July 2024

In July we will complete Rev. Bruinsma’s series on Women of the Bible. Please help us share these messages!

July 7

Jedidah and the Elect Remnant

2 Kings 22:1,2

July 14

Mary Foresees Christ's Death

John 12:1-8

July 21

Tabitha Raised from the Dead

Acts 9:36-42

 July 28

God Opens Lydia's Heart

Acts 16:13-15

Listen on Your Favorite Platform

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Today, June 30, is the twenty-sixth Lord's Day of this year of our Lord 2024, and another rest stop on our pilgrim journey through this world. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

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.

I cried unto thee, O LORD: I said, Thou art my refuge and my portion in the land of the living. Attend unto my cry; for I am brought very low: deliver me from my persecutors; for they are stronger than I. Bring my soul out of prison, that I may praise thy name: the righteous shall compass me about; for thou shalt deal bountifully with me. ~ Psalm 142:5-7

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 you may listen online through one of the PRC's livestreams.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS 

• This evening Rev. J. Mahtani preached his farewell sermon in Hope PRC (Walker, MI). A farewell program is planned at the church and then fellowship at Hope PRCS afterward. He and his family move to Pittsburgh this week, where he plans to be installed as pastor of Pittsburgh PRC next Sunday, July 7. 
  
  
• Last week Hope PRC-Redlands extended a call to Rev. J. Engelsma (Crete PRC).
  
  
• Last Sunday Lynden (WA) PRC voted to call Rev. R. Barnhill (Heritage PRC).
  
  
• The Council of Hope PRC (Walker, MI) has formed a trio of Revs. M. DeBoer, N. Decker, and J. Maatman. A congregational meeting to vote from this trio is scheduled for July 7 after the evening service.
  
  
• The Council of Zion PRC (Jenison, MI) has announced a new trio of Revs. N. Decker, J. Smidstra, and C. Spronk. The congregational meeting is scheduled for July 9.

Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs:  Prof. C. Griess and Cand. A. Haveman in Georgetown PRC;  Rev. J. Laning (1st week) in Hope PRC-Redlands; Prof. R. Cammenga and Rev. J. Holstege in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. K. Koole in Loveland PRC; Rev. E. Guichelaar in Lynden PRC; Rev. J. Smidstra in Pittsburgh PRC; Prof. B. Gritters and Sem. B. Feenstra 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!

Special Congregational/Evangelism Notices:

PRC Candidate Arend Haveman (see note below)

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

• The Synod of the PRC concluded its work on June 20 at Trinity PRC at Hudsonville, MI. Daily reports may be found on these pages. May the Lord be pleased to add His blessing to the decisions reached.
  
  
• After approving the examination of Arend Haveman, the 2024 PRC Synod has declared the brother a candidate for the ministry of the Word and sacraments in the PRC, eligible for a call on or after July 13. We give thanks to the Lord for providing another laborer in His vineyard.

• PRC 100th Anniversary Celebration: All the members of the PRCA, our sister churches, and close contacts are encouraged to come together at Calvin University from June 2-6, 2025 (note the new dates) to participate in this commemorative week. Visit prca100.org for basic event information and to sign up for email updates.
  
  

PRC Seminary Notices:

