Today is the second Lord's Day of this year of our Lord 2023. Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news. It is our hope that these reports not only inform you but also give you opportunity to pray for the needs of these churches and mission fields throughout the world.

As we enter this new year, we do so in glad and grateful worship of our sovereign, saving God and King. To Him we owe our all and to Him we commit our way in 2023, day by day. 

If you are new to this website and the PRCA, we invite you to join us in worship today or on any of the Sunday's of this year at one of our local congregations near you, or listen online.

God standeth in the congregation of the mighty; he judgeth among the gods. How long will ye judge unjustly, and accept the persons of the wicked? Selah. Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy. Deliver the poor and needy: rid them out of the hand of the wicked. ...Arise, O God, judge the earth: for thou shalt inherit all nations. ~ Psalm 82:1-4, 5

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS 

• Today Rev. J. Smidstra (First PRC-Holland) declined the call to First PRC (Grand Rapids, MI - received Dec.18). *UPDATE: He also declined the call from Hull PRC (NW Iowa).

• Rev. W. Langerak (Trinity PRC-Hudsonville, MI) is considering the call from Hosanna PRC (Edmonton, AB - received Dec.25).
  
  

• Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC) is considering the call to Hudsonville PRC (received Dec.14). He plans to answer next Sunday.
  
  
• The Council of Georgetown PRC has a new trio from which to call her next pastor: Revs. M. DeBoer (Edgerton PRC), N. Decker (Grandville PRC), and J. Smidstra (First PRC-Holland). The congregational meeting is planned for Jan.22 after the evening service.
  
  
• **UPDATE: Doon PRC's Consistory has a new trio from which to call her next pastor: Revs. M. Kortus (Hope PRC-Redlands), D. Noorman (SW PRC), and C. Spronk (Faith PRC). The congregational meeting is scheduled for January 22 after the morning service.
  
  
• ***UPDATE: From Randolph PRC (WI): "The council presents the following trio for the congregation’s consideration. Rev. Matthew DeBoer, Rev. Nathan Decker, and Rev. David Norman. We have set a congregational meeting to extend a call to one of these men for January 22 after the morning service."
   
• Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Rev. H. Bleyenberg (1st week) in Doon (IA) PRC; Prof. D. Kuiper and Rev. M. McGeown in First PRC-Grand Rapids; Prof. B. Huizinga and Rev. G. Eriks in Georgetown PRC; Rev. T. Miersma in Hosanna PRC, Edmonton, AB; Prof. R. Cammenga and Rev. J. Smidstra in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. S. Key in Hull PRC; Prof. C. Griess in Loveland PRC; Rev. J. Laning in Randolph PRC.  May we count it a blessing of our church federation that we can help one another in these needs. Let us remember to pray for the men who supply these pulpits and for the vacant congregations. And may we continue to pray for men to hear the call to serve as pastors and missionaries!
  
  
• Officebearer Resources: This is the time of year when new officebearers (elders and deacons) are installed into office. This special notice is to inform you that there is a special webpage on this site devoted to resources for officebearers - sermons, seminars, articles, seminary syllabi, etc. And the PRC Seminary bookstore has many fine books for officebearers.

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

Classis East will meet this Wednesday, Jan.11, at 8:00 am at Grandville PRC. The agenda has weighty matters; let us be in prayer for the delegates as they deal with Christ's work in the churches. May they be given the grace and wisdom of His Spirit.

Contact Committee Notices: On behalf of the Contact Committee of the PRCA, Rev. and Mrs. Bill Bruinsma and Mr. and Mrs. Dave Kregel plan to visit the Covenant Evangelical Reformed Church in Singapore from January 11 - 24, 2023, D.V. They will be conducting Church Visitation with the session of CERC. Rev. Bruinsma will be leading the worship services on January 15 and 22, and giving two speeches. May the Lord make this a fruitful visit and grant traveling mercies to this delegation.

Home Mission News: On Nov.20 Rev. J. Laning (Hull PRC) accepted the call from Zion PRC (Jenison, MI) to serve as denominational home missionary. 

In a recent Zion PRC's bulletin was this update from her special committee: "Update from Zion DMC committee: We have been very busy coordinating the move and the work for Rev Laning. Tentatively, the plan is for Rev. Laning to preach his farewell at Hull PRC on January 1, 2023. After that he will be going to Randolph PRC so that he can keep his classical commitment to that congregation for January 8 which will include the baptism of his grandchild. His arrival into our area will be the week of the 16th of January. We are presently coordinating a moving company to move all his belongings to his new home in Jenison from Hull, IA. We have secured a place to live in Glen Eagle condos in the 14th Ave and 44th St area in Georgetown Township. We are also working with him to identify the mission work that he will be doing and coordinating a plan moving forward. We anticipate him taking some classes in regard to this mission work which we believe will take most of his time for the first 6 months of his being here. He is scheduled to preach for Zion PRC on Jan 29 AM and Feb 12 PM. As far as the committee is concerned, we have had regular monthly meetings up to the time that Rev. Laning accepted the call and now that the Lord has answered our prayers and sent us a missionary, we are working hard organizing the work for him and also entering into conversations with him in order to search out the Lords will for him and our congregation. Missions are an important work for the church, and we continue to ask for your prayers for Rev. Laning and his wife as they settle in to our congregational life and take up this great work to the glory of God, the ingathering of the church and also to the coming of Christ when He shall take His completed church home to live with Him forever. We look forward to that day."

Foreign Mission News: (from Doon PRC's bulletin, calling church for the Philippines): "Caleb Woiwood and Doug and Lisa Brands leave this week Wednesday as the annual FMC delegation to the Philippines. We pray God’s blessing on their travels."

PRC Seminary Notices:

• The seminary is now between semesters, with the 2023 Interim (see note below) scheduled to begin tomorrow (see next note for details). The second semester will begin on Tuesday, Jan.24. The 2nd semester schedule and calendar have been posted on the seminary's website.
• Seminary Class on Ethics. You are invited! From January 9- 18, Prof. Gritters will be teaching an 8-day interim course on Reformed Christian ethics (M-F from 9-11:30AM). If Dogmatics teaches what Christians believe, Ethics teaches how they live. Questions faced include: What is a truly good life? What is the Christian’s relation to the law? Is law contrary to love? May our conscience guide us? What is love? May I hate? May I lie to save my neighbor’s life? What about IVF? May Christians divorce? Separate? Remarry? If you are interested in attending, please call the seminary: 616-531-1490.
• Sem. M. Koerner (4th year) has finished his six-month internship in Hope PRC-Grand Rapids under Rev. J. Mahtani (July-Dec. 2022). He and the seminary secretary, Sharon Kleyn, will be joined in marriage this Friday, Jan.13, before he (and she!) returns for his final semester on Jan.24.
• The professors have kept busy over the holiday break finishing first semester work and preparing for the next semester. In addition, there have been many preaching assignments, including out of town (Randolph and Loveland). Prof. Griess has now completed the classes required for his ThM degree and is working toward completing his thesis (to be done in May). Continue to pray for them and the students.
• At the end of 2022 the print copies of the Fall 2022 issue of the PRT Journal  were mailed out to those on the mailing list. The digital editions have been posted on the seminary's website (use the link provided here). This new issue features articles by Prof. Griess (Calvin and the third mark of the true church), Prof. Kuiper (seminary history, chap.2), Prof. Gritters (introduction to an old article on mental illness by Herman Hoeksema and a book review article), plus numerous book reviews. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Sharon, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
• The seminary is open daily from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., including the library and bookstore. PRC members and friends are welcome to visit and make use of these resources.
• For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget the blog!
  
