On this twenty-sixth Lord's Day of 2019, June 30, the following news and information concerning PRC congregations, the Seminary, sister churches, and mission fields may be mentioned.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS:

• The PRC of 2019 Synod called Rev. Brian Huizinga (Hope PRC, Redlands, CA) to replace Prof. Cammenga as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament. Today he announced his acceptance of this appointment. We thank God for this provision of another new professor and pray God's blessing on him and his family as they will begin preparing for this transition.
  
  
• The PRC Synod of 2019 declared Matt Kortus and Jacob Maatman candidates for the ministry of the Word and sacraments in the PRC. They are eligible for a call on or after July 13, 2019.
  
  
• On June 16 Rev. R. Kleyn received the call from Southeast PRC (Grand Rapids, MI). He plans to answer by July 14.
  
  
• The Council of Grandville PRC has formed the following trio for MOL to Singapore: Rev. G. Eriks (Hudsonville), Rev. J. Engelsma (Doon, IA), Rev. B. Huizinga (Redlands, CA). The congregational meeting is set for Thursday July 11 (there are other matters the congregation will consider).
  
  
• Cand. J. Maatman is supplying the pulpit of Immanuel PRC (Lacombe, AB) for the next two weeks. Also from Immanuel PRC comes this notice: "The Consistory brings forth the following Trio from which to call a minister to serve here in Lacombe: 

  Rev. Dennis Lee (Bethel, PRC), Candidate Matt Kortus, and Candidate Jacob Maatman.  A Congregational Meeting to vote is set for Sunday, July 14^th following the afternoon service."
  
  

• Lynden (WA) PRC is hosting the young adult retreat this week. Prof. B. Gritters is there today and preached once. He and Rev. S. Regnerus will both speak at the retreat
  
  
• Edgerton (MN) PRC's bulletin today carries this important notice and invitation for next week: "Rev. Angus Stewart of the CPRC in N. Ireland will give a PowerPoint presentation in Edgerton PRC, next week, Sunday, July 7, after the evening service at around 6:30 PM. He plans to tell us about the British Reformed Fellowship or BRF (www.britishreformed.org) and its biennial conferences. There will be a special focus on the one planned for next summer (July 11-18, 2020) in Castlewellan Castle, N. Ireland. The theme will be 'Our Union with Christ.'"
  
  
• From the Council of Byron Center PRC comes this significant announcement: "The Council of BC PRC would like to inform members of our denomination that on Sunday, July 7, our church will begin holding separate worship services for members from our church hoping to form a daughter church. The worship services will be held at Zion Christian School in Byron Center, MI at 9:30 AM and 5PM."
  
  
• From Georgetown PRC comes this note about her 25th anniversary this year: "The Council made a decision to celebrate our 25th year anniversary as a congregation in conjunction with our annual church picnic. Plans are underway for a Saturday morning breakfast picnic in October commemorating our anniversary, and then on the following Sunday to remember God’s faithfulness to us in both the worship service. Details will follow in the coming weeks."

• Southeast PRC (Grand Rapids, MI) is currently worshiping at Adams Christian School in Wyoming, MI, while she looks for a new location for the congregation. Today, Cand. M. Kortus is leading the worship services for her.

DENOMINATIONAL NEWS:

PRC Synod 2019:

• Synod (in First PR Church of Grand Rapids, MI) met from June 11-17. The daily reports with pictures may be found here.
• Need for Ministers: Synod 2019 took a decision to place the urgent need for seminary students before our churches. Nine of our 39 active ministers are 63 years of age and older. The next prospect for seminary graduates in our churches is not for another four years. Then those nine ministers will be 67 and older. Please remember in your prayers to petition the Lord of the harvest for pastors, and please encourage young men, whom you observe to have the gifts, to consider the ministry.

Senior Retreat:

• Registration for the Senior Retreat (Sept 17-20) is open. Have you sent in your reservation?  Deadline is August 1, so don’t delay.  Come and enjoy fellowship with others from around the country.  If you have questions call Barb Velthouse at 1-616-745-0770 or go to zionprc.org. The dates are Sept 17-20 at Gull Lake Ministries (MI). The theme is ‘God’s Care For Us.’ Forms are available at Zion PRC's website. Click on Senior Retreat.

New archives room painted this past week.

PRC Seminary News:

• The seminary is now in its summer break. The faculty will be busy with various trips and speaking engagements.  With the construction project and library renovation continuing, there is still plenty of activity at the seminary (see note below). In addition, faculty and staff continue their end-of-semester work and preparing for the new semester in the Fall. The seminary is open daily (M-F) during the summer (except for holidays) and staff is available to assist with any needs.
  
  
• *Our two 2019 graduates, Matt Kortus and Jacob Maatman, sustained their synodical examinations at the PRC 2019 Synod and were declared candidates for the ministry of the Word and sacraments in the PRC. They are eligible for a call on or after July 13, 2019.

• Synod 2019 has called Rev. Brian Huizinga to replace Prof. Cammenga as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament. Today he announced his acceptance of this appointment. We thank God for this provision of another new professor and pray God's blessing on him and his family as they prepare to make the transition.
  
  

• The Spring 2019 issue of the PR Theological Journal is back from the printer and now available! For those on our mailing list, your issue was mailed this past week. For back issues, visit the seminary journal page. If you wish to be added to our mailing list, contact the seminary's secretary. In addition, a new index to all past issues has been posted on the journal's archives page.

• If you have not yet done so, visit the new PRC seminary website! There are many new features and updates, including a blog. Visit the site and check out the various pages - and sign up to receive seminary news by email! The library is also online there (under Resources). If you are looking for a particular book to read or use, or just want to browse, visit the library page.

• Work continues on the seminary addition project, both inside and out (new archives and offices). This past week the offices and hallway received their coats of paint and the archives room walls and ceiling were painted. Mor electircal and HVAC work was done as well. In the library, the new lighting was installed and trim work began. Visit the seminary news section for pics and more information.
  
