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.

Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news for this forty-ninth Sunday of our Lord's year 2022, December 4.

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.

Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, thou that leadest Joseph like a flock; thou that dwellest between the cherubims, shine forth. Before Ephraim and Benjamin and Manasseh stir up thy strength, and come and save us. Turn us again, O God, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved. O LORD God of hosts, how long wilt thou be angry against the prayer of thy people? Thou feedest them with the bread of tears; and givest them tears to drink in great measure. Thou makest us a strife unto our neighbours: and our enemies laugh among themselves. Turn us again, O God of hosts, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved. ~ Psalm 80:1-7

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

• Last Sunday Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC) declined the call from First PRC-Grand Rapids.  He continues to consider the call to Georgetown PRC, which he plans to answer by Dec.18.
  
  
• Last Sunday Randolph (WI) PRC called Rev. J. Holstege (Zion PRC).
  
  
• This past Monday Rev. M. DeBoer (Edgerton PRC MN) received the call from Doon PRC.
  
  
• Rev. J. Holstege (Zion PRC) is considering the call from Hosanna PRC (Edmonton, AB). He plans to answer by Dec.11.
  
  
• 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 on Dec.14.
   
• Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Prof. R. Dykstra in Doon (IA) PRC; Prof. D. Kuiper and Rev. D. Noorman in First PRC-Grand Rapids; Prof. C. Griess and Rev. D. Lee in Georgetown PRC; Rev. A. Brummel (1st week) in Hosanna PRC, Edmonton, AB; Prof. R. Cammenga and Rev. J. Maatman in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. K. Koole 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.

Congregational Evangelism Activities:

• Zion PRC (Jenison, MI): "Community Bible Study will meet this Wednesday at 7 pm [held in Zion's outbuilding] to study John 9. Consider coming with a neighbor, colleague, or acquaintance!"

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 in late December. May the Lord continue to grant healing and strength to them. 

PRC Seminary Notices:

• The seminary has now completed thirteen weeks of the first semester of the new school year. As we enter the final weeks of the semester, pray for continued diligence and grace to remain 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.
• Rev. E. Guichelaar (2013 PRTS graduate, pastor of Grace PRC) spoke for the Wednesday chapel this past week and will do so again this week.
• 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.
• The Fall 2022 issue of the PRT Journal  has been sent to the printer and should be available in early December. 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 writes about the suffering God's children endure in this life. This is part of what he says: "While we suffer for righteousness’ sake, know that no pain we experience, no tear we shed is a mistake. We are all called suffer for the truth’s sake. For the gospel, we take the fiercest mockery and scorn. To insist on a life of holiness, all that we suffer under the hand of the godless and heartless is never meaningless. Our every tear, God counts as precious and keeps in a bottle. Our every heartache, our God beholds and never forgets. “Thou tellest my wanderings: put thou my tears into thy bottle: are they not in thy book?”- Psalm 56:8
  • 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 released last week.  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).
  • Translation additions to the CPRC website: Translation Additions: 1 Afrikaans, 2 Hungarian, 3 Polish, 2 Russian and 13 Swahili.
• PRC in the Philippines and her mission work:
  • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. R. Smit led her services today. We also find this special note: "Rev. Ibe and family will visit the saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship (AGPRF), Gabaldon, NE. Rev. Ibe will lead them in their worship service today at 9 AM. Bible study on the book of Titus 2 is also scheduled after the worship service @ 10:45 AM, D.V. The worship service will be Livestreamed on the official Facebook page of AGPRF."
    

  • Provident PRC bulletin: "Elder Jun Armas will lead for us in our worship services today and will use video recordings of sermons of Prof. Brian Huizinga from the PRCA for the preaching of God’s Word in our 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 "The Messiah Revealed" based on Isaiah 40:4,5.
  
• 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 is the miracle that took place in Bethlehem? Who is it that was born of the virgin Mary and laid in a manger? This RFPA book, The Mystery of Bethlehem makes a good resource for reading in this Advent season.