  

See the mission news from India below

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

• From Georgetown PRC (Hudsonville, MI) re her India Outreach (Vellore PRC and beyond) work with Rev. Paulraj. Recently, pastor Paulraj was diagnosed with a cancerous tumor (on one of his salivary glands), for which he underwent surgery this past Friday. This update was on GT's bulletin today: "Pastor Paulraj’s surgery went well this past Friday. We got word that the surgeons were pleased with what was accomplished. There are no detailed reports as of yet. They love the prayers from GPRC and they continue to be very much appreciated."
  
  
• Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
  • Pastors J. Tan and recently installed M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. In her bulletin today was this encouraging update from her mission labors in Kolkata: "This past Thursday, the Council conducted membership interviews for 4 saints from the Covenant Evangelical Reformed Fellowship of Kolkata, India. This was done by Zoom, with Rev. Emmanuel Singh translating. It was a privilege to hear them confess their faith in Christ boldly and sincerely. The saints gave testimony to God’s gracious work in their lives, in calling them out of the darkness of Hinduism, Buddhism, and the errors of Pentecostalism into the precious heritage of the Reformed faith. It was a mutually encouraging time for both the members of the fellowship, and our Council. “Come, let us build!” Do so by praying for the saints in Kolkata. Pray that they will remain strong, even in the face of persecution, which will intensify especially as they join themselves to a true church as members. Our Lord’s words to the church of Smyrna are appropriate to them: “be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life” (Rev. 2:10b).
    
  • Don't forget the last issue of Salt Shakers is available - Issue 67, September 2022. Especially for young people, the magazine is edifying for ALL readers!

• Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
  
  • Rev. A. Stewart continues to minister the Word faithfully to the saints in Ballymena.
  • A new newsletter has been published for the PRCA (Jan. 2023). When it is posted on the website this week, a link will be provided.
  • The December 2022 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" was recently published!  Follow the link to read the latest profitable articles by Revs. A. Stewart (the abrogation of the Mosaic law) and R. Hanko (relics and Elisha's bones).
  • The CPRC YouTube channel may be found here.
• PRC in the Philippines and her mission work:
  • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led her services today. We also find this special note concerning her mission endeavors: "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship (AGPRF), Gabaldon, NE., will join us in our worship services today via Livestream at our Facebook page, D.V."
  • Provident PRC bulletin: 

Reformed Resources for Education, Edification, and Evangelism

Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!

• This month Rev. W. Bruinsma (Pittsburgh, PA PRC) continues to speak for the RWH program. He is delivering messages on various Bible passages related to David and the kingdom of Israel. Today's message is titled "Making a Stand" based on 1 Samuel 17:38-51.
  
• The Reformed Witness Hour publishes each month's messages in an attractive booklet. These printed sermons are a great blessing to many and are distributed all over the world, including to many prisoners in the U.S. If you or your Evangelism Committee would like to receive these, let the RWHC know and they will add you to the mailing list (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 

Are you a Standard Bearer subscriber and reader? Get a preview of the first issue of this year and learn how to subscribe!

• For sound, distinctively Reformed literature on a variety of subjects and for all ages - including church history and Bible study materials - visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association website or stop in at their Jenison (Michigan) location.

• The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) has now opened its new store in downtown Hudsonville! The new location is at 3472 Harvey St. in Hudsonville. Regular hours are Tuesday - Friday from 10-5 and Saturday from 10-1.
  
  
• Are you interested in learning more about the doctrines and practices of the PRC? Or, are you in need of some pamphlets and/or articles published by the PRC for use in evangelism and/or witnessing? Or are you simply interested in growing in your faith and walk with the Lord? Visit the Resources pages of this website and the PRCA Evangelism page for a complete list of materials available in digital format or by order from the publishing church.
  
  
• Do you need some catechism materials for use in your church or family? The PRC publishes catechism materials on Bible history and Reformed doctrine, for children of all ages. Visit this page for more information.
  
  

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

"This eternal God will be our guide even unto death. The text, correctly translated, reads, "He will shepherd us." This means God will nourish and feed us. No man does this. Our eternal God does this by His grace and Holy Spirit through those whom He calls. God does this chiefly by means of the preaching of His inspired, infallible Word and by the use of the sacraments. That God shepherds us means as well that He rules us by His grace so that we willingly serve Him in love. God protects us from all our enemies, preserves and sustains us through every trial, every suffering, and through all of our sorrows. God gives us grace sufficient for our every need and guides us every step along our way, the way which He in His wisdom and love has determined for each of us. 

"Our eternal God will shepherd us even unto death. This means simply that from the moment of our birth to the moment of our death God will shepherd us. He never leaves or forsakes us, not for a split second. God cares for us to the very end. 

"And because this is true, nothing can be against us, nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. All things are for us! Even death is for us! O, I know, death is horrible from every human point of view. Death is often preceded by terrible sufferings. We saw that with our dear one the past weeks. That strong body became so weak and that booming voice became barely a whisper. Death is the end of all our earthly relations. We have lost a husband, a father, a grandfather, a brother in the Lord, and a co-worker in the ministry. What is worse, death is the expression of the wrath of God against sin. Death is part of the, curse! It is no wonder that the apostle refers to death as the last enemy (I Cor. 15)! 

"But all that has been changed! Death has been swallowed up in the victory of the cross and resurrection, of Jesus Christ. No longer is death the end. Death is the beginning of perfect joy, of fellowship with our eternal God in glory. God will be our guide; He will shepherd us even unto death, and through death take us to the glory of His presence. 

"And that is absolutely certain. Our eternal God will beour guide. There may be no doubt about this! Our eternal God will surely be our shepherd even unto death. Therefore, God's church shall surely stand."

~ Taken from the SB article "The Eternal God: Our Guide" by Robert D. Decker

News from the Reformed Witness Hour

January 2023

For January, we have five new messages from Rev. Wilbur Bruinsma. Rev. Bruinsma is the pastor of Pittsburgh Protestant Reformed Church of Pittsburgh, PA.

Sign Up for Our Email Newsletter!

Visit our website or go to eepurl.com/gikNsL to sign up for our monthly email.  You’ll receive one email each month with RWH news, statistics, interviews, message excerpts, and other great content.

PO Box 1230, Grand Rapids MI, 49501 | reformedwitnesshour.org | This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Today is the first Lord's Day of this year of our Lord 2023. Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news. It is our hope that these reports not only inform you but also give you opportunity to pray for the needs of these churches and mission fields throughout the world.

As we enter this new year, we do so in glad and grateful worship of our sovereign, saving God and King. To Him we owe our all and to Him we commit our way in 2023, day by day. 

If you are new to this website and the PRCA, we invite you to join us in worship today or on any of the Sunday's of this year at one of our local congregations near you, or listen online.

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah. There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early. The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved: he uttered his voice, the earth melted. The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah. ~ Psalm 46:1-7

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS

• Today is Rev. J. Laning's final Sunday in Hull PRC (NW Iowa. This afternoon (2 pm), he preached his farewell sermon and the congregation gave a farewell program for him and his wife Margaret and family afterward. In the weeks ahead they will be moving to West Michigan as he takes up his labors as PRC home missionary (see details below under denominational news). May the Lord be with them and grant them much grace as they make this transition.
  
  
• Today also marks Rev. S. Key's final day as pastor of Loveland PRC, as his emeritation takes effect. This fitting note was found in her bulletin today: "Today is also Pastor Key’s final day serving in the active pastoral ministry in our midst. He does not bid farewell, as he and his wife will remain with our church family as an emeritus pastor. Besides providing pulpit supply for various congregations, he will also continue to assist our congregation as much as possible in teaching catechism, leading Ladies’ Bible Study and preaching occasionally, at least until the Lord provides for us another pastor. We press on in our earthly sojourn, laying hold of the promise in Deut.31:8, “And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee: he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.”
   
• Last Sunday Rev. W. Langerak (Trinity PRC-Hudsonville, MI) received the call from Hosanna PRC (Edmonton, AB).
  