  

*Covenant ERC in Singapore recently held her church camp - this is a group photo (see note below)
See the June 2019 issue of "Reformed News Asia" for more updates from this Far East sister!

SISTER-CHURCH NEWS:

• Concerning our sister church in Singapore, Covenant ERC, we may note the following:
  • Rev. A. denHartog and his wife are currently serving the congregation on behalf of the PRC Contact Committee.
  • From Grandville PRC's Council: "The Council presents the following trio for MOL to Singapore: Rev. G. Eriks (Hudsonville), Rev. J. Engelsma (Doon, IA), Rev. B. Huizinga (Redlands, CA). The congregational meeting to call one of these ministers will be July 14 after the evening service."
  • *Her latest newsletter (June 2019) - Reformed News Asia - was posted recently posted and may be found on this page.
  • The last issue of the young peoples' magazine, Salt Shakers (May 2019) may be found on this page. 
    
    
• Concerning our newest sister, the PRC in the Philippines, we may note the following from the bulletins of the Berean PRC, Maranatha PRC, and Provident CC:

• Berean PRC:

  • Rev. D. Kleyn is leading the worship services today.

  • Classis of the Protestant Reformed Churches in the Philippines approved (June 2019) the recommendation of Committee #2 re the budget for a Missionary/pastor to labor with the saints in Albuera, Leyte. PRC in Bulacan (the calling church of the PRFA) can and may now call a missionary/pastor for PRFA. May the LORD of Harvest provide for the saints in PRFA a missionary/pastor according to His will!

• Maranatha PRC:
  • "Rev. L. Trinidad, our Pastor will lead us in both services. He will resume our Bible study on Revelation, Lord willing."
• Provident CC:
  • Rev. Holstege will lead both of our worship services today and next Sunday, D.V.
  • And for more on the life and work of our "sisters" in the Far East read the news under Philippine missions (bulletins).

• Concerning our sister church in Ballymena, N. Ireland, Covenant PRC, we may note the following:
  
  • Rev. A. Stewart and Mary are on vacation in the States. Rev. S. Key will be supplying CPRC's pulpit for the next three weeks in his absence.
  • Covenant PRC's latest newsletter was received and posted (May 2019).
    
  • Read the newest issue of Covenant Reformed News! That issue (May 2019) can be found here.

• 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 also.
  • Plans are being made for a Dordt400 conference involving EPC and PRC men this summer (July). This was also approved at the PRC Synod of 2019. Prof. B. Gritters plans to participate.
    
  • The EPCA has this special notice, especially for our young people and young adults: The Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Australia would love to invite any young people and young adults aged 13 and up to their biennial youth camp. This youth camp will be held in Brisbane from the 28th of December 2019 - 3rd January 2020. Rev. Martyn McGeown from the Limerick Reformed Fellowship of the Republic of Ireland will be our guest speaker. This is a great time to meet other young people, fellowship with them and learn about our Saviour. Please contact Megan at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for a flyer or for additional information.

Do you enjoy good Psalm music? Why not purchase a CD online or from the Reformed Book Outlet by the PR Psalm Singing Choir?

SPECIAL NOTICES:

• If you are in need of some pamphlets and/or articles 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.
  
  
• Do you have an interest in good Reformed literature and a solid Reformed and biblical magazine? 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.
  
  
• You can now listen to the Heidelberg Catechism, the Belgic Confession, and the Canons of Dordt on audio! Visit the links provided to hear the Catechism, the Confession, and the Canons read by Elijah Roberts. It's another excellent way to learn the Reformed faith and memorize these Reformed creeds.

• Remember to listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you or on Sermonaudio wherever you are!
  • This week Rev. C. Griess (pastor of First PRC in Grand Rapids, MI) continues a three-month commitment to the program with a special series on the Five Points of Calvinism under the theme "Unconditional Election (1)" (which you may listen to at this link).

  • From the Reformed Witness Hour Committee: Have you checked out our newsletters? If you would like to receive them digitally in your emailbox, please sign up for our bimonthly newsletter here: ehttp://epurl.com/gikNsL. This month's newsletter contained this interesting information:

    • *Mark your calendar for our 4000th broadcast! On September 1, 2019 we will be airing "Whosoever Will May Come," by Rev. Herman Hoeksema to celebrate 4000 broadcasts of the RWH. This is the original audio from October 1944. Be sure to tune in on September 1 to hear this great message!

  • A new Spanish edition of the RWH has been produced and may be found on this YouTube channel (PRC Espanol). Look for new messages each week - and help spread the word!

ESPECIALLY FOR PRC Young People and Young Adults:

• NEWS about the 2019 PRYP's Convention: Southwest & Providence PRCs are hosting the 2019 PRC Young People's Convention on August 12-16, the Lord willing.  The convention will be held at Michindoh Conference Center in Hillsdale, MI.
  
  
• The Lynden PRC Young Adults Retreat is this week (July 1-5)! Check out the website (https://lyndenprcya.wixsite.com/mysite) and the Facebook page (Lynden PRC Young Adults Retreat 2019).

• The EPCA has this special notice, especially for our young people and young adults: The Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Australia would love to invite any young people and young adults aged 13 and up to their biennial youth camp. This youth camp will be held in Brisbane from the 28th of December 2019 - 3rd January 2020. Rev. Martyn McGeown from the Limerick Reformed Fellowship of the Republic of Ireland will be our guest speaker. This is a great time to meet other young people, fellowship with them and learn about our Saviour. Please contact Megan at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for a flyer or for additional information.
  
  
• The latest young peoples' magazine of Covenant ERC in Singapore, Salt Shakers, was received and posted (June 2019 - cf. image above). Check that out on this page.
  

