On this ninth Lord's Day of 2018, March 4, we note the following news and information concerning PRC congregations, the Seminary, mission fields, and sister churches.

Pastor-elect David Noorman and his wife Carisa after his examination at Classis East last week (see below)

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS:

• Pastor-elect David Noorman sustained his examination before Classis East this past Wednesday (cf. note below under Classis East news) and Southwest PRC (Wyoming, MI) was advised to proceed to his ordination and installation. The following is the note found in SW PRC's bulletin today about this significant event:
  • "The consistory calls the congregation to a special worship service on Wednesday, March 7, at 7:00 pm for the purpose of the ordination and installation of Pastor-elect Dave Noorman as the next pastor at Southwest Protestant Reformed Church. Prof. R. Cammenga will lead us in worship and conduct the installation. Refreshments will be served after the service."
  • And this note was added: A welcome program for our new pastor and his wife, Mr. and Mrs. David (Carisa) Noorman, will be held on Sunday, March 11, after the evening worship service. All members are encouraged to attend.  Refreshments will be served.
• The special delegation to the Philippines for the annual visit on behalf of Doon PRC and the Foreign Mission Committee (Rev. C. Griess and Joel Van Egdom) completed their labors this past Monday and returned home safely on Tuesday, Feb.27.
  
• First PRC in Edmonton, AB has this special notice concerning a significant event this summer: "The dates for the 2018 Family Conference have been finalized! First PRC in Edmonton, AB plans 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 plan to attend what promises to be a spiritually encouraging 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. "
• Time change next Sunday! This good note of reminder appears in several bulletins this week: "Daylight Savings Time takes effect again early next Sunday morning, March 11. You will need to set your clocks ahead an hour Saturday night, in order to make it to church on time Sunday morning."
• *UPDATE: Grace PRC (Standale, MI) moved into her new sanctuary on March 4, worshiping in it for the first time (cf. pictures below). A brief dedication program was held before the evening service. Rev. R. Van Overloop's remarks may be viewed on this video. The singing of the catechism children may be viewed here, and the congregation's singing here.

Grace PRC catechism students singing at the dedication program of her new sanctuary.

Loveland (CO) PRC - host of Classis West meeting this week (see note below)

DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

• Classis East held its reconvened meeting (from January) this Wednesday, Feb.28, 2018 at Hudsonville PRC. The following bulletin note was sent out concerning the results:

  • After preaching his specimen sermon and upon receiving the approval of his preaching from Classis East and the Synodical Deputies from Classis West, Pastor-elect Dave Noorman was examined extensively on the six loci of Reformed Dogmatics, and his knowledge of the scriptures, confessions, controversy, and practica.  Pastor-elect Noorman gave an excellent demonstration of his knowledge and training in all these areas. Classis voted unanimously (and the Synodical Deputies concurred) to approve of his examination, recommending that Southwest Protestant Reformed Church proceed to his ordination and installation. With much thanksgiving to God, we rejoice in His provision of this minister of the gospel to the PRCA.  SWPRC sent a letter of thanks to Classis for pulpit supply during the time they were vacant.

  • Classis also treated a lengthy appeal of a member against the member's pastor and consistory. That appeal was rejected. However, both the pastor and consistory were given instruction from Classis. We welcomed Rev. Cory Griess to Classis East as the newly installed pastor of First Protestant Reformed Church of Grand Rapids.

• Classis West will have its next regular meeting this Wednesday, March 7, in Loveland, CO PRC. Loveland PRC included this note in its bulletin today: "Classis West will meet in our sanctuary on Wednesday beginning at 8:30 a.m. The agenda includes only the reports of various committees and the Church Visitors, the treatment of finances and annual subsidy requests, and the annual elections."

• From the PRC Seminary comes this February news:
  • The seminary has now completed six weeks of the second semester. The first practice preaching sessions will be held on Monday, Feb.26 and Monday, March 5. Pray for the young men that they may prepare well for this important part of their training.
  • The upcoming internships of Seminarians Matt Kortus and Jacob Maatman have been confirmed and announced. 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.
  • FUTURE TEACHERS AND MINISTERS: Information for the 2018 PR Scholarship Fund essay competition is now available. Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to receive the essay topics and submission requirements. Completed essays must be submitted by May 31.

