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

Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news for this forty-sixth Sunday of our Lord's year 2022, November 13.

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.

I cried unto God with my voice, even unto God with my voice; and he gave ear unto me. ...I call to remembrance my song in the night: I commune with mine own heart: and my spirit made diligent search. Will the Lord cast off for ever? and will he be favourable no more? Is his mercy clean gone for ever? doth his promise fail for evermore? Hath God forgotten to be gracious? hath he in anger shut up his tender mercies? Selah. And I said, This is my infirmity: but I will remember the years of the right hand of the most High. I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old. I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings. Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God? Thou art the God that doest wonders: thou hast declared thy strength among the people. Thou hast with thine arm redeemed thy people, the sons of Jacob and Joseph. Selah. ~ Psalm 77:1, 6-15

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. M. DeBoer (Edgerton PRC) declined the call from Hosanna PRC (Edmonton, AB).
  
  
• *UPDATE: Today Georgetown PRC voted to call Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC).
  
  
• Rev. M. Kortus (Hope PRC-Redlands) is considering the call to Hudsonville PRC (received Oct.23). 
  
  
• Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC) is considering the call to First PRC-Grand Rapids (received Oct.30). He plans to answer by Nov.27.
  
  
• Rev. J. Laning (Hull PRC) is considering the call from Zion PRC  to serve as denominational home missionary. 
  
  
• 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."
  
  
• *UPDATE: The Consistory of Hosanna PRC (Edmonton) has a new trio: Revs. J. Holstege (Zion PRC), W. Langerak (Trinity PRC), and C. Spronk (Faith PRC). The congregation will vote on Nov.20 in the evening. 
  
  
• Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Rev. J. Marcus (1st week) in Doon (IA) PRC; Prof. D. Kuiper and Rev. J. Maatman in First PRC-Grand Rapids; Prof. C. Griess and Prof. B. Huizinga in Georgetown PRC; Rev. J.Engelsma (2nd Sunday) in Hosanna PRC, Edmonton, AB; Prof. R. Cammenga and Rev. W. Langerak in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. R. Barnhill (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.

• Special Evangelism Activities
  • Byron Center PRC: "The Community Bible Study meets this Thursday (7:30 PM) at church. We plan to wrap up discussion of John 17:24-26. Please invite friends and join us."
  • Zion PRC: "Community Bible Study will meet Wednesday at 7 pm in the youth building. We will take up the study of John 8 at vs. 21. Consider coming with a neighbor, colleague, or acquaintance!"

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

PRC Seminary Notices:

• The seminary has now completed ten 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
• Rev. M. DeVries spoke for the Wednesday chapel this past week.
• The second round of Practice Preaching will be held tomorrow, Nov.14. A. Haveman and A. Van Dyke will present their second sermons of the semester. Pray for them as they prepare for this and then deliver the sermons. And pray for the faculty as they guide the students in this all-important aspect of their training.
• Sem. M. Koerner (4th year) continues with his six-month internship in Hope PRC-Grand Rapids under Rev. J. Mahtani (July-Dec.). He is staying busy with all aspects of the work of the ministry.
• The Fall 2022 issue of the PRT Journal  has been sent to the printer and should be available at the beginning of 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!
  
  

Learn about what CERC is doing with the Book of Psalms through PSP below!

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 introduced a new pratice in their worship called "PSP": "Never heard of ‘PSP’? Well, it stands for “Psalm Singing and Praying”! The Lord willing, we will be singing and praying through the Psalms consecutively in our worship service. The Psalms are God’s songbook for the church, and we sing them almost exclusively in our worship service. It will be profitable for us as a church to go through the Psalms systematically, one each Lord’s Day, learning them well. ...Pastor Tan and I will seek to incorporate that particular Psalm in our congregational prayers each week. This way, we will be praying through the Psalm together during the week, and coming together to the sanctuary and taking these familiar words (that we have prayed over in the week) upon our own lips."
  • Don't forget the latest 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. From her Nov.6 bulletin we learn about an interesting Bible study topic they are on: "Tuesday Bible study at 11 AM will meet to continue our discussion on faith and reason, looking at how they are rightly and wrongly related."
  • 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. "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.

  • 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 "God's Promise Confirmed (2)" based on Acts 2:39.
  
• 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.). 

New release by the RFPA! Here's more on this new title and how to obtain it.