PRC MISSION NEWS:

Domestic Labors:

• Remember in prayer our home missionary, Rev. A. Spriensma, who continues to labor in the West Michigan area and beyond through Byron Center PRC, the calling church.
• From Byron Center PRC's bulletin today we find this note: "Rev. A. Spriensma is leading the services at Bethel PRC today (Roselle, IL)."

United Kingdom:

• Limerick Reformed Fellowship News:
  • After some time in the States attending the PRC Synod, preaching in various PRCs, and vacationing, Rev. M. McGeown is back in Limerick RF.
  • One of his labors:  Bible Study: Tuesday 8 PM in Corbally beginning at 1 Peter 5:5.

• The March 2019 newsletter of the Limerick Reformed Fellowship mission station was received and posted recently.

Philippine Missions:

• The last Philippines mission newsletter was received and posted back in January 2019 and may be found on this PRC webpage.
  
  
• For more on life and activities in the Philippines from the personal perspective of the missionary's, visit the Kleyn's blog, the Holstege's, and the Smits!
  

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.

India:

• Let us remember to pray for the Lord's blessing on Georgetown PRC's labor in Vellore, India.
• And we remember our sister church's work (Covenant ERC in Singapore) in Kolkata, through Rev. E. Singh.

Myanmar:

• Let us also remember Hope PRC's (Grand Rapids, MI) support of and involvement with Rev. Titus' work in Myanmar; for his latest report, visit this page.
  

On this twenty-fifth Lord's Day of 2019, June 23, the following news and information concerning PRC congregations, the Seminary, sister churches, and mission fields may be mentioned.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS:

• The PRC of 2019 Synod called Rev. Brian Huizinga to replace Prof. Cammenga as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament. Rev. Cory Griess was chosen to be the alternate. May the Lord guide Rev. Huizinga that he may know God's will regarding this call. Let us remember him in our prayers.
  
  
• On June 16 Rev. R. Kleyn received the call from Southeast PRC (Grand Rapids, MI). He plans to answer by July 14.
  
  
• The Council of Grandville PRC has formed the following trio for MOL to Singapore: Rev. G. Eriks (Hudsonville), Rev. J. Engelsma (Doon, IA), Rev. B. Huizinga (Redlands, CA). The congregational meeting is set for July 11 after the evening service.
  
  
• Rev. S. Regnerus (Lynden, WA PRC) is leading the worship services and preaching for Immanuel PRC's (Lacombe, AB) this Sunday.
  
  
• Rev. A. Spriensma is leading the services at Cornerstone PRC today. Next week he will be in Bethel PRC.

• Southeast PRC (Grand Rapids, MI) is currently worshiping at Adams Christian School in Wyoming, MI, while she looks for a new location for the congregation. Today, Prof. B. Gritters and Rev. J. Smidstra are preaching for her.

DENOMINATIONAL NEWS:

Senior Retreat: Registration for the Senior Retreat is open. The dates are Sept 17-20 at Gull Lake Ministries (MI). The theme is ‘God’s Care For Us.’ Forms are available at Zion PRC's website. Click on Senior Retreat.

Synod's delegates finished their work this past Monday

PRC Synod 2019:

• Synod (in First PR Church of Grand Rapids, MI) completed its work this past Monday around 2 p.m. this past week. The report of that final day may be found here.
  
• The daily reports with pictures may be found here.

Library renovation underway this summer.

PRC Seminary News:

• The seminary has now entered its spring/summer break. Besides their work at the PRC Synod in June, the faculty will be busy with various trips and speaking engagements.  With the construction project and library renovation continuing, there is still plenty of activity at the seminary (see note below). In addition, faculty and staff continue their end-of-semester work and preparing for the new semester in the Fall. The seminary is open daily (M-F) during the summer (except for holidays) and staff is available to assist with any needs.
  
  
• *Our two senior seminarians, Matt Kortus and Jacob Maatman, sustained their synodical examinations this past week at the PRC 2019 Synod and were declared them candidates for the ministry of the Word and sacraments in the PRC. They are eligible for a call on or after July 13, 2019. Seminary commencement was held Thursday night, June 13, in First PRC.

• Synod 2019 has called Rev. Brian Huizinga to replace Prof. Cammenga as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament. Rev. Cory Griess was chosen to be the alternate. May the Lord guide Rev. Huizinga that he may know God's will regarding this call. Let us remember him in our prayers.

• The Spring 2019 issue of the PR Theological Journal is back from the printer and now available! For those on our mailing list, your issue will be mailed this week. For back issues, visit the seminary journal page. If you wish to be added to our mailing list, contact the seminary's secretary.
  
• If you missed the speeches at the seminary's Dordt400 conference, or want to refresh your mind, now's your chance to listen to them! The audio files of the speeches and historical presentations from the conference are now available on Trinity PRC's Sermonaudio channel (the host of the conference). The videos are also now available on the seminary YouTube channel. *If you are interested in CD's or DVD's of the recent Dordt 400 Conference, please send your request to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

• If you have not yet done so, visit the new PRC seminary website! There are many new features and updates, including a blog. Visit the site and check out the various pages - and sign up to receive seminary news by email! The library is also online there (under Resources). If you are looking for a particular book to read or use, or just want to browse, visit the library page.

• Work continues on the seminary addition project, both inside and out (new archives and offices). This past week the drywall work was finished and primer paint was applied in the new offices and archives room. In the library, the old carpet was torn out and the rest of the ceiling tiles removed. On the outside, final grading was done in the yard area outside the new addition. Visit the seminary news section for pics and more information.
  