SISTER-CHURCH NEWS

• Concerning our sister church in Singapore, Covenant ERC, the following may be noted:
  • Rev. A. den Hartog and his wife Sherry are serving the CERC until at least June of this year. Read the "Pastor's Voice" part of her bulletin to learn more.
  • Her latest newsletter (February 2018) - Reformed News Asia - was posted this past week - may be found on this page.
  • The latest young peoples' magazine, Salt Shakers, was received and posted recently (January 2018). Check that out on this page.
• Concerning our sister church in Ballymena, N. Ireland, Covenant PRC, we may note the following:
  • Covenant PRC's latest newsletter was received and posted recently (Feb. 2018). And don't forget her other publication - Covenant Reformed News! That latest issue (Feb. 2018) may be found here.
  • 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." More information and booking forms 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.).

Reformed Book Outlet in Hudsonville, MI - a ministry of Hudsonville PRC (*see first note below)

SPECIAL NOTICES:

• Reformed Book Outlet: The March 2018 newsletter (see attached pdf!) includes a special offer of a free Psalm Choir CD and specials on a Christian biography series for children.
• Looking for pamphlets published by the PRC? Visit the PRCA Evangelism page for a complete list of materials available in digital format or by order from the publishing church.
• 2018 YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONVENTION CHAPERONE & NURSE REGISTRATION is now open!  The convention, hosted by the five Midwest churches, is planned for August 13-17, at Lake Geneva Christian Center in Alexandria, MN.  To register, go to prcconvention.com, and follow the instructions under the chaperone or nurse tab.  If you have any questions, email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

• What kind of reading material do you have laying around the house for your children to read? Do you feel like there is something missing? If you do not currently subscribe to Beacon Lights, you are missing out! This magazine is designed for Reformed youth, but adults read it with profit as well. What about the cost? Right now, the average cable bill in the U.S is over $100/month. If you took only one of those monthly payments, that would cover over six years of the $15/yr subscription price! Subscribe today at www.beaconlights.org to make sure you receive the March special issue which will focus on bullying.

• Psalm Choir - The latest CD, Volume 20, ‘Sweet Refreshment’ is now available. There are over 25 selections from the past two seasons.  Please visit the website www.psalmchoir.com to order.

• Don't forget to listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday! Today Rev. R. Kleyn (Covenant of Grace PRC, Spokane, WA) continues a series on the OT book of Ruth. His message is "Hope for Those Who Are Empty," based on Ruth 2:18-23.
  • 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.

 MISSION NEWS:

• The February/March 2018 newsletter of the Limerick Reformed Fellowship mission station is now posted on this page.
• The last Philippines mission newsletter is dated November 2017 and may be found on this PRC webpage. The annual Doon/Foreign Mission Committee delegation visit to the Philippines took place from February 15-27. This year's delegation was Rev. C. Griess (FMC) and Joel Van Egdom (Doon PRC), along with his wife Michelle.
• Don't forget to follow the Kleyn's blog on life and activities in the Philippines. And that also includes the Holstege's one!

• 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 both times today. Rev. Holstege will preach for the Berean PRC in their first service. Next Sunday, Lord willing, Rev. Holstege will preach both times at PCC.

    • Rev. Holstege will teach CO, Art. 61ff, at 10:15 today.

    • The Children’s Catechism class will meet today after the first worship service. Rev. Kleyn will teach Lesson 19 in OT History for Juniors.

  • Maranatha PRC:

    • Our Pastor, Rev. L. Trinidad will lead our both services and after the second service he will continue our Bible study on the book of Revelation Lesson # 47. Rev. D. Kleyn will lead our both services and he will continue teaching the “The work of the Office Bearers.”
      

    • The June 2018 Synod of the PRCA will officially ratify our sister relationship with PRCA, also with the concurrence of the CERC of Singapore and CPRC of Northern Ireland. The recent meeting of the Classis of PRCP has moved and approved the recommendation to send Rev. Leovino A. Trinidad, as the official PRCP delegate to the June 2018 Synod of the PRCA, D.V. Likewise, Rev. Daniel Holstege will also attend the Synod while he is on furlough in June of this year. Please include them in your prayer.

Let us remember and continue to lift up the needs of these busy pastors and missionaries in the Philippines. May the Lord of the harvest give them grace to be faithful in all their labors.
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Pastor-elect David Noorman prior to preaching his specimen sermon before Classis East.

At the meeting of Classis East on Wednesday, Feb.28, 2018, at Hudsonville PRC Pastor-elect David Noorman (who has accepted call to Southwest PRC in Wyoming, MI) successfully sustained his examination before the Classis.

The body unanimously approved the examination and advised Southwest PRC to proceed with his ordination and installation as a minister of the Word and sacraments in the PRC. That will take place, D.V. next Wednesday, March 7, at 7 p.m. in SW PRC.

Pastor-elect D. Noorman and his wife Carisa.