• 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

"What was true of Israel is also true of the Church of today. The Church as it is manifested in the world (all that goes by the name of Church) is, for the most part, ignorant of or denies the true Savior. Oh, there is much talk about God and Christ. We hear the name Jesus all the time - so much so that one tires of it. These names, however, have been drained of their meaning. Even though people take these names upon their lips, they do not know of whom they speak. People have so many misconceptions about God and Christ that the God and Christ of most people are not the God and Christ of the Bible. Today God is considered by most to be a weak and helpless God who does not rule this world. He is brought down to the level of man. There is very little respect for Him. He is common-just a buddy. In fact, He is made even lower than man. For man is able to frustrate the will of God by his will. God is supposed to love everyone and want everyone to be saved. God, however, does not get what He wants because many refuse to receive Him as their Savior.

"Is this the god who is the only Savior? No! Certainly not! We must, therefore, not only take careful note of the fact that the true God is the only Savior, but we must also take note of His description of Himself as the only Savior. In this passage God refers to Himself as the Savior by means of three of His names - Jehovah, Holy One, and God. By these three names we learn precisely who the Savior is."

Rev. S. Houck in "Jehovah the Savior," one of the featured resources on the PRC website this month. To keep reading, visit the link provided here.

News from the Reformed Witness Hour

December 2022

Help Us Get the Word Out!

This month we have four Christ-centered, Gospel-themed messages to share!

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

December 4
The Messiah Revealed 
Isaiah 40:4,5

December 11
Your Salvation Comes!
Isaiah 62:11,12

December 18
A Prophecy of Praise
Luke 1:68-69

December 25
The Branch of Jesse
Isaiah 11:1

New RWH Members are Needed!

Are you looking for a way to serve God’s Kingdom? Consider joining the Reformed Witness Hour Committee! We are an organization of individual members of the Protestant Reformed Churches who offer their voluntary services for the purpose of directing and advancing the RWH radio ministry. In addition to coordinating the radio programs, our committee members manage our website and technology needs, promote our programs through social media and other venues, and investigate new opportunities for our ministry. Please prayerfully consider this opportunity to proclaim God’s Truth!

Please contact Dan DeVries, Chairman, or email us (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) if you have questions or are interested in joining our committee.

2022 In Review

We are thankful for another year of sharing the gospel through radio ministry and through our internet and digital platforms. So far in 2022, we have had 14,793 digital downloads of our messages through our online sources which is about 700 more than last year at this time! These online sources include podcasts, our Reformed Witness Hour website, the Sermon Audio Website and the Sermon Audio app. Through these avenues we have reached ninety-one countries.

The most popular messages from 2022 include:

1. Desiring a Better Country by Rev. W. Bruinsma with 484 downloads in 2022
2. Chosen to be a Special People by Rev. W. Bruinsma with 450 downloads in 2022
3. The Greatest of These is Love by Rev. R. Kleyn with 395 downloads in 2022
4. Marriage as God ordained It by Rev. R. Kleyn with 394 downloads in 2022
5. Let Not Our Trouble Seem Little to Thee by Rev. C. Haak with 342 downloads in 2022

Our messages have reached many states and countries throughout 2022:

Prayers for the New Year

Brethren, we covet your prayers for our radio ministry! We have a genuine need for a new Radio Minister; please pray with us that the Lord will provide the means for us to continue producing new, gospel-themed messages for our radio, internet and digital listeners. Please also continue to pray that our ministry be used to spread the gospel and that we remain faithful to this calling!

Sponsor a Month of Reformed Witness Hour

If your church or evangelism committee would like to learn more about sponsoring the RWH, please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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www.ReformedWitnessHour.org                                                       www.sermonaudio.com/rwh

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Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news for this forty-eighth Sunday of our Lord's year 2022, November 27.

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.