  

*A new member joins the PRC in the Philippines (see note below)

SISTER-CHURCH NEWS:

• Concerning our sister church in Singapore, Covenant ERC, we may note the following:
  • Rev. A. denHartog and his wife are currently serving the congregation on behalf of the PRC Contact Committee.
  • From Grandville PRC's Council: "The Council presents the following trio for MOL to Singapore: Rev. G. Eriks (Hudsonville), Rev. J. Engelsma (Doon, IA), Rev. B. Huizinga (Redlands, CA). The congregational meeting to call one of these ministers will be July 11 after the evening service."
  • Her latest newsletter (April 2019) - Reformed News Asia - was posted recently posted and may be found on this page.
  • The last issue of the young peoples' magazine, Salt Shakers (April 2019) may be found on this page. 
    
• Concerning our newest sister, the PRC in the Philippines, we may note the following from the bulletins of the Berean PRC, Maranatha PRC, and Provident CC:

• Berean PRC:

  • Rev. Ibe will lead us in our worship services today. Next Sunday, Rev. Kleyn will lead us in our worship services, the Lord willing. Our pastor is also scheduled to preach at Kerusso Community church at 3P.M. today and will lead them in their study of the Church Order at 5:30 P.M. the Lord willing.

  • Classis of the Protestant Reformed Churches in the Philippines approved the recommendation of Committee #2 re the budget for a Missionary/pastor to labor with the saints in Albuera, Leyte. PRC in Bulacan (the calling church of the PRFA) can and may now call a missionary/pastor for PRFA. May the LORD of Harvest provide for the saints in PRFA a missionary/pastor according to His will!

• Maranatha PRC:
  • Rev. R. Smit, our Missionary will lead us in both services.
• Provident CC:
  • Rev. Holstege will lead both of our worship services today and next Sunday, D.V.
  • Rev. Daniel and Sharon Kleyn returned home to the Philippines last Wednesday. We give thanks to God for keeping them safe in their travels and returning them to their life and labors here in the Philippines.
  • And for more on the life and work of our "sisters" in the Far East read the news under Philippine missions (bulletins).

• Concerning our sister church in Ballymena, N. Ireland, Covenant PRC, we may note the following:
  
  • Rev. A. Stewart and Mary are on vacation in the States. Rev. S. Key will be supplying CPRC's pulpit for the next three weeks in his absence.
  • Covenant PRC's latest newsletter was received and posted (May 2019).
    
  • Read the newest issue of Covenant Reformed News! That issue (May 2019) can be found here.

• 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 also.
  • Plans are being made for a Dordt400 conference involving EPC and PRC men this summer (July).
  • The EPCA has this special notice, especially for our young people and young adults: The Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Australia would love to invite any young people and young adults aged 13 and up to their biennial youth camp. This youth camp will be held in Brisbane from the 28th of December 2019 - 3rd January 2020. Rev. Martyn McGeown from the Limerick Reformed Fellowship of the Republic of Ireland will be our guest speaker. This is a great time to meet other young people, fellowship with them and learn about our Saviour. Please contact Megan at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for a flyer or for additional information.

Do you enjoy good Psalm music? Why not purchase a CD online or from the Reformed Book Outlet by the PR Psalm Singing Choir?

SPECIAL NOTICES:

• If you are in need of some pamphlets and/or articles 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.
  
  
• Would you like to read good Reformed literature and a solid Reformed and biblical magazine? 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.
  
  
• You can now listen to the Heidelberg Catechism, the Belgic Confession, and the Canons of Dordt on audio! Visit the links provided to hear the Catechism, the Confession, and the Canons read by Elijah Roberts. It's another excellent way to learn the Reformed faith and memorize these Reformed creeds.

• Remember to listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you or on Sermonaudio wherever you are!
  • This week Rev. C. Griess (pastor of First PRC in Grand Rapids, MI) continues a three-month commitment to the program with a special series on the Five Points of Calvinism under the theme "Religion Defended" (which you may listen to at this link).

  • From the Reformed Witness Hour Committee: Have you checked out our newsletters? If you would like to receive them digitally in your emailbox, please sign up for our bimonthly newsletter here: ehttp://epurl.com/gikNsL. This month's newsletter contined this interesting information:

    • Mark your calendar for our 4000th broadcast! On September 1, 2019 we will be airing "Whosoever Will May Come," by Rev. Herman Hoeksema to celebrate 4000 broadcasts of the RWH. This is the original audio from October 1944. Be sure to tune in on September 1 to hear this great message!

  • A new Spanish edition of the RWH has been produced and may be found on this YouTube channel (PRC Espanol). Look for new messages each week - and help spread the word!

 
Do you receive and read the Beacon Lights?

ESPECIALLY FOR PRC Young People and Young Adults:

• NEWS about the 2019 PRYP's Convention:
  • Southwest & Providence PRCs are hosting the 2019 PRC Young People's Convention on August 12-16, the Lord willing.  The convention will be held at Michindoh Conference Center in Hillsdale, MI.
  • Young Peoples Convention Update: You can still register on line and have paperwork received by May 31 to avoid a late fee. Any paperwork received after May 31 please include a late fee of $25.00 with your payment. Registration should be done as soon as possible so committees can proceed with their work. Looking forward to seeing you all at the convention in August!
    
    
• Lynden PRC Young Adults Retreat updates:

*Registration for our 2019 retreat is open. Come join us July 1-5, for a week filled with spiritual encouragement, white water rafting, campfires, hiking and other fun activities with like-minded believers! Check out our website (https://lyndenprcya.wixsite.com/mysite) to register and for more details. We also have a Facebook page (Lynden PRC Young Adults Retreat 2019). Email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with any questions you may have. We look forward to hosting all of you in Washington!

• The EPCA has this special notice, especially for our young people and young adults: The Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Australia would love to invite any young people and young adults aged 13 and up to their biennial youth camp. This youth camp will be held in Brisbane from the 28th of December 2019 - 3rd January 2020. Rev. Martyn McGeown from the Limerick Reformed Fellowship of the Republic of Ireland will be our guest speaker. This is a great time to meet other young people, fellowship with them and learn about our Saviour. Please contact Megan at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for a flyer or for additional information.
  
