PRC and Sister-Church News Highlights for May 14, 2023 *(Updated)

Today, May 14, is the twentieth Lord's Day of this year of our Lord 2023. Below you will find special highlights of PRC and sister-church news. It is our hope that these reports not only inform you but also give you opportunity to pray for the needs of these churches and mission fields throughout the world.

If you are new to this website and the PRCA, we invite you to join us in worship today or on any of the Sunday's of this year at one of our local congregations near you, or listen online.

 O sing unto the LORD a new song; for he hath done marvellous things: his right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the victory. The LORD hath made known his salvation: his righteousness hath he openly shewed in the sight of the heathen. He hath remembered his mercy and his truth toward the house of Israel: all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.   ~ Psalm 98:1-3

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS 

Ascension Day Service: This week Thursday, May 18, the PR congregations will observe Ascension Day by gathering in worship to remember and reflect on the glorious going up to heaven of our living and victorious Savior Jesus Christ forty days after he rose from the dead. You are cordially invited to join us in worshiping the Lamb who is worthy of all honor and glory and blessing. Most services begin at 7 p.m. but check the website of the church near you.

• Today Rev. J. Mahtani declined the call to Doon PRC.
  
  
• Today Rev. A. Brummel declined the call to Hudsonville PRC.
  
  
• Last Sunday Rev. M. DeBoer (Edgerton, MN PRC) declined the call to Georgetown PRC.
  
  
• Last Sunday Rev. C. Spronk (Faith PRC, Jenison-MI) declined the call to Loveland (CO) PRC.
  
  
• Rev. M. Kortus (Hope PRC-Redlands, CA) is considering the call to Lynden (WA) PRC (received April 23).
  
  
• The Consistory of Hosanna PRC (Edmonton, AB) has formed a new trio of Revs. C. Spronk (Faith PRC), J. Mahtani (Hope PRC, GR), and M. Kortus (Hope PRC, Redlands). The congregational meeting is set for next Sunday after the PM service.
  
  
• Randolph PRC's Council has a new trio from which the congregation will choose a pastor: Revs. M. Kortus (Hope PRC-Redlands, CA), J. Maatman (SE PRC-Grand Rapids, MI), and D. Noorman (SW PRC-Wyoming, MI). The congregational meeting is planned for May 21 following the morning worship service.
  
  
• *New: Zion PRC's Council formed a trio to call a pastor: Revs A. Brummel (Calvary PRC-Hull, IA), M. DeBoer (Edgerton-MN PRC), and C. Spronk (Faith PRC-Jenison, MI). The date for the congregational meeting is set for Sunday, May 21 after the evening service.

Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Prof. R. Cammenga in Doon (IA) PRC; Prof. C. Griess and Rev. C. Haak in Georgetown PRC; Rev. D. Noorman (2nd week) in Hosanna PRC, Edmonton, AB; Prof. B. Huizinga and Prof. R. Dykstra in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. J. Engelsma (2nd week) in Loveland PRC; Rev. J. Marcus (2nd week) in Lynden PRC; Rev. M. DeVries in Randolph PRC; Prof. B. Gritters and Rev. W. Langerak in Zion PRC.  May we count it a blessing of our church federation that we can help one another in these needs. Let us remember to pray for the men who supply these pulpits and for the vacant congregations. And may we continue to pray for men to hear the call to serve as pastors and missionaries!

Congregational Evangelism/Mission News

• Byron Center PRC: BC PRC is hosting a community service on Ascension Day [May 18]. The evangelism committee will be arranging to print flyers for distribution and to host refreshments afterward. Please consider which friends or neighbors you might invite to join us that evening."
• From Hudsonville PRC Evangelism Committee: "In Psalm 127 verses 4 and 5, David taught his son Solomon: “As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them.” As fletching helps an arrow fly straight and true to its target, so we hope this podcast will help to guide our young children and point them to Christ. Join us in bringing the Word of God into our homes and hearts, and subscribe now to our Reformed children’s podcast "Fletching". Look for the flyer in the next monthly newsletter with more information."

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

Evangelism and Missions Conference: If you missed the DMC's conference earlier ths month, you may hear the speeches here:

• The Evangelistic Character of the Covenant - Rev. J. Mahtani - Part 1; Part 2
• Echoing the Word: The Power of God in Preaching and Evangelism - Rev. D. Holstege

Classis East met this past week in Faith PRC (Jenison, MI). The public report of this meeting has been posted on this webpage.

PRC 100th Anniversary: With gratitude to our faithful God, the PRCA look forward to our 100th anniversary. The celebration is planned for June 23-27, 2025, at Calvin University in Grand Rapids, MI.

On the final day of class this past Friday, May 12, the church history students from Covenant CHS visited the seminary as part of their annual local PRC history tour (see note below).

