Hank Bowen | The Roots, Legacy, and Influence of the Reformed Church in the United States

In this episode of Christ the Center, we welcome Rev. Hank Bowen, pastor of First Reformed Church in Aberdeen, South Dakota, for an insightful conversation on the Reformed Church in the United States (RCUS). Together with Camden Bucey and Ryan Noha, Rev. Bowen traces the rich historical roots of the RCUS, from its German Palatinate origins through its development in America. The discussion covers the denomination’s key theological influences, particularly its connections with the Heidelberg Catechism, and its intersections with other Reformed traditions such as the Orthodox Presbyterian Church (OPC).

As they reflect on the challenges and blessings the RCUS has faced over the centuries, including its role in resisting liberalism and promoting confessional orthodoxy, the conversation highlights the enduring legacy and ongoing influence of the RCUS in Reformed theology today. Whether you are a familiar with the RCUS or new to its history, this episode offers valuable reflections on the faithfulness of God through the generations.

Chapters

• [00:00:07] Introduction
• [00:01:26] Overview of the Reformed Church in the U.S. (RCUS)
• [00:02:53] Updates from Reformed Forum
• [00:05:40] The History and Formation of the RCUS
• [00:08:14] Celebrating the 300th Synod of the RCUS
• [00:11:32] Rev. Bowen’s Personal Testimony
• [00:13:25] The RCUS and Theological Challenges
• [00:20:15] The Influence of Westminster Seminary on the RCUS
• [00:24:02] The Importance of Catechesis and the Heidelberg Catechism
• [00:33:33] Church Planting and Home Missions in the RCUS
• [00:37:55] Ecumenical Relations with the OPC and the URCNA
• [00:46:45] RCUS Foreign Missions Strategy
• [00:57:08] Rev. Bowen’s Doctoral Research and Pastoral Burnout
• [01:00:14] Conclusion and Final Thoughts