  
• The latest young peoples' magazine of Covenant ERC in Singapore, Salt Shakers, was received and posted (April 2019 - cf. image above). Check that out on this page.
  

*Remember Rev. Titus and the work in Myanmar (cf. below)

PRC MISSION NEWS:

Domestic Labors:

• Remember in prayer our home missionary, Rev. A. Spriensma, who continues to labor in the West Michigan area and beyond through Byron Center PRC, the calling church.
• From Byron Center PRC's bulletin today we find this note: "Rev. A. Spriensma is leading the services at Cornerstone PRC today. Next week he will be in Bethel PRC."

United Kingdom:

• Limerick Reformed Fellowship News:
  • From her June 23 bulletin: Pastor and Larisa returned on Friday. Rev and Mrs Smidstra extend their greetings and hearty thanks for the fellowship that they enjoyed among you. We welcome Andrew and Briana Prins (Trinity PRC), Faith Bleyenberg and Kara Lubbers (Byron Center PRC), Taylor Doezema (Faith PRC), Sara Langerak (Hope PRC), and Melissa VanBaren (First PRC) to our worship services today.

• The March 2019 newsletter of the Limerick Reformed Fellowship mission station was received and posted recently.

Philippine Missions:

• The last Philippines mission newsletter was received and posted back in January 2019 and may be found on this PRC webpage.
  
  
• For more on life and activities in the Philippines from the personal perspective of the missionary's, visit the Kleyn's blog, the Holstege's, and the Smits!
  

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.

India:

• Let us remember to pray for the Lord's blessing on Georgetown PRC's labor in Vellore, India.
• And we remember our sister church's work (Covenant ERC in Singapore) in Kolkata, through Rev. E. Singh.

Myanmar:

• Let us also remember Hope PRC's (Grand Rapids, MI) support of and involvement with Rev. Titus' work in Myanmar; for his latest report, visit this page.
  

The Spring 2019 issue of the Protestant Reformed Theological Journal is now available!

The print copies just arrived from the printer and will be mailed next week, while the pdf is available here (cf. the attachment) and on the seminary's website. Watch for the ePub format in the weeks to come.

If you would like to receive a print copy and/or be added to our mailing list, please call the seminary or email us at the contact information provided on this webpage.

Prof. R. Cammenga includes these comments on the contents in his "Editor's Notes":

This issue includes a number of articles that we are confident you will find edifying, instructive, and thought-provoking. Our lead article is by the Reverend Martyn McGeown and is entitled “Faith: A Bond, a Gift, and an Activity, but Not a Condition for Salvation.” Rev. McGeown focuses on how we are to understand the activity of faith, while at the same time rejecting any teaching that makes faith a condition for salvation, or denies the activity of faith. With appeal to Scripture, the Reformed confessions, and the Reformed tradition, he demonstrates how properly Reformed Christians are to view the activity of faith.

The undersigned contributes to this issue an article on the Old Testament judge, Jephthah. The article focuses on the vow that Jephthah made to offer up to the Lord whatever came out of his house to greet him, when he returned victorious from the battle against the Ammonites. On his return, his daughter came out of the house to meet him “with timbrels and with dances” (Judges 11:34). Controversy swirls around whether or not Jephthah actually offered his daughter up as a human sacrifice, and whether, therefore, his vow was righteous or rash. Read the article to discover my viewpoint and the grounds for the support of the position that I take.

The Reverend Garrett J. Eriks, pastor of the Hudsonville Protestant Reformed Church in Hudsonville, Michigan, contributes an article entitled, “The Needed Light of Biblical Counseling.” Pastor Eriks is doing advanced degree work in the area of pastoral counseling. His contribution is a revised form of a paper that he submitted for one of his courses. In the article, he demonstrates the need for sound, biblical counseling for the people of God in their distresses, burdens, and sins. The article is a call for truly biblical counseling, as opposed to unbiblical, Freudian psychology, which is the basis for much of what passes for counseling in our day.

This issue of PRTJ also includes two entries that bring to a conclusion two bibliographies that we have been publishing in installments. My colleague, Prof. Douglas J. Kuiper, concludes his bibliography of the writings of George M. Ophoff, one of the original faculty members of the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary. Our readers should know that Prof. Kuiper has recently been awarded his Master in Theology degree from Calvin Theological Seminary. Congratulations to Prof. Kuiper on this achievement! I also bring to a close my “John Calvin Research Bibliography.” The last two entries are sections #17 and #18: “Calvin’s Doctrine of the Last Things,” and “Calvin’s Views on Worship.” It is possible that in the future the entire “John Calvin Research Bibliography” and the George Martin Ophoff bibliography will be published in some form or other, and made available by our seminary.

And there are our book reviews. We are able to include eight reviews in this issue. The reviews are always an enjoyable and worthwhile part of PRTJ. Thanks to all our reviewers, but special thanks to Prof. David Engelsma, who, although emeritus, continues to write and to produce. His book reviews are always insightful and worthwhile.

Read and enjoy!

Soli Deo Gloria!

The PRC Synod reconvened Monday morning at 10 a.m. in First PRC (Grand Rapids, MI).

The main item on the agenda was consideration of two protests involving Synod 2018's decision on the relation between faith and good works. Synod unanimously adopted the advice of its committee of pre-advice (Committee 4), that neither protest be sustained. Synod 2019 gave detailed grounds to both parties, which will become available in the published Acts of Synod.

In other business, Synod voted for members of its standing committees (Contact Committee, Domestic Mission Commitee, Foreign Mission Committee, Theological School Commmittee, etc.) and officers. These too will be published in the summary report and in the Acts.

Synod concluded its work a little after 2:00 p.m.

The expenses for synod totaled $11,524.83.