O remember not against us former iniquities: let thy tender mercies speedily prevent us: for we are brought very low. Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of thy name: and deliver us, and purge away our sins, for thy name's sake. Wherefore should the heathen say, Where is their God? let him be known among the heathen in our sight by the revenging of the blood of thy servants which is shed. Let the sighing of the prisoner come before thee; according to the greatness of thy power preserve thou those that are appointed to die; And render unto our neighbours sevenfold into their bosom their reproach, wherewith they have reproached thee, O Lord. So we thy people and sheep of thy pasture will give thee thanks for ever: we will shew forth thy praise to all generations. ~ Psalm 79:8-13

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 First PRC-Grand Rapids.  He is also considering the call to Georgetown PRC, which he plans to answer by Dec.18.
  
  
• Today Randolph (WI) PRC voted to call Rev. J. Holstege (Zion PRC) from her duo that also incliued Rev. M. DeBoer (Edgerton PRC) [Rev. J. Laning, also part of the original trio, had taken the call for home missionary last week.]
  
  
• *UPDATE: Hudsonville PRC's Council announced a new trio Sunday evening: Revs. B. Langerak (Trinity PRC), J. Maatman (SE PRC), and Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC).
   
• Last Sunday 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 new home missionary for the churches. 
  
  
• Last Sunday Rev. M. Kortus (Hope PRC-Redlands) declined the call to Hudsonville PRC. 
  
  
• Last Sunday Rev. J. Holstege (Zion PRC) received the call from Hosanna PRC (Edmonton, AB). He plans to answer by Dec.11.
  
  
• The Consistory of Doon PRC has formed a new trio from which to call her next pastor: Revs. M. De Boer (Edgerton PRC), J. Mahtani (Hope PRC-Grand Rapids, MI), and D. Noorman (SW PRC). The congregational meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 28. *UPDATE: Rev. M. DeBoer received this call.
  
  
• Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Elder in a.m.; Rev. R. Barnhill at 2 p.m. in Doon (IA) PRC; Prof. D. Kuiper and Rev. J. Mahtani in First PRC-Grand Rapids; Prof. C. Griess and Rev. C. Spronk in Georgetown PRC; Rev. R. Hanko (2nd Sunday) in Hosanna PRC, Edmonton, AB; Prof. R. Cammenga and Rev. J. Holstege in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. C. Haak 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: Last Sunday 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 new 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 in late December. May the Lord continue to grant healing and strength to them. 

PRC Seminary Notices:

• The seminary has now completed eleven and a half weeks of the first semester of the new school year. As we enter the final weeks of the semester, pray for continued diligence and grace to remain 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) continues with his six-month internship in Hope PRC-Grand Rapids under Rev. J. Mahtani (July-Dec.). With a little over a month to go, he remains busy with all aspects of the work of the ministry, including preaching, teaching, leading societies, family visits, pastoral calls, and Consistory/Council meeting.
• The Fall 2022 issue of the PRT Journal  has been sent to the printer and should be available in early December. The digital editions have been posted on the seminary's website (use the link provided here). This new issue features articless by Prof. Griess (Calvin and the third mark of the true church), Kuiper (seminary history, chap.2), Prof. Gritters (introduction to an old article 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!
  
  

Meeting place of Berean PRC, Manila, the Philippines

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 had this special word for the congregation, especially the young people: "...the armbands we all wear are meant to tell the world that we are not our own captains, but that Jesus Christ is our Captain. He is the captain of our salvation. Our Captain will lead us to get the W. In our Captain our Lord Jesus, we place all our trust and hope. Our victory is certain. For at the Cross, is the epitome of what you young people call “Hard Carry”. He ALONE took us from death unto life. By His ONE sacrifice, he took the Loss for us that we will never lose our lives. The cross, His death, became our win, our 3 victory. Captain Jesus’s shame and humiliation at the accused tree that we might have an eternal crown of glory. From the chains of every single sin, idolatry to adultery, he set us free."
  • 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 released this weekend.  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).
    