• The PR Theological Seminary has now completed its second semester and entered its summer break. Faculty, students, and staff will be busy with normal and special duties during these months, all in preparation for a new semester, which will begin, D.V., on August 26. Continue to pray for faculty, students, and staff as we labor during these next months.
• Senior seminarian Arend Havemen successfully sustained his examination before the PRC Synod earlier this month and is now a candidate for the ministry of the Word and sacraments in the PRC and her sister churches. His graduation took place on June 13 in Trinity PRC. We congratulate the brother and thank the Lord for his gifts and this gift to the churches of a new candidate.
• With joy the faculty of the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary announces that it has licensed second-student Bruce Feenstra 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. Feenstra 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.).
• Sem. Aaron Van Dyke (entering his senior year) will intern this summer and fall in our Wingham, Ontario congregation, under the supervision of Wingham’s Consistory and the mentoring of Rev. Daniel Holstege. The internship begins July 1 and extends through December 31. Continue to pray for Mr. Van Dyke and his family during his internship.
• Prof. B. Huizinga's first book has been published - Crowning His Gifts: Gracious Rewards in the Reformed Tradition (RFPA, 2024) - the fruit of his studies for the ThM degree through Calvin Theological Seminary. We thank the Lord for this work and pray that it will have wide readership. To order your copy, visit the publisher's website linked here or visit the seminary bookstore.
• The Spring 2024 issue of the PR Theological Journal is now available. The digital editions (pdf and epub) have been posted on the journal page (visit the link here). This latest issue features three main articles, one dealing with the history of common grace at the 1924 Synod in the Christian Reformed Church (which led to the formation of the Protestant Reformed Churches), one involving another translation of H. Bouwman's work on the Reformed Church Order, and another chapter from Prof. D. Kuiper on the history of Classis West in the PRC. Plus, there is a good number of book reviews again, on a variety of subjects. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Valerie Kleyn, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 
• Advance Notice - Fall Seminary Conference: In 1924 the CRC Synod developed the Three Points of Common Grace. What are they? What led to their development? Why are they wrong? Is the early opposition to them by leaders of the PRCA relevant for us today, or is it merely a matter of past history? The seminary faculty would like to announce a fall conference observing the centennial of the development of the Three Points. This conference will be held the evenings of Thursday, October 31, and Friday, November 1, and the morning of Saturday, November 2, at Grace PRC. More details are coming.
• 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. Both pastors preached today. This special note is found in this week's "pastoral note": "Even as we see the day approaching, the day of Christ’s return, as we see wickedness abounding in these last days, as we know that there will come a time when God’s people will be forbidden from worship, forbidden even to buy and sell, we do not forsake the assembling of ourselves together. Rather, we cherish every opportunity that we have to worship together with fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, as many times as the Lord gives us strength to, each Lord’s Day."
    
  • A new issue of Salt Shakers is available - May 2024, #72, the second of this year!  Once again you will find a variety of articles on timely subjects in this issue! Written especially for young people and young adults, SS is edifying for all adults!

• Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
  • Rev. A. Stewart continues to minister the Word faithfully in the CPRC, Ballymena, N. Ireland - and beyond!
    
  • 2024 BRF Family Conference: Join Reformed believers from around the world at the 2024 British Reformed Fellowship family conference at Cloverley Hall Conference Centre in Shropshire, England, from Saturday, August 3, to Saturday, August 10. Our speakers, Prof. Brian Huizinga and Rev. Ron Hanko, will lecture on “Then Comes the End: The Reformed Doctrine of Eschatology.” For information and booking forms, see the website ( www.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 April 2024 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" is the latest available. Read the articles by Rev. A. Stewart on "The Truth Is According to Godliness" (3) and Rev. R. Hanko's response to a question about David, Amasa, and Joab.
    
  • The CPRC YouTube channel may be found here.

• PRC in the Philippines and her mission work in various places:
  • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. W. Bruinsma led us her worship services today."We welcome Rev. and Mrs. Mary Bruinsma in our midst today. We’re glad they can join us in our worship of God’s name and enjoy the fellowship and friendship we have in Christ Jesus." And, "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship in Gabaldon Nueva Ecija will join us in our worship services today, via livestreamed on our official Facebook page."
  • Provident PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led her worship services today. Let's remember this vacant congregation and her needs in our prayers.

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 - June 2024 -  the RWH is broadcasting five gospel messages by Rev. W. Bruinsma, continuing his series on women in the Bible. Today's message is titled "Elizabeth's Inspired Revelation" based on Luke 1:39-45.
  
• 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.).

Looking for an edifying devotional on the Psalms? Read this new RFPA title to be instructed and inspired!

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding moments for peace and reflection can be a challenge. Yet, within the psalms, we discover a treasure trove of heartfelt prayers, honest expressions of emotion, and profound insights into the experience of every believer—that is, of a pilgrim and stranger in this world.

Through daily readings, thoughtful meditations, and heartfelt singing, you'll find in this book the comfort and guidance you need as you weave your pilgrim way through the sacred songbook.

Whether you're seeking solace in times of trouble, longing for a deeper connection with God, or simply craving a moment of stillness in your day, this devotional will nourish and strengthen you with the riches of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. May you, in the reading of this devotional, come to see yourself as a child of God on your pilgrimage to God’s house, singing praises all the way.

• The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) is now operating out of its new store in downtown Hudsonville (3472 Harvey St.). 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. 
  

