On this forty-fourth Lord's Day of 2019, November 3, the following news and information concerning PRC congregations, the Seminary, sister churches, and mission fields may be reported.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: "...This, I say, is his comfort, that his heavenly Father so embraces all things under his power—so governs them at will by his nod—so regulates them by his wisdom, that nothing takes place save according to his appointment; that received into his favour, and entrusted to the care of his angels neither fire, nor water, nor sword, can do him harm, except in so far as God their master is pleased to permit. For thus sings the Psalm, “Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust; his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday...” (Ps. 91:2-6). Hence the exulting confidence of the saints, “The Lord is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me? The Lord taketh my part with them that help me.” “Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear.” “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.” (Ps. 118:6; 27:3; 23:4)." ~ J. Calvin, Institutes

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS:

• Rev. J. Mahtani (Cornerstone PRC) has been considering the call from Grandvillle PRC (received Oct.6) to serve as minister on loan to Covenant ERC in Singapore. He plans to answer it today. *The Lord has led Rev. J. Mahtani to accept this call. May the Lord be with him and his family, as well as with Cornerstone PRC and Covenant ERC, as they transition to this new place of labor in the kingdom.
  
  
• The Consistory of Immanuel PRC (Lacombe, AB) has formed a new trio from which to call a pastor: Rev. R. Barnhill (Peace PRC, IN), Rev. H. Bleyenberg (Providence, PRC, MI), and Rev. M. VanderWal (Wingham PRC, ON). The congregation will vote today after the afternoon service. Today Rev. T. Miersma will lead her services. *UPDATE: Rev. R. Barnhill has received this call.
  
  
• We welcome to the federation of PRC congregations Unity PRC, the new daughter church of Byron Center PRC organized this past Wednesday, Oct.31. Today she holds her first worship services with Rev. J. Slopsema and Rev. R. Van Overloop leading (meeting at Zion Christian School on the NW side of 76th St. and Byron Center Ave.). From her bulletin today we find this note: "This past week at our organzational meeting of Unity PRC, our officebearers were elected. They are as follows: Elders: Sid Miedema, Bruce Lubbers, Ken Elzinga, Larry Looyenga & Duane Mingerink. Deacons: Phil Doezema, Jason Vandermeulen, Jeff Booth & Rich Sleda. Let us all continue to keep these men in our prayers in the months and years to come! We would also like to thank all of the members of the Daughter Church Steering Committee for your faithful service on this committee. The many meetings and tasks that had to be performed helped pave the way to the organization of Unity Protestant Reformed Church. We give thanks to our Heavenly Father for his blessings and guidance bringing us to this milestone and pray for his continued blessings in the years to come."

Reformation Day / Fall Lectures planned by PRC congregations for this week yet:

• Lynden PRC (WA) - November 8: "The Evangelism Committee is planning a fall lecture that will be given by Prof. Doug Kuiper.  The lecture will be about the Swiss Reformation - "Ulrich Zwingli: The First Reformed Reformer."  The date of the lecture will be November 8.  We look forward to seeing you there!"
• Wingham (ON) PRC - November 8: "The Consistory is holding a Reformation Day Rally on Friday, November 8, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Prof. Ron Cammenga will be speaking on the topic, “What was the Reformation?”

DENOMINATIONAL NEWS:

Classis West: Classis West met from Sept.25-27 at Calvary PRC in Hull, IA. It will reconvene this week Tuesday November 5 at Calvary PRC to finish its work. May the Lord give wise guidance to the delegates as they carry on their important work. For the full, official report of the stated clerk, visit this special news page on this meeting.

PRC Seminary News:

• The seminary is now entering its eleventh week of the first semester in the new school year, and faculty, students, and staff stay busy with their various tasks. This past Thursday and Friday (Oct.31-Nov.1) was the semester's annual "reading recess." This is also the time of year when our professors deliver special Reformation Day lectures (see the special Reformation lecture section above). Soon the second round of practice preaching will be held (Nov.18). Continue to include the seminary in your regular prayers.
  
  
• The schedule for the first semester has been posted on the seminary's website. If you are interested in visiting, please contact the seminary.
  
  
• The Fall 2019 issue of the PRT Journal is being put together and should be available in late November. Watch for articles based on presentations given in Mexico this past summer and plenty of book reviews.
  
  
• Looking for some good Reformed books to read, Bible study materials or seminary publications to use? Come and visit the seminary's bookstore! We have a variety of Bibles, commentaries, and good books - used and new (including Reformation titles!) - for our members and friends. And you may also make use of our library - here's the link to our online catalog if you wish to search for something to read or use.
  
  
• Remember the Seminary's Dordt400 Conference in April of this year? The speeches and presentations given at this event have now been compiled, expanded, and edited (by Prof. R. Cammenga) and form the newly published RFPA book, For God's Glory and the Church's Consolation: 400 Years of the Synod of Dordt. Visit the website to order your copy, or come to the seminary bookstore to find one!
  
  
• Need for Ministers: Synod 2019 took a decision to place the urgent need for seminary students before our churches. 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. If you wish to listen to a couple of sermons by our professors that address this need, listen to "The (Suffering) Minister's Steadfast Confession" and "The Beautiful Feet of the Gospel Preacher."
  
  
• The finishing touches are being put on the seminary addition and library renovation projects (new archives and offices). More of the wall accents were hung recently in the library and work continues in the archives room (fire alarm and suppression systems). The other custom library desks and magazine kiosks will be finished soon, along with the work area for the archives room. Final inspections are taking place and then the PRC archives can be moved into their new home.
  

• For more seminary news and information visit the PRC seminary website! 