"Rev. Jason Kortering (1936–2020) was a minister in the Protestant Reformed Churches. From 1992–2006, he and his wife, Jean, were called to missionary labors in Singapore, India, and Myanmar. Say Among the Heathen the Lord Reigns is Jean’s account of those years. The recollections and stories in this book will direct your heart to the Son of God who gathers, defends, and preserves to himself an elect church out of all nations, kindreds, peoples, and tongues."

• 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

 Quoted in Covenant PRC's (Ballymena, N. Ireland) bulletin of November 6, from Prof. D. Engelsma in The Reformed Worldview:

"As a pilgrim, the Christian is never absorbed in earthly life. He never sets his heart on earthly relations, including marriage and family, though they are dear; on earthly pleasures, no matter how legitimate and sweet; on earthly treasures, regardless how vast and valuable; on earthly achievements, be they never so impressive. He has a wife as though he had none. He weeps over earthly calamities as though he did not weep. He rejoices over earthly pleasures and successes as though he did not rejoice. He buys and owns possessions and properties as though he did not possess them. He uses this physical world while sitting loose to it (I Cor. 7:29-31).

"Earthly life is not all there is. Earthly life is not the main thing. Earthly life is brief. Earthly life is not the goal. A successful earthly life is not the goal for the believer. Indeed, a successful earthly life is a temptation to lose sight of the goal. Therefore, God mercifully plagues our earthly life with sorrows, sicknesses, and struggles, so that we keep our eye of faith on the goal: the heavenly country, the “city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God” (Heb. 11:10), “an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens” (II Cor. 5:1).

"Earthly life is only the way to the goal.

"Pilgrimage is basic to the Christian worldview. When Jesus described the evil of the human race at His second coming, on account of which multitudes will perish, He said that the majority will simply be at home on the earth, wrapped up in earthly pursuits and pleasures: “For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage” (Matt. 24:38). Against this temptation—the giving up of pilgrimage—the disciples of Christ must “watch” (v. 42).

"According to the correct translation of Philippians 3:20, our citizenship is in heaven. The sense of this citizenship so grips us that we are always looking for the coming of the Saviour, our Lord Jesus Christ.

"For the worldview of Man, in contrast, earthly life is all there is. The worldview of Man is materialism. Death ends human existence (declare the advocates of the worldview of Man, although they know better, and tremble at the prospect of judgment to follow). Therefore, the worldview of Man is both meaningless and hopeless, no matter how its proponents—Richard Dawkins, and Bertrand Russell before him—try to put a good face on it: “One can lead a happy and fulfilled life without supernatural religion.”

"Upon the worldview of Man, and the vain life lived in its shadow, Ecclesiastes passed judgment long ago— judgment that expresses the conviction and feeling of every human heart: 'Vanity of vanities, all is vanity.'"

Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news for this forty-fourth Sunday of our Lord's year 2022, November 6.

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 Judah is God known: his name is great in Israel. In Salem also is his tabernacle, and his dwelling place in Zion. ...Thou art more glorious and excellent than the mountains of prey. ...Thou, even thou, art to be feared: and who may stand in thy sight when once thou art angry? ...Vow, and pay unto the LORD your God: let all that be round about him bring presents unto him that ought to be feared. ~ Psalm 76:1,2,4,7,11

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

• Rev. M. DeBoer (Edgerton PRC) is considering the call from Hosanna PRC (Edmonton, AB - received Oct.23). He plans to answer by Nov.13.
  
  
• Rev. M. Kortus (Hope PRC-Redlands) is considering the call to Hudsonville PRC (received Oct.23). 
  
  
• Last Sunday Rev. J. Maatman (Southeast-GR PRC) declined the call from Doon PRC.
  
  
• Last Sunday First PRC-Grand Rapids called Rev. C. Spronk (Faith) to serve as her next pastor. He plans to answer by Nov.27.
  
  
• Last Sunday Zion PRC extended a call to Rev. J. Laning (Hull) to labor as denominational home missionary. 
  
  
• From Doon PRC's bulletin today: "The new trio from which to call our next pastor is Rev. Matthew De Boer [Edgerton PRC], Rev. Jonathan Mahtani [Hope PRC-Grand Rapids, MI], and Rev. David Noorman [SW PRC]. The congregational meeting has been scheduled for November 28."
  
