On this twenty-seventh Lord's Day of 2018, July 8, we note the following news and information concerning PRC congregations, the Seminary, mission fields, and sister churches.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS:

• Pay attention today to this announcement in First PRC-Holland (MI)'s bulletin, especially if you missed the Philippine mission presentation in Grace PRC last month: "The Council has invited our former pastor, Rev. D. Holstege, to give a presentation on his work in the Philippines in our church this week Sunday, July 8, after the evening worship service. A time of fellowship will follow. All are welcome!"
  
  
  
• Last week we pointed out this significant event from Trinity PRC's (Hudsonville, MI) bulletin: "The congregation is invited to a dedication program for the new addition on the evening of Tuesday, July 10. At 6:30 pm the cornerstone will be set for those who would like to watch. The program will begin at 7:00pm in the new sanctuary. Refreshments will be served immediately following the program at approximately 8:00pm in the old sanctuary." The congregation hopes to worship in her new sanctuary next Sunday, July 15.

• On May 13 Candidate J. Langerak announced his acceptance of the call he had received from Heritage PRC (Sioux Falls, SD) on April 29. His examination will now take place at the meeting of Classis West on August 29 at Peace PRC (cf. note below under "Denominational News). In that conection, this additional information was given in Heritage's recent bulletin: "Pastor-Elect Langerak’s ordination and installation service is scheduled for Friday, August 31, 2018 at 7 PM. at Heritage PRC. The service will be conducted by Rev. Rodney Kleyn." Untll then, Pastor-elect Langerak is keeping busy supplying various pulpits in the churches of Classis West.
  
  
• The speeches from the Western Young People's Retreat this past week are now posted on Covenant of Grace PRC's Sermonaudio page. Hear Rev. S. Regnerus' speech on “Communion with God” and Rev. R. Kleyn's on “Personal Devotions”.
  
  
• Reminder from 1st PRC in Edmonton, AB: The dates for the 2018 Family Conference are coming up quickly. We plan to host the conference July 20-22, 2018 D.V. Hear from our speakers: Rev. B. Huizinga, N. Langerak and J. Marcus on the topic of 'Seeking The Lord'. Mark your calendars and finalize your plans to attend what promises to be an edifying time of growth and fellowship with saints from Canada and abroad, as well as an opportunity to see some of the beauty that God has created here in Canada. For more information or to register, please visit our website https://edmontonfamilyconf.wixsite.com/conference2018, or contact Scott Ferguson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., For those that prefer the phone, you can call (780)489-6470.
  
  
• Southeast PRC in Grand Rapids has made a special announcement and request concerning a significant event in her history: "Southeast Protestant Reformed Church (formerly Fourth PRC) will be celebrating 75 years of existence in March of 2019.  A book is being developed to commemorate this event.  If you have memorabilia, pictures, anecdotes, etc. relating to this history and are willing to share, please contact Tim Pipe Sr at 616-890-2545 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.."

DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

• Synod 2018: The PRC Synod completed its work for now on Thursday June 21 - it will reconvene on August 28 for a special examination. Summary reports on the decisions reached may be found under the News section of the PRC website.
  
  
• Classis East will reconvene at Faith PRC on Wednesday, July 18.
  
  
• Classis West meeting (note date and place changes): At the request of Heritage PRC (and Doon PRC), the Classical Committee of Classis West has changed the date for the next meeting of Classis West to August 29. It had previously been scheduled for September 26. Also, at the request of Heritage PRC, the location also has been changed. Peace PRC will host the August 29 meeting of Classis where Pastor-elect Jonathan Langerak will be examined, while Heritage PRC will host Classis on March 6, 2019, the Lord willing.

• PRC Seminary News:
  
  
  • The internships of Seminarians Matt Kortus and Jacob Maatman officially began July 1. Sem. Kortus will be interning at Trinity PRC under Rev. N. Decker and his Council. Sem. Maatman will intern at Hudsonville PRC under Rev. G. Eriks and his Council. The internship program runs from July 1 to December 31.
    
    
  • The Spring 2018 issue of the PRT Journal is now back from the printers and has been mailed out. If you would like to receive a print copy and are not on our mailing list, contact the seminary. The pdf version is also still available for free download. Visit this page to find out the contents and begin reading.
    
    
  • The PRC Synod 2018 took a decision urging “the churches and the pastors in particular in their public prayers to pray the Lord of the harvest for able, faithful, and devoted pastors and teachers (Ephesians 4:11) for us and our children, as well as for the gathering of the elect out of the nations (Matthew 28:19).” A number of ministers are nearing the age of emeritation, and the number of students in the seminary at this time will not be sufficient to fill the upcoming needs of our churches either in our own congregations or in the work of missions. Please remember this urgent need in your prayers and encourage young men whom you observe to have the gifts to consider the ministry.
    
    
  • The seminary is open daily during the summer months, including the library and archives. Staff will be available for assistance with any needs you may have.
    
    
  • Two of our professors have special trips planned this summer: Prof. R. Dykstra will labor in our sister church in Singapore (Covenant ERC) for six weeks and Prof. R. Cammenga will be part of an exploratory mission trip to Mexico with Rev. C. Griess (First PRC, Grand Rapids, MI) and Doner Bartolon, one of our pre-seminary students who comes from the area to be visited.
    
    
  • The Seminary faculty along with Trinity PRC Evangelism Committee is working on plans for a Spring 2019 conference to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the great Synod of Dordt, 1618-19-2018-19. Look for details on this in the future.
    
    

 
Winnaleah Evangelical Presbyterian Church (Australia), where Rev. C. Conners is pastor (see note below)

SISTER-CHURCH NEWS

• Concerning our sister church in Singapore, Covenant ERC, we note the following:
  
  
  • Synod approved the calling of a minister-on-loan to provide a pastor for our sister church in Singapore. Grandville PRC was again appointed the calling church for the calling of the MOL.
    
    
  • Rev. A. den Hartog and his wife Sherry continue to serve the CERC until Prof. R. Dykstra and his wife arrive in mid-July.
    
    
  • Her latest newsletter (JUNE 2018) - Reformed News Asia - was recently posted and may be found on this page. Watch for the next issue soon!
    
    
  • The latest young peoples' magazine, Salt Shakers, was received and posted recently (May 2018 - cf. image above). Check that out on this page.
    
• The PRC now has an official sister-church relationship with the PRC in the Philippines, confirmed at this year's synod! We rejoice in this evidence of the Lord's blessing on the work in the Philippines and of the unity of Christ's church, which He gathers from all nations, tribes, and tongues. May the Lord grant us a mutually edifying and God-honoring relationship.
  
  
• Concerning our sister church in Ballymena, N. Ireland, Covenant PRC, we call attention to the following:
  
  
  • Covenant PRC's latest newsletter was received and posted recently (June 2018). And don't forget her other publication - Covenant Reformed News! That latest issue received last week (May 2018) may be found here.
    