*For the latest issue - October 2019 - see note below

SISTER-CHURCH NEWS:

• Concerning our sister church in Ballymena, N. Ireland, Covenant PRC, we may note the following:
  • Rev. A. Stewart led the services today. This note we find in Limerick RF's bulletin today: "Rev Stewart and Elder Ivan Reid will be conducting family visitation in Limerick this Thursday to Saturday (7-9 November).  ...Next Sunday (10 November) Rev Stewart will preach in Limerick, while our pastor preaches in Ballymena."
  • The CPRC Reformation Day Lecture was held Friday, 25 October at 7:30 PM. Rev. Stewart spoke on “William Tyndale: English Bible Translator.”
  • Covenant PRC's latest newsletter was received and posted (August 2019).
    
  • A new issue of the "Covenant Reformed News" is out! Read the October 2019 issue here.

• Concerning our sister church in Singapore, Covenant ERC, we may note the following:
  
  • Rev. A. denHartog and his wife are once again serving the CERC while she is vacant.
  • Re the recent call of Grandville PRC: "In 24 hours’ time, God will make known His will concerning whether He has called Rev Jonathan Mahtani to be the MOL of CERC. May our earnest prayers be that the call for Rev Mahtani be answered according to the good pleasure and sovereign will of our loving Father who knows all our needs even before we present them to His throne of grace." *The Lord has led Rev. J. Mahtani to accept this call. We rejoice with our sister in this gracious provision of our Lord.
  • And about her annual Reformation celebration we find this: "This year Reformation Day Conference will be held on 9 Nov 2019 from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Rev den Hartog will be speaking on the Theme “Personal, Practical, Profitable: The other work of the Synod of Dort”. We encourage you to invite your friends and families to come and hear the great reformation of the Church of our Lord Jesus Christ."
  • In connection with that event, we learn this from today's bulletin: "God willing, our missionary pastor and his wife, Rev Singh and Sonali, will be arriving in Singapore on 7 Nov 2019 to attend the Reformation Day Conference. Rev Singh will also be providing an update on his work in Kolkata mission field next Sunday at 11.30 am, after the morning service. Please extend our warm christian fellowship and love to Rev Singh and Sonali during their one-week visit in Singapore."
  • *Her latest newsletter (October 2019) - Reformed News Asia - was posted recently posted and may be found on this page. 

• Concerning the PRC in the Philippines, we may note the following from the bulletins of the Berean PRC, PRC in Bulacan, Maranatha PRC, and Provident CC:
  • Berean PRC: Rev. V. Ibe is leading the worship services today.
  • Maranatha PRC: "Rev. L. Trinidad will lead us in both services. He will teach us the Canons of Dordt."
  • Provident CC: "Rev. Holstege will preach for us today."
  • Denominational News:

The PRCP Classis held their regular meeting this past Wednesday October 31, 2019 at Provident CC, D.V. "The Classis regular meeting is in “Recess” and will continue on November 30, 2019 and still our venue is at Provident PRC, Marikina City. A number of accomplishment done by the Classis was to expand the two Standing Committees into four Standing Committees, namely; 1 - Student Seminary Training, Student Aid, 2 - Contact with other Churches and Missions, 3 - Finance, Emeritus, 4 - Translation and Publication with the involvement of our three Missionaries to serve the committees as Advisors of the Classis, Standing Committees and Church Visitations with a goal of lightening the work load of the previous committees and involved other church officers as the Federation obey the calling of the Lord to go into the highways and gather all together as many as we found.. Let us pray that our Jehovah will give the delegates knowledge and understanding in the other matters to be discussed in the next meeting."

A new mission newsletter was published and distributed this month. You may find that October 2019 update here.

And for more on the life and work of our "sisters" in the Far East read the news under Philippine missions.

• 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.

New from the RFPA! Commemorate the Synod of Dordt's 400th anniversary with this collection of essays. Available now!

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.

• Looking for a study Bible or Bible study resources this Fall? Visit the Reformed Book Outlet in downtown Hudsonville! The bookstore has plenty of other good reading materials too, as well as music and cards.
  
  

• 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.
  
  
• Did you know 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. 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!
  • For October to January (2020) the RWH welcomes Rev. W. Bruinsma of our Pittsburgh PRC to the microphone. He is doing a series on women in the Bible. Today he delivers the message "Miriam's Lamentable Fall" based on Numbers 12. Listen to the broadcast on the station near you or visit the links provided here to listen to this program.

  • From the Reformed Witness Hour Committee:

    Did you read our latest newsletters - October 2019? Have you signed up yet to receive the emailed Reformed Witness Hour (RWH) newsletter? Six times per year, we update you on news about our speakers, program, and online reach, and we share stories from listeners and readers who have been blessed by the RWH, a ministry of the PRC. Please visit http://eepurl.com/gikNsL to sign up for the newsletter.

  • A new Spanish edition of the RWH has been produced and may be found on this YouTube channel (PRC Espanol). Why not check it out - and help spread the word!

 
Want to know how to date with a view to marriage God's way and not the culture's? Read this new title from the RFPA and Rev. J. Engelsma!

ESPECIALLY FOR PRC Young People and Young Adults:

• The 2020 PRYP's Convention will be hosted by Georgetown PRC and held at Lake Williamson Christian Center (St. Louis, MO).

• 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, Australia from the 28^th of December 2019 – 3^rd January 2020. Rev. Martyn McGeown from the Limerick Reformed Fellowship of the Republic of Ireland will be our guest speaker, taking the camp on the topic of ‘The Christian’s Armour’ (From Ephesians 6). Amongst other activities, the theme night will be on the “Australian Bush”. The cost for the camp is $250 AUD (approx $170 USD). 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 the full flyer + registration form, or for any additional questions/information.
  