  
• Georgetown PRC's Council presented this trio to the congregation: Rev. A. Brummel (Calvary PRC-Hull, IA), Rev. M. Deboer (Edgerton PRC, MN), and Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC, MI).  The congregational meeting is scheduled for Sunday morning November 13, after the morning service.
  
  
• Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Rev. M. DeBoer in Doon (IA) PRC; Prof. D. Kuiper and Rev. N. Decker in First PRC-Grand Rapids; Prof. C. Griess and Rev. D. Noorman in Georgetown PRC; Rev. J.Engelsma (1st Sunday)  in Hosanna PRC, Edmonton, AB; Prof. R. Cammenga and Rev. K. Koole 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.
  
  
• Special Congregational events
  • Kalamazoo PRC: "This morning, we welcome Rev. Daniel Kleyn, one of our missionaries in the Philippines, to our pulpit and fellowship. A presentation of the missionary work will be given shortly after the service."

• Past 2022 Reformation Day lectures available online:
  • Prof. Cory Griess' on the topic of "Sexual Abuse in Calvin’s Geneva" at Southwest PRC October 27.
  • Prof. R. Dykstra's on "Abraham Kuyper, A Flawed Reformer" at Randolph PRC on Oct.28.
  • Prof. B. Gritters' on "The Confusion about Forgiveness" at Grace PRC on Nov.3.

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

PRC Seminary Notices:

• The seminary has now completed nine and a half weeks of the first semester of the new school year. Things go well, for which we thank our God.
• Rev. W. Langerak (Trinity PRC) spoke for the Wednesday chapel this past week.
• The second round of Practice Preaching will be held on Monday, Nov.14. A. Haveman and A. Van Dyke will present their second sermons of the semester. Pray for them as they prepare for this and then deliver the sermons next week.
• Some of the professors gace speeches in the last few weeks. Links to those speeches are made available above under the Reformation banner. 
• Sem. M. Koerner (4th year) continues with his six-month internship in Hope PRC-Grand Rapids under Rev. J. Mahtani (July-Dec.). He is staying busy with all aspects of the work of the ministry.
• The Fall 2022 issue of the PRT Journal  has been sent to the printer and should be available in about four weeks. 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:

• Georgetown PRC had an update on her India labors in her bulletin today: "Update on PRCV of Vellore: God has added new members to the Tamil church in the recent months. Bible studies in the book of Daniel continue weekly in both the Tamil and English churches. Monsoon season has come with cooler weather. Some of the children of the GHF are studying for examinations. The senior boys of the GHF are working on the new church building in making bricks and helping on other parts of construction. Pastor Raj continues in regular teaching sessions to area pastors desirous of joining a future Reformed Church Federation."
  
  
• 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 followed up on the visit of their missionary, Pastor E. Singh: "Thank you all who attended the special presentation on the mission work by Pastor Singh last week. The near-full attendance indicates a love for the spread of the gospel in that land, put in our hearts by our God. Pastor Singh and his wife have safely returned back to India. May God continue to use our CERC Singapore family for the gospel work in CERC Kolkata, India. Here is a short summary of the presentation to each of us to note in our personal prayer life: 1) Translation work into Bengali (Bible, Creeds, Reformed literature) 2) Prayer for the fellowship’s institution as a church 3) Prayer for the COF/Baptism of 4 brothers and sisters in Christ 4) Prayer for mission and outreach work in Mumbai, in the slums. That the work will not be hindered by false doctrine (attack of common grace), false brothers, and idolatry) 5) Prayer for God to protect the saints from the high cases of dengue. Psalm 96:3-5 “Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people. For the Lord is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the Lord made the heavens.”
  • The latest 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 this past week.  Follow the link to read the latest profitable articles by Revs. A. Stewart and R. Hanko.
  • For recordings of this summer's British Reformed Conference held in July, visit this BRF webpage.
    
    
• PRC in the Philippines and her mission work:
  • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe is serving as her pastor (no update this week as of yet).
    

  • Provident PRC bulletin: "Elder Bien Montoya will lead for us in our worship services today and will use Video recordings of sermons of Prof. B. Huizinga and Rev. C. Spronk from PRCA for the preaching of God’s Word in our worship services today."
    

