News

PRC and Sister-Church News for the Week of February 24, 2019

Psalms 34 8On this eighth Lord's Day of 2019, February 24, the following news and information concerning PRC congregations, the Seminary, sister churches, and mission fields may be noted.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS:

  • The Council of Trinity PRC has formed a new trio from which to call her next pastor: Revs. E. Guichelaar (Randolph PRC) , W. Langerak (SE-GR PRC), and J. Mahtani (Cornerstone PRC). The congregation will vote on March 3 after the evening service, D.V.

  • On Feb.10 Rev. J. Laning (Hull PRC) received the call from Immanuel PRC (Lacombe, AB). He plans to answer by March 3. Today Immanuel's pulpit is being supplied by Rev. R. Hanko.

  • On Feb.10 Rev. C. Haak (Georgetown PRC) received the call from Grandville PRC to serve as minister-on-loan to Covenant ERC in Singapore. According to Covenant ERC's bulletin today, he plans to answer by March 10.

  • While Rev. S. Regnerus is in Singapore serving Covenant ERC for three Sundays, Rev. K. Koole is supplying the pulpit in Lynden PRC for two weeks.

  • And from Doon (IA) PRC's bulletin we learn the following today about her supply and the work of her pastor and Rev. N. Decker in the Philippines:

    We welcome Rev. Kleyn to our pulpit and he and Sharon into our fellowship again today.  They plan to return to Michigan this week.  We are thankful for their coming and for the time we could spend together.

    Today Rev. Engelsma is scheduled to preach the first service in the Berean PRC and the second service in Provident Church, while Rev. Decker preaches in Maranatha PRC.  On Monday they plan to attend the Classis of the PRCP, and on Tuesday they plan to return home.  Please continue to remember them in your prayers.

DENOMINATIONAL NEWS:

Classis West: Classis West of the PRC will meet in Heritage PRC (Sioux Falls, SD) on Wednesday, March 6, 2019, at 8:30 AM, the Lord willing. All material for the agenda is to be in the hands of the Sated Clerk by Feb.4 (30 days before classis convenes). All delegates in need of lodging or transportation from the airport should notify the clerk of Heritage's Consistory.  ~ Rev. J. Engelsma, Stated Clerk

Contact Committee: "A delegation of Rev. J. Engelsma and Rev. N. Decker, from the Foreign Mission Committee and the Contact Committee, left this past Thursday for the Philippines [Feb.14]. They will visit our sister churches there the next two weeks, the Lord willing. In addition, Rev. Decker will go to Singapore to conduct church visitation with the Covenant Evangelical Reformed Church. Please pray for the Lord’s blessing upon their labors and their travels."

 Sem sign winter 2016PRC Seminary News:

  • The seminary has now completed five weeks of the second semester - one third of the way. The schedule of courses and calendar of events for this semester may be found on this page. If you would like to visit for a day or a class, call or email the seminary secretary, Sharon Kleyn.

  • Besides their regular studies, the students are busy making sermons for the first round of practice preaching this semester.  Sems. M. Kortus and J. Maatman delivered theirs on Monday, Feb.11; Sem. J. Tan delivers his on Monday, Feb.25. Pray for them as they busy themselves in this work. Did you know that these sermons are delivered in the sanctuary of SW PRC just down the hill from seminary? They are also recorded (video), so that the students may benefit from the critique they receive from the professors and their peers.

  • Our professors and students also keep busy with various activities in the churches in west Michigan - and beyond. They lead worship services and preach, teach catechism, lead Bible studies and also speak for chapels in the Christian schools and retirement homes. If you are in need of a preacher or speaker, contact the rector, Prof. B. Gritters.

  • If you have not yet done so, check out the new PRC seminary website! There are many new features and updates, including a blog. Visit the site and check out the various pages - and sign up to receive seminary news by email!

  • With improved weather this week, good progress was made on the seminary addition project (new archives and offices). For updates and pictures, visit this blog post.

  • *Special notice: Future Teachers and Ministers: Information for the 2019 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 31st.

  • 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.

Dordt conf flyer speakers color 2

  • The Seminary faculty along with Trinity PRC Evangelism Committee are busy preparing for a Spring 2019 conference to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the great Synod of Dordt, 1618/19 - 2018/19. The following updates have been given:
    Dordt 400: Did you know November 13 1618, 400 years ago, the Synod of Dordt began and didn’t conclude until nearly 6 months and 154 meetings later?! Are you familiar with the preceding history that led to this lengthy meeting? Do you know the week by week events that happened during the Great Synod? Follow that history and join the blog at Dordt400.org to view the weekly events  Synod of Dordt. Stay up to speed in light of Seminary's conference April 25-27 2019.

    Dordt 400 Writing contest:  The conference also includes a writing contest with great prizes!  The deadline for submission was January 15. The committee will now be reviewing and judging the essays.