  

• The latest young peoples' magazine of Covenant ERC in Singapore, Salt Shakers, was received and posted (August 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.

• Limerick Reformed Fellowship News:
  • Rev. M. McGeown is preaching today and will lead the Bible study Tuesday 8 PM in Corbally. Next week he and Rev. A. Stewart will exchange pulpits.
  • From today's bulletin: "Lecture on “The Canon of Sacred Scripture” on Saturday 23 November in Limerick."
  • The latest mission newsletter from the Limerick Reformed Fellowship is now available! The September 2019 edition may be found here.

Philippine Missions:

• From today's Maranatha PRC bulletin: "Let us pray for Rev. D. Kleyn, our Missionary as he labors in Sipalay, Negros Occidental."
• There is a brand new Philippines mission newsletter to read! The October 2019 issue is now available.
  
• 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. From CERCS's bulletin today we find this relevant note: "God willing, our missionary pastor and his wife, Rev Singh and Sonali, will be arriving in Singapore on 7 Nov 2019 to attend the Reformation Day Conference. Rev Singh will also be providing an update on his work in Kolkata mission field next Sunday at 11.30 am, after the morning service. Please extend our warm christian fellowship and love to Rev Singh and Sonali during their one-week visit in Singapore."
  

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 forty-third Lord's Day of 2019, October 27, the following news and information concerning PRC congregations, the Seminary, sister churches, and mission fields may be noted.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: "This is indeed a glorious privilege. To know Christ, serve Christ, follow Christ, obey Christ, work in Christ’s vineyard, fight Christ’s battles, all this is no small matter. But for sinful men and women like ourselves to be called ‘friends of Christ,’ is something that our weak minds can hardly grasp and take in. The King of kings and Lords of lords not only pities and saves all them that believe in Him, but actually calls them His ‘friends.’” ~J. C. Ryle

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS:

• From the Consistory of Immanuel PRC (Lacombe, AB) comes this note: "New Trio for our congregation consists of: Rev. R. Barnhill (Peace PRC, IN), Rev. H. Bleyenberg (Providence, PRC, MI), and Rev. M. VanderWal (Wingham PRC, ON). Voting for a new minister to shepherd in our midst will take place after the afternoon service next week Sunday." [Nov.3] Today Rev. N. Langerak (Crete PRC) is supplying her pulpit once again. Next week Rev. T. Miersma will lead her services.
  
  
• Rev. J. Mahtani (Cornerstone PRC) continues to consider the call from Grandvillle PRC (received Oct.6) to serve as minister on loan to Covenant ERC in Singapore. He now plans to answer by Nov.3. We include him and his family in our prayers as he weighs this call.
  
  

*Georgetown PRC 25th anniversary breakfast held yesterday during part of her celebration at Heritage Christian School in Hudsonville, MI

• *We rejoice with Georgetown PRC who is celebrating her 25th anniversary this weekend and today. This note is found in her bulletin today: "We welcome this morning Pastor Ron VanOverloop to our pulpit and fellowship. Today’s sermons are on the theme for our remembrance of our congregation’s 25th anniversary, Thanking God for Our Treasured Heritage. Both sermons are from Psalm 16. This morning we look at verses 5&6 and reflect back on the Treasured Heritage given to us. We want to see clearly what our Heritage is and its priceless value. This evening we meditate on verses 8&9 and learn the way our Treasured Heritage will be kept in the future, by God’s grace. Only by setting the Lord Always Before us. We welcome visitors today who have come to celebrate with us God’s goodness to us as a congregation."
  
  
• The new daughter church (Unity PRC) of Byron Center PRC will be organized this week Wednesday, Oct.31 at 7pm at BC PRC. After the worship service including the organization, there will also be a congregational meeting at which elders and deacons for Unity PRC will be elected.

Reformation Day / Fall Lectures planned by PRC congregations:

• Crete PRC - October 31: "The world around us is becoming increasingly digital; we see many instances of this in society as well as in the church. Digital technology can be used wisely and productively; however, we often do not notice or stop to think about what effects it may be having on our spiritual life.   Join us for our fall lecture “Living Wisely in a Digital Age” to be given by Rev. Nate Decker on Thursday, Oct. 31 at Crete Protestant Reformed Church D.V.  Rev. Decker will address this topic from a distinct reformed viewpoint and have us consider wisdom in our use of digital media."
• Covenant of Grace PRC (Spokane, WA) - November 1: "Reformation Day Lecture: Prof. R. Dykstra will be here on Friday, November 1, to give a lecture on the subject “Blessed Assurance: Reaffirmed by the Canons of Dort.”
• Hull PRC (IA) - November 1: "On November 1 at 7:00 p.m. the Reformed Witness Committee is hosting a presentation by Prof. B. Gritters on this subject: "The Sabbath Command: The Law That Christians Love to Keep". This presentation will take place at Hull Protestant Reformed Church (1006 Hayes Ave, Hull, IA). Everyone is encouraged to attend. Bring a friend or family member with you. If you can’t be there in person, you can catch it on SermonAudio.com.
• Pittsburgh PRC - November 1: "Our church is hosting our annual Reformation Day lecture on Friday, November 1st at 7 PM. Rev. Bruinsma will speak on the subject, "Ulrich Zwingli and the Restoration of Preaching." Mark your calendars and invite a friend."
• Randolph PRC - November 1: "The Evangelism is preparing for a Reformation Day Presentation to be held at church on Friday, November 1, at 7:30 P.M. Rev. Guichelaar plans to speak on "The Reformation of 1834: A Return to Dordt." The Reformation of 1834 (known as the Afscheiding - the Secession) is where the PRC, the CRC, the URCNA, the CanRC, and the FRCNA all have their spiritual roots. Invite your friends, and those who might have an interest in this history, to the presentation."
• Lynden PRC (WA) - November 8: "The Evangelism Committee is planning a fall lecture that will be given by Prof. Doug Kuiper.  The lecture will be about the Swiss Reformation under Ulrich Zwingli.  The date of the lecture will be November 8.  We look forward to seeing you there!"
• Wingham (ON) PRC - November 8: "The Consistory is holding a Reformation Day Rally on Friday, November 8, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Prof. Ron Cammenga will be speaking on the topic, “What was the Reformation?”