  
• Rev. J. Smidstra (First PRC-Holland) is considering calls to First PRC (Grand Rapids, MI - received Dec.18) and Hull PRC (NW Iowa - received Dec.20).
  
  
• Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC) is considering the call to Hudsonville PRC (received Dec.14).
  
  
• Last Sunday Rev. M. DeBoer declined the call from Doon PRC.
  
  
• Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Elder-led in a.m.; Rev. A. Brummel (at 2 p.m.) in Doon (IA) PRC; Prof. B. Gritters and Rev. J. Holstege in First PRC-Grand Rapids; Prof. C. Griess and Rev. N. Decker in Georgetown PRC; Rev. T. Miersma in Hosanna PRC, Edmonton, AB; Prof. R. Cammenga and Rev. D. Noorman in Hudsonville PRC; Prof. D. Kuiper in Randolph PRC.  May we count it a blessing of our church federation that we can help one another in these needs. Let us remember to pray for the men who supply these pulpits and for the vacant congregations.

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

Home Mission News: On Nov.20 Rev. J. Laning (Hull PRC) accepted the call from Zion PRC (Jenison, MI) to serve as denominational home missionary. 

In Zion PRC's bulletin last week was this update from her special committee: "Update from Zion DMC committee: We have been very busy coordinating the move and the work for Rev Laning. Tentatively, the plan is for Rev. Laning to preach his farewell at Hull PRC on January 1, 2023. After that he will be going to Randolph PRC so that he can keep his classical commitment to that congregation for January 8 which will include the baptism of his grandchild. His arrival into our area will be the week of the 16th of January. We are presently coordinating a moving company to move all his belongings to his new home in Jenison from Hull, IA. We have secured a place to live in Glen Eagle condos in the 14th Ave and 44th St area in Georgetown Township. We are also working with him to identify the mission work that he will be doing and coordinating a plan moving forward. We anticipate him taking some classes in regard to this mission work which we believe will take most of his time for the first 6 months of his being here. He is scheduled to preach for Zion PRC on Jan 29 AM and Feb 12 PM. As far as the committee is concerned, we have had regular monthly meetings up to the time that Rev. Laning accepted the call and now that the Lord has answered our prayers and sent us a missionary, we are working hard organizing the work for him and also entering into conversations with him in order to search out the Lords will for him and our congregation. Missions are an important work for the church, and we continue to ask for your prayers for Rev. Laning and his wife as they settle in to our congregational life and take up this great work to the glory of God, the ingathering of the church and also to the coming of Christ when He shall take His completed church home to live with Him forever. We look forward to that day."

Foreign Mission News: Rev. D. Kleyn and his wife Sharon left the States this past week and returned to the Philippines on Dec.29. We thank the Lord for safe travels and pray for renewed strength for the busy work there.

PRC Seminary Notices:

• The seminary has now completed its first semester of the school year. Seminary will recess from Dec.25-Jan.8, but the seminary will be open daily except for the Dec.26 and Jan.2. Interim (see note below) will be held from Jan.9-18, and the second semester will begin on Tuesday, Jan.24. The 2nd semester schedule and calendar have been posted on the seminary's website.
• Seminary Class on Ethics. You are invited! From January 9- 18, Prof. Gritters will be teaching an 8-day interim course on Reformed Christian ethics (M-F from 9-11:30AM). If Dogmatics teaches what Christians believe, Ethics teaches how they live. Questions faced include: What is a truly good life? What is the Christian’s relation to the law? Is law contrary to love? May our conscience guide us? What is love? May I hate? May I lie to save my neighbor’s life? What about IVF? May Christians divorce? Separate? Remarry? If you are interested in attending, please call the seminary: 616-531-1490.
• Sem. M. Koerner (4th year) has finished his six-month internship in Hope PRC-Grand Rapids under Rev. J. Mahtani (July-Dec.). He and the seminary secretary, Sharon Kleyn, will be joined in marriage on Jan.13 before he (and she!) returns for his final semester on Jan.24.
• The print copies of the Fall 2022 issue of the PRT Journal  were recently mailed out to those on the mailing list. The digital editions have been posted on the seminary's website (use the link provided here). This new issue features articles by Prof. Griess (Calvin and the third mark of the true church), Prof. Kuiper (seminary history, chap.2), Prof. Gritters (introduction to an old article on mental illness by Herman Hoeksema and a book review article), plus numerous book reviews. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Sharon, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
• The seminary is open daily from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., including the library and bookstore. PRC members and friends are welcome to visit and make use of these resources.
• For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget the blog!
  
  

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

• From Georgetown PRC (Hudsonville, MI) re her India Outreach (Vellore PRC and beyond) work with Rev. Paulraj. Recently, pastor Paulraj was diagnosed with a cancerous tumor (on one of his salivary glands), for which he will receive surgery on Jan.27. At that time a biopsy will be taken to confirm diagnosis and treatment. "The doctors have recommended that Paul back away from preaching but he loves to preach, so this Sunday he is doing a combined service with the English and Tamil churches. He is also continuing his video outreach.
  Paul and Kasthuri asks for our prayers for the surgeon as there can be complications from the surgery that can have long term impact. 
  We praise God for giving Paul continued strength to continue at least some of his ministry. Let us continue with fervent prayers for Paul and Kas and Jason and Joanne as they are faced with the challenges of Paul's illness as well as Ammachi's [Kasthuri's mother] decline."
  
  *UPDATE: Pastor Paulraj's surgery has now been moved up to Friday, Jan.6. Let us be in  prayer for him and his wife as he submits to this surgery.
  
  
• Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
  • Pastors J. Tan and recently installed M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. Tomorrow they will hold their annual church retreat to begin the new year, as detailed in today's bulletin: "...on 2nd Jan, we will be having our 2023 Annual Church Retreat organized by Beulah BS group. Pastor Wee, on the behalf of the council will be unveiling the new Church Theme for 2023 & 2024. (hint: found somewhere in Nehemiah chapter 2!). Pastor Wee will be sharing with all of us how the preaching, Adult CI class, Evangelism, and many aspects of our organic church life will be shaped by this new church theme. We hope that each and every one of you can make for this retreat, 10am to 1pm held in church. Lunch will be provided."
    
  • Don't forget the last issue of Salt Shakers is available - Issue 67, September 2022. Especially for young people, the magazine is edifying for ALL readers!

• Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
  
  • Rev. A. Stewart continues to minister the Word faithfully to the saints in Ballymena. 
  • The December 2022 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" was published this past week!  Follow the link to read the latest profitable articles by Revs. A. Stewart (the abrogation of the Mosaic law) and R. Hanko (relics and Elisha's bones).
  • The CPRC YouTube channel may be found here.
• PRC in the Philippines and her mission work:
  • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. R. Smit led her services today. We also find this special note concerning her mission endeavors: "Rev. Ibe and family are visiting [with] the saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship (AGPRF), Gabaldon, NE., Rev. Ibe will lead them in their worship service at 9 AM and their Bible study on the book of Titus 2 at 10:45 AM."
  • Provident PRC bulletin: Rev. D. Kleyn led her worship services today.
  • Rev. D. Kleyn and Sis. Sharon returned safely to the Philippines this past week.

Reformed Resources for Education, Edification, and Evangelism

Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!

• This month Rev. W. Bruinsma (Pittsburgh, PA PRC) continues to speak for the RWH program. He is delivering messages on various Bible passages related to the first coming of Christ in the flesh. Today's Christmas message is titled "Jehovah Sees the Heart" based on 1 Samuel 16:6-13.
  
• The Reformed Witness Hour publishes each month's messages in an attractive booklet. These printed sermons are a great blessing to many and are distributed all over the world, including to many prisoners in the U.S. If you or your Evangelism Committee would like to receive these, let the RWHC know and they will add you to the mailing list (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 

On this first day of the new year, you will find this resource to be a means of comfort and hope for all you may face in 2023.

