not optional—they are central to our discipleship.
Multicultural ministry is not a program; it is part of who we are becoming as we seek to live out the gospel together. We are committed to creating spaces where people of all cultures and ethnicities can belong, lead, and flourish as part of the family of God. (Rev. 7:9–10; Gal. 3:28; Eph. 2:14–22; Rom. 12:4–5)
Biblical Worldview
We believe that discipleship to Jesus means learning to see all of life through the lens of Scripture. A biblical worldview is more than agreeing with certain doctrines—it’s allowing the story of God to shape the way we think, love, and live in the world. As we immerse ourselves in God’s Word and grow in relationship with Him, we begin to see more clearly who He is, who we are, and how we are called to live.
This doesn’t mean we will always have simple answers or certainty in every situation. However, we believe the Bible gives us the foundation for discernment, wisdom, and faithful living in a complex world. As apprentices of Jesus, we are invited to be formed by His truth—not by culture, fear, or personal preference.
At Centerpoint, we encourage one another to think biblically, live relationally, and walk in step with the Spirit. A biblical worldview is not just about what we believe—it’s about becoming people who reflect the character of Jesus in every sphere of life.
(Rom. 12:1–2; 2 Tim. 3:16–17; Col. 3:16–17; John 17:17; Prov. 3:5–6)
One God
There is One God, who exists eternally as a Trinity of three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. (Gen. 1:26, Matt. 28:19)
Jesus
Jesus paid the price for our sins; to restore our relationship with God, He died on the cross, was buried, rose from the dead, and ascended into heaven. At God’s appointed time, He will return to the earth and bring all things to their final destination. (Rom. 5:6-8)
The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit comes to live within a person who personally believes the truth that Christ died for their sins and bends their knee to King Jesus. He blesses us with spiritual gifts to be used for the common good - to serve others and renew the world. He also sanctifies us so that we become more and more like Him. (1 Cor. 3:16, Eph. 1:13-14, 1 Cor. 12)
The Authority of Scripture
We believe the Bible is the inspired, inerrant Word of God. It was written by human authors under the guidance of the Holy Spirit—preserving their unique voices and experiences while communicating God's truth. The Scriptures reveal who God is, what He is like, and how we are invited to live in relationship with Him.
The Bible is our final authority in all matters of faith and life. Through it, God speaks to us, shapes us, and reveals His redemptive story from beginning to end. We seek to be a community formed by Scripture and learning to read it not just for information, but for transformation.
(2 Tim. 3:16–17)
Sin and The Human Condition
We were created by God to live in loving relationship with Him and one another. But through the sin of pride and rebellion, humanity turned away. The story of Adam and Eve is our story too. We have all sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
Because of sin, we are separated from God and unable to save ourselves. Yet even in our brokenness, God’s love remains. He pursues us, invites us back to Himself, and makes a way for healing and restoration through Jesus. (Rom. 5:12–14; Rom. 3:23)
Salvation
Salvation is a gift of grace. We are not saved by being good people or doing good things, but by placing our trust in Jesus Christ. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus offers forgiveness, new life, and a restored relationship with God.
Faith in Christ is the only pathway to true restoration and transformation. When we trust in Him, we are welcomed into the family of God and begin a lifelong journey of becoming more like Jesus - living out the good news of the gospel in every area of life. (Eph. 2:8–9; John 1:12)
End Times Perspective
We believe that history is moving toward a day when Jesus will return in glory to make all things new. At the appointed time, Christ will come again to judge the living and the dead, fully establish His kingdom, and bring God's redemptive story to completion.
Though there are differing views within the global Church about the timeline and details of the end times, we hold fast to what is clear: Jesus will return bodily and victoriously, evil will be defeated, and God's justice and mercy will prevail. There will be a resurrection of the dead, and God will dwell with His people in a renewed heaven and earth.
Our hope is not rooted in fear or speculation but in the sure promise of Christ's return. Until that day, we are called to live with purpose—devoted to Jesus, bearing witness to His love, and joining His work of renewal in the world.
We long for His coming, and we live faithfully in the present because we know how the story ends. (Rev. 21:1–5; 1 Thess. 4:13–18; Matt. 24:36; 2 Peter 3:9–13; Acts 1:11)
Faithful Presence in a Divided Culture
We live in a time of deep division—politically, socially, and spiritually. In the face of polarization and outrage, we believe the Church is called not to win a culture war, but to bear faithful witness to Jesus. Our hope is not in earthly power or partisan victories, but in the kingdom of God, which is not of this world.
At Centerpoint, we seek to be a people of love, humility, and truth in the public square. We engage culture not with hostility or fear, but with wisdom, courage, and compassion; refusing to mirror the tactics of the world. Our allegiance is to Christ alone, and we desire that our words and actions reflect His character.
We believe that spiritual formation is more powerful than political argument and that the fruit of the Spirit is more persuasive than outrage. In a world that often chooses sides, we choose the way of Jesus: truth and grace, conviction and kindness, holiness and hospitality.
As we navigate complex cultural realities, we seek to be present, engaged, and discerning. Trusting the Spirit to guide us as we live out the gospel in public and private life. (John 18:36; 2 Cor. 5:20; Col. 4:5–6; Gal. 5:22–23; Micah 6:8)
Justice
We believe that justice is close to God's heart. Throughout Scripture, we see God’s deep concern for the vulnerable, the oppressed, and the marginalized. Justice is not separate from the gospel; it is part of how we live out Jesus's love in the world.