DENOMINATIONAL NEWS:

Classis West: Classis West met from Sept.25-27 at Calvary PRC in Hull, IA. It will reconvene on Tuesday November 5 to finish its work. For the full, official report of the stated clerk, visit this special news page on this meeting.

*New display case outside the new PRC archives room (see note below)

PRC Seminary News:

• The seminary is now entering its tenth week of the first semester in the new school year, and faculty, students, and staff stay busy with their respective tasks. This week Thursday and Friday (Oct.31-Nov.1) will be the "reading recess" break for the semester. This is also the time of year when our professors deliver special Reformation Day lectures (see the special Reformation lecture section above). Continue to pray for the seminary.
  
  
• The schedule for the first semester has been posted on the seminary's website. If you are interested in visiting, please contact the seminary.
  
  
• On Thursday and Friday, October 10 and 11, the PRTS hosted Dr. Nick Willborn, senior pastor of the Covenant Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Oak Ridge, Tennessee and adjunct professor of church history at Greenville Presbyterian Seminary in Taylors, SC. Dr. Willborn presented two speeches dealing with Southern Presbyterian theologians of the 19th century: "The Theological Distinctives of the 19th-Century Southern Presbyterians"  and "The Pastoral Qualities of the 19th-Century Presbyterians." Both presentations are now available on the seminary's YouTube channel.
  
  
• Looking for some good Reformed books to read, Bible study materials or seminary publications to use? Come and visit the seminary's bookstore! We have a variety of Bibles, commentaries, and good books - used and new (including Reformation titles!) - for our members and friends. And you may also make use of our library - here's the link to our online catalog if you wish to search for something to read or use.
  
  
• Remember the Seminary's Dordt400 Conference in April of this year? The speeches and presentations given at this event have now been compiled, expanded, and edited (by Prof. R. Cammenga) and form the newly published RFPA book, For God's Glory and the Church's Consolation: 400 Years of the Synod of Dordt. Visit the website to order your copy, or come to the seminary bookstore to find one!
  
  
• Need for Ministers: Synod 2019 took a decision to place the urgent need for seminary students before our churches. 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.
  
  
• The finishing touches are being put on the seminary addition and library renovation projects (new archives and offices). A few more work stations await completion in the library yet but more work was completed in the archives room this past week and final inspection is set for this week Thursday. A special display case for archives was installed in the hallway (out of an old doorway!) a few weeks ago and the lights added this past week (*see photo above).

• Be sure to visit the new PRC seminary website! Visit the site and check out the various pages, including the new blog - and sign up to receive seminary news by email!

SISTER-CHURCH NEWS:

• Concerning our sister church in Ballymena, N. Ireland, Covenant PRC, we may note the following:
  • Rev. A. Stewart led the services today.
  • The CPRC Reformation Day Lecture was held Friday, 25 October at 7:30 PM. Rev. Stewart spoke on “William Tyndale: English Bible Translator.”
  • Covenant PRC's latest newsletter was received and posted (August 2019).
    
  • A new issue of the "Covenant Reformed News" is out! Read the October 2019 issue 2019 issue here.

• Concerning our sister church in Singapore, Covenant ERC, we may note the following:
  
  • Rev. A. denHartog and his wife are once again serving the CERC while she is vacant.
  • Re the recent call of Grandville PRC: "This week we received news from GrandVille PRC that Rev Mahtani has written to them to request for a week’s extension on his call to serve as MOL to Singapore. He will now answer the call on 3 November 2019. Let us continue to pray that the Lord will make His will clear to Rev Mahtani if he should come over to serve in CERC."
  • And about her annual Reformation celebration we find this: "This year Reformation Day Conference will be held on 9 Nov 2019 from 9.30am to 3.30pm. Rev den Hartog will be speaking on the Theme “Personal, Practical, Profitable: The other work of the Synod of Dort”. We encourage you to invite your friends and families to come and hear the great reformation of the Church of our Lord Jesus Christ."
  • Her latest newsletter (August 2019) - Reformed News Asia - was posted recently posted and may be found on this page.

• Concerning the PRC in the Philippines, we may note the following from the bulletins of the Berean PRC, PRC in Bulacan, Maranatha PRC, and Provident CC:
  • Berean PRC: Rev. V. Ibe is leading the worship services today. Rev. Ibe is also scheduled to preach at Kerusso Community church in Tondo at 3P.M. and ‘will lead them in their study of the C.O. Arts. 17-19, the Lord willing.
  • Maranatha PRC: Rev. R. Smit will lead the services today and teach the Belgic Confession.
  • Provident CC: Rev. Kleyn will preach for us today. Rev. Holstege will teach and preach for the Bearers of Light Community Church in Guiguinto. Next week, Lord willing, Rev. Holstege will preach both times for Provident.
  • Denominational News:

The PRCP Classis will have their regular meeting on October 31, 2019 at 9:00 in the morning at Provident CC, D.V.

A new mission newsletter was published and distributed this month. You may find that October 2019 update here.

