Frequently Asked Questions
Regional synods and classes are combining into one assembly, the middle assembly. It’s called “middle” because it’s between the consistory (the most local assembly, which governs a congregation) and the General Synod (the broadest assembly that oversees the ministry of the denomination). Some of the responsibilities of middle assemblies are to ordain, install, care for, and oversee ministers, and commission and oversee commissioned pastors; receive and support congregations and organize them as local churches; and evaluate, oversee, and support those who are seeking to become ministers in the RCA.
Learn more about the basics on the RCA’s FAQ page.
What are middle assemblies?
Who is in charge of forming the middle assemblies?
Regional synods have authority to form and disband classes within their bounds, and have been given the work of forming the initial middle assemblies. The restructuring team provided this guidance last year: “If CO 24-4 is adopted, each current regional synod is asked to work together with all of its classes to develop a plan by June 2025 to re-form into one or more middle assemblies” (Minutes of General Synod 2024, p. 111).
Learn more about the formation process on the RCA’s FAQ page.
What will the role of elder or deacon be in this new structure?
Elders and deacons have important roles in the RCA—leading in their local congregations, and with elder delegates also serving at classis, regional synod, and General Synod. After the transition to middle assemblies, these roles will be the same, except elder delegates will only be needed for two broader assemblies, rather than three.
Learn more about how governance will work on the RCA’s FAQ page.
For any other questions regarding the transition to middle assemblies, please visit the RCA’s FAQ page for more information.