PRC Seminary Notices:

• The PRT Seminary will enter its final week of the semester tomorrow, with the week of exams on the schedule. Continue to pray for faculty, students, and staff as we enter the final days of the semester. The second semester schedule and calendar are posted on the seminary's website. 
• With joy the faculty of the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary announces that it has licensed student Aaron Van Dyke to speak a word of edification in the churches. We are grateful for the brother’s progress to this point in his training. All scheduling of Mr. Van Dyke must be done through the seminary, either by sending a request to the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or the rector, Prof. R. Cammenga (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). The brother is scheduled to lead his first service in First PRC-Holland, MI next Sunday.
• Senior Seminarian Matt Koerner is preparing for his synodical exam at the PRC Synod that begins on June 13 at Southwest PRC. His graduation is scheduled for June 15 in that church. Sem. Arend Haveman will be doing his senior-year internship this summer and fall (July-December) in Pittsburgh PRC under Rev. W. Bruinsma. Details for that continue to be worked out.
• This past Friday, May 12, the PRTS hosted the church history students (juniors) and teachers from Covenant Christian High School as special guests (see photo above). They joined faculty, students, and staff for a pizza lunch and then participated in four presentations on various aspects of the seminary and PRC history/archives. Their annual visit is always a highlight for the seminary.
• The TSC has hired Ms. Valerie Kleyn to take over the secretary duties of Mrs. Sharon (Kleyn) Koerner. Valerie began training last week; Sharon's final day is planned for Friday, May 26. We thank the Lord for providing another qualified person to fill this important position at the seminary.
• The Spring 2023 issue of the PR Theological Journal has been mailed out recently. Digital copies have been posted on the journal webpage (see link here). The Spring issue features articles on a distinctive feature of PRC teaching on the covenant of grace, on the image of God in man from a conference in Mexico, on R.L. Dabney's "proposals of mercy," and the first part of a history of Classis West of the PRC - and, of course, several significant book reviews.  If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Sharon, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
• The seminary is open daily from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., including the library and bookstore. PRC members and friends are welcome to visit and make use of these resources.
• For the latest seminary news and information, visit the seminary's website - and don't forget the blog!
  
  

SISTER-CHURCH/MISSION NEWS:

• Covenant ERC, Singapore and her Kolkata, India mission work:
  • Pastors J. Tan and M. Wee are faithfully serving the CERC. In her bulletin today is this special notice: "We gather together as the crown of God’s creation to praise our God this Lord’s Day. Psalm 148:1-2, 14: “Praise ye the LORD. Praise ye the LORD from the heavens: praise him in the heights. Praise ye him, all his angels: praise ye him, all his hosts. […] He also exalteth the horn of his people, the praise of all his saints; even of the children of Israel, a people near unto him. Praise ye the LORD.” God created us for the purpose of praising Him, so let us do so this day, as those who have been created and redeemed by Him."
    
  • There's a new issue of Salt Shakers out! Issue 69 is on the theme "GST: The Christian's Response." Especially for young people, the magazine contains a variety of articles and is edifying for ALL readers! Visit the link provided here to read and learn. 

• Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
  
  • Rev. A. Stewart continues to minister the Word faithfully to the saints in Ballymena.
  • The last newsletter of the CPRC was published last month - March 2023 which you will find on this page (rh column at the top). Read about the exciting work going on in the CPRC!
  • There's a new issue of Covenant Reformed News out! The April 2023 issue has been posted here.  Follow the link to read the latest profitable articles by Revs. A. Stewart (the salvation of Hagar and Ishmael) and R. Hanko (the double procession of the Spirit).
  • The CPRC YouTube channel may be found here.
    
    
• PRC in the Philippines and her mission work in various places:
  • A March 2023 Newsletter has been published. Be sure to visit the linked page to learn about the latest news from the Philippines!
  • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led her services today. And, "Rev. Ibe and family are scheduled to visit the saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship (AGPRF), Gabaldon, NE., on May 6 & 7. Rev. Ibe will lead them in their worship service at 9 A.M., and study of the Church Order at 10:45 A.M., all the Lord willing."
  • Provident PRC bulletin: Rev. R. Smit led her services today. "Rev. D. Kleyn and Sis. Sharon are scheduled to visit the Bearers of Light Community Church in Guiguinto, Bulacan today with Elder Jun Armas, the Lord willing, in order to preach and teach there."

Reformed Resources for Education, Edification, and Evangelism

Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!

• This month the RWH begins a marriage series by Rev. C. Haak. Today's message is titled "God's Design for Marriage" based on Genesis 2:24. For the May RWH Newsletter, visit this page.
  