Maranatha PRC logo

*Host of this week's Classis meeting in the Philippines (see note below)

SISTER-CHURCH NEWS:

  • Concerning our newest sister, the PRC in the Philippines, we may note the following from the bulletins of the Berean PRC, Bulacan PRC, and Maranatha PRC:
    • Berean PRC:

      "Rev. Engelsma will lead us in our 1st worship service today and Rev. Ibe in our 2nd worship service. Next Sunday, Rev. Smit will lead us in our worship services, D.V.

      Our pastor is also scheduled to preach at Kerusso Community Church today at 3P.M. and will lead the saints there in their study of the C. O. Art. 71-13 at 5P.M, the Lord willing.

This week’s Tuesday morning, the delegation from the PRCA represented by Rev. Nate Decker (CC) and Rev. Josh Engelsma (Doon PRC/FMC) will return to the USA. We heartily give thanks to our Heavenly Father for their visit, fellowship and oversight of the PRCA mission work here in the Philippines as well as the love and care they shared with us as one in the Lord Jesus Christ! May God be with them and provide traveling mercies in their trip home on Tuesday, the Lord willing."

  • Maranatha PRC:
    • "Rev. R. Smit, our missionary and Rev. Nathan Decker of Grandville PRC will lead us in the First and Second services, respectively. Rev. Smit will continue teaching the Belgic Confession Lesson.

    • *Classis of the Federation of the Protestant Reformed Churches in the Philippines is scheduled to convene on Monday (Feb. 25, 2019) at 9:00 A.M. at Maranatha PRC in Valenzuela City, the Lord willing. Those who desire to attend the Classis, please see and or contact our pastor or one of the Elders to confirm. We pray for God’s continued blessings, guidance, and wisdom upon all the delegates in all their deliberations and decisions, for the edification of the churches and for the glory of God!

  • Rev. Daniel & Sharon Kleyn are currently taking an extended furlough in the U.S. (until June 18). Per the decision of the PRC Synod of 2018, "the purpose of the furlough is to give Rev. Kleyn time to take some courses with a view to obtaining an advanced degree, to prepare classes to be taught in the PRCP [Philippines] seminary in the future, and to give both Rev. & Sharon opportunity to be refreshed and to reconnect with family."

  • And for more on the life and work of our "sisters" in the Far East read the news under Philippine missions (bulletins).

  • Concerning our sister church in Singapore, Covenant ERC, we may note the following items from her bulletin today (Feb.17):
    • "We welcome Rev Stephan Regnerus into our midst over the next 3 Lord's Days. Rev Regnerus is currently the pastor of the Lynden PRC in Lynden, Washington. Those of us who wish to host him can approach Elder Lim. We thank the Lord again for filling our pulpit and pray the Lord's blessing upon our time of fellowship with him individually and as a church together in the weeks ahead.

    • This morning we will be reading a letter from Rev Carl Haak during the worship service. The letter is an acknowledgement that he has received the extension of call to serve as MOL to Singapore from PRC Grandville. In his letter he requested prayer as he consider this important call to serve in Singapore. He will be answering the call on 10 March. Let us continue to pray that the Lord will make clear His will to Rev Haak.

    • This week we welcome Rev Nathan Decker and Rev Stephan Regnerus to conduct Church Visitation in CERC. We are thankful to God for our sister church, PRCA who so willingly provide resources to conduct Church Visitation in CERC every year. Church Visitation is an important part of the life of the church. The benefit of Church Visitation is that it helps the church and her leaders to reflect if we have been faithful in our calling as a Reformed congregation and also her Minister and Office Bearers discharged their respective Office in accordance to the Word of God and our Confessions and Church Order. The Church Visitation will be held on 26 February 2019."

    • Her latest newsletter (DECEMBER 2018) - Reformed News Asia - was recently posted and may be found on this page.

    • The latest young peoples' magazine, Salt Shakers, was received and posted recently (November 2018 - cf. image above). Check that out on this page.
  • Concerning our sister church in Ballymena, N. Ireland, Covenant PRC, we may note the following:
    • In her Feb.24 bulletin we find this interesting note: "There will be tea after the evening service next Lord’s Day. After tea upstairs, Deane Wassink from Georgetown PRC in Michigan will give a presentation on the work in India."

    • And note this upcoming event:  "S. Wales Lecture: Rev. Stewart will speak on “The Canons of Dordt: The Original Five Points of Calvinism” in Margam Community Centre on Thursday, 21 March."

    • Covenant PRC's latest newsletter was received and posted (December 2018).

    • Read the latest issue of Covenant Reformed News! That issue (December 2018) can be found here.
  • 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 also.

kjv of bible
Does it matter what Bible translation you read and use for study? We believe so, and to find out why we recommend this pamphlet.

