PRC and Sister-Church News for the Week of September 9, 2018

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On this thirty-sixth Lord's Day of 2018, September 9, we provide the following news and information concerning PRC congregations, the Seminary, mission fields, and sister churches.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS:

Rev. R. Kleyn (Covenant of Grace PRC, Spokane, WA) has been considering the call from Grandville PRC to serve as minister on loan in our sister church in Singapore. Today, Rev. Kleyn informed Covenant ERC and his own congregation that he DECLINED this call.
On August 26 the congregation of Grandville PRC voted to extend a call to Rev. N. Decker (pastor of Trinity PRC). He plans to answer by Sept.23.
Today is the day Southeast PRC (Grand Rapids, MI) begins worshiping at Adams Christian School in Wyoming, MI, having recently sold and vacated her former building.
From our Pittsburgh (PA) PRC comes this special announcement of an upcoming event: "Save the evening of October 5 at 7:30 pm. Rev. A. Stewart from our sister church in Ireland will be here to give a speech about Martin Luther and his wife Katie."

DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

Classis West: We have now received the official public report of the Aug.29-30 meeting from the stated clerk:

Classis West met in regular session on August 29-30, 2018. The meeting was hosted by Peace PRC (Lansing, IL), but all sessions were held in the facilities of the neighboring Crete PRC since Peace is in the process of transitioning to a new building. Rev. John Marcus chaired the meeting.

The highlight of this meeting was the examination of Pastor-elect Jonathan Langerak who had received and accepted the call extended to him by Heritage PRC (Sioux Falls, SD). Mr. Langerak led a worship service on the night before Classis, expounding God's Word from Proverbs 3:5-6. He was then examined the following day in the six loci of Dogmatics, Knowledge of Scripture, Knowledge of the Confessions, Controversy, and Practica. With the concurrence of the synodical deputies from Classis East, Classis unanimously approved his examination and advised Heritage PRC to proceed to his ordination into the ministry. Mr. Langerak was ordained in a special worship service held on August 31. We give thanks to God for supplying another under-shepherd, and pray for God's blessings upon the ministry of Rev. Jonathan Langerak.

In closed session, Classis dealt with the request of a consistory to increase censure on an impenitent member. After hearing evidence of the member's impenitence and the consistory's careful labor, Classis advised them to proceed to making the second announcement of the second step of discipline.

Classis was also informed by a consistory that it had, with the concurrence of a neighboring consistory, suspended its pastor from exercising his office, and that it sought Classis' approval to proceed with his deposition. With great sadness, Classis voted unanimously to advise the consistory to proceed, and the synodical deputies concurred.

On its agenda Classis also had an appeal from a member of a congregation against the decisions of his consistory. Classis declared two parts of the appeal not legally before it as it was not finished at the consistory level. Classis did enter into one part of the appeal and gave careful instruction to both the appellant and the consistory concerning the procedural issues which were raised. By decision Classis also reminded the appellant of the importance of brevity in submitting materials and the importance of being patient with his consistory as they work through the issues.

Classis also approved an overture from Hull PRC to Synod 2019 to add a statement to the bylaws of the denomination regarding our stance on marriage and homosexuality and to write policies regarding this issue that might be adopted by local consistories to aid them in the legal protection of their property against lawsuits. Classis judged that the overture made compelling arguments for the legal protection afforded by such an action and that it would be helpful to local consistories.

The following classical appointment schedule for Immanuel PRC (Lacombe, AB) was drawn up: Rev. N. Langerak (September 16 and 23), Rev. R. Barnhill (October 7 and 14), Rev. S. Regnerus (October 21 and 28), Rev. E. Guichelaar (December 9 and 16), Rev. B. Huizinga (January 13 and 20), Rev. M. De Boer (January 27 and February 3), Rev. J. Laning (February 17 and 24), Rev. J. Engelsma (March 17 and 24), Rev. S. Key (March 31 and April 7), Rev. D. Lee (April 21 and 28), and Rev. A. Brummel (May 12 and 19).

The expenses of Classis totaled $9,350.47.

The next meeting of Classis West is scheduled for March 6, 2019, in Heritage PRC, the Lord willing.

Rev. Joshua Engelsma, Stated Clerk, Classis West
Classis East will meet in regular session this week Wednesday, September 12th, beginning at 8 AM in Grace Protestant Reformed Church.

