On this sixteenth Lord's Day of 2025, RESURRECTION SUNDAY!, we are privileged and called to gather in the Lord's presence, by grace and through faith, for worship of and fellowship with our covenant God, our sovereign, saving Father and Friend. As we do so, we are equipped and encouraged by His Word and Spirit for our life and callings in this world.
Today is Easter Sunday, the day we remember and reflect on our Savior's resurrection from the dead on the first day of the week. Through His rising from the dead Jesus Christ is exalted for His perfect saving work, our salvation is sealed and secured, and we with Him are given life everlasting. Hallelujah! You are invited to join us in worship today and in humble thanksgiving give glory to the Lamb who is worthy to be praised, now and forever.
But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. ~ 1 Corinthians 15:20-23
Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news for the week of April 20. It is our hope that these reports not only inform you but also give you opportunity to pray for the needs of these churches and mission fields throughout the world.
If you are new to this website and the PRCA, we invite you to join us in worship today or on any of the Sunday's of this year at one of our local congregations near you; or you may listen online through one of the PRC's livestreams.
CONGREGATIONAL NEWS
- Today Rev. D. Holstege (Wingham PRC, ON) declined the call from Southwest PRC.
- Last Sunday Grace PRC extended a call to Prof. B. Gritters (PRC Seminary).
- Tonight after her evening service Grandville PRC will vote from the Council's new trio of Revs. A. Brummel, J. Maatman, and Prof. B. Gritters. *Rev. Maatman has received this call.
- Rev. R. Barnhill (Heritage PRC) is considering the call from Hope PRC-Redlands, CA (received March 30).
- The Consistory of Lynden PRC has formed a new trio from which to call a minister: Revs. M. DeBoer (Edgerton PRC), Rev. D. Lee (Kalamazoo PRC), and J. Marcus (Peace PRC). A congregational meeting is scheduled for May 4 after the morning worship service.
Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today (April 20) in the vacant PRCs: Rev. A. Spriensma in Cornerstone PRC-Dyer, IN; Prof. B. Gritters and Rev. D. Noorman in Grace PRC; Prof. D. Kuiper and Rev. E. Guichelaar in Grandville PRC; Rev. C. Haak (3rd of three weeks) in Hope PRC-Redlands; Prof. B. Huizinga and Prof. B. Gritters in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. J. Marcus (1st of two weeks) in Lynden PRC; Prof. C. Griess and Rev. J. Smidstra in Southwest PRC. May we count it a blessing of our church federation that we can help one another in these needs. Let us remember to pray for the men who travel and supply these pulpits and for the vacant congregations. And may we continue to petition the Lord for men to hear and respond to the call to serve as pastors and missionaries!
Special Congregational Notices:
- Hope PRC-Walker, MI: "The Myanmar Committee reported that...conditions in Myanmar remain much the same as they have in recent months. The KJV Burmese Bible app is now available in both the Apple and Google Store and is titled Hope Bible. Rev. Titus has begun the visa application process for himself and his family to attend the PRCA’s 100th Anniversary. A mid-May interview at the U.S. Embassy will determine whether they are granted the visas."
- Unity PRC-Byron Center, MI: "At the congregational meeting this past week the proposal to move ahead with design services to acquire architectural drawings to build a church building passed unanimously. May the Lord bless our endeavors as we work toward having a building of our own."
- Wingham PRC (ON): "The Evangelism Committee is serving lunch at the Salvation Army again on April 23. On Tuesday, April 22, the Evangelism Committee would like to invite you to help prepare soup and buns at the church."
PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS
- Home mission news: Zion’s Council and the DMC have sent our domestic missionary, Rev. J. Laning, to the Dallas/ Fort Worth (DFW) area for six months, along with his wife, Margaret. They arrived there on October 19, 2024 and have settled into the labors there. For some time Rev. Laning has been conducting weekly Zoom Bible studies with people in Texas, and has made a number of trips there. The plan is to have Rev. Laning continue to labor among those whom they have already come to know, while also witnessing to others in that area. Seeing as the preaching of the gospel is the chief means the Spirit uses to gather His people, it will be good to spend some time there meeting for worship and having Bible studies, in order, Lord willing, to gather a group together. We thank the Lord for opening this door, and pray that He may guide us in this work to the glory of His name. “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). If you happen to know of anyone in that area who may be interested, please contact our domestic missionary at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
- Classis East will meet on Wednesday, May 14, at Grace PRC. The agenda is available on the PRCA website (go to "current," "bulletins," and “Classis East” to access it - registered users only).
- PRC 100th Anniversary Celebration (June 2-6, 2025): Participate in this commemorative event by visiting prca100.org. A diverse set of sectionals is planned for each morning of the 100th Anniversary Celebration. Explore the topics and speakers at prca100.org/sectionals. Please note, registration is required to participate in the daily activities, including sectionals (which is now passed). Those lodging at Calvin University will enjoy a convenient and economical stay and all meals and activities. Local attendees and those arranging their own off-campus lodging must register for activities and meals if desired. To attend visit https://prca100.org/register for registration instructions and the web link.