• In need of sound biblical and Reformed catechism materials for children and young people? Check out the PRC's full curriculum of materials here. Call the PRC Seminary for help with any of these materials (616-531-1490).
  
  
• 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.

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

 "As Reformed believers, we confess that civil government has been ordained by God. Whatever particular government exists in a country has been ordained by God, whether that government be a democracy, whether it be communism, or whether it be a dictatorship or a monarchy. We who live in the United States have heard too long that government is “of the people.” We must not fall for this idea. Government is not “of the people.” Government is of God! We read in Romans 13:1: “There is no power but of God; the powers that be are ordained of God.” Government is ordained of God. This truth is very important for our view of our government and our country.

"A second element in the Reformed view is that the state, with all of its officers, is the servant of God. Three times Romans 13 says of those in government that they are ministers or servants of God. What an honorable title! Those who are cynics with regard to leaders in government must listen to what God calls government officials: “My servants (ministers).” If only our officials saw themselves as God’s servants! Whether they are politicians or judges, or whether they sit on juries, they ought not to be swayed by public opinion, but search the will of God, as His ministers.

"The state serves God. Calvin writes in his Institutes: 'God has two great servants in the world: the church who serves Him freely by His grace, and the state which serves God in His providence. The one is spiritual whereby the conscience is instructed in piety and in reverencing God; the other is political whereby man is educated for the duties of humanity and civil life that must be maintained among men.' God’s government is twofold — the one ruling the inner man, the other ruling the outward behavior of man. The principle here is that Christ rules; He is Lord over all of life. He exercises both a spiritual and temporal jurisdiction, a twofold government: the church and civil authorities. Both of them are the arms of Christ Jesus. The truth of God and of Christ will be upheld and regulated by these two kinds of governments. They are two servants that print the Lordship of Jesus Christ over a person’s life. They are not incompatible, not at variance, and not antithetical. They complement each other."

Taken from For God and Country: The Reformed View of Patriotism by Rev. A. Spriensma

Today, June 23, is the twenty-fifth Lord's Day of this year of our Lord 2024, and another rest stop on our pilgrim journey through this world. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28

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.

LORD, I cry unto thee: make haste unto me; give ear unto my voice, when I cry unto thee. Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice. Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips. Incline not my heart to any evil thing, to practise wicked works with men that work iniquity: and let me not eat of their dainties. ...But mine eyes are unto thee, O GOD the Lord: in thee is my trust; leave not my soul destitute. ~ Psalm 141:1-4, 8

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 you may listen online through one of the PRC's livestreams.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS 

• Today Hope PRC-Redlands extended a call to Rev. J. Engelsma (Crete PRC).
  
  
• Today Lynden (WA) PRC voted to call from their trio of Revs. R. Barnhill (Heritage PRC), A. Brummel (Calvary PRC), and D. Lee (Kalamazoo PRC). UPDATE: Rev. Barnhill has received this call.
  
  
• Special note: Rev. H. Bleyenberg and Deb are in Singapore yet today. He participated in CERC's annual church camp this week and is preaching both services today. The Bleyenbergs plan to return home, the Lord willing, on June 25.
  
  
• Wingham PRC bulletin today concerning the arrival of Sem. A. Van Dyke, Sarah, and their two children for his internship this week: "PLAN ON COMING OUT for a special evening to welcome the Van Dykes to our congregation! The Van Dykes will be moving to Canada this week, the Lord willing. We will be having a singspiration on Sunday, June 30, at 7p.m. Refreshments and fellowship will follow afterwards."
  
  
• UPDATE: Zion PRC (Jenison, MI): "The Council has scheduled a congregational meeting for Tuesday, July 9th at 7:00 p.m. to vote to call a minister from a trio of Reverends N. Decker, J. Smidstra, and C. Spronk."
  
  
• Rev. J. Mahtani's installation in Pittsburgh PRC is scheduled for July 7. He and his family plan to move the end of this month after his farewell at Hope PRC on June 30.

Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs:  Prof. D. Kuiper and Rev. C. Haak in Georgetown PRC; Prof. B. Gritters led in Hope PRC-Redlands; Prof. R. Cammenga and Rev. M. McGeown in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. S. Key in Loveland PRC;  Elder led in Lynden PRC; Rev. W. Bruinsma in Pittsburgh PRC; Sem. A. Van Dyke and Rev. G. Eriks 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!

