Hillcrest’s History

Hillcrest CRC is a congregation that welcomes purposeful change. During the 40+ years of its history many changes have taken place both in society at large and in the church. We have had the courage to resist those changes that we believe are unhealthy for the church and its life; yet we have been willing to incorporate those that we believe will promote our life of service, worship and growth. We pray that we may always be faithful to the responsibilities and opportunities given us.

Plans for a New Congregation 

During the decade of peace and prosperity of the 1950's, plans were made for a new congregation in Hudsonville, because the others were crowded and the community promised continued growth.  The deadly tornado of April 3, 1956 set those plans aside temporarily by casting our community into tragedy and sorrow. But the interruption was short-lived, and the vision and courage of many carried forward.

The Foundations of Hillcrest

On May 29, 1956 an organizational meeting was held with 40 member families.  Rev. Lubbertus Oostendorp began serving as the first pastor in 1957 and the church met in Unity Christian High School’s gym until 1960. Ground breaking for the sanctuary took place on March 19, 1960.  Construction was completed in September 1960. 

Our Leadership

Hillcrest has been blessed with senior pastors including Rev. Lubbertus Oostendorp, Rev. Henry Van Wyk, Rev. Menno Jorritsma and Rev. Howard Vanderwell.  Pastor Larry Slings served as Interim Pastor.  Youth pastors have included Rev. Ken Schepel, Rich Verkaik, Rev. Mark Stephenson and Rev. Bob Vance.  Pastor Brian Bosscher joined Hillcrest in March 2007 and continues to serve as our Senior Pastor. 

Hillcrest’s members are faithful in worshiping regularly and we've been marked as a congregation with outstanding congregational singing and music ministries.   Our Directors of Music have included Norma de Waal Malefyt and Carrie Vander Hulst. 

 Expansion

Over the years, Hillcrest daughtered four churches: Messiah CRC, Georgetown CRC, Cornerstone CRC and Evergreen Ministries. In the fall of 1990, double morning worship services began to accommodate all.In April 2001, ground breaking was held for a new addition including the multipurpose room and classrooms.Today, we have grown to approximately 850 members.