And for more on the life and work of our "sisters" in the Far East read the news under Philippine missions.

• 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.

Looking for some good materials to read during this Reformation month? Visit our pamphlet section and our special Reformation article section.

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.

• Looking for a study Bible or Bible study resources this Fall? Visit the Reformed Book Outlet in downtown Hudsonville!
  
  

• 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. If you missed the speech at the annual RFPA meeting this past week, visit this link to watch Rev. J. Smidstra's fine talk on "Training Our Children in the Discipline of Reading."
  
  
• Did you know 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. 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!
  • For October to January (2020) the RWH welcomes Rev. W. Bruinsma of our Pittsburgh PRC to the microphone. He is doing a series on women in the Bible. Today he delivers the message "Shiphrah and Puah Fear God" based on Exodus 1:14-21 (or visit the RWH website linked here to listen anytime).

  • From the Reformed Witness Hour Committee:

    Did you read our latest newsletters - October 2019? Have you signed up yet to receive the emailed Reformed Witness Hour (RWH) newsletter? Six times per year, we update you on news about our speakers, program, and online reach, and we share stories from listeners and readers who have been blessed by the RWH, a ministry of the PRC. Please visit http://eepurl.com/gikNsL to sign up for the newsletter.

  • A new Spanish edition of the RWH has been produced and may be found on this YouTube channel (PRC Espanol). Why not check it out - and help spread the word!

 
Want to know how to date with a view to marriage God's way and not the culture's? Read this new title from the RFPA and Rev. J. Engelsma!

ESPECIALLY FOR PRC Young People and Young Adults:

• The 2019 PRYP's Convention is now history (held Aug.12-16 at Michindoh Conference Center in Hillsdale, MI). Southwest and Providence PRCs hosted this year's event. For pictures and more visit this YouTube channel or the Facebook page. The 2020 PRYP's Convention will be hosted by Georgetown PRC and held at Lake Williamson Christian Center (St. Louis, MO).

• 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, Australia from the 28^th of December 2019 – 3^rd January 2020. Rev. Martyn McGeown from the Limerick Reformed Fellowship of the Republic of Ireland will be our guest speaker, taking the camp on the topic of ‘The Christian’s Armour’ (From Ephesians 6). Amongst other activities, the theme night will be on the “Australian Bush”. The cost for the camp is $250 AUD (approx $170 USD). 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 the full flyer + registration form, or for any additional questions/information.
  
  

• The latest young peoples' magazine of Covenant ERC in Singapore, Salt Shakers, was received and posted (August 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. In that connection, BC-PRC's bulletin today had this note: "Today Pastor Spriensma is preaching both services at Loveland PRC, meeting with their evangelism committee, and giving a mission presentation after the evening service."

• Limerick Reformed Fellowship News:
  • Rev. M. McGeown is preaching today and will lead the Bible study Tuesday 8 PM in Corbally.
  • A fresh mission newsletter from the Limerick Reformed Fellowship is now available! The September 2019 edition may be found here.

Philippine Missions:

• From today's Berean PRC bulletin: "Our brothers and sisters in Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija will join us in our worship services via phone patch. We pray for God’s continued blessings as they hear and receive the proclamation of His Word!"
• There is a brand new Philippines mission newsletter to read! The October 2019 issue is now available.
  
• 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 forty-second Lord's Day of 2019, October 20, the following news and information concerning PRC congregations, the Seminary, sister churches, and mission fields may be noted.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK: Every good thing we could think or desire is to be found in Jesus Christ alone. For He was sold to buy us back; captive to deliver us; condemned to absolve us. He was made a curse for our blessing, sin offering for our righteousness, marred that we may be made fair. He died for our life, so that by Him fury is made gentle, wrath appeased, darkness turned into light, fear reassured, despising despised, debt canceled, labor lightened, sadness made merry, misfortune made fortunate, difficulty easy, disorder ordered, division united, ignominy ennobled, rebellion subjected, intimidation intimidated, ambush uncovered, assaults assailed, force forced back, combat combated, war warred against, vengeance avenged, torment tormented, damnation damned, the abyss sunk into the abyss, hell transfixed, death dead, mortality made immortal. In short, mercy has swallowed up all misery, and goodness all misfortune ~ John Calvin

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS:

• On October 13 Rev. R. Kleyn (Covenant of Grace PRC, Spokane, WA) declined the call from Immanuel PRC (Lacombe, AB). Today and next Sunday Rev. N. Langerak (Crete PRC) is supplying her pulpit.
  
  
• On October 6 Grandville PRC voted to extend a call to Rev. J. Mahtani to serve as minister on loan to Covenant ERC in Singapore. We include him and his family in our prayers as he weighs this call.
  
  
• Special notice for TONIGHT from First PRC-Grand Rapids, MI: Mexico City Presentation: Sunday evening, October 20, at First PRC (GR) there will be a presentation on the work that took place in the Mexico City area this past summer. The presentation will begin at 7:15 PM. All in the area are invited to attend.
  
  
• Georgetown PRC is celebrating her 25th anniversary this year. This note is found in her bulletin about that upcoming celebration THIS WEEKEND AND NEXT SUNDAY: "Georgetown PR Church invites you to join their 25th Anniversary Celebration with two special services on Sunday, October 27 under the theme, "Thanking God for Our Treasured Heritage." Rev. VanOverloop will preach on Ps. 16:5-6 for the am service and Rev. Haak on verses 8-9 in our pm service. Photos, a powerpoint, and various other memorabilia will be displayed. Please join us in thanking God for His gracious care these past 25 years."
  