  • PRCP Classis: Classis of the congregations of PRCP met this past Monday, October 31, 2022, at Provident PRC, Marikina City.
  • 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) takes over the RWH program for the next few months. He will be delivering messages on various Bible passages. Today's message is titled "God's Promise Confirmed (1)" based on Acts 2:39.
  
• 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.). 

Do you or a loved one struggle with depression and anxiety? This resource will be of help to you in understanding it and receiving help in the Lord.

• 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

 From Rev. W. Bruinsma's October 30, 2022 radio message "I Am God":

"Nor may this side of God’s power be ignored by us as we behold our God.  We read in verse 9 of Psalm 46 that God makes wars to cease, He breaks the bow, cuts the spear, and burns the chariot.  The bow, spear, and chariot were all weapons of war used in the days of Israel.  All these God breaks and burns so that even the end of war is brought about by God!  God sends war, but God also sends peace.  Nothing stands outside the bounds of His sovereign rule!  Come now and behold these works of God!  We do not look at them through the eyes of unbelief and rebel as so many do.  Unbelief manifests itself in so many different ways when it beholds God’s works.

"There are those who refuse to come and behold.  They dwell in darkness and refuse even to consider that all things take place by God.  This world develops by chance and everything in it by natural laws, they say—but there is no God in it all.  Others ignore the Bible and make up their own idol god who does not sovereignly control all things.  Certainly, the desolations we see in the earth do not fall under God’s control, they say.  The bad things of this world would not be under God’s control because God is a God of love and He would not send these things! 

"Then, who, pray tell, is in control of them and who sends them?  Satan?  Oh yes, they will answer, that wicked Satan!  Only he would do such horrible things!  But under whose control is Satan?  God does not have control of Satan?  Satan acts outside of God’s control?  Then Satan must also be God!  He must also have power equal to that of God and therefore must be God too—and not a creature of God’s hand.  But, Satan is a creature—an angel whom God created to do His will but who has fallen from his high estate and become evil.  Yet a creature who is subservient to his Creator.  We might ask, does Satan perform his dastardly deeds only by God’s permission, though God does not approve of them?  We could say that from a certain point of view.  At the same time it is equally true that if God is in control of Satan, He could stop Satan.  The fact the Psalmist explains is that God sends such desolations in the earth.  And He does it because He alone is God.

"We are called, fellow believers, to come before Jehovah God and behold His works through the eyes of faith.  Come and believe!  Believe that these things that take place in this world do not take place by chance!  God is in control.  He rules over all creatures, and nothing therefore escapes His will!  Stand before God and believe.  Then worship this God with reverence and godly fear!  If He is our refuge, then what reason have we to fear what happens in this world?  This God is for us and not against us.  If He is for us, nothing in this whole world can be against us!  Mingled with our godly fear therefore is the greatest of all joys!  We believe in this God because He is the God of our salvation!  He has delivered His people from all punishment in the blood of Jesus Christ.  He has made them into His very own children.  Believers are members of His family.  We have no need to fear for our safety or our welfare.  God who controls all things, even the desolations of this earth, will care for us.  Have you come into the presence of God?  Are you looking at Him?"

Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news for this forty-third Sunday of our Lord's year 2022, October 30.

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.

But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. ~ Romans 3:21-27

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. M. DeBoer (Edgerton PRC) received the call from Hosanna PRC (Edmonton, AB). 
  
  
• Last Sunday Hudsonville PRC voted to call Rev. M. Kortus (Hope-Redlands). 
  
  
• Today Rev. J. Maatman (Southeast-GR PRC) declined the call from Doon PRC.
  
  
• Today First PRC-Grand Rapids called Rev. C. Spronk (Faith) to serve as her next pastor.
  
  
• Today Zion PRC voted to call Rev. J. Laning (Hull) to labor as denominational home missionary. 
  
  
• Georgetown PRC's Council presents the following trio of ministers from which to call her next pastor: Rev. A. Brummel (Calvary PRC-Hull, IA), Rev. M. Deboer (Edgerton PRC, MN), and Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC, MI).  The Congregational meeting will be held Sunday morning November 13, after the morning service.
  
  
• Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Rev. K. Koole (2nd week) in Doon (IA) PRC; Prof. D. Kuiper and ? in First PRC-Grand Rapids; Prof. C. Griess and Rev. J. Smidstra in Georgetown PRC; Rev. J. Langerak (2nd week) in Hosanna PRC, Edmonton, AB; Prof. R. Cammenga and Prof. R. Dykstra in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. H. Bleyenberg (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.
  