Special Congregational/Evangelism Notices:

•  First PRC-Grand Rapids, MI: "Mexico City Youth Conference: this past week a group of Spanish students (freshly graduated from CCHS) traveled to Mexico City for a youth conference at Juan Calvino Seminary. In addition to the conference on the topic of the book of Jonah, the trip aims to provide these young people with opportunities for fellowship, activities, and service among the young people in the Independent Presbyterian Churches in Mexico. Accompanying them from First PRC are Prof. Griess, Zach Kleyn, Madelyn Monsma and Karen de la Rosa; there are also chaperones from other churches, with a total group of about 20 people. They plan to return tomorrow, D.V. Please remember this matter before the throne of grace, that our Father would grant traveling mercies, and use the conference and other activities to bless those involved."
• Edgerton (MN) PRC: "What does it mean to be Reformed? Is it important today? Why are there so many Reformed denominations and how did they start? Come to Edgerton Protestant Reformed Church on Friday, June 28 at 7 PM to hear Pastor Matt De Boer answer these questions and encourage us to keep going back to the Bible."

Trinity PRC (Hudsonville, MI), host of this month's PRC Synod (see note below)

PRC DENOMINATIONAL NEWS

• The Synod of the PRC concluded its work this past week at Trinity PRC at Hudsonville, MI. Daily reports may be found on these pages. May the Lord be pleased to add His blessing to the decisions reached.
  
  
• After approving the examination of Arend Haveman, the 2024 PRC Synod has declared the brother a candidate for the ministry of the Word and sacraments in the PRC, eligible for a call on or after July 13. We give thanks to the Lord for providing another laborer in His vineyard.

• Denominational Website Logo Design Contest: The denominational website is currently being redesigned to improve our evangelism efforts and to make it more user friendly for all who visit the website. As part of this effort, we would like to create a new PRCA.org logo and we would like to have a contest so that anyone within the denomination can try their hand at designing our new logo. You may send your designs to the website committee (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) before June 30, 2024. The winner will receive a gift.

• PRC 100th Anniversary Celebration: All the members of the PRCA, our sister churches, and close contacts are encouraged to come together at Calvin University from June 2-6, 2025 (note the new dates) to participate in this commemorative week. Visit prca100.org for basic event information and to sign up for email updates.
  
  

PRC Seminary Notices:

• The PR Theological Seminary has now completed its second semester and entered its summer break. Faculty, students, and staff will be busy with normal and special duties during these months, all in preparation for a new semester, which will begin, D.V., on August 26. Continue to pray for faculty, students, and staff as we labor during these next months.
• Prof. C. Griess along with Sem. B. Feenstra and Cand. A. Haveman participated in a Mexico City Youth Conference this weekend that also involved members of First PRC-Grand Rapids, MI and students from Covenant CHS. They all gave speeches related to the book of Jonah as part of the theme of the conference. They plan to return home tomorrow.
• Senior seminarian Arend Havemen successfully sustained his examination before the PRC Synod earlier this month and is now a candidate for the ministry of the Word and sacraments in the PRC and her sister churches. His graduation took place on June 13 in Trinity PRC. We congratulate the brother and thank the Lord for his gifts and this gift to the churches of a new candidate.
• With joy the faculty of the Protestant Reformed Theological Seminary announces that it has licensed second-student Bruce Feenstra 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. Feenstra 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.).
• Sem. Aaron Van Dyke (entering his senior year) will intern in our Wingham, Ontario congregation, under the supervision of Wingham’s Consistory and the mentoring of Rev. Daniel Holstege. He and his wife Sarah and two children plan to move the end of this month. The internship begins July 1 and extends through December 31.  Continue to pray for Mr. Van Dyke and his family during his internship.
• Prof. B. Huizinga's first book has been published - Crowning His Gifts: Gracious Rewards in the Reformed Tradition (RFPA, 2024) - the fruit of his studies for the ThM degree through Calvin Theological Seminary. We thank the Lord for this work and pray that it will have wide readership. To order your copy, visit the publisher's website linked here or visit the seminary bookstore.
• The Spring 2024 issue of the PR Theological Journal is now available. The digital editions (pdf and epub) have been posted on the journal page (visit the link here). This latest issue features three main articles, one dealing with the history of common grace at the 1924 Synod in the Christian Reformed Church (which led to the formation of the Protestant Reformed Churches), one involving another translation of H. Bouwman's work on the Reformed Church Order, and another chapter from Prof. D. Kuiper on the history of Classis West in the PRC. Plus, there is a good number of book reviews again, on a variety of subjects. If you want to be added to our mailing list (either print or digital) or wish to pick up a copy, contact Valerie Kleyn, the seminary secretary (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). 
• Advance Notice - Fall Seminary Conference: In 1924 the CRC Synod developed the Three Points of Common Grace. What are they? What led to their development? Why are they wrong? Is the early opposition to them by leaders of the PRCA relevant for us today, or is it merely a matter of past history? The seminary faculty would like to announce a fall conference observing the centennial of the development of the Three Points. This conference will be held the evenings of Thursday, October 31, and Friday, November 1, and the morning of Saturday, November 2, at Grace PRC. More details are coming.
• 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. This special note from the Bleyenbergs is found in the "pastoral note" for today: "The 2024 annual church camp has now come to a close. The venue in Desaru offered many activities of all sorts; a wide variety of good food, spacious lodging, and most importantly — a conference room for the speeches. May the Lord use the good fellowship we enjoyed, and the good words we heard, so that we as members of CERC may “increase and abound in love one toward another, toward all men, even as we do toward you” (I Thess. 3:12). A hearty thank-you once again to the church camp committee for all their planning and organization. Deb and I would like to express our thanks to all of you for the many expressions of love and hospitality shown to us. It has been a joy once again for us to travel here to Singapore and to fellowship with you, our brothers and sisters in the Lord Jesus Christ. Though our homes be many thousands of miles away, yet we are united in our Saviour, and therefore we enjoy a bond that cannot be broken."
    