    
• PRC in the Philippines and her mission work:
  • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led her services today. We also find this special note: "We thank the LORD for His grace and faithfulness towards us in 16 years of existence as an instituted Protestant Reformed Church. Therefore, “Offer unto God thanksgiving and pay thy vows unto the most High” [Ps. 50:14]. To which we add, Congratulations, Berean PRC! "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship (AGPRF), Gabaldon, NE. will join in our worship services today via Livestream at our official Facebook page account, D.V."
    

  • Provident PRC bulletin: Rev. R. Smit led her 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 in late December. May the Lord continue to grant healing and strength to them. 
  • PRCP Seminary: The classes for 2022-2023 are continuing for this semester. "We are grateful to the Lord for His sustaining grace upon the labors of our instructors, [Rev. Smit and Rev. Kleyn] and to Seminarian Ace Flores. We pray that God will bless their faithful labors and that they may be encouraged even more as we look to God for another fruitful year of dedication and devotion to this cause of God’s Kingdom. God be praised!"

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. Today's message is titled "Losing in Order to Win" based on Philippians 3:8.
  
• 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.). 

Why did the Son of God come into this world and become man? This RFPA book, Born for Our Salvation, makes a good resource for reading in this Advent season.

• 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 will be hosting their Holiday Shopping Night on Thursday night, December 1, from 6-9pm at the store! Join us for a 25% off sale, a gift card giveaway, and decorating Christmas cookies in our back area. This event will also be the debut of a new coffee cart called Special Grounds, which will serve coffee in our back area during this event and other special events in the future! The coffee cart will be staffed by special needs members of our community and helpers, and payment will be by donation only. Come visit at 3472 Harvey St. Hudsonville, and shop our selection of books, including our special Christmas book selection, and visit the coffee cart in the back area!
  
  
• 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.
  
  
• The PR Sunday School Association also publishes complete OT and NT Bible Story Lessons for young children and older children. Visit this page to learn more.

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

"We have seen that the law has an important and necessary function in showing us our depravity and sin, and our need for God’s great salvation. Now the question is: “Does the law have a place in the regeneration of a sinner and in his growth in grace, that is, his sanctification?”

"If we mean by “place” that the law has any power to regenerate or sanctify us, the answer is an unqualified “No.” Galatians 3:21 tells us plainly that the law cannot regenerate us: “Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.” The Word of God is saying here that, if the law were able to regenerate us and give us life, it would first have to be able to justify us and that it cannot do.

"Nor can the law sanctify us, as is clear from Romans 8:3-4: “For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” Having the righteousness of the law fulfilled in us and walking after the Spirit is sanctification and growth in grace, which are always and only the fruit of Christ’s work, and not something the law could do.

"We do not mean, however, that the law has no connection with our regeneration and spiritual growth. When we are born again, regenerated, the Spirit of God writes the law in our hearts: “For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people: And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest” (Heb. 8:10-11; quoting Jer. 31:33-34).

"The law does not give us the new life of regeneration, but, written in our hearts, it defines the boundaries of that new life that we have through regeneration and in Christ. When God created man, His moral law was a boundary for man’s life of fellowship with Himself. Within the boundaries of God’s law was life. Outside of those boundaries was death and so the law defined the boundaries of man’s fellowship with God."

Rev. R. Hanko in "The Third Use of the Law" as published in the latest Covenant Reformed News (November 2022)

Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news for this forty-seventh Sunday of our Lord's year 2022, November 20.

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.

We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done. For he established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers, that they should make them known to their children: That the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their children: That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments: And might not be as their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation; a generation that set not their heart aright, and whose spirit was not stedfast with God. ~ Psalm 78:4-8

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. 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 new home missionary for the churches. 
  
  
• Today Rev. M. Kortus (Hope PRC-Redlands) declined the call to Hudsonville PRC. 
  