  

• Special Evangelism/mission notices:
  
  • Zion PRC (Jenison, MI): "Community Bible Study will meet Wednesday, Nov.2, at 7 pm in the youth building to finish studying John 8. Consider coming
    with a neighbor, colleague, or acquaintance!"
  • Grace PRC: Grace Evangelism Committee will be hosting a speech entitled, “The Confusion About Forgiveness,” by Prof. B. Gritters, on Thursday, November 3 at 7 PM. Livestream will also be available.
  • First PRC-Holland: "will be holding a Reformation Day speech on Friday, November 4 at 7PM at Holland PRC. Rev. Smidstra will speak on two important truths recovered by the Reformation: justification and sanctification, the relationship of these truths, and the abiding significance and application of these truths to the faith and life of the church today. You are warmly invited to attend!
• Past 2022 Reformation Day lectures available online:
  • Rev. J. Maatman's on Luther's Theology of the Cross at Crete PRC. 
  • Prof. Cory Griess' on the topic of "Sexual Abuse in Calvin’s Geneva" at Southwest PRC October 27.
  • Prof. Brian Huizinga's on "Synod 2018 and Holy Scripture: Enjoying Covenant Fellowship in the Way of Obedience” at Hull PRC Oct.28.
  • Prof. R. Dykstra's on "Abraham Kuyper, A Flawed Reformer" at Randolph PRC on Oct.28.

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

PRC Seminary Notices:

• The seminary has now completed nine weeks of the first semester of the new school year. Mid-term exams have been completed. This past weekend the annual Reading Recess was held.
• The second round of Practice Preaching will be held on Monday, Nov.10. A. Haveman and A. Van Dyke will present their second sermons of the semester.
• This month marks our commemoration of the great Reformation of the sixteenth century, when God worked through the Reformers to lead His church back to pure doctrine and pure worship, as well as the pure form of living the Christian life. Our professors will be speaking at various Reformation events at the end of October and the beginning of November. See the scheduled events under PRC congregational activities above.
• Sem. M. Koerner (4th year) continues with his six-month internship in Hope PRC-Grand Rapids under Rev. J. Mahtani (July-Dec.). He is staying busy with all aspects of the work of the ministry.
• The Fall 2022 issue of the PRT Journal was sent to the publisher this past week. The digital editions will be posted on the seminary's website this week (use the link provided here). This new issue features articless by Prof. Griess (Calvin on 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.
  
  

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 each week. In his first pastoral note this week, Pastor Wee makes note of these two items: "We come on the back of our Reformation Day Conference on the grand topic of the Solas of the Reformation, particularly Sola Gratia and Sola Fide. I trust we were edified and encouraged as we were reminded of these great gospel truths, recovered during the time of the Reformation. Salvation is by God— alone! Let that not be a mere piece of intellectual knowledge that we recite, but a truth that warms our heart and drives us to live for the glory of our God, in thankfulness to Him. We are thankful that our Missionary Pastor Emmanuel Singh and his wife Sonali are in our midst at this time. They will be with us till this Friday, November 4. Please do give a warm welcome to our dear brother and sister. Pastor Singh will be giving an update on his work in Kolkata today at 1130am. Be sure to stay updated so that we can labour together with them in our prayers. 2 Corinthians 1:11: “Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf.”
  • The latest 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 September 2022 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" was published last month.  Follow the link to read the latest profitable articles by Revs. A. Stewart and R. Hanko.
  • For recordings of this summer's British Reformed Conference held in July, visit this BRF webpage.
    
    
• PRC in the Philippines and her mission work:
  • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led her services today. "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship (AGPRF), Gabaldon, NE. will join us in our worship services today via Facebook live stream, D.V."
    

  • Provident PRC bulletin: Rev. R. Smit led the services today. "Rev. D. Kleyn and Sis. Sharon are currently in the U.S. for a medical leave of absence for approximately two months from their labors in the Philippines. This leave of absence is necessary in order for both of them to undergo surgeries. Let’s remember them in our prayers with a view to their upcoming surgeries and recovery, and also for the Smits who will be laboring alone as missionary in the Philippines during this time."
    