On this eighth Lord's Day of 2018, February 25, we note the following news and information concerning PRC congregations, the Seminary, mission fields, and sister churches.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS:

• On Jan.28 Candidate David Noorman ACCEPTED the call from Southwest PRC (Wyoming, MI). From SW's bulletin we find these details concerning his classical examination and ordination/installation:
  
  • Pastor-elect Dave Noorman's classical exam is scheduled for Wednesday, February 28, at Hudsonville Protestant Reformed Church at 8:00 am. After opening devotions Mr. Noorman will preach his specimen sermon. His oral exam will commence once his sermon has been approved. The congregation is welcome to attend classis and witness this proceeding. The congregation is exhorted to remember Mr. Noorman in their prayers as he prepares for this examination.
  • The consistory calls the congregation to a special worship service on Wednesday, March 7, at 7:00 pm for the purpose of the ordination and installation of Pastor-elect Dave Noorman as the next pastor at Southwest Protestant Reformed Church. Prof. R. Cammenga will lead us in worship and conduct the installation. Refreshments will be served after the service.
• The special delegation to the Philippines for the annual visit on behalf of Doon PRC and the FMC is completing their time and labors today and tomorrow. After worshiping with the saints in the churches there today, they will attend the PRCP meeting of Classis tomorrow before returning home Tuesday. May the Lord bless this visit and give safe return to Rev. C. Griess and Joel and Michelle Van Egdom.
  
• And from First PRC in Edmonton, AB we have this special notice: "The dates for the 2018 Family Conference have been finalized! First PRC in Edmonton, AB plans 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 plan to attend what promises to be a spiritually encouraging 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. "

DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

• From the PRC Seminary comes this February news:
  • The seminary has now completed five weeks of the second semester. The first practice preaching sessions will be held on Monday, Feb.26 and Monday, March 5. Pray for the young men that they may prepare well for this important part of their training.
  • The upcoming internships of Seminarians Matt Kortus and Jacob Maatman have been planned and confirmed and have been announced. 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’s interim course this year is now completed. Prof. R. Cammenga taught his special course on “The Theology of John Calvin.”  If you would like to watch/listen to the videos of this course, they are posted on the Seminary's main page.
• Classis East will reconvene its January meeting this Wednesday, Feb.28, 2018 at Hudsonville PRC at 8 AM. *Cf. note above about Pastor-elect D. Noorman's examination, which will take place first.
• Classis West will have its next regular meeting in Loveland, CO on Wednesday, March 7.

SISTER-CHURCH NEWS

• Concerning our sister church in Singapore, Covenant ERC, the following may be reported:
  • Rev. A. den Hartog and his wife Sherry are serving the CERC until at least June of this year. Read the "Pastor's Voice" part of her bulletin to learn more.
  • Her latest newsletter - Reformed News Asia - (December 2017) may be found on this page.
  • The latest young peoples' magazine, Salt Shakers, was received and posted recently (January 2018). Check that out on this page.
• Concerning our sister church in Ballymena, N. Ireland, Covenant PRC, we may note the following:
  • Covenant PRC's latest newsletter was received and posted recently (Feb. 2018). And don't forget her other publication - Covenant Reformed News! That latest issue (Feb. 2018) may be found here.
  • 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." More information and booking forms 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.).

SPECIAL NOTICES:

• Looking for pamphlets published by the PRC? Visit the PRCA Evangelism page for a complete list of materials available in digital format or by order from the publishing church.
• 2018 YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONVENTION CHAPERONE & NURSE REGISTRATION is now open!  The convention, hosted by the five Midwest churches, is planned for August 13-17, at Lake Geneva Christian Center in Alexandria, MN.  To register, go to prcconvention.com, and follow the instructions under the chaperone or nurse tab.  If you have any questions, email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• FUTURE TEACHERS AND MINISTERS: Information for the 2018 PR Scholarship Fund essay competition is now available. Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to receive the essay topics and submission requirements. Completed essays must be submitted by May 31.

• What kind of reading material do you have laying around the house for your children to read? Do you feel like there is something missing? If you do not currently subscribe to Beacon Lights, you are missing out! This magazine is designed for Reformed youth, but adults read it with profit as well. What about the cost? Right now, the average cable bill in the U.S is over $100/month. If you took only one of those monthly payments, that would cover over six years of the $15/yr subscription price! Subscribe today at www.beaconlights.org to make sure you receive the March special issue which will focus on bullying.

• Reformed Book Outlet: The February 2018 newsletter notes that you may find children's music CDs and that officebearers may find many resources for their work (cf. attached pdf.).