    
  • It's not too late to join Reformed believers from around the world at the 2018 British Reformed Fellowship family conference at Hebron Hall in South Wales from Saturday, July 21, to Saturday, July 28. Our speakers, Prof. David Engelsma and Rev. Andy Lanning, will lecture on "The Reformed Family—According to the Word of God." Booking forms are due June 13 and are available at http://brfconference.weebly.com or contact Briana Prins (616-214-2779; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).

• The PRC also has a "corresponding relationship" with the Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC) of Australia. We remember these brothers and sisters in our prayers and labors too.

 

Are YOU a subscriber to the PR Young People's magazine, the Beacon Lights? Visit the website and find out why you ought to be.

SPECIAL NOTICES:

• Looking for Reformed literature and a solid Reformed and biblical magazine to read, including perhaps some graduation gift ideas? Visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association's website (www.rfpa.org), where you will find information on books in all major Christian categories, as well as on the bi-monthly periodical, the Standard Bearer. You will also want to read the RFPA's Spring Newsletter!
  
• Are you searching for spiritually edifying music as well as for Bibles and other Reformed literature? Visit the Reformed Book Outlet in downtown Hudsonville, MI or visit their website.
  
  
• The PRC Denominational Directory is now for sale for just $15.00. To order please fill out an order form or by emailing Laura Huizinga @ This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Directories will be delivered to your church 1-2 weeks after payment is received.
  
  
• *The Psalter App is now available for Android as well as for IOS (Apple) devices. For more info visit: https://psalterapp.weebly.com
  
  
• Considering some pamphlets published by the PRC for use in evangelism and/or witnessing? Visit the PRCA Evangelism page for a complete list of materials available in digital format or by order from the publishing church.

• The 2018 PRYP's Convention will be held August 13-17, 2018 at Lake Geneva Christian Center in Alexandria, MN. The hosting churches of the Midwest are excited to have you join us for an upbuilding week of fellowship and fun!
  

  • *NEW NOTE! URGENT NEED OF MALE CHAPERONES for 2018 Young People’s Convention.  The convention is planned for August 13-17 at Lake Geneva Christian Center in Alexandria, MN.  To register, go to www.prcconvention.com, and follow the instructions under the Chaperone tab.  If you have any questions, email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Don't forget to listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday! Today Rev. C. Haak (Georgetown PRC, Hudsonville, MI) continues his series on Jesus' Beatitudes. The title of today's message is "Blessed Are the Pure in Heart" based on Matt.5:8.

• From the Reformed Witness Hour (RWH) Committee: the RWH has a new, updated website! Please visit reformedwitnesshour.org to watch our introduction video, view pictures and audio from our history, and read and listen to almost 20 years of past radio broadcasts! If you haven’t visited the RWH website recently, now is an excellent time to familiarize yourself with this important radio-internet ministry of the Reformed faith.
  
  
• NEW RWH Station - The Cornerstone PRC Word and Deed committee has partnered with the Reformed Witness Hour to air their messages on the radio in the Chicago area. Beginning today, September 10, the broadcast can be heard every Sunday at 4:00PM on WYLL 1160AM or on the internet at www.1160hope.com. Please tune in and encourage others to do so as opportunity arises in your personal witnessing.

Missionary-pastor D. Holstege giving his Philippines mission presentation in First PRC, Holland, MI (July 8)

 MISSION NEWS:

• Remember in prayer our home missionary, Rev. A. Spriensma, who continues to labor in the West Michigan area and beyond.
  
  
• The February/March 2018 newsletter of the Limerick Reformed Fellowship mission station is now posted on this page.
  
  
• Have you read Rev. Titus' most recent report on the work going on in Myanmar (May 2018)? Find that on this page.
  
  
• The latest Philippines mission newsletter was received and recently posted (July 2018) and may be found on this PRC webpage.
  
  
• Don't forget to follow the Kleyn's blog on life and activities in the Philippines. And that also includes the Holstege's one! And the Smits once again too!
  
  
• From this Sunday's bulletins of the Provident Christian Church in Marikina, the Philippines and the Maranatha PRC in Valenzuela we find the following notes concerning their pastors as well as concerning our missionaries and their labors today and in this coming week:
  
  
  • Provident CC:
    

    • Rev. L. Trinidad (the pastor of the Maranatha PRC in Valenzuela) will preach for us today. We warmly welcome him to our pulpit and into our fellowship.

    • Our weekly Bible study will be held this coming Wednesday evening at 7:30 p.m., the Lord willing. We are studying the Declaration of Principles of the Protestant Reformed Churches. You are all welcomed and encouraged to attend.

    • The Holsteges are in Grand Rapids, Michigan today. They are scheduled to return to the Philippines in about two weeks, the Lord willing. May God continue to bless them during their furlough and travels.

       

  • Maranatha PRC:
    • Our Missionary, Rev. D. Kleyn will lead our first and our second services. He will continue the Articles #10 & 11 of the Belgic Confession.
      
      
    • Rev. L. Trinidad is scheduled to preach at the Provident Christian Church, Marikina City.

Let us continue in prayer to the Lord for the fulfillment of the needs of these busy pastors and missionaries in the Philippines. May the Lord of the harvest give them grace to be faithful and encouraged in all their labors.
S

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

PRCA FOREIGN MISSIONS IN THE PHILIPPINES

JULY 2018 NEWSLETTER

Rev. D. Holstege (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.); Rev. D. Kleyn (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.); Rev. R. Smit (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.)
PO Box 1173 ACPO, Antipolo City, Rizal 1870, Philippines

Dear Members of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America and of our Sister Churches. We greet you in Christ with the news that we and our families and the saints here are, by God’s grace, all doing well. We often think of the words of Proverbs 25:25 (“As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country”) when news comes our way. We trust it may be the same for you.

The Protestant Reformed Churches in the Philippines (made up of the Berean PRC pastored by Rev. V. Ibe, the PRC in Bulacan pastored by Rev. J. Flores, and the Maranatha PRC pastored by Rev. L. Trinidad) is very thankful to the Lord for the establishment of a sister church relationship between them and the PRCA, as finalized at this year’s PRCA Synod. As many of you know, Rev. Trinidad was able to attend the synod as a representative of the PRCP. He thoroughly enjoyed his time at synod and among the saints in our churches. Upon his return he was very excited to tell us about it. He also appreciated very much (and we do too) the hospitality he was shown. Now that this sister relationship is in place, the PRCP decided (at their June 12 Classis) to pursue next a sister church relationship with the Covenant Evangelical Reformed Church in Singapore.

As missionaries, we continue to labor in the PRCP churches. We serve as advisors at their classis and consistory meetings, assist in church visitation, serve on their standing committees (for missions, contact, translation, theological training, etc.), give lectures at their conferences, provide teaching in their churches, and regularly provide pulpit supply.