  
• From the bulletin of the new daughter church of Byron Center PRC comes this significant notice: "At a [recent] council meeting, our mother church set the date for Unity PRC organizational service for Wednesday, October 30 at 7pm at BC PRC. After our organization, there will also be a congregational meeting at which elders and deacons for Unity PRC will be elected, the Lord willing."

Reformation Day / Fall Lectures planned by PRC congregations:

• Kalamazoo PRC - October 25: "Many denominations, some even Reformed, are looking at going back to the Roman Catholic Church. Do you know the deepest common bond between them that gives them hope for union? Join us to hear Prof. Barry Gritters speak on: "Evangelicals and Catholics Together? Reconciling the Unreconcilable" on Friday, October 25, at 7:30 pm at Kalamazoo PRC, 4515 Green Acres Dr., Kalamazoo, MI. Refreshments will be served."
• Crete PRC - October 31: "The world around us is becoming increasingly digital; we see many instances of this in society as well as in the church. Digital technology can be used wisely and productively; however, we often do not notice or stop to think about what effects it may be having on our spiritual life.   Join us for our fall lecture “Living Wisely in a Digital Age” to be given by Rev. Nate Decker on Thursday, Oct. 31 at Crete Protestant Reformed Church D.V.  Rev. Decker will address this topic from a distinct reformed viewpoint and have us consider wisdom in our use of digital media."
• Covenant of Grace PRC (Spokane, WA) - November 1: "Reformation Day Lecture: Prof. R. Dykstra will be here on Friday, November 1, to give a lecture on the subject “Blessed Assurance: Reaffirmed by the Canons of Dort.”
• Hull PRC (IA) - November 1: "On November 1 at 7:00 p.m. the Reformed Witness Committee is hosting a presentation by Prof. B. Gritters on this subject: "The Sabbath Command: The Law That Christians Love to Keep". This presentation will take place at Hull Protestant Reformed Church (1006 Hayes Ave, Hull, IA). Everyone is encouraged to attend. Bring a friend or family member with you. If you can’t be there in person, you can catch it on SermonAudio.com.
• Pittsburgh PRC - November 1: "Our church is hosting our annual Reformation Day lecture on Friday, November 1st at 7 PM. Rev. Bruinsma will speak on the subject, "Ulrich Zwingli and the Restoration of Preaching." Mark your calendars and invite a friend."
• Randolph PRC - November 1: "The Evangelism is preparing for a Reformation Day Presentation to be held at church on Friday, November 1, at 7:30 P.M. Rev. Guichelaar plans to speak on "The Reformation of 1834: A Return to Dordt." The Reformation of 1834 (known as the Afscheiding - the Secession) is where the PRC, the CRC, the URCNA, the CanRC, and the FRCNA all have their spiritual roots. Invite your friends, and those who might have an interest in this history, to the presentation."
• Lynden PRC (WA) - November 8: "The Evangelism Committee is planning a fall lecture that will be given by Prof. Doug Kuiper.  The lecture will be about the Swiss Reformation under Ulrich Zwingli.  The date of the lecture will be November 8.  We look forward to seeing you there!"
• Wingham (ON) PRC - November 8: "The Consistory is holding a Reformation Day Rally on Friday, November 8, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Prof. Ron Cammenga will be speaking on the topic, “What was the Reformation?”

DENOMINATIONAL NEWS:

Classis East: Classis East met on Sept.11 at Southwest PRC (Wyoming, MI). For the official public report of the Stated Clerk, visit this special news page about the work and decisions.

Classis West: Classis West met from Sept.25-27 at Calvary PRC in Hull, IA. It will reconvene on Tuesday November 5 to finish its work. For the full, official report of the stated clerk, visit this special news page on this meeting.

Contact Commitee:  Revs. C. Griess and C. Spronk along with their wives, and Pete Vander Schaaf and his wife, returned home safely this past Monday after visiting the BERG in Giessen, Germany from September 30 to October 14.

PRC Seminary News:

• The seminary is now entering its ninth week of the first semester in the new school year, and faculty, students, and staff stay busy with their respective tasks. It is also the time of year when our professors deliver special Reformation Day lectures (see the special Reformation lecture section above). Continue to pray for the seminary.
  
  
• The schedule for the first semester has been posted on the seminary's website. If you are interested in visiting, please contact the seminary.
  
  
• On Thursday and Friday, October 10 and 11, the PRTS hosted Dr. Nick Willborn, senior pastor of the Covenant Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Oak Ridge, Tennessee and adjunct professor of church history at Greenville Presbyterian Seminary in Taylors, SC. Dr. Willborn presented two speeches dealing with Southern Presbyterian theologians of the 19th century: "The Theological Distinctives of the 19th-Century Southern Presbyterians"  and "The Pastoral Qualities of the 19th-Century Presbyterians." Both presentations are now available on the seminary's YouTube channel.
  
  
• Looking for some good Reformed books to read, Bible study materials or seminary publications to use? Come and visit the seminary's bookstore! We have a variety of Bibles, commentaries, and good books - used and new - for our members and friends. And you may also make use of our library - here's the link to our online catalog if you wish to search for something to read or use.
  
  
• Need for Ministers: Synod 2019 took a decision to place the urgent need for seminary students before our churches. 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.
  
  
• The finishing touches are being put on the seminary addition and library renovation projects (new archives and offices). More decorating was completed in the library this week and more work continues on the archives room. The other custom library desks will be finished soon, along with the work area for the archives room. A special display case for archives was installed in the hallway this past week. Final inspection should be soon!

• Be sure to visit the new PRC seminary website! Visit the site and check out the various pages, including the new blog - and sign up to receive seminary news by email!

