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Two Belvidere churches to join together
ANNE EICKSTADT PHOTO Belvidere Daily Republican
Pastor Adam Reardon and Dr. Rev. Robert Kopp and their congregations are now sharing the same facilities as they overcome denominational barriers.
“It’s an amazing thing going on,” said Dr. Rev. Robert Kopp of First Presbyterian Church on the corner of Lincoln and Main. “With Adam and Redemption Church joining us. It’s part of a vision I have had. This is not being done for anything other than advancing the kingdom. Adam’s church could continue growing on its own. This is not about finances.
“I think this will be seismic. It will promote real unity within God’s church. This is walking the talk, not just window dressing. We are overjoyed. There will be overlapping ministries with Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and Youth ministries.
“My confidence in Adam is solid. He is a man who is sold out to Jesus by the Book, in the Spirit, with enthusiasm, and without equivocation. It also proves that God is calling His people into a post-denominational age.”
Pastor Adam Reardon said, “ We’re excited about this opportunity. We have been meeting at the YMCA for the last couple of years. I am thankful to Bob and First Presbyterian for opening their doors. We believe that we can accomplish more together.
“First Presbyterian is a beautiful facility. We are really excited about that and partnering together. We believe it will have a great impact on the community.”
“I am not coasting,” Dr. Kopp said. “Retirement is not on my radar. Someone asked me recently whether, after over a dozen years, I could just coast for the next decade, but I am not going to. I still need to continue preparing the church as it faces three significant challenges.
“One: there is increasing hostility against Christians and churches in government, courts, education, and entertainment.
“Two: we are in a post denominational age. After four decades of increasing intimacy with Jesus, I find no faithful rationalization for tribalism aka denominations.
“Three: The Korean and World War II generations are going home to Jesus. They are the ones paying the bills. We must be better stewards of what God entrusts to us.
“I am very thankful for God placing Adam into our life and ministry as an undershepherd to the Good Shepherd on the corner of Lincoln and Main.”