• Psalm Choir - The latest CD, Volume 20, ‘Sweet Refreshment’ is now available. There are over 25 selections from the past two seasons.  Please visit the website www.psalmchoir.com to order.

• Don't forget to listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday! Today Rev. R. Kleyn (Covenant of Grace PRC, Spokane, WA) continues a series on the OT book of Ruth. His message is "The First Meeting of Boaz and Ruth" based on Ruth 2:1-17.
  
  • 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.

 Meeting of the PRC-Philippines Classis a year ago - February 2017

 MISSION NEWS:

• The last Philippines mission newsletter is dated November 2017 and may be found on this PRC webpage. The annual Doon/FMC delegation to the Philippines is visiting the field from February 15-27. This year's delegation consists of are Rev. C. Griess and Joel Van Egdom, along with his wife Michelle. They are finishing their work today and plan to return to the States this Tuesday. May God grant a blessing to the labors performed and give the delegation a safe return.
• Don't forget to follow the Kleyn's blog on life and activities in the Philippines. And that also includes the Holstege's one!
• The December 2017 newsletter of the Limerick Reformed Fellowship mission station is now posted on this page.

• 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. Holstege will preach both times today. Next Sunday, Rev. Kleyn will preach both times for PCC. In Church Order today we will look at Articles 57ff.

    • The Children’s Catechism class will meet again next Sunday, March 4, Lord willing, during the Church Order class. Rev. Kleyn will teach Lesson 19 in OT History for Juniors.

    • The delegation from the PRCA will return to the U.S. on Tuesday, February 27, Lord willing. We thank them for their visit to PCC last Sunday and for the Word of God preached to us by Rev. Griess.

  • Maranatha PRC:

    • Our Missionary, Rev. D. Kleyn will lead first service and after the second service Rev. Kleyn will continue teaching the class concerning the special offices of Elders and Deacons. Today’s topic: "The Work Of The Elders.”

    • We welcome Rev. Griess here today, and we especially welcome him to our pulpit as he preaches during the second worship service. He is visiting as part of the annual delegation of Doon PRC and the Foreign Mission Committee of the PRCA. The other delegate, Deacon Joel Van Egdom and his wife Michelle, are worshiping today in the PRC in Bulacan.

    • The delegation plans to attend the PRCP Classis tomorrow, and then to return home on Tuesday, the Lord willing. We thank the Lord for their encouraging visit and pray they may return safely to their homes and families this week.

    • The Classis of the PRCP is scheduled to meet on Monday, February 26 at 9:00 a.m. here in Maranatha PRC. Everyone is welcome to attend and to observe the Classis meeting.

Let us remember and continue to lift up the needs of these busy pastors and missionaries in the Philippines. May the Lord of the harvest give them grace to be faithful in all their labors.
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On this seventh Lord's Day of 2018, February 18, we note the following news and information concerning PRC congregations, the Seminary, mission fields, and sister churches.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS:

• On February 11, Rev. B. Huizinga (Hope PRC, Redlands, CA) DECLINED the call to Calvary PRC.
• On Jan.28 Candidate David Noorman ACCEPTED the call from Southwest PRC (Wyoming, MI). From SW's bulletin we find these details:
  
  • Pastor-elect Dave Noorman's classical exam is scheduled for Wednesday, February 28, at Hudsonville Protestant Reformed Church at 8:00 am. After opening devotions Mr. Noorman will preach his specimen sermon. His oral exam will commence once his sermon has been approved. The congregation is welcome to attend classis and witness this proceeding. The congregation is exhorted to remember Mr. Noorman in their prayers as he prepares for this examination.
  • The consistory calls the congregation to a special worship service on Wednesday, March 7, at 7:00 pm for the purpose of the ordination and installation of Pastor-elect Dave Noorman as the next pastor at Southwest Protestant Reformed Church. Prof. R. Cammenga will lead us in worship and conduct the installation. Refreshments will be served after the service.
• From Doon PRC's bulletin we learn about the special delegation to the Philippines that left this past week for the annual visit on behalf of Doon PRC and the FMC: "The delegation of Rev. Griess and Joel & Michelle Van Egdom arrived safely in the Philippines this past week. The plan was for them to be in the Berean PRC for the first service on Sunday and in Provident Church for the second service." Let's remember to pray this week for this delegation and its work.
  
• And from First PRC in Edmonton, AB we have this special notice: The dates for the 2018 Family Conference have been finalized! First PRC in Edmonton, AB plans 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 plan to attend what promises to be a spiritually encouraging 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.

DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

• From the PRC Seminary comes this February news:
  • Second semester classes began for the seminary on January 23 (see the link above for that schedule). Remember in prayer the faculty, students, and staff as they busy themselves in their daily work and studies.
    
  • The upcoming internships of Seminarians Matt Kortus and Jacob Maatman have been planned and confirmed and are being announced today. 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’s interim course this year is now completed. Prof. R. Cammenga taught his special course on “The Theology of John Calvin.”  If you would like to watch/listen to the videos of this course, they are posted on the Seminary's main page.
• Classis East will reconvene its January meeting on Wednesday, Feb.28, 2018 at Hudsonville PRC at 8 AM.
• Classis West will have its next regular meeting in Loveland, CO on Wednesday March 7.

SISTER-CHURCH NEWS

• Concerning our sister church in Singapore, Covenant ERC, the following may be reported:
  • Rev. A. den Hartog and his wife Sherry are serving the CERC until at least June of this year. Read the "Pastor's Voice" part of her bulletin to learn more.
  • Her latest newsletter - Reformed News Asia - (December 2017) may be found on this page.
  • The latest young peoples' magazine, Salt Shakers, was received and posted recently (January 2018). Check that out on this page.
• Concerning our sister church in Ballymena, N. Ireland, Covenant PRC, we may note the following:
  • Covenant PRC's latest newsletter was received and posted recently (Feb. 2018). And don't forget her other publication - Covenant Reformed News! That latest issue (Feb. 2018) may be found here.
  • 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." More information and booking forms 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.).

SPECIAL NOTICES:

• Looking for pamphlets published by the PRC? Visit the PRCA Evangelism page for a complete list of materials available in digital format or by order from the publishing church.
• 2018 YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONVENTION CHAPERONE & NURSE REGISTRATION is now open!  The convention, hosted by the five Midwest churches, is planned for August 13-17, at Lake Geneva Christian Center in Alexandria, MN.  To register, go to prcconvention.com, and follow the instructions under the chaperone or nurse tab.  If you have any questions, email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• FUTURE TEACHERS AND MINISTERS: Information for the 2018 PR Scholarship Fund essay competition is now available. Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to receive the essay topics and submission requirements. Completed essays must be submitted by May 31.

• What kind of reading material do you have laying around the house for your children to read? Do you feel like there is something missing? If you do not currently subscribe to Beacon Lights, you are missing out! This magazine is designed for Reformed youth, but adults read it with profit as well. What about the cost? Right now, the average cable bill in the U.S is over $100/month. If you took only one of those monthly payments, that would cover over six years of the $15/yr subscription price! Subscribe today at www.beaconlights.org to make sure you receive the March special issue which will focus on bullying.

• Reformed Book Outlet: The February 2018 newsletter notes that you may find children's music CDs and that officebearers may find many resources for their work (cf. attached pdf.).

• Psalm Choir - The latest CD, Volume 20, ‘Sweet Refreshment’ is now available. There are over 25 selections from the past two seasons.  Please visit the website www.psalmchoir.com to order.

• Don't forget to listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday! Today Rev. R. Kleyn (Covenant of Grace PRC, Spokane, WA) continues a series on the OT book of Ruth. His message is "The Homecoming of Naomi," based on Ruth 1:19-22
  
  • 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.

 
Our three PRC missionaries and their families in the Philippines shortly after the arrival of the Smits last December (2017).

 MISSION NEWS:

• The last Philippines mission newsletter is dated November 2017 and may be found on this PRC webpage. The annual Doon/FMC delegation to the Philippines is scheduled to visit the field from February 15-27. Going on this year's delegation are Rev. C. Griess and Joel Van Egdom, along with his wife Michelle.
• Don't forget to follow the Kleyn's blog on life and activities in the Philippines. And the Holstege's one too!
• The December 2017 newsletter of the Limerick Reformed Fellowship mission station is now posted on this page.

• 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: 

    • This Sunday, Lord willing, Rev. Cory Griess will preach in one of the services at PCC.

    • A delegation from the PRCA will visit the Philippines from February 16-27, Lord willing. The delegates are Rev. Cory Griess (pastor of First PRC in Grand Rapids) and Mr. Joel VanEgdom (deacon from Doon PRC). Michelle VanEgdom also plans to come.

  • Maranatha PRC:

    • Our Pastor, Rev. L. Trinidad will lead us in both services and after the second service he will teach us the Lesson # 46 of the Book of Revelation.

    • Next week Rev. D. Kleyn and Rev. C. Griess will lead the services respectively and Rev. Kleyn will continue the topic “The Role of the Officebearers.”