For more 100-year PRC history, videos and photos, visit this Facebook page.
100th Anniversary Singspiration at DeVos Performance Hall: On June 5, the Thursday evening of the 100th Anniversary Celebration, thousands of brothers and sisters from around the world will join together at the DeVos Performance Hall to sing and rejoice in God's faithfulness. The night's singspiration will conclude with a grand symphonic orchestra and chorus, filling our souls with gratitude to God for His grace. Visit prca100.org/singspiration for details.
100th Anniversary Sponsorship Opportunities: The planning committee has identified specific areas where financial support is needed including the event, travel subsidies, and the singspiration at DeVos Performance Hall. Businesses, congregations, societies, and individuals are asked to consider a sponsorship. Visit prca100.org/sponsor to learn more and complete a pledge form by May 1. To discuss a pledge, please contact the finance committee at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
- New Psalter: The committee to help familiarize the PRC with the revised Psalter announces that the synodically-approved revised Psalters have been printed and will be delivered to the churches in the coming weeks. As your Psalters arrive, there are two YouTube channels that will be helpful. 2024 Psalter (www.youtube.com/@2024Psalter) has vocal and instrumental recordings of the new songs and tunes. Another work-in-progress is found at Andrew Remillard (www.youtube.com/@AndrewRemillard/playlists). It includes piano recordings of the first Psalter numbers, and more songs will be added. You are encouraged to make use of these resources as you familiarize yourselves with the Psalter.
- Psalter-sing! Advance notice: May 18: You are invited to come to Grace PRC at 7:45 p.m. for an area-wide presentation on the revised Psalter. The Psalters are expected to arrive in late April and will be distributed to every household. Grace will not have enough for everyone, so take your own along. The presentation will be different from previous ones, which introduced the revision; this will involve more singing from the revised Psalter.
- Future Teachers and Ministers: Information for the 2025 PR Scholarship Fund essay competition is now available. Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to receive the essay topics and submission requirements. Completed essays must be submitted by May 16th.
Convention 2025 – LAST CHANCE!
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Convention 2025: Last Chance to Register! Haven’t registered yet for the 2025 Young People’s Convention? There’s still time—but don’t wait! Late registration is now open with an added fee. This year’s convention, hosted by Hudsonville PRC, will take place at SpringHill Camp (Evart, MI) from August 11-15. We’d love to see you there! For questions, contact Heather Veldman at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
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NEW! Convention- Special Needs Day: The 2025 YP Convention host church of Hudsonville PRC invites individuals with special needs or disabilities from our church community (high school age and above) to join us at convention on Wednesday, August 13. With the camp located just 1.5 hours north of Grand Rapids, this is a wonderful opportunity to experience a day of fun and fellowship with everyone. Our prayer is that this special day will be a blessing to all and an opportunity to experience how we can all serve the body of Christ with the different abilities He has given to us. For more details or to sign up, visit our website https://prcconvention.com/serving-one-another-day/. We can't wait to spend the day with you! Contact Alyssa VanBaren – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; 616.581.5768 with any questions.
PR Theological Seminary News:
- The PR Theological Seminary enters week thirteen of the second semester tomorrow. Faculty, students, and staff covet your prayers in these final weeks of the school year.
- Prof. B. Gritters has received the call from Grace PRC (Standale, MI). Remember him in prayer as he considers this call.
- Dr. D. Sinnema, retired Trinity Christian College (IL) professor and Synod of Dordt scholar, will be giving lectures on the Synod of Dordt Tuesday (April 15) and on the Church Order of Dordt next (April 22) at the seminary at 1:00 p.m.
- Prof. D. Kuiper led chapel this past Wednesday and will do so again this week. Sem. B. Feenstra will lead the daily devotions.
- Sem. B. Feenstra will be doing his senior internship in Doon (IA) PRC under Rev. D. Kleyn and his Consistory. That will run from July 1 to Dec.31.
- Sems. Aaron Van Dyke and Bruce Feenstra are licensed to speak a word of edification in the churches. All scheduling of these men must be done through the seminary, either by sending a request to the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or the rector, Prof. D. Kuiper (doug.kuiperThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
- The Spring 2025 issue of the PR Theological Journal is back from the printer and will be mailed out this week. This new issue will contain the expanded speeches the professors gave at their Fall 2024 conference on the common grace/particular grace controversy in 1924 (*see note below). If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Bethany Engelsma, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.), or stop by the seminary.
- If you missed the Fall PRTS Conference (Oct.31-Nov.2) at Grace PRC (“By Grace I Am What I Am”: The PRCA’s Rejection of Common Grace), where the historic (100 years!) stand of the PRC on sovereign, particular grace was defended and developed, you may watch or listen to the speeches that are all available both on Grace PRC's Sermonaudio channel as well as the seminary's YouTube channel.
- For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget to check on the blog!
SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:
- Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
- Pastors J. Tan and M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. Today both pastors led services. "We worship God this Resurrection Sunday, commemorating Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. We do so, continuing our (annual) Resurrection Sunday series, considering Jesus’ merciful appearance to Peter."