  • A new issue of Salt Shakers is available - May 2024, #72, the second of this year!  Once again you will find a variety of articles on timely subjects in this issue! Written especially for young people and young adults, SS is edifying for all adults!

• Covenant PRC, N. Ireland:
  • Rev. A. Stewart continues to minister the Word faithfully in the CPRC, Ballymena, N. Ireland - and beyond!
    
  • 2024 BRF Family Conference: Join Reformed believers from around the world at the 2024 British Reformed Fellowship family conference at Cloverley Hall Conference Centre in Shropshire, England, from Saturday, August 3, to Saturday, August 10. Our speakers, Prof. Brian Huizinga and Rev. Ron Hanko, will lecture on “Then Comes the End: The Reformed Doctrine of Eschatology.” For information and booking forms, see the website ( www.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 April 2024 issue of "Covenant Reformed News" is the latest available. Read the articles by Rev. A. Stewart on "The Truth Is According to Godliness" (3) and Rev. R. Hanko's response to a question about David, Amasa, and Joab.
    
  • The CPRC YouTube channel may be found here.

• PRC in the Philippines and her mission work in various places:
  • Berean PRC bulletin: Rev. V. Ibe led us her worship services today. "Pastor Ibe and Sis. Melody arrived in Manila from Grand Rapids on Saturday [June 22] at 5:30 AM. We thank the Lord for His gracious provision of traveling mercies and profitable and enjoyable visits at Synod and with the saints in the PRCA." And, "The saints in All of Grace Protestant Reformed Fellowship in Gabaldon Nueva Ecija will join us in our worship services today, via livestreamed on our official Facebook page."
  • Provident PRC bulletin: Officebearers led her worship services today. Let's remember this vacant congregation and her needs in our prayers.

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 - June 2024 -  the RWH is broadcasting five gospel messages by Rev. W. Bruinsma, continuing his series on women in the Bible. Today's message is titled "Abigail Pleads with David" based on 1 Samuel 25:28-31.
  
• 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.).

Looking for an edifying devotional on the Psalms? Read this new RFPA title to be instructed and inspired!

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding moments for peace and reflection can be a challenge. Yet, within the psalms, we discover a treasure trove of heartfelt prayers, honest expressions of emotion, and profound insights into the experience of every believer—that is, of a pilgrim and stranger in this world.

Through daily readings, thoughtful meditations, and heartfelt singing, you'll find in this book the comfort and guidance you need as you weave your pilgrim way through the sacred songbook.

Whether you're seeking solace in times of trouble, longing for a deeper connection with God, or simply craving a moment of stillness in your day, this devotional will nourish and strengthen you with the riches of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. May you, in the reading of this devotional, come to see yourself as a child of God on your pilgrimage to God’s house, singing praises all the way.