Let us pray for God's blessing to rest upon the decisions reached, for the good of the PRC, her sister churches, and her mission endeavors - and above all, for the glory of God and the King of the church, Jesus Christ.

One of the coffee-time breaks at Synod 2019

Coffee and cake time after seminary graduation Thursday night (at Eastside Christian School next door)

Rev. G. Van Baren was able to attend the end of the seminary student examination on Thursday.

On this twenty-fourth Lord's Day of 2019, June 16, the following news and information concerning PRC congregations, the Seminary, sister churches, and mission fields may be mentioned.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS:

• The Council of Southeast PRC (Grand Rapids, MI) has published a new trio from which to call her next pastor: Revs. R. Kleyn (Covenant of Grace, Spokane, WA), D. Lee (Bethel, IL), and J. Mahtani (Cornerstone, IN). The congregation plans to vote TODAY. *Update: Rev. R. Kleyn has received this call.
  
  
• From Grandville PRC's bulletin today: "The Council presents the following trio for MOL to Singapore: Rev. G. Eriks (Hudsonville), Rev. J. Engelsma (Doon, IA), Rev. B. Huizinga (Redlands, CA). The congregational meeting to call one of these ministers will be July 11 after the evening service."
  
  
• Rev. S. Regnerus (Lynden, WA PRC) is leading the worship services and preaching for Immanuel PRC's (Lacombe, AB) today and next Sunday.
  
  
• From Calvary PRC's (Hull, IA) bulletin today: "We welcome our home missionary, Rev Spriensma, to our pulpit today and pray God's blessing on the Word preached. Pastor Brummel is preaching for Bethel PRC today.
  The congregation is encouraged to stay after the second service this evening for Rev. Spriensma's presentation entitled “Our Home Missions: Reaching the Nones and the Dones.” Refreshments will be served afterward."
  
  
• From a recent bulletin of Limerick Reformed Fellowship: "Pastor [Rev. M. McGeown] and Larisa leave tomorrow (Monday 27 May) for the USA. They will visit Loveland, CO; Hull, IA; and Grand Rapids, MI (and Pastor will preach in Loveland, Hull, Doon, and Holland PR churches). Pastor will also attend the PRC Synod in Grand Rapids, MI, which begins on Tuesday 11 June. Pastor and Larisa plan to arrive back in Ireland on Friday 21 June. While they are in the USA, Rev. Justin Smidstra (Holland, MI) and Rev. Angus Stewart will supply the pulpit here."

• Southeast PRC (Grand Rapids, MI) is currently worshiping at Adams Christian School in Wyoming, MI, while she looks for a new location for the congregation. Today, Prof. B. Gritters and Rev. C. Spronk are preaching for her. Her bulletin today also includes this interesting note: "The long range planning committee continues to look for church buildings in our target area and following up on leads. They are also working to find a house in the area to serve as a parsonage."

DENOMINATIONAL NEWS:

Senior Retreat: Registration for the Senior Retreat is open. The dates are Sept 17-20 at Gull Lake Ministries (MI). The theme is ‘God’s Care For Us.’ Forms are available at Zion PRC's website. Click on Senior Retreat.

Synod's delegates meeting in First PRC's lower level this past week

PRC Synod 2019:

• Synod met this past week in First PR Church of Grand Rapids, MI.  The daily reports with pictures may be found here.
• Some of the highlights are these:
  • With much humble gratitude to God the 2019 Synod of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America announces that two senior seminarians, Matt Kortus and Jacob Maatman, sustained their synodical examinations and declared them candidates for the ministry of the Word and sacraments. The synod declared them eligible for a call on or after July 13, 2019. Upon receipt of a call they are to have six weeks to consider that call.
  • Synod called Rev. Brian Huizinga to replace Prof. Cammenga as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament. Rev. Cory Griess was chosen to be the alternate. May the Lord guide Rev. Huizinga that he may know God's will regarding this call. Let us remember him in our prayers.
  • Delegates from our sister churches were given an opportunity to address synod on behalf of their churches. Deacon Lee Meng Hsien spoke on behalf of the CERCS, Rev. McGeown spoke on behalf of Covenant PRC in Northern Ireland. and Rev. John Flores spoke on behalf of the PRC in the Philippines. These delegates spoke of the work that God was doing in their churches and expressed thanks to God for our sister church relationship. The chairman of synod responded by express to these delegates our thanks to God for them and for the fellowship that we have them.
    Synod expressed to the PRCP and CERCS that the PRCA has no objections to their entering into a sister-church relationship with each other, and expressed to our sister churches our joy and our thankfulness to God for opening the way for this manifestation of the unity and catholicity of the church and our prayer for God’s richest blessings upon this relationship.
• Synod will reconvene Monday morning at 10 a.m.to take up some of the remaining protests and appeals.
  

*Rev. G. Eriks, president of synod, informs the students and their wives and visitors of Sems. M.Kortus and J. Maatman's approval to be candidates for the ministry.

PRC Seminary News:

• The seminary has now entered its spring/summer break. Besides their work at the PRC Synod in June, the faculty will be busy with various trips and speaking engagements.  With the construction project and library renovation continuing, there is still plenty of activity at the seminary (see note below). In addition faculty and staff continue their end-of-semester work and preparing for the new semester in the Fall. The seminary is open daily (M-F) during the summer (except for holidays) and staff is available to assist with any needs.
  
  
• *Our two senior seminarians, Matt Kortus and Jacob Maatman, sustained their synodical examinations this past week at the PRC 2019 Synod and were declared them candidates for the ministry of the Word and sacraments in the PRC. They are eligible for a call on or after July 13, 2019. Seminary commencement was held this past Thursday night in First PRC.

• Synod called Rev. Brian Huizinga to replace Prof. Cammenga as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament. Rev. Cory Griess was chosen to be the alternate. May the Lord guide Rev. Huizinga that he may know God's will regarding this call. Let us remember him in our prayers.
  