This year's PRC Seminary students (photo taken at this year's PRC Seminary Convocation (see note below)

PRC Seminary News:

Seminary Convocation was held this past Wednesday, September 5, at Providence PRC. For more on this event (including pictures and a short video clip of the special music), visit this webpage.
Seminary began its classes on Wednesday, Aug.29. Besides our seniors (Matt K. and Jacob M. - internships - cf.. note below), we have two other seminary students this year: third-year student Josiah Tan and first-year student Marcus Wee (who arrived this week with his wife and son), both from our sister church in Singapore, Covenant ERC. In addition, four young men are taking different levels of pre-seminary Greek from Profs. R. Dykstra and B. Gritters at the seminary.
The internships of Seminarians Matt Kortus and Jacob Maatman officially began July 1. Sem. Kortus is interning at Trinity PRC under Rev. N. Decker and his Council. Sem. Maatman is interning at Hudsonville PRC under Rev. G. Eriks and his Council. The internship program runs from July 1 to December 31.
The PRC Synod 2018 took a decision urging “the churches and the pastors in particular in their public prayers to pray the Lord of the harvest for able, faithful, and devoted pastors and teachers (Ephesians 4:11) for us and our children, as well as for the gathering of the elect out of the nations (Matthew 28:19).” A number of ministers are nearing the age of emeritation, and the number of students in the seminary at this time will not be sufficient to fill the upcoming needs of our churches either in our own congregations or in the work of missions. Please remember this urgent need in your prayers and encourage young men whom you observe to have the gifts to consider the ministry.
The Seminary faculty along with Trinity PRC Evangelism Committee are working on plans for a Spring 2019 conference to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the great Synod of Dordt, 1618-19-2018-19. The following announcement is now being publicized:

Dordt 400: On behalf of the PRC Seminary, Trinity PRC is hosting a 3-day conference for the 400th anniversary of the Synod of Dordt on April 25-27. Mark your calendars and visit our website at dordt400.org

The Dordt 400 Conference includes a Writing Contest with great prizes. If you are looking for a way to use your writing skills, visit our website at dordt400.org and start working on your essay.

Read the latest newsletter of Covenant ERC (*cf. note below)

SISTER-CHURCH NEWS

Concerning our sister church in Singapore, Covenant ERC, we may note the following items:
- Synod 2018 gave approval to the request of Covenant ERC in Singapore that a minister-on-loan be called to labor in their midst during their present vacancy, and appointed Grandville PRC the calling church. On August 5 the congregation voted to call Rev. R. Kleyn from a trio that also included Rev. G. Eriks and Rev. S. Key. He plans to answer this call by Sept.9 (TODAY). *Note: Rev. Kleyn has DECLINED this call.
- Rev. D. Kleyn and his wife are in the CERC yet today, as our missionary to the Philippines assists in preaching and teaching. This is the note in her bulletin today - including news of her next helper:
  "This week we bid farewell to Rev Daniel Kleyn and Sharon after he peaches in this Lord’s Day. Rev Daniel Kleyn and Sharon will be heading back to the Philippines on Tuesday 11 September.... We thank Rev Daniel Kleyn for taking time off from his busy schedule in the Philippines to minister to us for the past week. We thank God for maintaining the supply for our pulpit during the times while we wait for His appointed MOL.
  
  We look forward to have Rev. Audred Spriensma and his wife, Alva, to arrive next Saturday 15 September.... Rev. Spriensma and Alva will be with us for three Sundays. Besides preaching, Rev Spriensma will be teaching the secondary level Catechism class and the Pre-Confession the class."
- Also, from her bulletin today we find another note about her mission work in India: "We thank God for a fruitful trip to Kolkata by Eld Leong and Eld Wee as they supervised the baptism of ten saints and the public confession of faith of six saints in last Lord’s Day. This marked a significant development for CERC (Fellowship) Kolkata. We rejoice with the saints of Kolkata in this milestone as we see the Lord establishing the work of our hands (Psa 90:17) and give us fruits through the labours of our missionary pastor, Rev Singh. Pray that the saints in Kolkata show their love for God by forsaking the world and walking in a godly and holy life."
- Her latest newsletter (AUGUST 2018) - Reformed News Asia - was recently posted and may be found on this page.
- The latest young peoples' magazine, Salt Shakers, was received and posted recently (JULY 2018 - cf. image above). Check that out on this page.
Concerning our sister church in Ballymena, N. Ireland, Covenant PRC, we call attention to the following:
- Covenant PRC's latest newsletter was received and posted recently (August 2018). And don't forget her other publication - Covenant Reformed News! That latest issue received last week (AUGUST 2018) may be found here..
- The 2018 British Reformed Fellowship family conference at Hebron Hall in South Wales took place the week of July 21-July 28. The sermons and speeches of the conference are now posted on Covenant PRC's YouTube channel.
The PRC now has an official sister-church relationship with the PRC in the Philippines, confirmed at this year's synod! We rejoice in this evidence of the Lord's blessing on the work in the Philippines and of the unity of Christ's church, which He gathers from all nations, tribes, and tongues. May the Lord grant us a mutually edifying and God-honoring relationship.

The PRC also has a "corresponding relationship" with the Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC) of Australia. We remember these brothers and sisters in our prayers and labors too.

Behold I Come CPRC 2018
The new book available from our sister church in N. Ireland and from PRC Evangelism Committees. Contact yours to obtain your copy. Here's the description: "This superb new book sets forth the Reformed and biblical truth of the end in ten relatively short chapters!"