• For sound, distinctively Reformed literature on a variety of subjects and for all ages - including church history and Bible study materials - visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association website or stop in at their Jenison (Michigan) location.

• The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) has now opened its new store in downtown Hudsonville! The new location is at 3472 Harvey St. in Hudsonville. Regular hours are Tuesday - Friday from 10-5 and Saturday from 10-1.
  
  
• Are you interested in learning more about the doctrines and practices of the PRC? Or, are you in need of some pamphlets and/or articles published by the PRC for use in evangelism and/or witnessing? Or are you simply interested in growing in your faith and walk with the Lord? Visit the Resources pages of this website and the PRCA Evangelism page for a complete list of materials available in digital format or by order from the publishing church.
  
  
• Do you need some catechism materials for use in your church or family? The PRC publishes catechism materials on Bible history and Reformed doctrine, for children of all ages. Visit this page for more information.
  
  

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

"But if we are to give thanks to God for all His spiritual and material blessings, then we must be freed from anxiety.  Jesus, in Matthew 6:19-24, has been speaking so beautifully and profoundly of our relationship to the earthly things.  He has taught us that it is our relationship to the earthly, our perspective and our attachment, that is so often, at bottom, the cause of our spiritual problems.  Our inability to see Father’s wonderful grace and our failure to thank Him is created so often by the relationship in which we stand toward the earthly things.  If we hoard, we become covetous and greedy.  Then we are governed by those things, and we are filled with anxiety that we are going to lose them.  And we do not thank God for them.  Or, if we do not hoard, then we worry.  “Is it going to turn out?  Will I make it?  Will I have enough?”  We become filled with anxiety over those earthly things.  And when we are full of anxiety, then too we cannot praise God or give Him thanks.

"A trumpet cannot blast stirring notes of praise if it has been filled with dirt.  A piano cannot play clear notes if the keys are sticky with molasses.  So also, our hearts cannot thank God if they are choked with anxiety. 

"Our Savior says to us, “Take no thought for the morrow:  for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself.  Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.”  Our Savior says, the cure for anxiety is to realize that God will always give us grace for today, so that we may live thankfully and contentedly before Him. 

"As I say, our Lord is warning us that we must not fall into the grips of anxiety over earthly things.  “Take no thought,” He says.  “Do not be seized by anxiety.” 

"We are anxious about everything.  The Lord knows that.  We are anxious about our health, about ourselves, about our inadequacies, about our jobs, about our looks, about getting married, about the church, about the schools, about our children, about our burdens, about money, about possessions, about bills, about payments, about tomorrow.  If we would write a list of all the things over which we tend to worry, the list would go right out the door of our homes.  And, at bottom, we would write, we worry that we are worried so much.  And anxiety or worry chokes not only peace in our hearts, but thanksgiving to God.  We say, “Yes, I suppose I should be thankful today.  But I really can’t because of the load of anxiety, of trouble, of all the problems that I see coming tomorrow.  How can I be thankful today?”

"To begin the life of thanksgiving, the Lord says we must not only be free from greed, the love of money, but we must fight anxiety.  And His main point is this (Matt. 6: 33), “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”  The Lord is saying, “Instead of anxiety over your life, over your child, over yourself, make the kingship of God real by faith.  Every moment, hand all over to His Kingly power.  Seek to do His will, in the confidence that He has promised that He will meet all of your needs.”

~ Taken from the radio message "Grace for Today" by Rev. C. Haak

Standing by faith and hope in our Lord Jesus on this last day of the year, December 31, 2022, we once again remember those PRC members who died and were received into glory by their Savior, including little ones not numbered here but known to their Savior. 

We are also aware that many of our members lost other family members who were believers in Jesus and who have entered into their everlasting reward through Him - grandparents, parents, siblings, children, grandchildren, and friends. These all now make up the church triumphant in Father's house of many mansions.

Today, while the remembrance of these loved ones causes us sorrow, we rejoice to know that our faithful Father, our merciful Shepherd, and our abiding Comforter were present with us and ministering to us - through the Word and through pastors, fellow saints, and friends. In God's abounding grace He remained with us and with our loved ones, also in their dying moments. In His irresistible power He broke through all the darkness of death with the light of the gospel and comforted our loved ones and us. And by His merciful hand He delivered them out of this vale of tears and into His presence of endless joy! All praise be to our great and good God! May we humble ourselves before Him as we remember His work in the life and death of these precious saints of His.

Here, then, is the list of those PRC members who passed from this life into the life hereafter in this past year. I have counted 44 members who departed the church militant for the church triumphant in 2022. I have not knowingly or intentionally left anyone out. If you see someone that was missed, please contact me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

In Memoriam: PRC members who died in the Lord in 2022 (by month and date, with ages and church affiliation)

January

• 10 – Martin DeVries, 89 – Hope PRC-GR
• 10 – Hulda Kuiper, 90 – Faith PRC
• 10 – Ann Miersma, 98 - Hull PRC
• 10 – Cornelius Pastoor, 88 – Georgetown PRC
• 19 - Richard Betka, 75 – Loveland PRC
• 23 - Hal Sansom, 81 – Hope PRC-Redlands, CA
• 24 - Nolan Bruinsma, 16 – Peace PRC

February

• 1 – Shirley Van Baren, 91 – Randolph PRC
• 6 - Everett Van Voorthuysen, 95 – Hope PRC-Redlands, CA
• 8 – Douwe (Dave) Zylstra, 98 – Immanuel PRC-Lacombe

March

• 2 – Eleanor Boersma, 82 – First PRC
• 4 - Wenta Jean Watson, 89 – Kalamazoo PRC
• 8 – Donald Haak, 82 – First PRC-Grand Rapids
• 19 – Harold Kaptein, 80 – Grace PRC
• 28 - James Langerak, 76 – Grace PRC

April

• 7 – Gordon Ondersma, 81 – Grandville PRC
• 15 – Jeremy D. Meulenberg, 48 – Grace PRC
• 21 – Jon Huisken, 79 – Georgetown PRC
• 25 – Coba Jean Holstege, 97 – Hudsonville PRC

May

• 4 - Lois Monsma, 87 – First PRC-GR
• 20 – Judith K. Pohler, 77 – Trinity PRC

June

• 1 – Dale Bartelds, 77 – Byron Center PRC

July

• 2 - Rika Vander Ploeg, 93 – First PRC-Holland
• 5 - Harriet Van Leeuwen-Hoekstra, 87 – Hull PRC

August

• 2- James Koole, 67 – Hope PRC-Walker
• 17 - Clarine Kooima, 89 – Hull PRC
• 22 - Elizabeth Koll, 34 – Byron Center PRC

September

• 16 - Ruthanne Flikkema, 68 - SE-PRC
• 18 – James Van Overloop, 72 – Faith PRC

October

• 11 – Harriet Prins, 86 – Trinity PRC
• 13 – Wilma Hanko, 91 – Hope PRC-GR
• 16 - Martin D. Hoekstra, 95 – Hull PRC
• 20 - Eleanor Bol, 98 - Hudsonville PRC

November

• 3 - Glenn (Corky) H. Gunnink, 74 – Edgerton PRC
• 15 – Randal J. Kamminga, 68 – Georgetown PRC
• 15 – Richard L. Kruezer, 83 – Hudsonville PRC

December

• 10 – Arvin Bleyenberg, 82 – Grace PRC
• 13 - Clarence Jay Vlietstra, 71 – Kalamazoo PRC
• 14 – Cailey Ryann DeJong, 27 – Cornerstone PRC
• 21 – George Vroom, Sr., 92 – Randolph PRC
• 25 – Bill Booth – First PRC
• 26 – Gerald Feenstra, 86 – Faith PRC
• 29 – Betty Van Meeteren, 89 – Hope PRC-Redlands
• 30 - *Lavern H. Schut, 94 - Hudsonville PRC

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. (Psalm 16:8-11)

 Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints (Psalm 116:15)

Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world (John 11:25-27).