    • The Classis of the PRCP is scheduled to meet on Monday, February 26 at 9:00 a.m. here in Maranatha PRC. Everyone is welcome to attend and to observe the Classis meeting.

Let us remember and continue to lift up the needs of these busy pastors and missionaries in the Philippines. May the Lord of the harvest give them grace to be faithful in all their labors.
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On this sixth Lord's Day of 2018, February 11, we note the following news and information concerning PRC congregations, the Seminary, mission fields, and sister churches.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS:

• On Jan.28 Candidate David Noorman ACCEPTED the call from Southwest PRC (Wyoming, MI). From SW's bulletin today (Feb.11) we find these notes:
  
  • Pastor-elect Dave Noorman's classical exam is scheduled for Wednesday, February 28, at Hudsonville Protestant Reformed Church at 8:00 am. After opening devotions Mr. Noorman will preach his specimen sermon. His oral exam will commence once his sermon has been approved. The congregation is welcome to attend classis and witness this proceeding. The congregation is exhorted to remember Mr. Noorman in their prayers as he prepares for this examination.
  • The consistory calls the congregation to a special worship service on Wednesday, March 7, at 7:00 pm for the purpose of the ordination and installation of Pastor-elect Dave Noorman as the next pastor at Southwest Protestant Reformed Church. Prof. R. Cammenga will lead us in worship and conduct the installation. Refreshments will be served after the service.
• Rev. B. Huizinga (Hope PRC, Redlands, CA) is considering the call to Calvary PRC to serve as her next pastor (received Jan.21). *UPDATE: It was announced in Calvary PRC today that Rev. Huizinga had DECLINED this call.
  
• Rev. C. Griess will be installed in First PRC, Grand Rapids this morning with former pastor Rev. J. Slopsema leading the service. Rev. Griess will preach his inaugural sermon this evening.
  

DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

• From the PRC Seminary comes this February news:
  • Second semester classes began for the seminary on January 23 (see the link above for that schedule). Remember in prayer the faculty, students, and staff as they busy themselves in their daily work and studies.
    
  • The upcoming internships of Seminarians Matt Kortus and Jacob Maatman have been planned and confirmed and are being announced today. 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’s interim course this year is now completed. Prof. R. Cammenga taught his special course on “The Theology of John Calvin.”  If you would like to watch/listen to the videos of this course, they are posted on the Seminary's main page.
• Classis East will reconvene its January meeting on Wednesday, Feb.28, 2018 at Hudsonville PRC at 8 AM.
• Classis West will have its next regular meeting in Loveland, CO on Wednesday March 7.

SISTER-CHURCH NEWS

• Concerning our sister church in Singapore, Covenant ERC, the following may be reported:
  • Rev. A. den Hartog and his wife Sherry are serving the CERC until at least June of this year. Read the "Pastor's Voice" part of her bulletin to learn more.
  • Her latest newsletter - Reformed News Asia - (December 2017) may be found on this page.
  • The latest young peoples' magazine, Salt Shakers, was received and posted recently (January 2018). Check that out on this page.
• Concerning our sister church in Ballymena, N. Ireland, Covenant PRC, we may note the following:
  • Covenant PRC's latest newsletter was received and posted this week (Feb. 2018). And don't forget her other publication - Covenant Reformed News! That latest issue (Feb. 2018) may be found here.
  • 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." More information and booking forms 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.).

SPECIAL NOTICES:

• 2018 YOUNG PEOPLE’S CONVENTION CHAPERONE & NURSE REGISTRATION is now open!  The convention, hosted by the five Midwest churches, is planned for August 13-17, at Lake Geneva Christian Center in Alexandria, MN.  To register, go to prcconvention.com, and follow the instructions under the chaperone or nurse tab.  If you have any questions, email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• FUTURE TEACHERS AND MINISTERS: Information for the 2018 PR Scholarship Fund essay competition is now available. Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to receive the essay topics and submission requirements. Completed essays must be submitted by May 31.
• Save the Date: The dates for the 2018 Family Conference have been finalized! First PRC in Edmonton, AB plans 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 plan to attend what promises to be a spiritually encouraging 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.

• What kind of reading material do you have laying around the house for your children to read? Do you feel like there is something missing? If you do not currently subscribe to Beacon Lights, you are missing out! This magazine is designed for Reformed youth, but adults read it with profit as well. What about the cost? Right now, the average cable bill in the U.S is over $100/month. If you took only one of those monthly payments, that would cover over six years of the $15/yr subscription price! Subscribe today at www.beaconlights.org to make sure you receive the March special issue which will focus on bullying.

