Biblical values that shape the culture of a contemporary, Reformed, gospel-focused denomination:

1. Contemporary Reformed – we are confessional and contextual. (Eph. 4:3-6; 1 Cor. 11:2; 2 Thess. 2:15; 1 Cor. 9:19-23; Acts 14:8-18; 17:16-31)
2. Word Based – we are committed to biblical preaching, teaching, training, equipping (Rom 10:14-17; 2 Timothy 2:1-2; 3:16-17; Deut. 4:9 -14; Colossians 3:16; Eph. 4:11-16)
3. Gospel Focused – we are on mission in word and deed, both locally and globally: kingdom-oriented, outward looking, evangelistic, disciple-making, community- hearted (Micah 6:8; Isaiah 1:17; 61:1-11; Luke 4:18-19; Matt. 5:13-16; 6:33; 25:31-46; 28:18-20; Philippians 1:14; Acts 1:6-8; 4:31; Colossians 4:5-6; 1 Peter 2:9-12;
   3:15-16; Rev. 5:9-10)
4. Local Church Empowering – we are light on structures and hierarchy, high on support, partnership, mutual accountability and encouragement (Matt. 20:24-28; 25:14-30; Heb. 13:17; 1 Thess. 5:11; 2 Cor. 1:24; 8:23; Phil. 1:5; 4:15; 3 John 1:5-8; 1 Pet 5:3)
5. Prayerful Urgency – we are humbly dependent upon God and filled with prayerful, sacrificial compassion for the lost in all the world (Isa. 62:6; Acts 2:42; Matt. 6:5-13; Rom. 10:1; Eph. 6:10-20; 1 Tim. 2:1-4; 1 Thess. 5:17; Jude 20)

Ministry Formation and the TRAIN Workgroup promotes and provides resourcing for the SHIFT Coaching initiative. All CRCA pastors are encouraged to establish a coaching relationship for themselves where a series of questions can be intentionally and regularly discussed. This coaching relationship could be with a ministerial peer, an elder, a wise and mature member of the congregation, or in a professional relationship. Church Councils are also prompted to review their actions toward the professional development of their pastor(s). 

The CRCA Candidacy Committee is part of TRAIN. In the CRCA, we encourage candidates for ordination to study through the Reformed Theological College (RTC). Once candidates have completed their studies they will need to complete a vicariate (a one year internship alongside a senior minister). The training process and vicariate placement are overseen by the Candidacy Committee (CC) who approve students as Ministry Candidates. 

The TRAIN Workgroup partners with the RTC - Melbourne in the raising up of gospel workers.  RTC is an independent, non-denominational college in the heart of Melbourne’s city. Our experienced and engaging lecturers help men and women connect reformed evangelical theology to the realities of life and ministry. Warm relationships and rich interactions make our community feel like a family.