  • PRCP Classis: "Classis of the congregations of PRCP is scheduled to convene on Monday, October 31, 2022, at 9:00 am at Provident PRC, Marikina City, God willing."
  • 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) takes over the RWH program for the next few months. He will be delivering messages on various Bible passages. Today's message is titled "I Am God" based on Psalm 46:8-11.
  
• 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.). 

Another valuable RFPA resource for this Reformation month - especially for children! Check it out! 

• 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

Quotes from John Calvin on the refomation of the church:

“There is no point which is more keenly contested, none in which our adversaries are more inveterate in their opposition, than that of justification, namely, as to whether we obtain it by faith or by works."

“We maintain, that of what description so ever any man’s works may be, he is regarded as righteous before God, simply on the footing of gratuitous mercy; because God, without any respect to works, freely adopts him in Christ, by imputing the righteousness of Christ to him, as if it were his own."

“...by convincing man of his poverty and powerlessness, we train him more effectually to true humility, leading him to renounce all self-confidence, and throw himself entirely upon God; and that, in like manner, we train him more effectually to gratitude, by leading him to ascribe, as in truth he ought, every good thing which he possesses to the kindness of God."

"I know how difficult it is to persuade the world that God disapproves of all modes of worship not expressly sanctioned by His Word. The opposite persuasion which cleaves to them, being seated, as it were, in their very bones and marrow, is, that whatever they do has in itself a sufficient sanction, provided it exhibits some kind of zeal for the honour of God. But since God not only regards as fruitless, but also plainly abominates, whatever we undertake from zeal to His worship, if at variance with His command what do we gain by a contrary course? The words of God are clear and distinct, “Obedience is better than sacrifice.”

Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news for this forty-second Sunday of our Lord's year 2022, October 23.

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.

Unto thee, O God, do we give thanks, unto thee do we give thanks: for that thy name is near thy wondrous works declare. When I shall receive the congregation I will judge uprightly. ...But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another. For in the hand of the LORD there is a cup, and the wine is red; it is full of mixture; and he poureth out of the same: but the dregs thereof, all the wicked of the earth shall wring them out, and drink them. But I will declare for ever; I will sing praises to the God of Jacob. All the horns of the wicked also will I cut off; but the horns of the righteous shall be exalted. ~ Psalm 75:1-2, 7-10

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

• Last Sunday Rev. A. Stewart (Covenant PRC in Ballymena, N. Ireland) declined the call from Hosanna PRC (Edmonton, AB). The Consistory formed a new trio: Revs. M. De Boer (Edgerton), J. Holstege (Zion PRC – Jenison, MI), C. Spronk (Faith PRC – Jenison, MI), and will have a congregational meeting to vote today, after the PM service. *UPDATE: Rev. M. DeBoer has received this call.
  
  
• Last Sunday Rev. J. Smidstra (First PRC-Holland) declined the call to Randolph (WI) PRC.
  
  
• Last Sunday Rev. M. Kortus (Hope PRC-Redlands, CA) declined the call to Georgetown PRC.
  
  
• Rev. J. Maatman (Southeast-GR PRC) is considering the call to Doon PRC (received Oct.2). He plans to answer on Oct.30.
  
  
• Hudsonville PRC: The Council has formed a new trio of Rev. A. Brummel (Calvary), Rev. M. Kortus (Hope-Redlands), and Rev. J. Maatman (SE-GR). *UPDATE: The congregation voted to call Rev. M. Kortus.
  
  
• First PRC-Grand Rapids: The Council has formed a trio of Rev. J. Holstege (Zion), Rev. J. Smidstra (First-Holland), and Rev. C. Spronk (Faith)as nominees from which to call our next pastor. The congregational meeting is scheduled for Sunday, October 30 after the morning worship service.
  
  
• Zion PRC: The Council has formed a new trio for home missionary consisting of Rev. J. Laning (Hull), Rev. D. Noorman (Southwest), and Rev. C. Spronk (Faith). The congregation is scheduled to vote on Oct.30.
  
  
• *UPDATE: Georgetown PRC's Council presents the following trio of ministers from which to call her next pastor: Rev. A. Brummel (Calvary PRC-Hull, IA), Rev. M. Deboer (Edgerton PRC, MN), and Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC, MI).  The Congregational meeting will be held Sunday morning November 13, after the morning service.
  