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. (John 14:1-3)

For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living. (Romans 14:7-9)

O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:55-57).

For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, according to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain (Philippians 1:19-21).

That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec (Hebrews 6:18-20).

And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them (Revelation 14:13).

And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away (Revelation 21:1-4).

Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news for this fifty-second and final Sunday of our Lord's year 2022, December 25.

Today we commemorate and celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. With Mary we ponder the deep ways of God and magnify Him in coming down to earth and taking on human flesh in the Person of His Son to redeem us from our bondage to sin and set us free for life with God. With the shepherds we praise our great and gracious God for the gift of salvation in the Christ child. Join us in worship today at one of our local congregations near you, or listen online.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. ~ Luke 2:8-14

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS

• Last Sunday (Dec.18) First PRC (Grand Rapids, MI) voted to call Rev. J. Smidstra (First PRC-Holland).
  
  
• This past Tuesday (Dec.20) Hull PRC voted to call Rev. J. Smidstra.
  
  
• *UPDATE: Today Rev. M. DeBoer declined the call from Doon PRC.
  
  
• Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC) is considering the call to Hudsonville PRC (received Dec.14).
  
  
• Last Sunday Rev. J. Holstege (Zion PRC) declined the call to Randolph (WI) PRC.
   
• From Hosanna PRC (Edmonton, AB): "A new trio has been formed of Revs. N. Decker (Grandville PRC), W. Langerak (Trinity PRC – Hudsonville, MI), and J. Maatman (Southeast PRC, Grand Rapids). We will have a congregational meeting to vote on the trio today after the PM service." **UPDATE: Rev. Langerak has received this call.
   
• Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Elder-led in a.m.; Rev. M. DeBoer (at 2 p.m.) in Doon (IA) PRC; Prof. D. Kuiper and Prof. B. Huizinga in First PRC-Grand Rapids; Prof. C. Griess and Rev. C. Haak in Georgetown PRC; Rev. T. Miersma in Hosanna PRC, Edmonton, AB; Rev. A. Spriensma and Prof. B. Huizinga in Hudsonville PRC; Elders lead in Randolph PRC.  May we count it a blessing of our church federation that we can help one another in these needs. Let us remember to pray for the men who supply these pulpits and for the vacant congregations.

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

Home Mission News: On Nov.20 Rev. J. Laning (Hull PRC) accepted the call from Zion PRC (Jenison, MI) to serve as denominational home missionary. 

From Zion PRC's bulletin today the following related news is found: "Update from Zion DMC committee: We have been very busy coordinating the move and the work for Rev Laning. Tentatively, the plan is for Rev. Laning to preach his farewell at Hull PRC on January 1, 2023. After that he will be going to Randolph PRC so that he can keep his classical commitment to that congregation for January 8 which will include the baptism of his grandchild. His arrival into our area will be the week of the 16th of January. We are presently coordinating a moving company to move all his belongings to his new home in Jenison from Hull, IA. We have secured a place to live in Glen Eagle condos in the 14th Ave and 44th St area in Georgetown Township. We are also working with him to identify the mission work that he will be doing and coordinating a plan moving forward. We anticipate him taking some classes in regard to this mission work which we believe will take most of his time for the first 6 months of his being here. He is scheduled to preach for Zion PRC on Jan 29 AM and Feb 12 PM. As far as the committee is concerned, we have had regular monthly meetings up to the time that Rev. Laning accepted the call and now that the Lord has answered our prayers and sent us a missionary, we are working hard organizing the work for him and also entering into conversations with him in order to search out the Lords will for him and our congregation. Missions are an important work for the church, and we continue to ask for your prayers for Rev. Laning and his wife as they settle in to our congregational life and take up this great work to the glory of God, the ingathering of the church and also to the coming of Christ when He shall take His completed church home to live with Him forever. We look forward to that day."

Foreign Mission News: Rev. D. Kleyn and his wife Sharon have been recuperating in West Michigan following recent surgeries. They plan to leave the States this week Wednesday (Dec.28) and return to the Philippines on Dec.29. May the Lord grant them safe travels and renewed strength for the busy work there.

Seminary concluded its semester just in time Friday, as a blizzard struck West Michigan Friday and Saturday.

PRC Seminary Notices:

• The seminary has now completed its first semester of the school year, as exams were held this past week. Seminary will recess from Dec.25-Jan.8, but the seminary will be open daily except for the Dec.26 and Jan.2. Interim (see note below) will be held from Jan.9-18, and the second semester will begin on Tuesday, Jan.24. The 2nd semester schedule and calendar has been posted on the seminary's website.
• A reminder is given during this holiday season that the seminary bookstore has a good supply of new and used books, including Bibles and music CDs (Hope Heralds 2022!). Visit us anytime during the day, Monday through Friday (except on the holidays of Dec.26 and Jan.2).
• Seminary Class on Ethics. You are invited! From January 9- 18, Prof. Gritters will be teaching an 8-day interim course on Reformed Christian ethics (M-F from 9-11:30AM). If Dogmatics teaches what Christians believe, Ethics teaches how they live. Questions faced include: What is a truly good life? What is the Christian’s relation to the law? Is law contrary to love? May our conscience guide us? What is love? May I hate? May I lie to save my neighbor’s life? What about IVF? May Christians divorce? Separate? Remarry? If you are interested in attending, please call the seminary: 616-531-1490.
• Sem. M. Koerner (4th year) is finishing his six-month internship in Hope PRC-Grand Rapids under Rev. J. Mahtani (July-Dec.). He will return for his final semester on Jan.24.
• The Fall 2022 issue of the PRT Journal  was received from the printer earlier this month and the print copies were mailed out to those on the mailing list. The digital editions have been posted on the seminary's website (use the link provided here). This new issue features articles by Prof. Griess (Calvin and the third mark of the true church), Prof. Kuiper (seminary history, chap.2), Prof. Gritters (introduction to an old article on mental illness by Herman Hoeksema and a book review article), plus numerous book reviews. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Sharon, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
• The seminary is open daily from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., including the library and bookstore. PRC members and friends are welcome to visit and make use of these resources.
• For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget the blog!
  
  

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

• Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
  • Pastors J. Tan and newly installed M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. This morning they held their special Christ Gospel Service, which is designed for unsaved family, friends, and associates. Members are encouraged to invite such to the service.
    
  • Don't forget the most recent issue of Salt Shakers is available - Issue 67, September 2022. Especially for young people, the magazine is edifying for ALL readers!

• Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
  
  • Rev. A. Stewart continues to minister the Word faithfully to the saints in Ballymena. 
  • The November 2022 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" was recently published.  Follow the link to read the latest profitable articles by Revs. A. Stewart (Christ's various comings) and R. Hanko (the third use of the law).
  • The CPRC YouTube channel may be found here.
• PRC in the Philippines and her mission work:
  • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led her services today. We also find this special note concerning her mission endeavors: "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship (AGPRF), Gabaldon, NE., will join us in our worship services today via livestream at our official Facebook page."
  • Provident PRC bulletin: Rev. R. Smit led her worship services today.
  • Rev. D. Kleyn and Sis. Sharon are doing well and gradually improving as they recover from their respective surgeries last month. They will return to the Philippines as planned, the Lord willing. They are scheduled to leave in U.S. on Dec. 28 and to arrive in the Philippines on Dec. 29, DV. Let’s continue remember them in our prayers and looking forward to see them again soon, the Lord willing." (Provident bulletin)

Reformed Resources for Education, Edification, and Evangelism

Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!

• This month Rev. W. Bruinsma (Pittsburgh, PA PRC) continues to speak for the RWH program. He is delivering messages on various Bible passages related to the first coming of Christ in the flesh. Today's Christmas message is titled "The Branch of Jesse" based on Isaiah 11:1.
  