The need for pulpit supply sometimes arises when the pastors are busy on certain Sundays with congregational outreach work (preaching and teaching among various contacts the churches have). It also arises when the pastors are on one of the monthly visits that are made to the Protestant Reformed Fellowship in Albuera, Leyte (pictured above). The PRFA is now an official mission work of the PRCP, with the PRC in Bulacan as the calling church. For now the PRCB is sending a monthly delegation over a weekend for preaching, teaching, pastoral work, etc. The goal, however, is to call a missionary, and the main preparation that is currently being done for that is to put together a budget for a missionary and his family to serve there. Once this budget has been presented to and approved by Classis (perhaps this coming October), the PRCB will most likely begin the process of calling a missionary from among the pastors of the PRCP.

The standing committees of the PRCP have been busy lately with mission work (the PRFA mentioned above), contact committee work (sister church relationships), translation work (translating the Three Forms of Unity), and theological training (adopting various constitutions, organizing pre-seminary Greek, and preparing a seminary program). As regards the latter, one of our missionaries (namely, Rev. Smit) has been able to devote the majority of his time to assist the PRCP with these seminary related matters. We are very glad that progress is now being made toward the PRCP having a seminary in the near future, the Lord willing. At this point in time, a definite start date has not yet been decided.

The most recent conference in the PRCP was held on May 1. The theme was: “The Power of the Gospel” and the speakers were Rev. Trinidad, Rev. Smit, Rev. Ibe, and I. Approximately 120 attended the conference (pictured below). Sharon, with much help from others, set up a book table and sold close to 200 books. These conferences serve well to bring together not only the members of the PRCP, but many of their and our contacts, too.

As usual, lively discussion followed the lectures with many good questions from the attendees. Here’s a small sampling of the questions asked: Is it correct to say that the gospel adds condemnation to the reprobate who hear it? When did the reprobate become children of the devil? How do you distinguish between true preaching and Arminian preaching? Since we are saved by means of faith, what about children who die before birth or in infancy? Does 1 Timothy 2:4 teach that God does really desire that all men be saved? Can God save without preaching? Weren’t Adam and Eve and the thief on the cross saved without preaching? Can a false gospel save and work faith? What does it mean that we must “work out our own salvation” (Philippians 2:12)? Because regeneration is immediate, is it possible that a regenerated person can live in sin for a long time prior to his conversion and believing?

The Provident Christian Church in Marikina, in which we have been laboring since the end of 2012, is hoping to be ready to join the PRCP sometime in the next six to twelve months, the Lord willing. Rev. Holstege mostly labors in this church. The congregation has come to understand and love the Reformed faith not only through weekly preaching but also through a study of all three of our creeds. Rev. Holstege has also taught them the Church Order. PCC hopes soon to adopt the Three Forms of Unity and the Church Order, and then to reorganize themselves as a Reformed church (their background is a mixture of Brethren and Baptist). We are grateful to God for the progress that has been made and look forward to another church being added to the PRCP, the Lord willing.

Due to your generous support of the Philippine Bookfund, we were recently able to expand the use of the fund to include giving a larger discount to churches who buy the books for their church libraries. Recently one of the churches did just that, purchasing over 150 books. In addition to this, Doon and the FMC also recently approved using the funds to subsidize the cost of seminary books for PRCP seminary students. We also continue to use the funds to cover the cost of magazines, pamphlets, and the translation and publication of some PRCA literature into Tagalog (current projects are Come Ye Children and various pamphlets). We express our sincere thanks for your generous gifts toward this fund.

Monthly visits are still being made to the pastors in Southern Negros Occidental. Rev. Smit and I usually make these visits. Rev. Smit is lecturing in Dogmatics (currently in Christology). Recently I completed a study of the Church Order and am now giving lectures concerning the Reformed Creeds. This will eventually include instruction concerning Heidelberg Catechism preaching, something the men have specifically requested. Usually a group of 10 to 15 pastors attend each month (pictured below).

Currently Rev. and Leah Holstege and their family are on furlough in the USA. Rev. Holstege has been preaching and giving presentations. From what we hear, the Holsteges are enjoying the time in the churches and the opportunity to be with their loved ones again for a while. The next missionary to be taking a furlough will be myself and my wife Sharon. Synod approved the FMC’s proposal that we take a 4 to 6 month furlough in 2019, especially for the purpose of missionary development. We hope to begin our furlough in January, and my plan is to use the time mainly for further studies in missions as well as for preparing courses that I might start teaching in the PRCP seminary here in the near future. My wife and I look forward to this upcoming furlough.

We thank you for your continued prayers for us and for the saints here. We remember you all in our prayers as well.

In Christian love,
Rev. Daniel Kleyn

First PRC of Grand Rapids, MI and the Reformed Witness Hour Committee announce the messages scheduled for July 2018 on the RWH radio/Internet program.

Rev. Carl Haak, pastor of Georgetown PRC (Hudsonville, MI), continues his four-month service for the RWH program by finishing a series on the Beatitudes spoken by our Lord Jesus Christ and beginning a series on the OT book of Jonah (cf. schedule of messages below).

July 1 - Blessed Are the Merciful - Matthew 5:7

July 8 - Blessed Are the Pure in Heart - Matthew 5:8

July 15 - Arise, Go, Cry Against It - Jonah 1:1-2

July 22 - The Prophet Who Ran Away - Jonah 1:3

July 29 - The God Who Would Not Let Go - Jonah 1:4-17

You are encouraged to listen to these important messages and to let others know about them too. Help spread the word about the Reformed Witness Hour, now in its 77th year of broadcasting the truths of God's sovereign, particular, efficacious grace!

Check out our new website, launched in May of this year!

Use the attached flyer (pdf) to spread the news of these important gospel messages!

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

If you wish to be added to the mailing list to receive the printed booklet of the messages each month, send an email to Judi Doezema at doezema at prca.org.

On this twenty-sixth Lord's Day of 2018, July 1, we note the following news and information concerning PRC congregations, the Seminary, mission fields, and sister churches.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS:

• From Calvary PRC's (Hull, IA) bulletin today we find this special note of interest: "Rev. D. Holstege will be giving a presentation on the work in the Philippines while he is in the area on furlough. The presentation will be held at Calvary PRC on July 1 at 7:45 p.m. Plan on attending!"
  
  
• Related to that is this announcement in First PRC-Holland (MI)'s bulletin: "The Council has invited our former pastor, Rev. D. Holstege, to give a presentation on his work in the Philippines in our church next week Sunday, July 8, after the evening worship service. A time of fellowship will follow. All are welcome!"
  
  
• From Pittsburgh PRC's bulletin today we find this brief note: "Pastor and Mary Bruinsma are traveling to Redlands, CA this week for the Young Adults Retreat. We welcome Seminarian Matthew Kortus and his family into our midst as he will fill our pulpit today."
  