One of the PRC "sisters" - Covenant PRC in Ballymena, N. Ireland

SISTER-CHURCH NEWS:

• Concerning our sister church in Ballymena, N. Ireland, Covenant PRC, we may note the following:
  • Rev. A. Stewart led the services today.
  • The CPRC Reformation Day Lecture is planned for Friday, 25 October at 7:30 PM. Rev. Stewart will speak on “William Tyndale: English Bible Translator.”
  • Covenant PRC's latest newsletter was received and posted (August 2019).
    
  • A new issue of the Covenant Reformed News" is out! Read the September 2019 issue here.

• Concerning our sister church in Singapore, Covenant ERC, we may note the following:
  
  • Rev. A. denHartog and his wife are once again serving the CERC while she is vacant.
  • Re the recent call of Grandville PRC: "As we wait patiently for God’s choosing of His servant to be sent to CERC as MOL, do continue to pray for Rev. Jonathan Mahtani as he considers the call. Let us pray earnestly that God will show him the way clearly. Though we are without an under shepherd for now, we must learn to be like the small creatures of God’s creation, always preparing, working together tirelessly and cooperatively, building on the strong foundation and be found to be doing the work which God has placed us in."
  • And about her church anniversary celebration we find this: "Session met this past Wednesday night and one of the many decisions was to confirm the new date of 17th Nov 2019 for the Church Anniversary celebration. Session has appointed two Elders to come out with a simplified version of the COF questions to interview our two very senior Chinese-speaking regular worshippers who are seeking to join our church."
  • Her latest newsletter (August 2019) - Reformed News Asia - was posted recently posted and may be found on this page.

• Concerning the PRC in the Philippines, we may note the following from the bulletins of the Berean PRC, PRC in Bulacan, Maranatha PRC, and Provident CC:
  • Berean PRC: Rev. V. Ibe is leading the worship services today.
  • Maranatha PRC: Rev. L. Trinidad led her services today and taught the Canons of Dordt.
  • Provident CC: Rev. D. Holstege led her services today.
  • Denominational News:

The PRCP Classis will have their regular meeting on October 31, 2019 at 9:00 in the morning. D. V.

A new mission newsletter was published and distributed this week. You may find that October 2019 update here.

And for more on the life and work of our "sisters" in the Far East read the news under Philippine missions.

• 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.

Looking for some good materials to read during this Reformation month? Visit our pamphlet section and our special Reformation article section.

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.

• Looking for a study Bible or Bible study resources this Fall? Visit the Reformed Book Outlet in downtown Hudsonville!
  
  

• 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. If you missed the speech at the annual RFPA meeting this past week, visit this link to watch Rev. J. Smidstra's fine talk on "Training Our Children in the Discipline of Reading."
  
  
• 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. 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!
  • For October to January (2020) the RWH welcomes Rev. W. Bruinsma of our Pittsburgh PRC to the microphone. Today he delivers the message "Rebekah Marries Isaac" based on Genesis 24:55-67
    (or visit the RWH website linked here to listen anytime).

  • From the Reformed Witness Hour Committee:

    Did you read our latest newsletters - October 2019? Have you signed up yet to receive the emailed Reformed Witness Hour (RWH) newsletter? Six times per year, we update you on news about our speakers, program, and online reach, and we share stories from listeners and readers who have been blessed by the RWH, a ministry of the PRC. Please visit http://eepurl.com/gikNsL to sign up for the newsletter.

  • A new Spanish edition of the RWH has been produced and may be found on this YouTube channel (PRC Espanol). Why not check it out - and help spread the word!

ESPECIALLY FOR PRC Young People and Young Adults:

• The 2019 PRYP's Convention is now history (held Aug.12-16 at Michindoh Conference Center in Hillsdale, MI). Southwest and Providence PRCs hosted this year's event. For pictures and more visit this YouTube channel or the Facebook page. The 2020 PRYP's Convention will be hosted by Georgetown PRC and held at Lake Williamson Christian Center (St. Louis, MO).

• 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, Australia from the 28^th of December 2019 – 3^rd January 2020. Rev. Martyn McGeown from the Limerick Reformed Fellowship of the Republic of Ireland will be our guest speaker, taking the camp on the topic of ‘The Christian’s Armour’ (From Ephesians 6). Amongst other activities, the theme night will be on the “Australian Bush”. The cost for the camp is $250 AUD (approx $170 USD). 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 the full flyer + registration form, or for any additional questions/information.
  
  

• The latest young peoples' magazine of Covenant ERC in Singapore, Salt Shakers, was received and posted (August 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. In that connection, BC-PRC's bulletin today had this note: "Today Pastor Spriensma is preaching both services at Hope PRC (Walker) and giving a mission presentation tonight after the evening worship service."

• Limerick Reformed Fellowship News:
  • Rev. M. McGeown is preaching today and will lead the Bible study Tuesday 8 PM in Corbally.
  • A fresh mission newsletter from the Limerick Reformed Fellowship is now available! The September 2019 edition may be found here.

Philippine Missions:

• There is a brand new Philippines mission newsletter to read! The October 2019 issue is now available.
  
• 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.
  

PRCA FOREIGN MISSIONS IN THE PHILIPPINES
OCTOBER 2019 NEWSLETTER

Rev. D. Holstege (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.), Rev. D. Kleyn (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.), Rev. R. Smit (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.)

To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ in the Protestant Reformed Churches in America and our sister churches, warm greetings from us missionaries in the Philippines!

A New Theological School Begins

August 13, 2019 is now a significant date for the Protestant Reformed Churches in the Philippines because that was the first day of classes at their theological school.