• Reformed Book Outlet: The February 2018 newsletter notes that you may find children's music CDs and that officebearers may find many resources for their work (cf. attached pdf.).

• Psalm Choir - The latest CD, Volume 20, ‘Sweet Refreshment’ is now available. There are over 25 selections from the past two seasons.  Please visit the website www.psalmchoir.com to order.

• Don't forget to listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday! Today Rev. R. Kleyn (Covenant of Grace PRC, Spokane, WA) continues a series on the OT book of Ruth. His message is "The Conversion of Ruth" based on Ruth 1:7-18.
  
  • 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.

 MISSION NEWS:

• The last Philippines mission newsletter is dated November 2017 and may be found on this PRC webpage. The annual Doon/FMC delegation to the Philippines is scheduled to visit the field from February 15-27. Going on this year's delegation are Rev. C. Griess and Joel Van Egdom. The visits are done each year as part of the oversight of the PRCA over the missionaries, and also so that the delegates can meet and get to know the churches and believers there.
• The December 2017 newsletter of the Limerick Reformed Fellowship mission station is now posted on this page.
• From Georgetown PRC we learn about the recent delegation to Vellore, India: "Pastor and Mary Haak and Bruce and Cherie Jabaay returned home safely on Monday evening [Feb.5] from their time with the saints of God in India. It was a blessed time of fellowship in the Gospel, growth in the in Truth and understanding of their needs and challenges."

• 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. Holstege will preach both times today. After the first service, we will consider the Church Order, Articles 53ff. Next Sunday, Lord willing, Rev. Cory Griess will preach in one of the services at PCC.

    • The Youth Fellowship will meet today at 1:30. We will again sing from the Psalter. Today we will sing psalms which focus on the activity of worship.

    • A delegation from the PRCA will visit the Philippines from February 16-27, Lord willing. The delegates are Rev. Cory Griess (pastor of First PRC in Grand Rapids) and Mr. Joel VanEgdom (deacon from Doon PRC). Michelle VanEgdom also plans to come.

  • Maranatha PRC:

    1) Our Missionary, Rev. D. Kleyn will lead us in both services and after the second service he will teach us the topic “What The Special Offices Are.”

    2) Rev. L. Trinidad will teach the Children Catechism after the second service.

    3) The office-bearers with Rev. Kleyn will conduct the “Family Visitation” to the Chua family and Tabaday family in the afternoon.

• Let us remember and continue to lift up the needs of these busy pastors and missionaries in the Philippines. May the Lord of the harvest give them grace to be faithful in all their labors.
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Covenant Protestant Reformed Church
Ballymena, NI

9 February, 2018

Dear saints in the Protestant Reformed Churches,

Church Visitors

Rev. Nathan Decker (Trinity PRC) and Elder Sid Miedema (Byron Center PRC) were this year’s church visitors in the CPRC (18-25 January) and the Limerick Reformed Fellowship (LRF) (25-29 January). It was good to have both of these men back with us again!

Annual Congregational Dinner

Their first engagement was the CPRC annual congregational dinner (19 January). Besides members and friends of the church in Ballymena, Rev. McGeown, Colm Ring, Manuel Kuhs, Chester Mansona, and Sam and Jason Watterson of the LRF made the four-hour journey to join us (and that is only one way!). After a good meal, William Graham asked the questions for an excellent table quiz.

Chester Mansona, Sid Miedema, Rev. Decker, Rev. McGeown

Rev. Decker preached at both of our Sunday services (21 January) and led a fine Bible study on Psalm 73 at the church on Tuesday morning. On the next night, his lecture on “Living Wisely in a Digital Age” was well attended and the on-line video has attracted a lot of interest ( www.youtube.com/watch?v=TorlK7c_CYw ).

Besides the official church visitation with the CPRC Council, our two American brethren had dinner with several families and visited with other saints. On the morning of their departure for Limerick, they even fitted in breakfast with a former member (Kristin Crossett) and a current member (Carolyn Prins) of the church that Rev. Decker pastors.

Teaching in the CPRC

“Ezekiel’s Prophecies Against Tyre” (Ezek. 26:1-28:19) was the subject of a recent 4-sermon series in the CPRC. God judged that wealthy island trading centre so that it was reduced to a rock upon which fishermen repaired and cleaned their nets. The prophet pictured the city as a great ship filled with international merchants and all their wares, but it was going to sink to the bottom of the Mediterranean. The king of Tyre thought that he was wiser than Daniel and even a god. His realm was another Eden for precious stones and gold, and he was like Adam or a cherub guarding the garden. Yet he was a fallen son of Adam and the image of Satan, and he would soon be cast from his garden of God and destroyed. The 4 sermons are on-line in audio (www.cprf.co.uk/audio/OTseries.htm) and video ( www.youtube.com/user/CPRCNI ), and soon will be available in a box set of CDs or DVDs for just £6.