  
• Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Rev. K. Koole in Doon (IA) PRC; Prof. D. Kuiper and Prof. C. Griess in First PRC-Grand Rapids; Prof. C. Griess and Rev. M. McGeown in Georgetown PRC; Rev. J. Langerak in Hosanna PRC, Edmonton, AB; Prof. R. Cammenga and Rev. D. Lee  in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. H. Bleyenberg 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.
  
  

• Special Evangelism/mission notices:
  • Southwest PRC - Wyoming, MI: "Reformation Lecture: Ecclesiastes 1:9 tells us “there is no new thing under the sun.” Is that true with respect to sexual abuse? Did this horrific sin manifest itself in the life of the Reformation churches? If so, is there anything we can learn from the Reformers and the consistories about how to handle this travesty found in the church yet today? Plan to attend a timely lecture by Prof. Cory Griess on the topic of "Sexual Abuse in Calvin’s Geneva" at Southwest PRC, October 27 at 7:30 PM. A live-stream will be also be available at southwestprc.org."
  • Hull PRC (IA): "The Fall Lecture sponsored by the Reformed Witness Committee will be held on Friday, October 28, 2022, at the Hull Protestant Reformed Church. Prof. Brian Huizinga, Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament Studies, will be the speaker. The speech is entitled "Synod 2018 and Holy Scripture: Enjoying Covenant Fellowship in the Way of Obedience.” Make plans to attend and invite others to join you!"
  • Randolph PRC (WI): "The evangelism committee is sponsoring a Reformation Lecture for Friday, October 28th at 7:30pm. Professor Dykstra will speak on the topic "Abraham Kuyper, A Flawed Reformer". Refreshments will be served in the basement following the speech."
  • Grace PRC: Grace Evangelism Committee will be hosting a speech entitled, “The Confusion About Forgiveness,” by Prof. Barrett Gritters, on Thursday, November 3 at 7 PM. Livestream will also be available.
  • First PRC-Holland: "will be holding a Reformation Day speech on Friday, November 4 at 7PM at Holland PRC. Rev. Smidstra will speak on two important truths recovered by the Reformation: justification and sanctification, the relationship of these truths, and the abiding significance and application of these truths to the faith and life of the church today. You are warmly invited to attend!

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

PRC Seminary Notices:

• The seminary has now completed eight weeks of the first semester of the new school year - just over the halfway point. Mid-term exams are being administered and the annual Reading Recess is scheduled for this weekend, Oct.27-28, which allows students some extra time to work on their papers and catch up on other studies. 
• Rev. D. Lee (Kalamazoo PRC) led the chapel on Wednesday this past week.
• This month marks our commemoration of the great Reformation of the sixteenth century, when God worked through the Reformers to lead His church back to pure doctrine and pure worship, as well as the pure form of living the Christian life. Our professors will be speaking at various Reformation events at the end of October and the beginning of November. See the scheduled events under PRC congregational activities above.
• Sem. M. Koerner (4th year) continues with his six-month internship in Hope PRC-Grand Rapids under Rev. J. Mahtani (July-Dec.). He is staying busy with all aspects of the work of the ministry.
• The print edition of the spring 2022 issue of the PRT Journal was published this summer and is available. The digital editions are on the seminary's website (use the link provided here). This issue features the speeches from the seminary's fall 2021 conference on preaching, 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.). Work is currently being finalized on the Fall 2022 issue.
• 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.
  
  

Pastor J. Tan reads the form for ordination of ministers in Covenant ERC last week during the ordination of Cand. M. Wee

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

• Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
  • Pastor J. Tan is faithfully serving the CERC each week as her pastor. In his pastoral note this week, he mentions this item: "Next week on the 28th and 29th Oct, the Lord willing we will be celebrating the glorious work of our God in the 16th-century Protestant Reformation. The Lord willing, at that time our missionary Pastor Singh and his wife Sister Sonali will be visiting us from 27th Oct to 4 th Nov. ...In anticipation of our Annual Reformation Day Conference next week on the 28th and 29th Oct, let us meditate for a moment on what is the 16th-century reformation. What is the 16th-century reformation all about? It is the recovery of the true gospel of Jesus Christ. It is a work of God through the Spirit of Jesus Christ to cause the church to abandon unbiblical man-made traditions and return to the Scripture alone as the sole authority of the church (Sola Scriptura). By the Word of God, God caused the church to return 3 back to the truth of justification by faith alone (Sola Fide) through grace alone (Sola Gratia), all this to the glory of God alone (Sola Gloria). Therefore, the reformation is simply a reforming and returning to Christ alone (Sola Christus). Not man but Christ alone rules His church. Never man, but Christ alone fully accomplishes salvation for His people."
    