On the Sunday prior to August 13, special sermons were preached in the four Protestant Reformed Churches (PRCP) to direct the attention of God’s people to this momentous occasion in the life of their churches.

• Rev. Vernon Ibe preached at the Berean PRC on “Men Entrusted with the Gospel” (II Tim. 2:1-6).
• Rev. D. Kleyn preached at the PRC in Bulacan on “Abounding in the Lord’s Work” (I Cor. 15:58).
• Rev. R. Smit preached at the Maranatha PRC on “Jesus’ Fishermen” (Mk. 1:14-20).
• Rev. D. Holstege preached at the Provident PRC on “Training Men for the Ministry” (II Tim. 2:2).

We missionaries of the PRCA, with the approval of the PRCP Classis, are giving the instruction at the seminary at this time. Rev. Holstege is teaching Hermeneutics (The principles of interpreting Holy Scripture). Rev. Kleyn is in charge of Homiletics (The principles and practice of making a sermon). He is also teaching Ancient Church History. Rev. Smit is teaching Greek Grammar (for exegesis of the New Testament). He is also teaching the first locus of Reformed Dogmatics (Theology), rightly called the “queen of the sciences.” These courses aim to give the PRCP students a firm theological foundation in the knowledge of God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent, which is life eternal.

There is one full-time student at the seminary for the 2019-2020 school year, Bro. Jeremiah Pascual (see picture). He and his wife are members of the PRC in Bulacan and are expecting their first child this November. Bro. Jethro Ace Flores served as a pastor for about eighteen years in another denomination. He attended some of the 7M classes of our missionaries in the past and became a member of Provident PRC with his wife and daughter just last July. His desire is to become a pastor in the PRCP and he is currently visiting a few classes at the seminary. Bro. Emmanuel Jasojaso is a school teacher who also plans to join Provident PRC with his wife and four little children. He too desires to become a pastor in the PRCP. With Bro. Jeremiah, he is studying Greek at seminary this year, with Classis’ approval. Besides these men, there are others who also plan, if the Lord wills, to begin studying at the seminary next year (2020-2021).

The classes are being taught this year in the sanctuary of Provident PRC in Marikina City, Metro Manila, a quiet and comfortable environment, which is conducive to teaching and learning. The classes meet in the mornings from Tuesday through Friday. For our devotions on the first day of class, we reflected together for a few moments on the mandate of the apostle to Timothy: “And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also” (II Tim. 2:2).

Sitting from left to right: Bro. Emmanuel Jasojaso, Bro. Jeremiah Pascual, and Bro. Jethro Ace Flores

Other Developments on the Mission Field

On Sunday, August 25, I made the monthly visit to a congregation in the town of Guiguinto in the province of Bulacan: Bearers of Light Community Church (Pastor: Ronil Domingo). Deacon Jun Armas from Provident PRC accompanied me. This small congregation used to be a Brethren church, like Provident PRC. But now they too are reforming. They are the object of the evangelism work of Provident PRC (which is still the main focus of my labors). The office bearers of PPRC have begun to join me on these visits to assist and to oversee the work being done.

• [No benediction yet]
• Doxology (“Praise God from
whom all blessings flow…”)
• Psalter (#1)
• Ten Commandments
• Psalter (#53)
• Congregational prayer
• Psalter (#325)
• Scripture reading (Psalm 96)
• Sermon (Psalm 96:1-2)
• Prayer
• Offering
• Psalter (#257)
• Doxology (Psalter #196)

On August 25, as on prior visits, I first taught the Heidelberg Catechism (LD 7) in what they call the “adult Sunday school.” Later in the morning, at their request, I led them for the first time in a Reformed worship service, following the order of worship you see above, which is the order followed in the PRCP churches. We gave them some Psalters from which they sang a new song to Jehovah! After lunch, I began teaching them the Church Order of the PRC (photo above). The plan is to teach them the Church Order on each monthly visit. Pastor Ronil and his little flock have received all our instruction with eagerness; but sadly, some of their members have left because of the Reformed faith.

Let me now turn your attention to Southern Negros Occidental (SNO), where our missionaries have been instructing a group of pastors for many years now. On Sunday, September 15, Rev. and Sharon Kleyn spent the day with the congregations of two of the pastors who normally attend the monthly classes: the Reformed Free Church in Inayauan (Pastor Ezekias Rosal) and the Reformed Church in Sialay, near Sipalay (Pastor Eduardo Donasco). The plan is to expand our work in Negros from teaching pastors to also preaching in their congregations and guiding them to organize properly as Reformed churches. We are very excited about this development because the SNO pastors are very enthusiastic and committed brethren who are eager for us to develop their churches. On September 15, Rev. Kleyn preached Lord’s Day 1 of the Heidelberg Catechism in the “adult Sunday school” of the Reformed Free Church in Inayauan (pictured below; the one standing on the right is Pastor Rosal). Then he led their worship service, preaching on Deuteronomy 7:6-8 which speaks of divine election. There were about 100 in attendance. Later that afternoon, he gave a speech on “God’s Sovereignty in Salvation” to the Reformed Church in Sialay. In both locations, they worshiped God together using the Psalter.

Besides these developments, the four congregations of the PRCP in the area of Metro Manila continue to grow, sometimes through the crucible of fiery trials, sometimes through joys which earth cannot afford. We missionaries all preach and teach in these churches, give advice to their councils, committees, and Classis, and engage in other work. The great commission is being fulfilled! We count it a high privilege to participate in the spread of the gospel of gracious salvation through Christ. Pray for the believers who desire to become Reformed churches. Pray for the seminary that is training men for the ministry of the gospel. We thank God constantly for your support of the work here.

In Christ’s service,
Rev. Daniel Holstege