• The Reformed Witness Hour publishes each month's messages in an attractive booklet. These printed sermons are a great blessing to many and are distributed all over the world, including to many prisoners in the U.S. If you or your Evangelism Committee would like to receive these, let the RWHC know and they will add you to the mailing list (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 

Who is this Jesus whose birth we celebrate in this Christmas season? To read a brief resource that answers this question, visit this link.

• For sound, distinctively Reformed literature on a variety of subjects and for all ages - including church history and Bible study materials - visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association website or stop in at their Jenison (Michigan) location.

• The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) has now opened its new store in downtown Hudsonville! The new location is at 3472 Harvey St. in Hudsonville. Regular hours are Tuesday - Friday from 10-5 and Saturday from 10-1. Special notice!
  
  Reformed Book Outlet is running their 25% off sale through the rest of the month of December in store, and we are also holding it online as well this year! Stop in the store to shop, or when ordering online, use code DEC25 at check out to get 25% off eligible items! Items ordered through our website for shipping should be ordered before December 15th to guarantee arrival before Christmas Day!
  
  
• Are you interested in learning more about the doctrines and practices of the PRC? Or, are you in need of some pamphlets and/or articles published by the PRC for use in evangelism and/or witnessing? Or are you simply interested in growing in your faith and walk with the Lord? Visit the Resources pages of this website and the PRCA Evangelism page for a complete list of materials available in digital format or by order from the publishing church.
  
  
• Do you need some catechism materials for use in your church or family? The PRC publishes catechism materials on Bible history and Reformed doctrine, for children of all ages. Visit this page for more information.
  
  

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

"Beloved, the answer to all of our fears is to be found in the incarnate Christ. It is to be found in God now in our flesh, come by the grace of God to redeem us from our sins. That was the good news of the angels. The angel proclaimed that a unique person had been born in a specific place to accomplish a glorious task. The unique person who had been born was Christ, the Messiah, God’s anointed One, the One who had been promised to shoulder the entire work of salvation, the One who was called “Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father.” He has now been born in our flesh. No mere ordinary man among men, but God with us. Sinless Son of God, born in our flesh in order to bring us to God.

"Not a Savior after man’s mold, not another man simply to muddle around in the mass of humanity, to feel our pain and to try to do something about it. But the One who is able to bring us to God without spot or blemish and to present us before His presence in exceeding joy. He has been born in the city of David, in Bethlehem. The Lord keeps His Word, and not one jot or tittle of it ever falls to the ground. In the very place that God had designated, His Son has been born. And His Son has been born for a glorious task. He has been born to be a Savior. A savior is one who rescues another from danger and places him in a secure position. Christ was born to save us from our true enemy, which is our sin. He has come to save His people from their sins; their offense before God; their trespass against the law of God; their guilt before the holy and the living God. The Lord did not come in order to adjust your attitude. He did not come to teach you an alternate pattern of behavior. He did not come to get you in touch with your inner self. He did not come to make you all that you can be. But He came to wash away the dirty stain of sin from the souls of God’s children.

"Let us not forget that the birth of Jesus Christ proclaims the truth about ourselves. It proclaims that we are sinners. There are many who would say, “Now, let’s not spoil Christmas by talking about sin.” Beloved in the Lord Jesus Christ, there is no significance in the birth of Jesus Christ apart from understanding the reality of sin and death. If one does not know his sin, then one cannot understand the wonder of the birth of God’s Son in the manger. For God has sent Him to accomplish one task, a mighty and glorious task. He has come to stand in the place of God’s chosen, who have broken the law of God. He has come to conquer the death that held them in its arms. He has come to destroy the flames of God’s wrath that our sins have kindled. He has come to give to us eternal life. He has come as the Savior.

"And that is joy. The joy that was proclaimed by the angels and that is proclaimed to us today is the joy that our sins are forgiven. God has cast away our sins into the depths of the sea in the cross of Jesus Christ. He will remember those sins no more. Why? Because of a Savior, because of Christ, the Lord, the Messiah, the sin-bearer, who came to pay for those sins in His blood. Who came in order that all of God’s children might now stand before God in eternal delight. That is joy! That is a joy that never fades away.

"Has this joy of Bethlehem come home to your heart with power? Have all of these realities of the record of the birth of the Son of God, who was born to remove sin, come upon your heart with power?"

~ Taken from the radio message "Bethlehem's Blessed Gospel" by Rev. C. Haak

Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news for this fifty-first Sunday of our Lord's year 2022, December 18.

Because our Lord Jesus Christ is risen from the dead on the third day - as He promised - and because He is returning in glory for our everlasting worship - as He has also promised - today, on this first day of the week, we gather in worship as members of our living Savior's church. With gratitude and gladness we bring our praise to our triune God for fully accomplishing our salvation in His Son and by His Spirit. We cordially invite you to join us in worship on this day and on any Sunday.

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. ...And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. ...And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. ~ John 1:1-3; 14,16

If you are new to this website and are interested in the PRC, we invite you to join us at any of our services (morning and afternoon/evening). For congregations, locations and times, visit this page.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS

• This past Wednesday, Dec.14, Hudsonville PRC voted to call Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC).
  
  
• Today Rev. J. Holstege (Zion PRC) declined the call to Randolph (WI) PRC.
   
• First PRC's Council has a new trio of Revs. N. Decker (Grandville PRC), J. Holstege (Zion PRC), and J. Smidstra (First PRC-Holland). The congregation will vote this evening. *UPDATE: Rev. Smidstra has received this call.
  
  
• Hull PRC's Council has a trio from which to call her next pastor, now that Rev.J. Laning has accepted the call to serve as home missionary (Zion PRC): Revs. J. Holstege, S. Regnerus, and J. Smidstra. A congregation meeting is set for this Tuesday, December 20. **UPDATE: Rev. J. Smidstra received this call.
   
• Rev. M. DeBoer (Edgerton PRC MN) is considering the call from Doon (IA) PRC (received Nov.28). He plans to answer next week, Dec.25.
  
  
• Last Sunday Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC) declined the call from Georgetown PRC (Hudsonville, MI).
  
  
• Last Sunday Rev. J. Holstege (Zion PRC) declined the call from Hosanna PRC (Edmonton, AB).
   
• Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Elder-led in a.m.; Rev. J. Laning (at 4:30 p.m.) in Doon (IA) PRC; Prof. D. Kuiper and Prof. C. Griess in First PRC-Grand Rapids; Prof. C. Griess and Rev. A. Spriensma in Georgetown PRC; Rev. T. Miersma in Hosanna PRC, Edmonton, AB; Rev. A. Spriensma and Prof. B. Huizinga in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. M. DeBoer (2nd week) in Randolph PRC.  May we count it a blessing of our church federation that we can help one another in these needs. Let us remember to pray for the men who supply these pulpits and for the vacant congregations.

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

Home Mission News: On Nov.20 Rev. J. Laning (Hull PRC) accepted the call from Zion PRC (Jenison, MI) to serve as denominational home missionary. His farewell sermon from Hull will take place, D.V., on Jan.1, the afternoon service. We rejoice in God's goodness in providing a pastor to serve the churches in this way.

Foreign Mission News: Rev. D. Kleyn and his wife Sharon continue to recuperate in West Michigan following recent surgeries. They plan to leave the States on Dec.28 and return to the Philippines on Dec.29. May the Lord continue to grant healing and strength to them. 

Rev. K. Koole spoke for the final seminary chapel of this semester this past Wednesday.