  
• As a follow up to that notice about Sem. M. Kortus, we find this significant note in Trinity PRC's bulletin today - and another special notice in light of the fact that her new sanctuary is not quite ready yet (but see the final note below - they are getting close!):
  
  
  • Today marks the beginning of the six month internship for Seminarian Matt Kortus. Matt is leading the worship services today in our Pittsburgh PRC. The first services that he will lead here at Trinity will be on July 22. Included as part of our dedication program on July 10 will be a welcome for Matt and Sarah. We pray for God’s blessing on this internship.
  • On account of the heat and humidity, the consistory has arranged for our second service to be at 2:30 at Hudsonville PRC. Since worshipping there we have not informed the congregation of the smoking policy of Hudsonville PRC, which is that there is to be no smoking on the grounds of the church. Again, we are thankful for Hudsonville’s willingness to allow us to use their facility.
  • The congregation is invited to a dedication program for the new addition on the evening of Tuesday, July 10. At 6:30 pm the cornerstone will be set for those who would like to watch. The program will begin at 7:00pm in the new sanctuary. Refreshments will be served immediately following the program at approximately 8:00pm in the old sanctuary.
    
    
• And speaking of Seminary internships, Hudsonville PRC had this notice in her bulletin today about Sem. J. Maatman: "The internship of Mr. Jacob Maatman begins today. He will not be present with us because he is leading the worship services in Bethel PRC. His wife Rachel and son Calvin plan to be with us today and we welcome them warmly. Jacob plans to give the first sermon of the internship on July 15."
  
  
• On May 13 Candidate J. Langerak announced his acceptance of the call he had received from Heritage PRC (Sioux Falls, SD) on April 29. His examination will now take place at the meeting of Classis West on August 29 at Peace PRC (cf. note below under "Denominational News). In that conection, this additional information was given in Heritage's bulletin today: "Pastor-Elect Langerak’s ordination and installation service is scheduled for Friday, August 31, 2018 at 7 PM. at Heritage PRC. The service will be conducted by Rev. Rodney Kleyn."
  
  
• From Covenant PRC's (Spokane, WA) bulletin today we find this announcement about the Young People's Retreat this week: "Young People’s Camp is this week, Monday through Thursday, at Camp Sanders in Sanders, ID (about an hour Southeast of Spokane; it is the only thing in Sanders, ID, so not hard to find). Young people who need a ride should be at church tomorrow afternoon no later than 1:30 PM. Families and members of our congregation are encouraged to join us for the following activities, even if you are not staying at the camp:
  • Speech from Rev. S. Regnerus, Monday, 7 PM, “Communion with God” (come for singing at 6:45 pm)
  • Outdoor games and recreation: Wednesday Noon-5PM
  • Speech from Rev. R. Kleyn, Wednesday, 7 PM, “Personal Devotions” (come for singing at 6:45 pm)
    
    
• Reminder from 1st PRC in Edmonton, AB: The dates for the 2018 Family Conference are coming up quickly. We plan to host the conference July 20-22, 2018 D.V. Hear from our speakers: Rev. B. Huizinga, N. Langerak and J. Marcus on the topic of 'Seeking The Lord'. Mark your calendars and finalize your plans to attend what promises to be an edifying time of growth and fellowship with saints from Canada and abroad, as well as an opportunity to see some of the beauty that God has created here in Canada. For more information or to register, please visit our website https://edmontonfamilyconf.wixsite.com/conference2018, or contact Scott Ferguson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., For those that prefer the phone, you can call (780)489-6470.
  
  
• Southeast PRC in Grand Rapids has made a special announcement and request concerning a significant event in her history: "Southeast Protestant Reformed Church (formerly Fourth PRC) will be celebrating 75 years of existence in March of 2019.  A book is being developed to commemorate this event.  If you have memorabilia, pictures, anecdotes, etc. relating to this history and are willing to share, please contact Tim Pipe Sr at 616-890-2545 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.."
  
  
• Randolph PRC is also celebrating her 75th anniversary - this summer. These items were in her bulletin today:

  • "The 75th Anniversary Committee asks that the entire congregation stay after church on Sunday morning, July 8, for a whole congregational picture to mark our 75 years as a congregation. This will be for the book that the committee is preparing.

  • The 75th Anniversary Committee is working on publishing a booklet in connection with our celebration being planned for August 25. Each family and confessing individuals still living with their parents will receive one copy of this booklet free of charge. If you would like additional copies at a cost not to exceed $10 each, please sign up on the sheet in the narthex or email Sarah Hoksbergen by July 15."

DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

• Synod 2018: The PRC Synod completed its work for now on Thursday June 21 - it will reconvene on August 28 for a special examination. Summary reports on the decisions reached may be found under the News section of the PRC website.
  
  
• Classis East will reconvene at Faith PRC on Wednesday, July 18.
  
  
• Classis West meeting (note date and place changes): At the request of Heritage PRC (and Doon PRC), the Classical Committee of Classis West has changed the date for the next meeting of Classis West to August 29. It had previously been scheduled for September 26. Also, at the request of Heritage PRC, the location also has been changed. Peace PRC will host the August 29 meeting of Classis where Pastor-elect Jonathan Langerak will be examined, while Heritage PRC will host Classis on March 6, 2019, the Lord willing.

• PRC Seminary News:
  
  
  • The Spring 2018 issue of the PRT Journal is now back from the printers and has been mailed out. If you would like to receive a print copy and are not on our mailing list, contact the seminary. The pdf version is also still available for free download. Visit this page to find out the contents and begin reading.
    
    
  • The seminary will be open daily during the summer months, including the library and archives. Staff will be available for assistance with any needs you may have.
    
    
  • Two of our professors have special trips planned this summer: Prof. R. Dykstra will labor in our sister church in Singapore (Covenant ERC) for six weeks and Prof. R. Cammenga will be part of an exploratory mission trip to Mexico with Rev. C. Griess (First PRC, Grand Rapids, MI) and Doner Bartolon, one of our pre-seminary students who comes from the area to be visited.
    
    
  • The upcoming internships of Seminarians Matt Kortus and Jacob Maatman begin officially TODAY. Sem. Kortus will be interning at Trinity PRC under Rev. N. Decker and his Council. Sem. Maatman will intern at Hudsonville PRC under Rev. G. Eriks and his Council. The internship program runs from July 1 to December 31.
    
    
  • The Seminary faculty along with Trinity PRC Evangelism Committee is working on plans for a Spring 2019 conference to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the great Synod of Dordt, 1618-19-2018-19. Look for details on this in the future.
    
    

SISTER-CHURCH NEWS

• Concerning our sister church in Singapore, Covenant ERC, we note the following:
  
  
  • Synod approved the calling of a minister-on-loan to provide a pastor for our sister church in Singapore. Grandville PRC was again appointed the calling church for the calling of the MOL.
    
    
  • Rev. A. den Hartog and his wife Sherry continue to serve the CERC until Prof. R. Dykstra and his wife arrive in mid-July.
    
    
  • Her latest newsletter (JUNE 2018) - Reformed News Asia - was recently posted and may be found on this page. Watch for the next issue soon!
    
    
  • The latest young peoples' magazine, Salt Shakers, was received and posted recently (May 2018 - cf. image above). Check that out on this page.
    
• The PRC now has an official sister-church relationship with the PRC in the Philippines, confirmed at this year's synod! We rejoice in this evidence of the Lord's blessing on the work in the Philippines and of the unity of Christ's church, which He gathers from all nations, tribes, and tongues. May the Lord grant us a mutually edifying and God-honoring relationship.
  