In our Tuesday morning Bible study, we have been considering the Feast of Tabernacles, the most joyful of the Old Testament feasts. We have looked at its institution in Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy, and its celebration in Joshua, Judges, I Samuel, and I Kings. More material is to come, including 4 major Old Testament passages and John 7.

Since the middle of November, our Wednesday night doctrine class has been studying the subject of baptism in connection with Belgic Confession 34. Our treatment has included the baptismal formula, the administrators of baptism, the requirements for a valid baptism,
immersionism, the mode of baptism, the meaning of baptism, etc. ( www.cprf.co.uk/ audio/belgicconfessionclass.htm ). It is a rich subject that opens up a lot of Scriptures.

The fortnightly Ladies’ Bible Study, which meets on Friday mornings, is now discussing Rev. Smit’s book, The Fruit the Spirit of Jesus Christ. The fortnightly Saturday night Men’s Bible Study has begun Studies in Acts by Mark Hoeksema. These fine RFPA resources are already proving beneficial to our members. Almost all of the copies of Rev. Brian Huizinga’s “Keeping the Sword Drawn” brought over by the two church visitors have gone already ( www.cprf.co.uk/pamphlets/keeping sworddrawn.pdf ). Some of the saints in the CPRC are also using a yearly Bible reading programme that Mary prepared from two existing programmes.

Others

“God’s Saving Will in the New Testament” was the subject of a lecture I gave in South Wales on 25 January. There are two main Greek words that deal with willing, determining, desiring, wishing, etc., in the New Testament. What does a study of this concept in the New Testament reveal about the will of God’s decree and the will of His command? We had a blessed night of fellowship with the saints, including with Timothy Spence, a member of the CPRC who is at a university in South Wales. Also a good number of books and box sets were purchased. The video is on-line ( www.youtube.com/ watch?v=rPml_52T__0 ).

The last couple of months have seen 14 translations added to our website (www.cprf. co.uk/languages.htm): 6 Hungarian (by 2 young men who are coming to the 2018 British Reformed Fellowship Conference), 6 German (on Pentecostal issues by a brother who last did some translations for us in 2010), 1 Italian (by a Calvinistic Baptist in Sicily), and 1 Hindi (Prof. Engelsma’s pamphlet “Try the Spirits” by Sam Salve in India).

We added our second video with French subtitles, thanks to Timothée Rapak of Reims. This brings our foreign language videos to 28 ( www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2Y5Eq5r6y2HmXGp8oXTSI2QS6_FJYjyJ ). The USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Singapore, and Malaysia often feature in the top 5 countries using the CPRC YouTube page. However, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, of all places, have broken into the top 5 in recent times!

We continue to get a lot of good feedback. “I love the steadfast, Calvinist, Reformed theology [of the CPRC] on the internet. Bless you!” (Florida, USA). “Just a note to say thank you for the great book, Knowing God and Man. I couldn’t lay it down once I started reading it. It is profound truth and an absolutely brilliant book. I will be using its contents for many references” (Northern Ireland). “I read the excellent article on the subject of Lefèvre [‘Jacques Lefèvre d’Étaples: Pioneer of French Reform’]...I would love to quote it in an essay I’m writing to raise awareness of Lefèvre and his influence on the Reformation in France” (France). “Thank you for the books you kindly sent me. They will be very useful in the year ahead and also for the British Reformed Journals. The materials you send me are so appreciated in these days of Arminian churches” (England). “I have been a long-time reader of your website and have encouraged many to read your articles. One of the members of our church has recently translated some articles for you into Portuguese” (Australia).

Bookings for the 2018 British Reformed Fellowship (BRF) Conference in Hebron Hall, Cardiff (21-28 July) are coming on very well. Already we have heard from people in Germany, Wales, America, Northern Ireland, Brazil, England, Australia, Hungary, the Republic of Ireland, etc., that they are coming. The theme of “The Reformed Family—According to the Word of God” will be developed by our two main speakers, Prof. David Engelsma and Rev. Andy Lanning. The two-day trips include a fifteenth-century castle and Wales’ most popular heritage attraction, which is also one of Europe’s leading open-air museums. Much more information, including prices and the booking form, is on-line ( http://brfconference.weebly.com ). The North American booking secretary is Briana Prins (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). Do join us!

Thank you for your support and prayers in Christ,
Rev. & Mary Stewart