• The Reformed Witness Hour publishes each month's messages in an attractive booklet. These printed sermons are a great blessing to many and are distributed all over the world, including to many prisoners in the U.S. If you or your Evangelism Committee would like to receive these, let the RWHC know and they will add you to the mailing list (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 

 
In this week in which we commemorate the glorious ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ, we encourage you to read this fine article by Rev. J. Kortering - "Christ Entered into Heaven Itself."

• Would you like to learn more about the doctrines and practices of the PRC? Or, are you in need of some pamphlets and/or articles published by the PRC for use in evangelism and/or witnessing? Or are you simply interested in growing in your faith and walk with the Lord? Visit the Resources pages of this website and the PRCA Evangelism page for a complete list of materials available in digital format or by order from the publishing church.

• For sound, distinctively Reformed literature on a variety of subjects and for all ages - including church history and Bible study materials - visit the Reformed Free Publishing Association website or stop in at their Jenison (Michigan) location.

• The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) ISnow operating in its new store in downtown Hudsonville! The new location is at 3472 Harvey St. in Hudsonville. Visit the store and browse the variety of resources for your Reformed-Christian faith and walk, including many children's titles. They are open Tuesday-Friday, 10-5, and Saturday 10-1.
  
  
• Do you need some catechism materials for use in your church or family? The PRC publishes catechism materials on Bible history and Reformed doctrine, for children of all ages. Visit this page for more information.
  
  

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

"...Why did God create and why did God give marriage?  The answer is:  His own glory!  Marriage was given by God, as all things were made by God, for one purpose:  God’s glory.  He made all things for His own glory.  “For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things:  to whom be glory forever” (Rom. 11:36). 

But how is marriage for God’s glory?  The answer to that question is:  marriage is for God’s glory because marriage is the bond that displays God’s beautiful covenant.  In Genesis 2:24 God is speaking of a union:  a man shall be joined unto his wife and they two shall be one flesh.  A man shall cleave to his wife. 

What kind of relationship is this?  Is this a 50-50 relationship between a man and a woman?  Why are they to hold to one another?  Why can they not walk away from this?  Why cannot they go from spouse to spouse to spouse?  Why is adultery sin?  And why may not marriage be rooted in romance?  Why can you not fall in and out of love and fall in and out of marriage?  Why is marriage a lifelong bond?  Because marriage is given by God to point to something far deeper, something true about Himself.  It points to something more permanent, far more glorious!  It points to a sacred covenant that God makes with us His people in Jesus Christ.  Our marriages are sacred covenants.  They are commitments to weather the storms of life together because we are called in our marriage to reflect God and His commitment and covenant toward us. 

This becomes very plain in the apostle Paul’s words in Ephesians 5:31, 32.  In verse 31, as Paul has been speaking about marriage and the calling of a husband and a wife, he, too, quotes from Genesis 2:24:  “For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.”  And then in verse 32 he adds:  “This is a great mystery [what I have been talking about—this joining of a man and a woman]:  but I speak concerning Christ and the church.”  Now that is the most staggering and profound thing that could ever be said about marriage.  In other words, marriage is patterned after Christ’s commitment to His church.  When God created man in the beginning as male and female and brought them into a union called marriage, He was patterning that after Christ and His bride, the church—not the other way around.  God did not first make marriage and then say, “Well, hm-m-m, how illuminating it would be if I would pattern My relationship in Christ toward My people after this marriage.  I’ll pattern Christ and the church after what I have done here in the beginning.”  No!  That is not the way it is!  But God said, “It was first Christ and the church.  It is first Me, in My love to My elect in Jesus Christ.  That is first.  And now I’ll make marriage to display that.” 

It was first Christ (Rev. 13:8), who was slain from the foundation of the world.  It was first God’s eternal grace flowing through Jesus Christ unto His elect, before there was an Adam, before there was an Eve.  And, in His own heart, because this is who He is (He is faithful, He is a God of covenant faithfulness), He designed marriage after the very relationship that abides in His eternal breast and heart toward us in Christ.

So, your marriage exists for the glory of God.  Do you know why God gave you a wife?  Do you know why God gave you a husband?  To display to the world the truth about the faithful love of God.  That is why.  God brings us together not first of all for ourselves.  Of course we enjoy blessings from the hand of our God and Creator.  But God brought us together, first of all, to display His Son’s grace and love to His church.  God called us together in this bond of marriage in order that He might display Christ’s sacrificing for His bride, in order that He might display His own precious love, in order that He might show that Christ loves with a forgiving love and never forsakes His own bride.  The highest purpose for marriage is to put the covenant relationship of Christ and the church on display before the world, so that others may see it in concrete terms and reality. 

Taken from the radio message "God's Design for Marriage" by Rev. C. Haak