  
• Concerning our sister church in Ballymena, N. Ireland, Covenant PRC, we call attention to the following:
  
  
  • Covenant PRC's latest newsletter was received and posted recently (June 2018). And don't forget her other publication - Covenant Reformed News! That latest issue received last week (May 2018) may be found here.
    
    
  • It's not too late to join Reformed believers from around the world at the 2018 British Reformed Fellowship family conference at Hebron Hall in South Wales from Saturday, July 21, to Saturday, July 28. Our speakers, Prof. David Engelsma and Rev. Andy Lanning, will lecture on "The Reformed Family—According to the Word of God." Booking forms are due June 13 and are available at http://brfconference.weebly.com or contact Briana Prins (616-214-2779; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).

• The PRC also has a "corresponding relationship" with the Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC) of Australia. We remember these brothers and sisters in our prayers and labors too.

 

The latest title from the Reformed Free Publishing Association - order your copy today! (cf. link below also)

SPECIAL NOTICES:

• The PRC Denominational Directory is now for sale for just $15.00. To order please fill out an order form or by emailing Laura Huizinga @ This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Directories will be delivered to your church 1-2 weeks after payment is received.
  
  
• *The Psalter App is now available for Android as well as for IOS (Apple) devices. For more info visit: https://psalterapp.weebly.com
  
  
• Looking for Reformed literature and a solid Reformed and biblical magazine to read, including perhaps some graduation gift ideas? Visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association's website (www.rfpa.org), where you will find information on books in all major Christian categories, as well as on the bi-monthly periodical, the Standard Bearer. You will also want to read the RFPA's Spring Newsletter!
  
  
• Are you searching for spiritually edifying music as well as for Bibles and other Reformed literature? Visit the Reformed Book Outlet in downtown Hudsonville, MI or visit their website.
  
  
• *Considering some pamphlets published by the PRC for use in evangelism and/or witnessing? Visit the PRCA Evangelism page for a complete list of materials available in digital format or by order from the publishing church.

• The 2018 PRYP's Convention will be held August 13-17, 2018 at Lake Geneva Christian Center in Alexandria, MN. The hosting churches of the Midwest are excited to have you join us for an upbuilding week of fellowship and fun!
  

  • *NEW NOTE! URGENT NEED OF MALE CHAPERONES for 2018 Young People’s Convention.  The convention is planned for August 13-17 at Lake Geneva Christian Center in Alexandria, MN.  To register, go to www.prcconvention.com, and follow the instructions under the Chaperone tab.  If you have any questions, email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  • Registration for the 2018 PRYP Convention is now closed! All registrants are reminded to mail their paperwork and payment by May 31. Any paperwork postmarked after May 31 must include the $25 late fee.
    
    

Don't forget to listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday! Today Rev. C. Haak (Georgetown PRC, Hudsonville, MI) continues his series on Jesus' Beatitudes. The title of today's message is "Blessed Are the Merciful" based on Matt.5:7.

• From the Reformed Witness Hour (RWH) Committee: the RWH has a new, updated website! Please visit reformedwitnesshour.org to watch our introduction video, view pictures and audio from our history, and read and listen to almost 20 years of past radio broadcasts! If you haven’t visited the RWH website recently, now is an excellent time to familiarize yourself with this important radio-internet ministry of the Reformed faith.
  
  
• NEW RWH Station - The Cornerstone PRC Word and Deed committee has partnered with the Reformed Witness Hour to air their messages on the radio in the Chicago area. Beginning today, September 10, the broadcast can be heard every Sunday at 4:00PM on WYLL 1160AM or on the internet at www.1160hope.com. Please tune in and encourage others to do so as opportunity arises in your personal witnessing.

A new delegate to the recent (June 12) meeting of the PRC-Philippines Classis signs the Formula of Subscription, expressing full agreement with and defense of the truths stated in the Reformed creeds.

 MISSION NEWS:

• Remember in prayer our home missionary, Rev. A. Spriensma, who continues to labor in the West Michigan area and beyond.
  
  
• The February/March 2018 newsletter of the Limerick Reformed Fellowship mission station is now posted on this page.
  
  
• Have you read Rev. Titus' most recent report on the work going on in Myanmar (May 2018)? Find that on this page.
  
  
• The latest Philippines mission newsletter was received and recently posted (April 2018) and may be found on this PRC webpage.
  
  
• Don't forget to follow the Kleyn's blog on life and activities in the Philippines. And that also includes the Holstege's one! And the Smits once again too!
  
  
• From this Sunday's bulletins of the Provident Christian Church in Marikina, the Philippines and the Maranatha PRC in Valenzuela we find the following notes concerning their pastors as well as concerning our missionaries and their labors today and in this coming week:
  
  
  • Provident CC:
    

    • Rev. Kleyn will preach for us today and will also lead the class on the Church Order (Article 83ff).

    • Next Sunday, the Lord willing, Rev. Leovy Trinidad (the pastor of the Maranatha PRC in Valenzuela) will lead us in worship and will preach for us. Rev. Kleyn will be preaching in the Maranatha PRC.

    • Rev. and Leah Holstege and their family are worshiping today in Doon PRC in Iowa, which is the calling church for the Philippines mission field and for the PRCA missionaries. Rev. Holstege is scheduled to preach in Doon and then also to give a presentation this evening in Calvary PRC. May God continue to bless the Holsteges during their furlough and travels.

  • Maranatha PRC:
    • Our Pastor, Rev. L. Trinidad will lead our first and our second services.
      
      
    • Next Sunday Rev. D. Kleyn will lead us in our First and Second services. He will continue the Lessons of the Belgic Confession after the Second Service.

Let us continue in prayer to the Lord for the fulfillment of the needs of these busy pastors and missionaries in the Philippines. May the Lord of the harvest give them grace to be faithful and encouraged in all their labors.
S

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Covenant Protestant Reformed Church
Ballymena, NI
28 June, 2018

Dear saints in the Protestant Reformed Churches,

CPRC News

Family visitation in the CPRC has included 24 meetings on 11 different days over 2 weeks (7-21 May). Our Scripture passage this year was Ephesians 5:22-6:8, which deals with the respective callings of husbands, wives, children, fathers, and employees. As always, family visitation was a profitable exercise. Only one visit remains, that with one of our members who is currently studying at a university in Wales.

Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 28 May included reports by Stephen Murray (audio-visual), Julian Kennedy (financial), and Rev. Martyn McGeown (missionary). I spoke on our plans for the future, covering events, speakers, books, etc., involving the CPRC in the next year, DV.

In the last year, our best-selling book was Called to Watch for Christ Return by Rev. McGeown, and our best-selling box set (CD or DVD) was “Celebrating 500 Years of the Reformation,” consisting of the 10 speeches and sermons by Prof. Engelsma in the CPRC in the autumn of 2017. The visitors on the written pages of our website (www.cprc.co.uk) have averaged 1,880 per day over the last year, which marks steady growth year on year.