- A NEW issue of Salt Shakers is available - March2025, #75! Once again you will find a variety of articles on timely subjects in this issue! Written especially for young people and young adults, SS is edifying for all adults! This new issue contains articles on the mission work in Kolkata, testimonies of CERC member conversions, and the beginning of a series on the NT prophecy of Revelation.
- Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
- Rev. A. Stewart continues to serve this sister congregation faithfully, and through the CPRC and her website, to minister the gospel far and wide in other ways.
- The February 2025 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" is the latest available. Read the articles by Rev. A. Stewart on "Are the Ungodly Really in God's Image? (2)" and Rev. R. Hanko's response to a question about why David was not executed for his sins against God's law.
- The CPRC YouTube channel with all its edifying content may be found here.
- Rev. A. Stewart continues to serve this sister congregation faithfully, and through the CPRC and her website, to minister the gospel far and wide in other ways.
- PRC in the Philippines and her mission work in various places:
- Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led her worship services today. And, "Our brothers and sisters in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija, will join us in our worship services today via live stream on our Facebook page."
- Provident PRC bulletin: "A warm welcome to Rev. Wilbur Bruinsma and Sis. Mary, who arrived safely from the U.S. yesterday April 19. Our congregation praises the LORD and is grateful for having Rev. Bruinsma back in the Philippines. Rev. Bruinsma will fill the pulpit of Provident PRC from April 20 to May 25, 2025, the Lord willing."
- PRCP Mission labors: "Rev. Ibe and Deacon Ronald Marquez [Provident PRC] are scheduled to visit with the pastors and saints in Bacolod and Sipalay City on April 24 - 25, 2025, D.V. Rev. Ibe will continue his lectures on the Church Order of Dort Articles 17 - 21 and Reformed Dogmatics [Soteriology] on the Ordo Salutis."
Rev. Ibe is also scheduled to speak and present to the Association of pastors in Bacolod City on Thursday, April 24, at 9:30 AM on “The Distinctives of Reformed Theology”. We pray for God’s continued spiritual strength and growth for the churches in these areas as they learn and receive the Reformed truth of God’s sovereign particular grace in Christ Jesus and for His sake only. Soli Deo Gloria!
REFORMED RESOURCES for EDUCATION, EDIFICATION, and EVANGELISM
Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!
- This month - April 2025 - the RWH is broadcasting four gospel messages by Rev. C. Haak, including special Lenten and Easter messages. This week's message is titled "The Power of Christ's Resurrection" based on 1 Corinthians 15:3,4
- The Reformed Witness Hour publishes each month's messages in an attractive booklet. These printed sermons are a great blessing to many and are distributed all over the world, including to many prisoners in the U.S. If you or your Evangelism Committee would like to receive these, let the RWHC know and they will add you to the mailing list (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
April MONTHLY SALE is
...The Church Order Commentary!
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The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) is operating out of its new store in downtown Hudsonville (3472 Harvey St.). Visit the store and browse the variety of resources for your Reformed-Christian faith and walk, including many children's titles. They are open Tuesday-Friday, 10-5, and Saturday 10-1.
*Special note: RBO Storytime: Join us Thursdays for Spring Storytime at 10:15 on March 27, April 3 and 17 (not April 10). Let your little ones enjoy a few stories and a craft, while you browse our books or enjoy a cup of coffee!
- If you are in need of sound biblical and Reformed catechism materials for children and young people, check out the PRC's full curriculum of materials here. Call the PRC Seminary for assistance with any of these materials (616-531-1490).
- For sound, distinctively Reformed literature on a variety of subjects and for all ages - including church history and Bible study materials - visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association website or stop in at their Jenison (Michigan) location.
This Week's Thought for Contemplation
"...Throughout the day the Savior appeared to His followers to confirm to them that He was risen from the dead.
"That is a very wonderful thing, is it not? That is the thing that we must see on this day on which we remember the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. What we must remember is that it was the great concern of the risen Lord on His resurrection day that His church know that He is risen. He appeared to them, and through these appearances He brought them to see the wonder of the resurrection gospel. It came to something of a climax when He appeared to His disciples who were gathered on the resurrection night in the upper room. That is the passage that we find in Luke 24:36-46.
"But remember the thought. The thought is this: that the Lord's great concern was for His church. His church must have no doubt, no uncertainty, no misconception concerning the resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. This is the truth that you absolutely must know. And you must know what it means, that Jesus Christ is risen from the dead. If you do not know that, your life is vain. If you do not know that Jesus Christ is risen from the dead, you are yet in your sin. You are dead. If you do not know that Jesus Christ is risen, and if you do not know it in your heart, then in reality you are living your life only inches from the brink of hell.
"This is the gospel: Christ is risen from the dead! And the call of the gospel is: Repent and believe. You as a teenager, you as a college student, you as an expectant mother, a husband or wife, a child—you need to know that Jesus Christ is risen. You must lay hold of that truth by faith."
Taken from the radio message of Rev. C. Haak, "The Risen Lord and the Gathered Church," of this month's featured resources