  • Last Sunday Candidate Marcus Wee was ordained into the ministry of the Word and sacraments as the second pastor of CERC (see photo above). We rejoice with CERC at this provision of another undersheperd to feed them and care for them.
  • The latest issue of Salt Shakers is available - Issue 67, September 2022. Especially for young people, the magazine is edifying for ALL readers!
  • The Reformation Day Committee is planning a Reformation Day Conference on Oct.28,29 in church as follows: Theme: "Sola Gratia, Sola Fide -The Heart of the Reformation Gospel." Pastor Tan and Pastor Wee will be speaking.

• Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
  
  • Rev. A. Stewart continues to minister the Word faithfully to the saints in Ballymena. Last week he declined the call that he had received from Hosanna PRC (Edmonton).
  • The September 2022 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" was recently published.  Follow the link to read the latest profitable articles by Revs. A. Stewart and R. Hanko.
  • For recordings of this summer's British Reformed Conference held in July, visit this BRF webpage.
    
    
• PRC in the Philippines and her mission work:
  • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led her services today. "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship (AGPRF), Gabaldon, NE. will join us in our worship services today via Facebook live stream, D.V."
    

  • Provident PRC bulletin: Rev. R. Smit led the services today. "Rev. D. Kleyn and Sis. Sharon travelled back to the U.S. last week after the passing to glory of her mother, Mrs. Wilma Hanko. Rev. Daniel and Sharon Kleyn will continue to stay in U.S. for approximately two more months for a medical leave of absence to undergo surgeries. Let’s remember them in our prayers with the view to their upcoming surgeries and recovery."
    

  • 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) takes over the RWH program for the next few months. He will be delivering messages on various Bible passages. Today's message is titled "Man's calling to Serve God" based on Genesis 2:16,17.
  
• 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.). 

Another valuable RFPA resource for this Reformation month! Check it out! 

• 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

Quotes from Martin Luther:

“Though I lived as a monk without reproach, I felt that I was a sinner before God with an extremely disturbed conscience. I could not believe that anything that I thought or did or prayed satisfied God.”

“Hereby it appears that the doctrine of the gospel (which of all others is most sweet and full of most singular consolation) speaks nothing of our works or of the works of the law, but of the inscrutable mercy and love of God towards most wretched and miserable sinners. Our most merciful Father, seeing us to be oppressed and overwhelmed with the curse of the law, and that we could never be delivered from it of our own power, sent His only Son into the world and laid upon Him all the sins of all men, saying, be Thou Peter that denier; Paul that persecutor and cruel oppressor; David that adulterer; that sinner who did eat the fruit in Eden; that thief who hanged upon the cross, and be Thou that person who has committed the sins of all me; see therefore, that Thou pay and satisfy for them.”

“For in our age the temptation to presumption besets many, especially those who try with all their might to be just and good without knowing the righteousness of God, which is most bountifully and freely given us in Christ. They try to do good of themselves in order that they might stand before God clothed in their own virtues and merits. But this is impossible. While you were here, you were one who held this opinion, or rather, error. So was I.”

“Therefore, my dear Friar, learn Christ and him crucified. Learn to praise him and, despairing of yourself, say, ‘Lord Jesus, you are my righteousness, just as I am your sin. You have taken upon yourself what is mine and have given to me what is yours. You have taken upon yourself what you were not and have given to me what I was not.’”

“Meditate on this love of his and you will see his sweet consolation. For why was it necessary for him to die if we can obtain a good conscience by our works and afflictions. Accordingly, you will find peace only in him when you despair of yourself and your own works. Besides, you will learn from him that just as he has received you, so he has made your sins his own and has made his righteousness yours.”

“This Epistle (Romans) is really the chief part of the New Testament and the very purest Gospel, and is worthy not only that every Christian should know it word for word, by heart, but occupy himself with it every day, as the daily bread of the soul.”