  

• If you missed the speeches at the seminary's Dordt400 conference, or want to refresh your mind, now's your chance to listen to them! The audio files of the speeches and historical presentations from the conference are now available on Trinity PRC's Sermonaudio channel (the host of the conference). The videos are also now available on the seminary YouTube channel. *If you are interested in CD's or DVD's of the recent Dordt 400 Conference, please send your request to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
  
  
• The Spring issue of the PR Theological Journal is at the printer and should be ready in the next few weeks. For back issues, visit the seminary journal page. If you wish to be added to our mailing list, contact the seminary's secretary.

• If you have not yet done so, visit the new PRC seminary website! There are many new features and updates, including a blog. Visit the site and check out the various pages - and sign up to receive seminary news by email! The library is also online there (under Resources). If you are looking for a particular book to read or use, or just want to browse, visit the library page.

• Work continues on the seminary addition project, both inside and out (new archives and offices). This past week drywall was hung in the new addition and ceiling demo work was done in the library. Visit the seminary news section for pics and more information.
  
  

*A new member joins the PRC in the Philippines (see note below)

SISTER-CHURCH NEWS:

• Concerning our sister church in Singapore, Covenant ERC, we may note the following:
  • Rev. A. denHartog and his wife are currently serving the congregation on behalf of the PRC Contact Committee.
  • From Grandville PRC's bulletin today: "The Council presents the following trio for MOL to Singapore: Rev. G. Eriks (Hudsonville), Rev. J. Engelsma (Doon, IA), Rev. B. Huizinga (Redlands, CA). The congregational meeting to call one of these ministers will be July 11 after the evening service."
  • Her latest newsletter (April 2019) - Reformed News Asia - was posted recently posted and may be found on this page.
  • The last issue of the young peoples' magazine, Salt Shakers (April 2019) may be found on this page. 
    
• Concerning our newest sister, the PRC in the Philippines, we may note the following from the bulletins of the Berean PRC and Maranatha PRC:

• Berean PRC:
  • Rev. V. Ibe, her pastor, leads in worship today.

  • Today, the saints in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija will worship with us via phone patch. We pray for God’s continued blessings as they hear and receive the proclamation of His Word!

  • *Classis of the Protestant Reformed Churches in the Philippines approved the request of membership of Provident Christian Church (A Reformed church) last Wednesday. May God richly bless us as we manifest the unity we enjoy and cherish in the Lord Jesus Christ! Also, Classis approved the brother Jeremiah Pascual in his entrance to the Seminary of the PRCP which will begin in August 2019 the Lord willing.

  • Rev. Daniel and Sis. Sharon Kleyn plan to return to the Philippines with Rev. J. Flores this Wednesday, June 19, D.V."

• Maranatha PRC:
  • "Rev. L. Trinidad will lead us in both services.
  • Let us also remember Rev. D. Kleyn and Sharon as they return home on July 19, 2019 from their six months furlough and studies."
  • And for more on the life and work of our "sisters" in the Far East read the news under Philippine missions (bulletins).
    

• Concerning our sister church in Ballymena, N. Ireland, Covenant PRC, we may note the following:
  
  • From her bulletin this week: "We welcome Rev. Justin & Kelly Smidstra from First Holland PRC to our worship services today. Rev. & Mary Stewart are in the Limerick Reformed Fellowship."
  • Covenant PRC's latest newsletter was received and posted (May 2019).
    
  • Read the newest issue of Covenant Reformed News! That issue (May 2019) can be found here.
  • Upcoming: S. Wales Lecture: Rev. Stewart will speak on “The Burnt Offering” on Thursday, 6 June at 7:15 PM in Margam Community Centre.

• 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 also.
  • Plans are being made for a Dordt400 conference involving EPC and PRC men this summer (July).
  • The EPCA has this special notice, especially for our young people and young adults: The Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Australia would love to invite any young people and young adults aged 13 and up to their biennial youth camp. This youth camp will be held in Brisbane from the 28th of December 2019 - 3rd January 2020. Rev. Martyn McGeown from the Limerick Reformed Fellowship of the Republic of Ireland will be our guest speaker. This is a great time to meet other young people, fellowship with them and learn about our Saviour. Please contact Megan at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for a flyer or for additional information.

Have you heard about the release of Volume 2 of Prof. D. Engelsma's commentary on the Belgic Confession? Visit the RFPA website for more information.

With the publication of volume two is completed a Reformed, full-scale, commentary on the Belgic Confession, of which there are only a few in English today. This book is not a summary of the Confession, nor a compilation of sermons loosely based on the Confession, but a commentary. It explains the Confession, article by article, doctrine by doctrine.

Volume two begins with the Confession’s opening article on the doctrine of salvation, continues with the Confession’s lengthy treatment of the doctrine of the church, and concludes with the Confession’s explanation of the doctrine of the last things—eschatology.

Volume two covers Articles 22-37 of the Belgic Confession and includes indexes for both volumes.

SPECIAL NOTICES:

• If you are in need of some pamphlets and/or articles 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.
  
  
• Would you like to read good Reformed literature and a solid Reformed and biblical magazine? 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.
  
  
• You can now listen to the Heidelberg Catechism, the Belgic Confession, and the Canons of Dordt on audio! Visit the links provided to hear the Catechism, the Confession, and the Canons read by Elijah Roberts. It's another excellent way to learn the Reformed faith and memorize these Reformed creeds.

• Remember to listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday (on a radio station near you or on Sermonaudio wherever you are)!
  • Today Rev. C. Griess (pastor of First PRC in Grand Rapids, MI) begins a three-month commitment to the program with a special series on the Five Points of Calvinism under the theme "Religion Defended" (which you may listen to at this link).