SPECIAL NOTICES:

The RFPA Annual Meeting will be held on Thursday, September 27^th, 2018 at 7:30 p.m. Rev. Angus Stewart will speak on “The RFPA, the CPRC, and the Spread of the Truth” at Grace PR Church in Grand Rapids, MI. This speech will address the role of RFPA literature from the perspective of a PR sister church running a bookstore and doing missionary work in another country, showing how these Reformed materials edify the CPRC’s members and assist in reaching its contacts. Men, women, and young people are all cordially invited to attend the meeting!
Looking for Reformed literature and a solid Reformed and biblical magazine to read? Visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association's website (www.rfpa.org), where you will find information on books in all major Christian categories, as well as on the bi-monthly periodical, the Standard Bearer.
If you are in need of some pamphlets published by the PRC for use in evangelism and/or witnessing, visit the PRCA Evangelism page for a complete list of materials available in digital format or by order from the publishing church.
If you aor a friend are interested in spiritually edifying music as well as in Bibles and other Reformed literature, visit the Reformed Book Outlet in downtown Hudsonville, MI or visit their website.
The PRC Denominational Directory is now for sale for just $15.00. To order please fill out an order form or by emailing Laura Huizinga @ This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
The Psalter App is now available for Android as well as for IOS (Apple) devices. For more info visit: https://psalterapp.weebly.com

Don't forget to listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday! Today Rev. C. Haak (Georgetown PRC, Hudsonville, MI) brings part 3 a series on the OT prophecy of Jonah. The title of today's message is "God's Mercy with Repentant Sinners", Jonah 3:10.
From the Reformed Witness Hour (RWH) Committee: the RWH has a new, updated website! Please visit reformedwitnesshour.org to watch our introduction video, view pictures and audio from our history, and read and listen to almost 20 years of past radio broadcasts! If you haven’t visited the RWH website recently, now is an excellent time to familiarize yourself with this important radio-internet ministry of the Reformed faith.

ESPECIALLY FOR THE YOUTH OF THE PRC:

Girls Conference at Georgetown PRC: Shine as Lights in the World (Grades 9-Post High/College) Nov. 10, 2018. Good Speakers - Music - Q&A Panel. Be inspired to live for Jesus boldly by shining His light! Take a friend or two! Register: https://shineaslights2018.eventbrite.com
The 2018 PRYP's Convention was held the week of August 13-17, at Lake Geneva Christian Center in Alexandria, MN. Pictures from the week can be found on Facebook and at the following link:
Rev. Langerak’s Pictures
Lynden PRC Young Adults Retreat updates: We have secured a location for our retreat during July 1-5, 2019! It will take place at Mt. Baker Bibleway Camp. Check it out at http://www.mtbakercamp.org/home.do. We hope to include activities such as a day trip to beautiful Artist Point, white water rafting, and more. Registration is set to open in February 2019, so don’t miss out! We encourage any young adults post-high school age to attend. Further details have been posted to our Facebook page: Lynden PRC Young Adults Retreat 2019. Request an invite to see these details, or message the group if you have any questions!
The latest young peoples' magazine of Covenant ERC in Singapore, Salt Shakers, was received and posted recently (JULY 2018 - cf. image above). Check that out on this page.
Are YOU a subscriber to the PR Young People's magazine, the Beacon Lights? Visit the website and find out why you ought to be.

Gospel to all nations

MISSION NEWS:

Remember in prayer our home missionary, Rev. A. Spriensma, who continues to labor in the West Michigan area and beyond. Today, he is preaching in Georgetown PRC. Over the next three weeks he and his wife will be traveling to Singapore to serve our sister church, Covenant ERC.
The August 2018 newsletter of the Limerick Reformed Fellowship mission station is now posted on this page.
To read Rev. Titus' most recent report on the work going on in Myanmar (May 2018), visit this page.
The latest Philippines mission newsletter was received and recently posted (July 2018) and may be found on this PRC webpage.

Don't forget to follow the Kleyn's blog on life and activities in the Philippines. And that also includes the Holstege's! And the Smits once again too!
From this Sunday's bulletins of the Provident Christian Church in Marikina and the Maranatha PRC in Valenzuela, the Philippines we find the following notes concerning their pastors as well as concerning our missionaries and their labors today and in this coming week:
- Provident CC:
  - Rev. Holstege will preach both times today.
  - After the first service today, Rev. Holstege will begin teaching Essentials of Reformed Doctrine. Today we will consider Lesson 1: The Knowledge of God. We will have a short merienda after class.
  - This Wednesday at 7:30, Lord willing, Rev. Holstege will continue to teach Hermeneutics (Rules of Bible Interpretation). All are welcome to join.
  - Rev. and Sharon Kleyn are still in Singapore today. They plan to return to the Philippines this week, DV. We pray that the Lord will watch over them in their travels.
- Maranatha PRC:
  - Our Missionary, Rev. R. Smit will lead us in both services.
  - Our Missionaries and PRCP are planning to conduct a Conference in commemoration with the Synod of Dordt, dated November 1618 to May 1619.

Let us continue in prayer to the Lord for the fulfillment of the needs of these busy pastors and missionaries in the Philippines. May the Lord of the harvest give them grace to be faithful and encouraged in all their labors.
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Last modified on 11 September 2018