A New Arbor Vision in Michigan

After 27 years serving under the name of Calvary Bible Church, the congregation has changed its name to New Arbor Bible Church.

Brian Jones, senior pastor of the church since 2010, said the church’s leaders investigated more than 20 names before settling on New Arbor Bible Church. We were looking for something that was unique without being weird, he said. We also wanted a name that touched on what we’re seeking to accomplish for the glory of God.

New Arbor Bible Church is envisioned as a collection of believers in Jesus Christ, planted in God's word and growing spiritually—individually and collectively—like an arbor of healthy trees.

The Bible Church part of the name continues the commitment to teach the scripture for salvation in Jesus Christ and spiritual growth. The church’s theology and approach to ministry has not changed.

The Arbor part of name connects Ann Arbor and the region the church serves. It also reflects biblical imagery. The word arbor is the Latin word for tree. In English, it refers to a sheltering roof formed by the spreading of branching trees. The Bible uses the metaphor of trees to describe a strong, thriving spiritual life. Psalm 1:3 says that those who delight in God’s word are like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.

The word New in New Arbor Bible Church reflects the transforming grace of God. As it has since its founding in 1998, the church will continue to present the gospel of Jesus Christ to the world. Lives are made new in Jesus Christ. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

We’re looking toward the people of the Ann Arbor region converting to faith in Jesus Christ. We want to see God plant a New Arbor in us and through us by the power of God, for the glory of God, said Brian.