  • From the Reformed Witness Hour Committee: Have you checked out our newsletters? If you would like to receive them digitally in your emailbox, please sign up for our bimonthly newsletter here: ehttp://epurl.com/gikNsL.

  • A new Spanish edition of the RWH has been produced and may be found on this YouTube channel (PRC Espanol). Look for new messages each week - and help spread the word!

 
*Looking for a rewarding time of spiritual growth and fellowship in beautiful NW Washington? Sign up to attend the Lynden PRC YA Retreat!

ESPECIALLY FOR PRC Young People and Young Adults:

• NEWS about the 2019 PRYP's Convention:
  • Southwest & Providence PRCs are hosting the 2019 PRC Young People's Convention on August 12-16, the Lord willing.  The convention will be held at Michindoh Conference Center in Hillsdale, MI.
  • Chaperone registration is now closed! Thank you for the overwhelming response to our request for chaperones.   The chaperone committee will contact each applicant in the next few weeks. What a wonderful testament of your desire to spend time with our covenant young people!
  • Young Peoples Convention Update: You can still register on line and have paperwork received by May 31 to avoid a late fee. Any paperwork received after May 31 please include a late fee of $25.00 with your payment. Registration should be done as soon as possible so committees can proceed with their work. Looking forward to seeing you all at the convention in August!
    
    
• Lynden PRC Young Adults Retreat updates:

*Registration for our 2019 retreat is open. Thank you to all that have registered already.  Come join us July 1-5, for a week filled with spiritual encouragement, white water rafting, campfires, hiking and other fun activities with like-minded believers! Check out our website (https://lyndenprcya.wixsite.com/mysite) to register and for more details. We also have a Facebook page (Lynden PRC Young Adults Retreat 2019). Email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with any questions you may have. We look forward to hosting all of you in Washington!

• The EPCA has this special notice, especially for our young people and young adults: The Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Australia would love to invite any young people and young adults aged 13 and up to their biennial youth camp. This youth camp will be held in Brisbane from the 28th of December 2019 - 3rd January 2020. Rev. Martyn McGeown from the Limerick Reformed Fellowship of the Republic of Ireland will be our guest speaker. This is a great time to meet other young people, fellowship with them and learn about our Saviour. Please contact Megan at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for a flyer or for additional information.
  
  
• The latest young peoples' magazine of Covenant ERC in Singapore, Salt Shakers, was received and posted (April 2019 - cf. image above). Check that out on this page.
  

*The officebearers of Provident Christian Church, Marikina, the Philippines (with missionary-pastor D. Holstege in the middle).
An important decision concerning this congregation was made at the PRCP Classis this week (see note below).

PRC MISSION NEWS:

Domestic Labors:

• Remember in prayer our home missionary, Rev. A. Spriensma, who continues to labor in the West Michigan area and beyond through Byron Center PRC, the calling church.
  
  • In that connection, BC-PRC's bulletin had this note in it today: "Missionary Spriensma is leading three worship services today at Calvary PRC and Hull PRC and also giving a mission presentation for the churches in Iowa. Next Sunday he will be preaching at Cornerstone PRC."
  • And that presentation in Calvary PRC next Sunday is noted in her bulletin today: "Calvary PRC, in connection with the Domestic Mission Committee of the PRCA, invites you to attend a special mission presentation by our home missionary, Rev. Aud Spriensma, in our sanctuary on Sunday, June 16, at 7:45 p.m. The title of his presentation is: “Our Home Missions: Reaching the Nones and the Dones.” Refreshments will follow the presentation."
  • The Dorr Bible Study meets this Thursday, June 20 at 7:30 PM. Our discussion will begin at John 6:38. Join us there with your friends and neighbors to study God's Word.

United Kingdom:

• Limerick Reformed Fellowship News:
  • This special notice appeared in a recent bulletin: "Pastor and Larisa leave tomorrow (Monday 27 May) for the USA. They will visit Loveland, CO; Hull, IA; and Grand Rapids, MI (and Pastor will preach in Loveland, Hull, Doon, and Holland PR churches). Pastor will also attend the PRC Synod in Grand Rapids, MI, which begins on Tuesday 11 June. Pastor and Larisa plan to arrive back in Ireland on Friday 21 June. While they are in the USA, Rev. Justin Smidstra (Holland, MI) and Rev. Angus Stewart will supply the pulpit here."

• The March 2019 newsletter of the Limerick Reformed Fellowship mission station was received and posted recently.

Philippine Missions:

• The last Philippines mission newsletter was received and posted back in January 2019 and may be found on this PRC webpage.
  
  
• For more on life and activities in the Philippines from the personal perspective of the missionary's, visit the Kleyn's blog, the Holstege's, and the Smits!
  
  
• From this Sunday's bulletin of Provident Christian Church in Marikina we find the following notes concerning her pastor as well as concerning our missionaries and their labors today and in this coming week:
  • "Rev. Smit will lead both of our  worship  services today. Rev. Holstege will teach and preach for the Bearers of Light Community Church in Guiguinto, Bulacan today. Next Sunday, he will preach both times for Provident, D.V. Rev. John Flores, is in the States for the PRCA Synod.
  • *Last Wednesday, the PRCP Classis approved our request for membership in the PRCP! We rejoice and thank God for His goodness in guiding us to manifest the oneness of the church by joining the communion of Protestant Reformed Churches with their sister churches throughout the world. May the Lord richly bless us as we dwell together in brotherhood from this time forward with the saints of the PRCP.

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.

India:

• Let us remember to pray for the Lord's blessing on Georgetown PRC's labor in Vellore, India.
• And we remember our sister church's work (Covenant ERC in Singapore) in Kolkata, through Rev. E. Singh.

Myanmar:

• Let us also remember Hope PRC's (Grand Rapids, MI) support of and involvement with Rev. Titus' work in Myanmar; for his latest report, visit this page.