In January - May, 2018, our most hit audio was “Job's Comfort and Our Comfort” (Lord's Day 1). Over the same period, the 10 countries that listened most to CPRC sermons were, in order, the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, France, China, Israel, Australia, Qatar, Canada, and South Korea. Turning to the top 10 countries for the written pages on our main website for the first 5 months in 2018, we have the United States, the Netherlands, Indonesia, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Peru, Italy, Russia, Germany, and Hungary. If we remove from this list the English-speaking nations (USA at #1, UK at #5, and the Netherlands at #2, for almost all the Dutch speak English), there is a strong correlation between the remaining 7 countries included in the top 10 and the languages in which we have a lot of translations: Italian, Portuguese, Hungarian, German, Indonesian, Spanish, and Russian.

The CPRC has (or very soon will have) two new lady members. First, we received the membership papers of Larisa McGeown from First Holland PRC (6 June). Second, Grace Mae was born to David and Kristin Crossett (20 June); she is to be baptized this Sunday (1 July).

 
Grace Mae Crossett with big sister Sophie

Our Tuesday morning Bible study has moved to the topic of the Old Testament sacrifices. Currently, we are working our way through the 6 main stages in offering bloody sacrifices. So far, we have covered the presentation of the animal, the laying of hands upon the beast, and its slaughter, in connection with our Saviour's cross.

U.S. Trip

This year, I was the CPRC delegate to the Synod at Byron Center PRC in mid June, my first time at the PRC's broadest assembly since 2002. I hasten to add that there were various good and wholly innocent reasons for my lengthy absence, including that attending Synod means that the CPRC goes without live preaching for a Sunday. This is the first year that Mary's parents will not be able to come to the biennial British Reformed Fellowship (BRF) Conference and the opportunity to stay with them tipped the balance in favour of going to Synod.

It was good to witness the working of Synod, especially since our congregation has no broader assemblies on this side of the Atlantic. I enjoyed fellowship with the ministers, elders, and professors, as well as the brethren from the Philippines and Singapore. I was also pleasantly surprised that I was able to watch other people working while I was largely inactive, with less difficulty than I had expected!

While in Grand Rapids, I gave a speech on “Gottschalk: Medieval Confessor of God's Absolute Sovereignty” in Georgetown PRC and sponsored by Trinity PRC (13 June). This amazing ninth-century monk spent some two decades under house arrest for teaching, by God's Spirit, the truth of unconditional election and reprobation, particular atonement, irresistible grace, and the perseverance of the saints. He even boldly and uncompromisingly denied the well-meant gospel offer, in the faithful tradition of Augustine of Hippo and Fulgentius of Ruspe, declaring, “All those whom God wills to be saved (I Tm 2:4) are without doubt saved, nor can any be saved but those God wills to be saved. Nor is there any one whom God wills to be saved, and is not saved, since our God has done all things whatever he willed [Ps. 135:6]. They therefore are all saved—all whom he wills to be saved.” The video of the Gottschalk lecture is on-line, including the slides and the Q. & A. session (www.youtube. com/watch?v=9hKDOcaTbFA).

Our Lord's day in America (17 June) was spent in Chicagoland in 2 churches we had not seen for some years. First, I preached in Crete PRC (Jude 20-21), after we joined the saints the previous day for their annual church picnic. Second, I spoke in Bethel PRC (II Kings 6:8-23), where I also gave a PowerPoint presentation on the witness of the CPRC. Our thanks to Phil and Karen Van Baren and Fred and Rose Iwema for their kind hospitality.

Mary and I then flew to Washington DC for a few days of informative and enjoyable sightseeing at the capital, including Arlington National Cemetery. Arriving in Dublin on Saturday, I preached in the Limerick Reformed Fellowship (LRF), while Rev. McGeown was in the CPRC.

We brought back a good weight of RFPA books, especially Here We Stand, edited by Prof. Cammenga, and The Belgic Confession: A Commentary, volume 1, by Prof. Engelsma. Chief among the pamphlets we transported home are “The Bible Versus Mormonism” by Rev. Hanko and “Spousal Abuse in the Reformed Community” by Prof. Engelsma. All such materials help our witness to God's truth, and encourage saints in the British Isles and other parts of the world.
Others

On 28 April, Marco Barone was interviewed live by phone on Iron Sharpens Iron Radio in Pennsylvania in connection with his fine book, Luther’s Augustinian Theology of the Cross: The Augustinianism of Martin Luther’s Heidelberg Disputation and the Origins of Modern Philosophy of Religion (www.ironsharpens ironradio.com/podcast/april-26-2018-show-with-marco-barone-on-luthers-augustinian-theology-of-the-cross). His article on the “500th Anniversary of Martin Luther's Heidelberg Disputation” was published in the English Churchman (27 April & 4 May).

Our thanks to saints from England, Northern Ireland, Ohio, Michigan, and Illinois who recently donated to the CPRC Translators Fund. The last 3 boxes of books we posted out went to 2 ministers in Kenya and a Brazilian pastor in the Azores, a cluster of islands in the Atlantic Ocean belonging to Portugal. In the last couple of months, we added 14 translations to our website: Hungarian 7, Greek 4, Swahili 2, and Portuguese 1 (www.cprf.co.uk/languages.htm).

We are now just a few weeks from the 2018 BRF Family Conference on “The Reformed Family—According to the Word of God” with Prof. D. J. Engelsma and Rev. A. Lanning in S. Wales (21-28 July). We are delighted that as many as 108 people are booked in, including a good number of our translators.

Some 4,500 copies of the new BRF book, Behold, I Come Quickly, consisting of the speeches and sermons at the 2016 BRF Conference are due to be published any day now. This excellent little volume will be available from many PR congregations in America and Canada, the churches in the Philippines and Singapore, and the CPRC Bookstore of course.

Thank you for your interest and your prayers. May the Lord continue to bless and keep you!

Rev. Angus & Mary Stewart

On this twenty-fifth Lord's Day of 2018, June 24, we note the following news and information concerning PRC congregations, the Seminary, mission fields, and sister churches.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS:

• From Calvary PRC's (Hull, IA) bulletin today we learn to these two items:
  • We welcome Prof. R. Cammenga to our pulpit today. Following the evening service, Prof. Cammenga will give a presentation regarding his recent trip to South Korea. The presentation will begin at 7:45 PM. The area Protestant Reformed churches are also invited to attend. Refreshments will be served after the presentation. All are welcome to attend.

  • Rev. D. Holstege will be giving a presentation on the work in the Philippines while he is in the area on furlough. The presentation will be held at Calvary PRC on July 1 at 7:45 p.m. Plan on attending!

• From Pittsburgh PRC's bulletin today we find this little note: "Pastor and Mary Bruinsma will be traveling to Redlands, CA this week Wednesday for the Young Adults Retreat. Seminarian Matthew Kortus will fill our pulpit next Sunday."
  