SPECIAL NOTICES:

  • If you are in need of 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. Looking for items on salvation by grace alone in Christ alone? Visit this page for more information.

  • Would you like to read good Reformed literature and a solid Reformed and biblical magazine? 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.

  • If you are in West Michigan, be sure to visit the Reformed Book Outlet in downtown Hudsonville, MI! The RBO is a great source for Bibles, Bible study materials, music, cards, RFPA books, and other Reformed literature; stop at the RBO, or visit their website.

  • You can now listen to the Heidelberg Catechism, the Belgic Confession, and the Canons of Dordt on audio! Visit the links provided to hear the Catechism, the Confession, and the Canons read by Elijah Roberts, one of our pre-seminary students. It's another excellent way to learn the Reformed faith and memorize these Reformed creeds.

RWH logo 1

 Lynden PRC YP retreat 2019
*Learn about registration for the Lynden PRC YA Retreat below

ESPECIALLY FOR PRC Young People and Young Adults:

  • Young Calvinists is holding another Talking Points! Mr. Jon VanOverloop will be speaking on the topic titled "Robert's Rules of Order". Zion PRC will be hosting this event on March 6 at 6:45PM. Refreshments will follow. This event is designed for Young People and Young Adults. Plan on attending and bring a friend. You will not want to miss out on this one!

  • NEWS about the 2019 PRYP's Convention: Southwest & Providence Protestant Reformed Churches will be hosting the 2019 PRC Young People's Convention on August 12-16, the Lord willing.  The convention will be held at Michindoh Conference Center in Hillsdale, MI.  Registration for chaperones is now open!  Please visit our website at prcconvention.com to register.

  • *Lynden PRC Young Adults Retreat updates: Our registration will be opening on Monday night, February 25! We will post the link to our Facebook page and plan to post the link in upcoming bulletins. Complete the forms on our website to secure your spot! We plan to cap out at 60 retreaters, so make sure to register early on! If you have any questions about the registration form, email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or message us on our Facebook group: Lynden PRC Young Adults Retreat 2019. We look forward to seeing you!
     
  • A matter for our young people to consider prayerfully. From the Federation of PR School Societies: “There is a significant need for more good Christian teachers for our beloved schools. This is true in light of increasing enrollment, recently established and emerging schools, and continual teacher retirements. We ask that this need be prayed for and supplication made that the young men and women of your congregation be led by God to enter into the vocation of a Christian school teacher. This…is intended to bring the serious need for teachers to your attention so this specific request can be brought to our heavenly Father and the need made known directly to your congregation.”

  • *Special notice: Future Teachers and Ministers: Information for the 2019 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 31st.

  • Are YOU a subscriber to the PR Young People's magazine, the Beacon Lights? Visit the website and learn how to become one!

  • *The latest young peoples' magazine of Covenant ERC in Singapore, Salt Shakers, was received and posted (November 2018 - cf. image above). Check that out on this page.

Letye PRF Aug 2018

*Worship in the Leyte PRF in the Philippines

PRC MISSION NEWS:

Domestic Labors:

  • Remember in prayer our home missionary, Rev. A. Spriensma, who continues to labor in the West Michigan area and beyond through Byron Center PRC, the calling church. From BC-PRC's bulletin this week we learn the following concerning his labors:
    • Missionary Spriensma will be leading the noon service today at the New Hope Reformed Fellowship Church of Dorr, MI.

United Kingdom:

Philippine Missions:

  • Doon PRC has this note in her bulletin today re the delegation sent on Feb.14:

    Today Rev. Engelsma is scheduled to preach the first service in the Berean PRC and the second service in Provident Church, while Rev. Decker preaches in Maranatha PRC.  On Monday they plan to attend the Classis of the PRCP, and on Tuesday they plan to return home.  Please continue to remember them in your prayers.

  • The last Philippines mission newsletter was received and posted back in January 2019 and may be found on this PRC webpage.

  • For more on life and activities in the Philippines from the personal perspective of the missionary's, visit the Kleyn's blog, the Holstege's, and the Smits!

  • From this Sunday's bulletin of Provident Christian Church in Marikina we find the following notes concerning their pastors as well as concerning our missionaries and their labors today and in this coming week:
    • Rev. Holstege will preach in the first service today and administer baptism.... Rev. Josh Engelsma will preach for us in the second service.
    • The Classis of the PRCP will meet tomorrow at 9:30 am in the church building of Maranatha PRC in Valenzuela. At the meeting, Lord willing, Classis will treat the request of PCC for membership in the PRCP. May the Lord bless the deliberations of the Classis.

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.

Myanmar:

  • Let us also remember Hope PRC's (Grand Rapids, MI) support of and involvement with Rev. Titus' work in Myanmar; for his latest report, visit this page.
Last modified on 26 February 2019

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