PRC Seminary Notices:

• The seminary has now completed its fifteen weeks of the first semester of the school year. This week exams are scheduled from Monday to Friday. Pray for the faculty and students as they complete their work for this semester. Seminary will recess from Dec.25-Jan.8, but the seminary will be open daily except for the Dec.26 and Jan.2.
• A reminder is given during this holiday season that the seminary bookstore has a good supply of new and used books, including Bibles and music CDs (Hope Heralds 2022!). Visit us anytime during the day, Monday through Friday (except on the holidays of Dec.26 and Jan.2).
• After the two-week holiday break, the PRC Seminary will hold it's eight-day Interim class, Jan.9-18. Prof. B. Gritters will be teaching his Reformed Ethics class, with a focus on the Ten Commandments. Look for notices of visitor/audtor invitation soon.
• Sem. M. Koerner (4th year) is finishing his six-month internship in Hope PRC-Grand Rapids under Rev. J. Mahtani (July-Dec.). 
• The Fall 2022 issue of the PRT Journal  was received from the printer this week and the print copies were mailed out to those on the mailing list. The digital editions have been posted on the seminary's website (use the link provided here). This new issue features articles by Prof. Griess (Calvin and the third mark of the true church), Prof. Kuiper (seminary history, chap.2), Prof. Gritters (introduction to an old article on mental illness by Herman Hoeksema and a book review article), plus numerous book reviews. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Sharon, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
• The seminary is open daily from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., including the library and bookstore. PRC members and friends are welcome to visit and make use of these resources.
• For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget the blog!
  
  

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

• Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
  • Pastors J. Tan and newly installed M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. In his pastoral note this week, Pastor Tan had more pointed instruction and admonition for the congregation (and good for all of us!): "We know how difficult it is for us to put to death the old man of sin utterly. We know how easy it is for us to fall into the temptation to compromise and leave a little sin in our lives to be tributaries. We know how difficult it is for us to repent of our sins because of the pride of the old man of sin. But what a comfort it is, to know that God gives us Christ as the grounds of our salvation, that He gives us faith, by which we are justified, that He gives us the Spirit of Christ to work in us all obedience of love unto God. People of God, today, look to the fulfillment of the OT Joshua for all your justification and sanctification. Fix your eyes of faith this day on our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ...."
  • Don't forget the most recent issue of Salt Shakers is available - Issue 67, September 2022. Especially for young people, the magazine is edifying for ALL readers!

• Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
  
  • Rev. A. Stewart continues to minister the Word faithfully to the saints in Ballymena. 
  • The November 2022 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" was recently published.  Follow the link to read the latest profitable articles by Revs. A. Stewart (Christ's various comings) and R. Hanko (the third use of the law).
  • The CPRC YouTube channel may be found here.
• PRC in the Philippines and her mission work:
  • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led her services today. We also find this special note concerning her mission endeavors: "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship (AGPRF), Gabaldon, NE., will join us in our worship services today via livestream at our official Facebook page."
  • Provident PRC bulletin: "Elder Bien Montoya will lead for us in our worship services today and will use Video recordings of sermons of Prof. Russel Dykstra from the PRCA for the preaching of God’s Word in our worship services today."
  • "Rev. D. Kleyn and Sis. Sharon are doing well and gradually improving as they recover from their respective surgeries last month. They will return to the Philippines as planned, the Lord willing. They are scheduled to leave in U.S. on Dec. 28 and to arrive in the Philippines on Dec. 29, DV. Let’s continue remember them in our prayers and looking forward to see them again soon, the Lord willing." (Provident bulletin)

Reformed Resources for Education, Edification, and Evangelism

Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!

• This month Rev. W. Bruinsma (Pittsburgh, PA PRC) continues to speak for the RWH program. He is delivering messages on various Bible passages related to the first coming of Christ in the flesh. Today's message is titled "A Prophecy of Praise" based on Luke 1:68,69.
  
• The Reformed Witness Hour publishes each month's messages in an attractive booklet. These printed sermons are a great blessing to many and are distributed all over the world, including to many prisoners in the U.S. If you or your Evangelism Committee would like to receive these, let the RWHC know and they will add you to the mailing list (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 

Who is this Jesus whose birth we celebrate in this Christmas season? To read a brief resource that answers this question, visit this link.

• For sound, distinctively Reformed literature on a variety of subjects and for all ages - including church history and Bible study materials - visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association website or stop in at their Jenison (Michigan) location.

• The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) has now opened its new store in downtown Hudsonville! The new location is at 3472 Harvey St. in Hudsonville. Regular hours are Tuesday - Friday from 10-5 and Saturday from 10-1. Special notice!
  
  Reformed Book Outlet is running their 25% off sale through the rest of the month of December in store, and we are also holding it online as well this year! Stop in the store to shop, or when ordering online, use code DEC25 at check out to get 25% off eligible items! Items ordered through our website for shipping should be ordered before December 15th to guarantee arrival before Christmas Day!
  
  
• Are you interested in learning more about the doctrines and practices of the PRC? Or, are you in need of some pamphlets and/or articles published by the PRC for use in evangelism and/or witnessing? Or are you simply interested in growing in your faith and walk with the Lord? Visit the Resources pages of this website and the PRCA Evangelism page for a complete list of materials available in digital format or by order from the publishing church.
  
  
• Do you need some catechism materials for use in your church or family? The PRC publishes catechism materials on Bible history and Reformed doctrine, for children of all ages. Visit this page for more information.
  
  

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

"Great joy?

"Yes, but first hear this Word of God, to your shame and condemnation! Ye shall find the Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger!

"No room for Him! For consider Who He is, this Child that is the cause of the great joy of which the angel spoke, this Word that is come to pass. He is God come into our world! God, very God, the Eternal, the Infinite, Who is God indeed; the holy and righteous and true One. He came into the world in the Person of His only begotten Son. He came, not at the periphery of things, but into the very heart of our world, in our flesh and blood, for He is of the seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Judah, of the house of David, of the virgin Mary: the Word became flesh and tabernacled among us!

"Oh, it is great joy, indeed, but joy with fear and trembling, and joy only in the way of shame and repentance and humiliation. It is joy indeed, but only after we have heard the Word of God and received it, that in all the world there is no room for God to come down to us! There is no room in Bethlehem, no room in the inn, no room in Jerusalem, the city of the Great King, no room among the nations of the world. No one can, no one will receive Him. There is no room for Him in your and my hearts, as we are by nature!

"No room! And that too just because He is God!

"Joy? Yes there is joy, but then only in the fact that God did come down to us, and that He will build His own house, and that He will make room for Himself. Do you not remember that long ago we cast Him out to make room for the Prince of this world, and that ever since we denied Him room?

"But He came – not because there is still a little room left for Him, but in spite of the fact that there was nowhere a place for Him!

"He came by the Wonder of His almighty grace… Joy indeed!"

~ Taken from the meditation "Tidings of Joy" by Herman Hoeksema

Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news for this fiftieth Sunday of our Lord's year 2022, December 11.

Because our Lord Jesus Christ is risen from the dead on the third day - as He promised - and because He is returning in glory for our everlasting worship - as He has also promised - today, on this first day of the week, we gather in worship as members of our living Savior's church. With gratitude and gladness we bring our praise to our triune God for fully accomplishing our salvation in His Son and by His Spirit. We cordially invite you to join us in worship on this day and on any Sunday.

Sing aloud unto God our strength: make a joyful noise unto the God of Jacob. Take a psalm, and bring hither the timbrel, the pleasant harp with the psaltery. ...Hear, O my people, and I will testify unto thee: O Israel, if thou wilt hearken unto me; There shall no strange god be in thee; neither shalt thou worship any strange god. I am the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt: open thy mouth wide, and I will fill it. ~ Psalm 81:1-2; 8-10

If you are new to this website and are interested in the PRC, we invite you to join us at any of our services (morning and afternoon/evening). For congregations, locations and times, visit this page.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS

• Today Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC) declined the call from Georgetown PRC.
  
  
• Today Rev. J. Holstege (Zion PRC) declined the call from Hosanna PRC (Edmonton, AB).
   
• Rev. J. Holstege is considering the call to Randolph (WI) PRC (received Nov.27).
  