  
• Last Sunday Rev. M. DeBoer (Edgerton PRC) declined the call from Hosanna PRC (Edmonton, AB). The Consistory of Hosanna PRC (Edmonton) then formed a new trio: Revs. J. Holstege (Zion PRC), W. Langerak (Trinity PRC), and C. Spronk (Faith PRC). The congregation will vote after this evening's service.  *UPDATE: Rev. J. Holstege has received this call.
  
  
• Last Sunday Georgetown PRC voted to call Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC). He plans to answer by Dec.18.
  
  
• Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC) is considering the call to First PRC-Grand Rapids (received Oct.30). He plans to answer by Nov.27.
  
  
• The Consistory of Doon PRC has formed a new trio from which to call her next pastor: Revs. M. De Boer (Edgerton PRC), J. Mahtani (Hope PRC-Grand Rapids, MI), and D. Noorman (SW PRC). The congregational meeting is scheduled for November 28.
  
  
• The Council of Randolph (WI) PRC "presents the following trio for the congregation’s consideration: Rev. M. DeBoer, (Edgerton), Rev. J. Holstege, (Zion), Rev. J. Laning, (Hull). The congregational meeting to extend a call from this trio has been set for November 27, after the morning service."
  
  
• Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Rev. J. Marcus (2nd) in Doon (IA) PRC; Prof. D. Kuiper and Rev. E. Guichelaar in First PRC-Grand Rapids; Rev. D. Holstege and Prof. B. Gritters in Georgetown PRC; Rev. R. Hanko in Hosanna PRC, Edmonton, AB; Prof. C. Griess and Rev. D. Holstege in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. R. Barnhill (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

The first snow of the season came this past week in West Michigan - over a foot of the fresh lake-effect variety.

PRC Seminary Notices:

• The seminary has now completed eleven weeks of the first semester of the new school year. In this Thanksgiving season, we thank and praise our God for His infinite goodness to us in Jesus Christ. "Praise ye the LORD. O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. Who can utter the mighty acts of the LORD? who can shew forth all his praise? Ps. 106:1,2. The seminary will enjoy its Thanksgiving break this Thursday and Friday. It will be open on Friday for most of the day.
• The second round of Practice Preaching was held this past Monday Sems. A. Haveman and A. Van Dyke presented their second sermons of the semester. The faculty is thankful for the progress of both of these men.
• Sem. M. Koerner (4th year) continues with his six-month internship in Hope PRC-Grand Rapids under Rev. J. Mahtani (July-Dec.). With a little over a month to go, he remains busy with all aspects of the work of the ministry, including preaching, teaching, leading societies, family visits, pastoral calls, and Consistory/Council meeting.
• The Fall 2022 issue of the PRT Journal  has been sent to the printer and should be available in early December. The digital editions have been posted on the seminary's website (use the link provided here). This new issue features articless by Prof. Griess (Calvin and the third mark of the true church), Kuiper (seminary history, chap.2), Prof. Gritters (introduction to an old article 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 had this special word for the congregation: "Lord willing, we will be having the next few sermons on the 4th commandment during our morning worship service, where more of us are present. We as a church can grow together in learning to keep the Sabbath Day holy. That is what we will be doing for eternity in heaven—enjoying the eternal Sabbath, the everlasting rest from sin that is earned in the finished work of our Lord and Saviour! And that is what we seek to enjoy already now, on this earth, learning to devote the entirety of this day to God, engaging in that spiritually intensive activity of worshipping God."
  • 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 October 2022 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" was published at the end of last month.  Follow the link to read the latest profitable articles by Revs. A. Stewart and R. Hanko.
    
    
• PRC in the Philippines and her mission work:
  • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led her services today. We also find this special note: "We thank the LORD for His grace and faithfulness towards us in 16 years of existence as an instituted Protestant Reformed Church. Therefore, “Offer unto God thanksgiving and pay thy vows unto the most High” [Ps. 50:14]. To which we add, Congratulations, Berean PRC! "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship (AGPRF), Gabaldon, NE. will join in our worship services today via Livestream at our official Facebook page account, D.V."
    