  
• And from Loveland PRC's bulletin we learn the following about Sem. Kortus' activity today: "Given the length of the meetings at synod which prevented our pastor’s return until yesterday [Rev. S. Key], Seminarian Matt Kortus agreed to stay and supply our pulpit today. We pray for God’s continued blessings upon him as he brings the Word today, and as he leaves here to begin his internship at Trinity PRC on July 1.
  
  
• On May 13 Candidate J. Langerak announced his acceptance of the call he had received from Heritage PRC (Sioux Falls, SD) on April 29. His examination will now take place at the meeting of Classis West on August 29 at Peace PRC (cf. note below under "Denominational News). In that conection, SW PRC's bulletin (where J. Langerak is a member) contains this note today: "Pastor-Elect Jonathan Langerak is currently filling the pulpits in five churches of the NW Iowa area for most of the summer. His examination before Classis West is scheduled for August 29 at Peace Protestant Reformed Church."
  
  
• From Lynden's June 17 bulletin we find this update on the upcoming Young People's Retreat: " Western Young People’s Retreat: The Western Young People’s Retreat is scheduled to take place July 2-5, at Camp Sanders, located in Sanders, Idaho. The theme of the retreat is “Communion With God”, from Psalm 63. Speeches and devotions will focus on improving personal devotions. Registration will take place Monday afternoon. An outing at Silverwood Theme Park is scheduled for Tuesday. Games and activities are planned for Wednesday. Check-out time will be after breakfast on Thursday. Pray for safety in travels and a good time of fellowship for our Young People!"
  
  
• From First PRC's (Edmonton, AB) bulletin for today we find this interesting announcement concerning her upcoming family conference: "Thank you for the great turnout at yesterday's Family Conference Preparation Event!  Delicious food was enjoyed, many bottles were collected, volunteer positions were filled and delightful fellowship was had by all.  We raised $671.50 at this combined event for the 2018 Family Conference.  If you didn't take the opportunity to sign up for a volunteer position the volunteer sheets are available in the basement."
  
  
• Reminder from 1st PRC in Edmonton, AB: The dates for the 2018 Family Conference are coming up quickly. We plan to host the conference July 20-22, 2018 D.V. Hear from our speakers: Rev. B. Huizinga, N. Langerak and J. Marcus on the topic of 'Seeking The Lord'. Mark your calendars and finalize your plans to attend what promises to be an edifying time of growth and fellowship with saints from Canada and abroad, as well as an opportunity to see some of the beauty that God has created here in Canada. For more information or to register, please visit our website https://edmontonfamilyconf.wixsite.com/conference2018, or contact Scott Ferguson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., For those that prefer the phone, you can call (780)489-6470.
  
  
• Southeast PRC in Grand Rapids has made a special announcement and request concerning a significant event in her history: "Southeast Protestant Reformed Church (formerly Fourth PRC) will be celebrating 75 years of existence in March of 2019.  A book is being developed to commemorate this event.  If you have memorabilia, pictures, anecdotes, etc. relating to this history and are willing to share, please contact Tim Pipe Sr at 616-890-2545 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.."

DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

• Synod 2018: The PRC Synod completed its work for now on Thursday of this past week (June 21 - it will reconvene on August 28 for a special examination). Summary reports on the decisions reached may be found under the News section of the PRC website.
  
  
• Classis West meeting (note date and place changes): At the request of Heritage PRC (and Doon PRC), the Classical Committee of Classis West has changed the date for the next meeting of Classis West to August 29. It had previously been scheduled for September 26. Also, at the request of Heritage PRC, the location also has been changed. Peace PRC will host the August 29 meeting of Classis where Pastor-elect Jonathan Langerak will be examined, while Heritage PRC will host Classis on March 6, 2019, the Lord willing.

• PRC Seminary News:
  
  
  • The Spring 2018 issue of the PRT Journal is now back from the printers and has been mailed out. If you would like to receive a print copy and are not on our mailing list, contact the seminary. The pdf version is also still available for free download. Visit this page to find out the contents and begin reading.
    
    
  • The seminary will be open daily during the summer months, including the library and archives. Staff will be available for assistance with any needs you may have.
    
    
  • Two of our professors have special trips planned this summer: Prof. R. Dykstra will labor in our sister church in Singapore (Covenant ERC) for six weeks and Prof. R. Cammenga will be part of an exploratory mission trip to Mexico with Rev. C. Griess (First PRC, Grand Rapids, MI) and Doner Bartolon, one of our pre-seminary students who comes from the area to be visited.
    
    
  • The upcoming internships of Seminarians Matt Kortus and Jacob Maatman will soon begin. Sem. Kortus will be interning at Trinity PRC under Rev. N. Decker and his Council and Sem. Maatman will intern at Hudsonville PRC under Rev. G. Eriks and his Council. The internship program runs from July 1 to December 31.
    
    
  • The Seminary faculty along with Trinity PRC Evangelism Committee is working on plans for a Spring 2019 conference to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the great Synod of Dordt, 1618-19-2018-19. Look for details on this in the future.
    
    

SISTER-CHURCH NEWS

• The PRC now has an official sister-church relationship with the PRC in the Philippines, confirmed at this year's synod! We rejoice in this evidence of the Lord's blessing on the work in the Philippines and of the unity of Christ's church, which He gathers from all nations, tribes, and tongues. May the Lord grant us a mutually edifying and God-honoring relationship.
  
  
• Concerning our sister church in Ballymena, N. Ireland, Covenant PRC, we call attention to the following:
  • From the Limerick Reformed Fellowship bulletin (mission of the CPRC) from this Sunday we learn the following about a common "pulpit exchange": We welcome Rev. Angus and Mary Stewart to our services today. Pastor and Larisa are in the CPRC this Sunday; they will return to Limerick on Sunday evening.
  • Covenant PRC's latest newsletter was received and posted recently (April 2018). And don't forget her other publication - Covenant Reformed News! That latest issue received last week (May 2018) may be found here.
    
    
  • It's not too late to join Reformed believers from around the world at the 2018 British Reformed Fellowship family conference at Hebron Hall in South Wales from Saturday, July 21, to Saturday, July 28. Our speakers, Prof. David Engelsma and Rev. Andy Lanning, will lecture on "The Reformed Family—According to the Word of God." Booking forms are due June 13 and are available at http://brfconference.weebly.com or contact Briana Prins (616-214-2779; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
    
    
• Concerning our sister church in Singapore, Covenant ERC, we note the following:
  
  
  • Synod approved the calling of a minister-on-loan to provide a pastor for our sister church in Singapore. Grandville PRC was again appointed the calling church for the calling of the MOL.
    
    
  • Rev. A. den Hartog and his wife Sherry continue to serve the CERC until at least June of this year. Read the "Pastor's Voice" part of her bulletin to learn more.
    
    
  • Her latest newsletter (APRIL 2018) - Reformed News Asia - was recently posted and may be found on this page. Watch for the next issue soon!
    
    
  • The latest young peoples' magazine, Salt Shakers, was received and posted recently (May 2018 - cf. image above). Check that out on this page.
    