At Centerpoint, we seek to be a church that does justice, loves mercy, and walks humbly with God (Micah 6:8). This means confronting injustice, standing with the vulnerable, and working toward restoration in both personal relationships and societal systems. Justice is not about taking sides, it’s about joining Jesus in His mission to make all things new.
Our pursuit of justice flows from a heart transformed by grace. We do not serve or advocate to earn favor with God but in response to the love we’ve received. We want to be a people who not only speak the truth but also live it in ways that bring healing, dignity, and hope. (Micah 6:8; Isaiah 1:17; Luke 4:18–19; James 2:14–17; Matt. 23:23)
Living On Mission
We believe that every follower of Jesus is called to live on mission. This is not limited to going overseas or entering vocational ministry, it means living with purpose, wherever God has placed us. We are sent people, joining God in His work of renewal in our homes, workplaces, neighborhoods, and the world.
At Centerpoint, our vision is to see a renewed city through a renewed people. We believe the gospel transforms not just individuals, but communities. As we grow in Christ, we are also sent by Christ. We are called to share the good news, serve with love, and seek justice in everyday life.
Living on mission isn’t about doing more; it’s about aligning our lives with God’s mission. Whether it’s caring for a neighbor, mentoring a student, praying for our coworkers, or stepping into a local or global outreach opportunity, we believe God uses ordinary people to reflect His love and bring His hope to the world. (Matt. 28:18–20; John 20:21; Acts 1:8; Jer. 29:7; 2 Cor. 5:18–20)
Covenant Partnership
At Centerpoint, we use the term "Covenant Partner" instead of "member." A Covenant Partner is someone who has made a commitment to follow Jesus and to be an active part of our church community. This partnership is about working together, a shared faith, and walking the spiritual journey together.
Denomination/Network
Centerpoint is a Kingdom Network Church
The Kingdom Network is a community of churches committed to: Making Disciples, Raising up Leaders, and Planting new churches. We partner with a group of local churches in the Southwest Michigan area to seek ways to bring Kingdom ministry to our neighbors and to our city. Our network is a covenant community that shares Reformed Theology and a commitment to accountability. We desire to train and equip followers of Jesus and new ministry leaders with firm Theology and Spirit driven lives.
The Whole Story
It was the year 1889 that Protestant Dutch immigrants, establishing their families in the Kalamazoo Valley, joined together to find a place to worship on the Northside of Kalamazoo. Following that first gathering in an apple orchard, Third Reformed Church was formally organized on August 6, 1889 and began meeting in a small cattle shed. The church began with holding three services each Sunday in the Dutch language and it was not until 1924 that the first service in English was held.
On January 1, 1890 , the first sermon was preached in a new facility built on the corner of South Westnedge Avenue and Elizabeth Street; in the heart of the Dutch community in Kalamazoo. The church's growth peaked in the 1960's, and then a gradual decline began as the church was unable to effectively reach the changing community around it.
In 1978, ten acres were purchased to build a new facility. On April 12, 1981, the first services were help at our current campus. An education wing was added in 1984, and as the church continued to grow, a 1,200-seat worship center was built with a nursery/education expansion in 2001. In 2007, a community center was built with two full-length basketball courts, weight room, cafe, and student ministry center. In 2009, our church name was changed from Third Reformed to Centerpoint Church; however, we remained a part of the Reformed Church in America denomination.
With gratitude to God for His faithfulness, Centerpoint Church has successfully planted five daughter churches, which in turn have also planted daughter churches.; fulfilling our ongoing mission of being a sending church. Centerpoint Church established a second campus in 2018 called Centerpoint City Church. In partnership with Centerpoint City Church, Iglesia de la Ciudad was established, meeting at the Centerpoint City Church location. Today, Centerpoint Church serves a five-generation congregation under our new vision of a renewed city, through a renewed people, to restore a lost and broken world for God's glory.
Our History
It was the year 1889 that Protestant Dutch immigrants, establishing their families in the Kalamazoo Valley, joined together to find a place to worship on the Northside of Kalamazoo. Following that first gathering in an apple orchard, Third Reformed Church was formally organized on August 6, 1889 and began meeting in a small cattle shed. The church began with holding three services each Sunday in the Dutch language and it was not until 1924 that the first service in English was held.
On January 1, 1890 , the first sermon was preached in a new facility built on the corner of South Westnedge Avenue and Elizabeth Street; in the heart of the Dutch community in Kalamazoo. The church's growth peaked in the 1960's, and then a gradual decline began as the church was unable to effectively reach the changing community around it.
In 1978, ten acres were purchased to build a new facility. On April 12, 1981, the first services were help at our current campus. An education wing was added in 1984, and as the church continued to grow, a 1,200-seat worship center was built with a nursery/education expansion in 2001. In 2007, a community center was built with two full-length basketball courts, weight room, cafe, and student ministry center. In 2009, our church name was changed from Third Reformed to Centerpoint Church; however, we remained a part of the Reformed Church in America denomination.
With gratitude to God for His faithfulness, Centerpoint Church has successfully planted five daughter churches, which in turn have also planted daughter churches.; fulfilling our ongoing mission of being a sending church. Centerpoint Church established a second campus in 2018 called Centerpoint City Church. In partnership with Centerpoint City Church, Iglesia de la Ciudad was established, meeting at the Centerpoint City Church location. Today, Centerpoint Church serves a five-generation congregation under our new vision of a renewed city, through a renewed people, to restore a lost and broken world for God's glory.