  • Provident PRC bulletin: Elder Jun Armas led her services today. "Rev. R. Smit is in Southern Negros Occidental in order to preach and teach there."

  • PRCP Seminary: The classes for 2022-2023 are continuing for this semester. "We are grateful to the Lord for His sustaining grace upon the labors of our instructors, [Rev. Smit and Rev. Kleyn] and to Seminarian Ace Flores. We pray that God will bless their faithful labors and that they may be encouraged even more as we look to God for another fruitful year of dedication and devotion to this cause of God’s Kingdom. God be praised!"

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. Today's message is titled "Rejoicing in God's Gifts" based on Deut.26:10,11.
  
• 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.). 

How would you answer that question? This resource gives you the biblical answer, centered in Jesus Christ.

• 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.
  
  
• The PR Sunday School Association also publishes complete OT and NT Bible Story Lessons for young children and older children. Visit this page to learn more.

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

What a wonder for Noah to find grace in the eyes of Jehovah as he stood in the midst of a wicked world doomed to utter destruction in the flood! How amazing to see revealed in the eyes of God what lay deep inside God's heart toward him, an attitude of pure saving grace! “It would be difficult indeed,” writes Homer C. Hoeksema, “to conceive of five words concerning Noah - or any other man - and his place in history more important than those words. There is no more blessed and no more significant statement to be made, not only about a man’s personal history, but also about his place in history as a whole, than that he found grace in the eyes of Jehovah!” (p. 291, Unfolding Covenant History, Volume 1). 

“Why me?” Noah must have thought, “I too am a sinner, and by nature no better than all these ungodly men around me, because I too think evil thoughts and have evil desires in my heart! Why me, O Lord?” The Arminian would answer him, “Noah, the reason is that you have made yourself to differ from those evil men around you by the superior use of your free will! God offered his grace to you, and you accepted it, unlike them! Moses will write about you that he was “a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God” (Genesis 6:9). That means you made yourself better than others by freely choosing to follow God. That is why God shines the light of his countenance upon you! But Noah would have been repulsed by that answer. 

The Reformed would answer him, “Noah, the reason God smiles upon you is that before the foundation of the world, God determined in his decree of election, according to the sovereign good pleasure of his will, to bestow the riches of his grace in Christ Jesus upon a certain number of persons who by nature are neither better nor more deserving than the rest of the sinful human race (Canons of Dordt I.7). You are one of those persons whom God has graciously determined to elect in Christ. That is why you find grace in his eyes. That is why you have faith in your heart, why you believe in God and hope for the promised Messiah. That is why you experience that you are righteous before God by faith in that coming Messiah, and by faith alone. That is why you walk with God in thankful joy and strive to live a life of justice and integrity in the midst of this wicked generation. The reason is that God elected you out of mere grace and according to his free good pleasure. Give all glory to God, Noah!”  

Rev. D. Holstege (Wingham PRC, ON), "As in the Days of Noah... (2)" as published on the RFPA Blog

PROTESTANT REFORMED FOREIGN MISSIONS IN THE PHILIPPINES
SEPTEMBER 2022 NEWSLETTER

Greetings

Greetings in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of the Harvest, from the City of Antipolo, in the province of Rizal of the Philippines.

Here is an update regarding our labors in the past several months.

2022 Furloughs

My family enjoyed our furlough from May 31 to July 28, our first since being called back to labor here in December 2017. Rev. and Mrs. Daniel Kleyn enjoyed their furlough from July 11 to August 30.

When thinking about our respective furloughs in June to August 2022, now seemingly long passed already, I was reminded of a comment about furloughs in a book, The Reformed Church in China 1842-1951, written by Gerald F. De Jong. The comment appears on p. 80:

Furloughs for missionaries were, of course, necessary. Few critics could find fault with Philip Pritcher's observations that "missionaries, like all other busy workers, get run down, worn out, and on account of the unvarying daily routine... become more or less rusty. Physically, mentally, and spiritually the whole life is apt to, and very often does, become sluggish."