• The PRC also has a "corresponding relationship" with the Evangelical Presbyterian Church (EPC) of Australia. We remember these brothers and sisters in our prayers and labors too.

 

One of the many pamphlets available free on the PRC website - this one a small treasure of comfort for those who suffer.

SPECIAL NOTICES:

• The PRC Denominational Directory is now for sale for just $15.00. To order please fill out an order form or by emailing Laura Huizinga @ This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Directories will be delivered to your church 1-2 weeks after payment is received.
  
  
• *The Psalter App is now available for Android as well as for IOS (Apple) devices. For more info visit: https://psalterapp.weebly.com
  
  
• Looking for Reformed literature and a solid Reformed and biblical magazine to read, including perhaps some graduation gift ideas? Visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association's website (www.rfpa.org), where you will find information on books in all major Christian categories, as well as on the bi-monthly periodical, the Standard Bearer. You will also want to read the RFPA's Spring Newsletter!
  
  
• Are you searching for spiritually edifying music as well as for Bibles and other Reformed literature? Visit the Reformed Book Outlet in downtown Hudsonville, MI or visit their website.
  
  
• *Considering some pamphlets published by the PRC for use in evangelism and/or witnessing? Visit the PRCA Evangelism page for a complete list of materials available in digital format or by order from the publishing church.

• The 2018 PRYP's Convention will be held August 13-17, 2018 at Lake Geneva Christian Center in Alexandria, MN. The hosting churches of the Midwest are excited to have you join us for an upbuilding week of fellowship and fun!
  

  • *NEW NOTE! URGENT NEED OF MALE CHAPERONES for 2018 Young People’s Convention.  The convention is planned for August 13-17 at Lake Geneva Christian Center in Alexandria, MN.  To register, go to www.prcconvention.com, and follow the instructions under the Chaperone tab.  If you have any questions, email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

  • Registration for the 2018 PRYP Convention is now closed! All registrants are reminded to mail their paperwork and payment by May 31. Any paperwork postmarked after May 31 must include the $25 late fee.
    
    

Don't forget to listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday! Today Rev. C. Haak (Georgetown PRC, Hudsonville, MI) continues his series on Jesus' Beatitudes. The title of today's message is "Blessed Are They That Hunger and Thirst After Righteousness," based on Matt.5:6.

• From the Reformed Witness Hour (RWH) Committee: the RWH has a new, updated website! Please visit reformedwitnesshour.org to watch our introduction video, view pictures and audio from our history, and read and listen to almost 20 years of past radio broadcasts! If you haven’t visited the RWH website recently, now is an excellent time to familiarize yourself with this important radio-internet ministry of the Reformed faith.
  
  
• NEW RWH Station - The Cornerstone PRC Word and Deed committee has partnered with the Reformed Witness Hour to air their messages on the radio in the Chicago area. Beginning today, September 10, the broadcast can be heard every Sunday at 4:00PM on WYLL 1160AM or on the internet at www.1160hope.com. Please tune in and encourage others to do so as opportunity arises in your personal witnessing.

Delegate picture from the recent (June 12) meeting of the PRCP Classis.

 MISSION NEWS:

• Remember in prayer our home missionary, Rev. A. Spriensma, who continues to labor in the West Michigan area and beyond.
  
  
• The February/March 2018 newsletter of the Limerick Reformed Fellowship mission station is now posted on this page.
  
  
• Have you read Rev. Titus' most recent report on the work going on in Myanmar (May 2018)? Find that on this page.
  
  
• The latest Philippines mission newsletter was received and recently posted (April 2018) and may be found on this PRC webpage.
  
  
• Don't forget to follow the Kleyn's blog on life and activities in the Philippines. And that also includes the Holstege's one! And the Smits once again too!
  
  
• From this Sunday's bulletins of the Provident Christian Church in Marikina, the Philippines and the Maranatha PRC in Valenzuela we find the following notes concerning their pastors as well as concerning our missionaries and their labors today and in this coming week:
  
  
  • Provident CC:
  • Rev. R. Smit will lead us in worship and preach today.
  • Rev. D. Holstege and his family are visiting in Randolph, Wisconsin, USA, today.  Mrs. Leah Holstege grew up in the Randolph PRC, and her parents are members in the church and live there.   Rev. Holstege plans to preach in Randolph for both worship services, and then give a presentation of his labors here in the evening.  Next week, the family plans to visit and worship in the Doon PRC (Doon, IA), the calling church of our PRCA missionaries.
  • Rev. Leovy Trinidad returned home safely on Friday, June 22, from his visit to the PRCA Synod 2018 as representative of the PRCP with our sister-church, the PRCA.
    
    
  • Maranatha PRC:
  • • Our Missionary, Rev. D. Kleyn will lead our first service and our second service. After the second service, He will continue the Belgic Confession l,esson 8 and 9.
    • We welcome back home again Rev. L. Trinidad for his safe travel. We are thankful for his sacrifice in representing the PRCP at the Synod of 2018 of the PRCA. We are now officially Sister-Church relationship the PRCA.

Let us continue in prayer to the Lord for the fulfillment of the needs of these busy pastors and missionaries in the Philippines. May the Lord of the harvest give them grace to be faithful and encouraged in all their labors.
S

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

Save

The PRC Synod 2018 completed its work Thursday, June 21, beginning at 8 AM and ending after lunch.

Rev. G. Eriks, second clerk of synod, offers this final summary of the day's work:

After praying for God’s blessing upon the work of the day, synod returned to recommitted material regarding
the appeal dealt with yesterday. Synod sustained the appellant's appeal of Art. 44 of Classis East, which decision advised

Hope’s consistory to require the appellant to retract an accusation. 

Synod also made a favorable judgment on the paper that Rev. D. Overway wrote in response to the following
mandate of Synod 2017: “respond fully, in writing, to the objections against his sermon on John 14:6 as
sustained by Synod 2017. This response must include his theological convictions about the matter.” Synod said
that Rev. Overway satisfactorily fulfilled this mandate and judged his response to be orthodox.

Synod then approved some recommendations to help Hope PRC implement these decisions. This included the
appointment of a special committee of Prof. R. Cammenga, Rev. C. Spronk, and Rev. R. Van Overloop.
Synod then turned to the three protests of the decision found in Article 88, B.1 of Synod 2017 (Acts, pp. 88-89).

Synod sustained the protests of these three men and rescinded Art. 88. B. 1 because the statements were unclear
and because Synod 2017 erred when it entered into the statements of a protestant while at the same time not
sustaining the protest, which charged these statements with antinomianism.

Synod also responded to one protest by rebuking the protestant for including in his protest charges of heresy
against an office bearer in good standing in the PRC.

After lunch, synod voted on appointments to the standing committees of synod, and approved expenses of over
$12,000 for the meeting of synod.

The chair thanked the delegates for their work and cooperation and the chair was thanked for his able leadership
of the synod through many difficult issues. Elder Jim Lanting closed synod with a prayer of thanksgiving

May the King of the church give His sovereign blessing to the decisions reached by Synod 2018 - for the welfare of His church and the glory of His name.