  
• Rev. M. DeBoer (Edgerton PRC MN) is considering the call from Doon PRC (received Nov.28).
  
  
• Hudsonville PRC's Council announced a new trio from which to call a pastor: Revs. B. Langerak (Trinity PRC), J. Maatman (SE PRC), and C. Spronk (Faith PRC). The congregation will vote this Wednesday, Dec.14. *UPDATE: Hudsonville voted to call Rev. C. Spronk.
  
  
• *UPDATE: First PRC-Grand Rapids, MI: "The Council made a trio of Revs. N. Decker, J. Holstege, and J. Smidstra from which to call our next pastor. The congregational meeting to call a pastor is set for Sunday, December 18, 2022 after the evening worship service."
   
• Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Rev. G. Eriks in Doon (IA) PRC; Prof. D. Kuiper and Rev. J. Smidstra in First PRC-Grand Rapids; Prof. C. Griess and Prof. B. Huizinga in Georgetown PRC; Rev. A. Brummel (2nd week) in Hosanna PRC, Edmonton, AB; Prof. R. Cammenga and Rev. M. McGeown in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. M. DeBoer (1st week) in Randolph PRC.  May we count it a blessing of our church federation that we can help one another in these needs. Let us remember to pray for the men who supply these pulpits and for the vacant congregations.

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

Home Mission News: On Nov.20 Rev. J. Laning (Hull PRC) accepted the call from Zion PRC  to serve as denominational home missionary. We rejoice in God's goodness in providing a pastor to serve the churches in this way.

Foreign Mission News: Rev. D. Kleyn and his wife Sharon continue to recuperate in West Michigan following recent surgeries. They plan to return to the Philippines on December 29. May the Lord continue to grant healing and strength to them. 

Prof. R. Cammenga's Reformed Dogmatics class with students and auditors

PRC Seminary Notices:

• The seminary has now completed fourteen weeks of the first semester of the school year. This week is the final week of classes, with exams scheduled for the week following. As we enter the final weeks of the semester, pray for continued grace to remain diligent and faithful in all aspects of the labors.
• A reminder is given during this holiday season that the seminary bookstore has a good supply of new and used books, including Bibles and music CDs (Hope Heralds 2022!). Visit us anytime during the day, Monday through Friday.
• Sem. M. Koerner (4th year) is finishing his six-month internship in Hope PRC-Grand Rapids under Rev. J. Mahtani (July-Dec.). The other three students continue their regular studies. Prof. C. Griess continues his classes at Puritan Reformed Seminary and is busy working on his ThM thesis.
• The Fall 2022 issue of the PRT Journal  has been sent to the printer and the print copies should be available this week. The digital editions have been posted on the seminary's website (use the link provided here). This new issue features articles by Prof. Griess (Calvin and the third mark of the true church), Prof. Kuiper (seminary history, chap.2), Prof. Gritters (introduction to an old article on mental illness by Herman Hoeksema and a book review article), plus numerous book reviews. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Sharon, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
• The seminary is open daily from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., including the library and bookstore. PRC members and friends are welcome to visit and make use of these resources.
• For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget the blog!
  
  

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

• Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
  • Pastors J. Tan and newly installed M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. In his pastoral note this week, Pastor Wee wrote about the Vacation Bible School they held: "We thank God for His blessing upon events of the week past. We had our Vacation Bible School on the theme “Pilgrim’s Progress”, where the children traced the journey of Christian on his journey from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City, braving the Slough of Despond, the arrows of Lord Beelzebub, the fiery assault of Apollyon, Giant Despair and his Doubting Castle, the seductive evils of Vanity Fair, and many more dangers. Only by God’s grace could puny Christian stand against these foes and persevere to the end. God helped Christian each step of the way, providing various means of grace: the preacher Evangelist, the Interpreter’s house, the whole armour of God, and his companions Faithful and Hopeful.
  • Don't forget the most recent issue of Salt Shakers is available - Issue 67, September 2022. Especially for young people, the magazine is edifying for ALL readers!

• Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
  
  • Rev. A. Stewart continues to minister the Word faithfully to the saints in Ballymena. 
  • The November 2022 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" was recently published.  Follow the link to read the latest profitable articles by Revs. A. Stewart (Christ's various comings) and R. Hanko (the third use of the law).
  • The CPRC YouTube channel may be found here.
• PRC in the Philippines and her mission work:
  • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led her services today. We also find this special note: "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship (AGPRF), Gabaldon, NE., will join us in our worship services today via livestream at our official Facebook page."
  • Provident PRC bulletin: Rev. R. Smit led her worship services today.
  • Rev. D. Kleyn and his wife Sharon continue to recuperate in West Michigan following recent surgeries. They plan to return to the Philippines on December 29. May the Lord continue to grant healing and strength to them. 

Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!

• This month Rev. W. Bruinsma (Pittsburgh, PA PRC) continues to speak for the RWH program. He is delivering messages on various Bible passages related to the first coming of Christ in the flesh. Today's message is titled "Your Salvation Comes" based on Isaiah 62:11,12.
  
• The Reformed Witness Hour publishes each month's messages in an attractive booklet. These printed sermons are a great blessing to many and are distributed all over the world, including to many prisoners in the U.S. If you or your Evangelism Committee would like to receive these, let the RWHC know and they will add you to the mailing list (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 

What did God give in His love for the world? Discover the greatest gift God could give to sinful mankind, which we celebrate in this season of the year.

• For sound, distinctively Reformed literature on a variety of subjects and for all ages - including church history and Bible study materials - visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association website or stop in at their Jenison (Michigan) location.

• The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) has now opened its new store in downtown Hudsonville! The new location is at 3472 Harvey St. in Hudsonville. Regular hours are Tuesday - Friday from 10-5 and Saturday from 10-1. Special notice!
  
  Reformed Book Outlet is running their 25% off sale through the rest of the month of December in store, and we are also holding it online as well this year! Stop in the store to shop, or when ordering online, use code DEC25 at check out to get 25% off eligible items! Items ordered through our website for shipping should be ordered before December 15th to guarantee arrival before Christmas Day!
  
  
• Are you interested in learning more about the doctrines and practices of the PRC? Or, are you in need of some pamphlets and/or articles published by the PRC for use in evangelism and/or witnessing? Or are you simply interested in growing in your faith and walk with the Lord? Visit the Resources pages of this website and the PRCA Evangelism page for a complete list of materials available in digital format or by order from the publishing church.
  
  
• Do you need some catechism materials for use in your church or family? The PRC publishes catechism materials on Bible history and Reformed doctrine, for children of all ages. Visit this page for more information.
  
  

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

"The incarnation was necessary for the redemption of sinners. This is the necessity of every aspect of the incarnation. He must be real and full, though sinless, man — for the redemption of sinners. He must be very God — for the redemption of sinners. His natures must be distinct, not confused — for the redemption of sinners. The natures must be united in one person, and that the person of God the Son — for the redemption of sinners. 

The death that shall be the death of death must be the death of the Son of God in our flesh; the blood that shall purchase the Church from sin must be God's own blood (Acts 20:28). The incarnation was also necessary for the renewal of the redeemed unto eternal and holy life. Only God can quicken, and only God can break sin's power. But only one who shares our nature can impart His own life to us. It is necessary, for a holy life, that the redeemed be conscious of the incarnation. The impelling motive of a holy life is thankful love — thankfulness for the incarnation. "In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world . . . to be the propitiation for our sins" (I John 4:9-10). Consciousness of this motivates us to love God and to love each other. 

A godly life is obedience to Jesus as Lord; and obedience to Jesus as Lord stems, ultimately, from reverence for Him as God the Son. 

And all of the Christian's life and labor in this world is permeated with the sense of wonder and awe that he is the friend, the disciple, and the member of God Incarnate. 

Prof. D. Engelsma in "The Incarnation," one of the featured resources on the PRC website this month. To keep reading, visit the link provided here.