Although those observations were written in a vastly different age of transportation and communication in May 1897, yet his main point is certainly still apt. We, too, understand from experience the need for periodic furloughs among our PRCA congregations in North America, in the midst of our calling church in Doon, and among our respective families and friends. Although our furloughs involved a different kind of work, including overcoming jetlag, pulpit supply, some presentations, and attendance at various ecclesiastical meetings, yet they provided rest, vacation, and recuperation. As a result, we have returned to the field "oiled" for our ongoing task here. 

Our Task within the PRC in the Philippines

The first main part of our current task here has been providing pulpit supply to the vacant Provident PRC. Rev. Kleyn and I currently provide pulpit supply to Provident three Sundays per month. We continue providing pulpit supply in the Berean PRC when necessary. Usually that is the case for the Berean PRC in the weeks that Rev. Ibe is on vacation or when he is sent to Gabaldon to teach a catechism class and to lead a worship service on the first Sunday of each month. Sometimes we provide pulpit supply in the Berean PRC on the Sundays after a week when Rev. Ibe's pastoral workload is unusually heavy. We are thankful for the opportunity to be engaged regularly in sermon work and regular preaching for the PRCP congregations.

Our preaching task includes catechism instruction. Rev. Kleyn teaches two catechism classes in the Provident congregation: the Old Testament Bible History for the younger children, and the Reformed Doctrine class (Belgic Confession) for the teenagers. With the approval of the Doon consistory, I teach our four sons here since the class schedules in the Berean and Provident churches do not work for our family. I am teaching OT History for Beginners, Heidelberg Catechism, and Essentials of Reformed Doctrine.

A significant second element of our task within the PRCP is our role as teachers in their seminary program. We are teaching one seminary student, Bro. Ace Flores, who is in his third year of training. We have a pre-seminary student, Bro. Peter Zuniega, who has joined Bro. Ace in the NT Greek Grammar course. Rev. Kleyn teaches two courses (Hebrew Reading and Church Polity), while I am teaching Introduction to Dogmatics, Theology, and NT Greek Grammar. This part of our task keeps us busy each week in preparation and in the actual classroom instruction.

Our task within the PRCP includes a third component of leading Bible Study. Currently, the Council of Provident PRC has assigned me to lead the Wednesday night Bible Study. We have been studying the book of Acts, and currently are studying about the first New Testament martyr, Stephen, in chapter 7. There are on average about 17 persons in attendance.

Our task within the PRCP has included a fourth element of participating in conferences with lectures. We have done so in past years, and Rev. Kleyn had the opportunity to do so again in a conference on July 2 which was sponsored by the PRCP Classis for the PRCP membership. The conference addressed the topic of the recent schism in the PRCP and PRCA in 2021. In addition to Rev. J. Laning ("Repentance and Good Works") and Rev. W. Langerak ("The Covenant, Fellowship, and Good Works") from the PRCA, Rev. Kleyn also spoke on the schism under a speech entitled, "Church Political Matters." In addition to the speeches, Rev. Kleyn, Rev. Laning, and Rev. Langerak were kept busy with many questions and profitable discussion during the coffee and lunch breaks.

Finally, our formal task within the PRCP includes attending the Classis meetings of the PRCP and providing advice as a committee whenever asked for such by the consistories, the Classis, or one of its standing committees. The next PRCP Classis is scheduled soon for November 1.

Medical Leave

We have been reminded again that the gift of health and strength is necessary for continuation in the mission task here by the recent announcement in the PRCA regarding the health needs of Rev. and Mrs. Kleyn.

The Council of the Doon PRC, with the concurrence of the FMC, has approved and announced a 9-week medical leave of absence for Rev. and Mrs. D. Kleyn from their missionary task in the Philippines. It is expected that the leave of absence (October 26 to December 28) will provide sufficient time for their surgeries and recovery.

If all goes as well as the physicians expect, then we are looking forward to welcoming the Kleyns back home again in Antipolo on December 29, the Lord willing. Pray that the Lord will watch over them in their travels and through the medical procedures, will provide a good outcome, and will give them a speedy recovery in order to resume their role in the ongoing task at hand here.

Some Adjustments

In light of the leave of absence, some adjustments are being prepared in our pulpit supply schedule in the PRCP and in the catechism instruction in Provident PRC. The elders will be helping with leading worship services when pulpit supply is unavailable and with teaching catechism until Rev. Kleyn has returned.

With regard to seminary instruction, the impact of the medical leave on the instruction in the seminary program for the PRCP appears at this time to be manageable without requiring, for example, emergency help from one of our retired pastors or professors. Adjustments have been proposed and approved by Committee 1 (TSC) for the second half of the first semester and the upcoming semester. Thus, what cannot be completed in the courses that Rev. Kleyn is currently teaching this semester will be covered in the upcoming semester without difficulty in the scheduling. We are thankful to the Lord that, in His wise timing, the impact of the leave to our seminary task is minimal.

Our Task in Southern Negros Occidental

Another major element of our missionary task in the Philippines is our work with churches and contacts in the Visayan area that we, who have been very familiar with snow in North America, affectionately call SNO.

We started visiting again in SNO in May. At that time, we resumed our monthly Monday classes with the regular group of pastors and elders with whom we had been working before the disruptions of Covid regulations. Currently, we are presenting lectures in Homiletics (sermons) and in Christology.

Then, earlier in September, in addition to our monthly Monday classes, we resumed preaching in the area churches, at their request, on Sundays. On September 18, Rev. Kleyn preached in the Reformed Christian Church in Canturay while I preached in the Reformed Free Church in Inayauan. The churches at this point have one regular worship service with all of the necessary elements of worship according to the regulative principle. However, prior to their morning worship service, they have a tradition of a one-hour service of "Sunday School" in which the pastors teach catechism to the congregation. This type of service is common in many churches in the Philippines, and we have experienced this in our labours with other churches. In some, the "Sunday School" service eventually became a full worship service for Heidelberg Catechism preaching. Thus, to develop to that goal, the local pastors preach the Heidelberg Catechism in that one-hour service, which we also do when visiting.

We intend to continue laboring with them, the Lord willing, at their request as they continue their development as Reformed congregations in all necessary respects according to Scripture, our Reformed confessions, and Reformed church order. A commendable goal that the leaders desire is, not a loosely associated group of independent Reformed congregations, but a communion of churches of like precious faith. Our prayer is that the Lord will bless us in our role of service to the leaders and their gatherings in their development and that the Spirit of our Lord by this means may continue to guide them into His truth.

Bro. Dick Espiritu (1941-2022)

Some visitors may remember meeting our fellow saint, Bro. Dick Espiritu, one of the first officebearers of the Berean PRC when Rev. A. Spriensma was laboring here. He labored several terms as deacon after the Berean congregation was instituted in 2006. Bro. Dick was taken by the Lord to glory in death on Monday morning, September 12. His burial was on September 19, which would have been his 78th birthday. He is survived by his wife, Sis. Violy. Two of his sons, Bro. Herbert and Bro. Andrew, along with their wives and children are also members of our Berean PRC. The missionaries and our wives had the opportunity to visit with the family at the funeral wake and to bring them in their sorrow words of comfort and hope from Scripture.

We give thanks to the Lord that, in a predominantly Roman Catholic country where most believe the horrible, ungodly teaching of purgatory, we with the Espiritu family might stand in genuine faith before death and the grave in the victory of our Lord Jesus Christ! What a comfort to know assuredly that at the end of our earthly sojourn we have for Christ's sake alone this triumphant expectation: Thou shalt guide me with Thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory. (Psalm 73:24)

In His Service,
Rev. Richard J. Smit