• The Reformed Book Outlet (downtown Hudsonville, MI) is now operating out of its new store in downtown Hudsonville (3472 Harvey St.). 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. 
  Special notice: "Celebrate with us! On Friday, June 21 at 7PM, the Reformed Book Outlet will be hosting an official launch party for the RFPA summer releases, Journey Through the Psalms by Mike Velthouse and Erinn Kuiper, and Songs of Our Pilgrimage by John Heys. All, especially readers age 9-13, are welcome to attend for ice cream, a scavenger hunt with prizes, and an author reading from Journey. All RFPA books (except the 2 new releases) will be 25% off for attendees. Hope to see you there!"

• In need of sound biblical and Reformed catechism materials for children and young people? Check out the PRC's full curriculum of materials here. Call the PRC Seminary for help with any of these materials (616-531-1490).
  
  
• 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.

This Week's Thought for Contemplation

 "“To suffer for those whom we love, and who are in some sense worthy of our affections, is suffering that we can understand. To submit to ill-treatment quietly, when we have no power to resist, is submission that is both graceful and wise. But to suffer voluntarily, when we have the power to prevent it, and to suffer for unbelieving and ungodly sinners, unasked and unthanked — this is a line of conduct which passes man's understanding. Never let us forget that this is the peculiar beauty of Christ's sufferings, when we read the wondrous story of His cross and passion.” ~ J. C. Ryle

“Sin, being a destructive force, must not be pampered. It must be put to death. Temptation should be flung aside immediately and decisively. Dillydallying is deadly. Halfway measures work havoc. The surgery must be radical. Right at this moment and without any vacillation the obscene book should be burned, the scandalous picture destroyed, the soul-destroying sin condemned, the sinister yet very intimate social tie broken, and the baneful habit discarded. In the struggle against sin the believer must fight hard. Shadow boxing will never do.” ~ William Hendrikson, Commentary on Matthew, p. 303

“Now Christians make a far different use of the law than those without faith can make of it. For where the Lord has engraved on our hearts the love of his righteousness, the outward teaching of the law, which previously was accusing us of nothing but weakness and transgression, is now a lantern for our feet to keep us from wandering away from the straight path. It is our wisdom by which we are formed and instructed to complete uprightness. It is our discipline which does not permit us to abandon ourselves in more wicked license.” ~ John Calvin

All found on Loveland PRC's bulletin today

The 2024 PRC Synod will return to its work this morning at 8 a.m. in the fellowship area of Trinity PRC after its recess yesterday. It will begin deliberating on the advice of Committee IV, dealing with the third-party investigation into sexual abuse in the PRC and various protests. Synod also has some financial matters from Committee V to treat.

May the Lord again guide the delegates and advisors by His Spirit and grace. Be in prayer for the body today. 

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UPDATE: Synod finished its work this afternoon about 2 p.m. See the final report below.

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Final Report of the 2024 Synod of the PRCA 

After synod adjourned, Rev. Bill Langerak, chairman of this year’s meeting, closed with prayer. 

 

For Synod 2024, 
Rev. C. Spronk, 2nd Clerk

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Let's not forget the people who worked behind the scenes at synod, and without which it would not function very well.

Thank you kitchen catering ladies and helpers! Great job preparing and serving snacks and lunches!

The sound and technology men - Peter Hanemeyer and Phil Van Baren!

PRC Stated clerk, Doug Mingerink, ready with resources for the delegates.

And photographer John Van Baren - thank you for all the great pictures!

Synod Day Six Report

Today Committee 3 presented its advice for treating several appeals to Synod having to do with doctrinal issues.

The first recommendation of the committee advised synod not to sustain three appellants. Classis East ruled in February of 2024 that the Consistory of Grandville PRC “erred when they made a judgment that Rev. Ken Koole was guilty of the public sin of teaching false doctrine without proving this from Scripture or the Confessions.” The three appellants asked synod to overturn this decision of Classis East. On the basis of two grounds synod approved the advice of Committee 3 not to sustain the appellants and to uphold the decision of Classis East. Ground 2 succinctly states, “None of the appellants have proved that Grandville’s original decision of April 22, 2021 was carefully grounded in Scripture and the confessions.”

The second recommendation of Committee 3 advised synod to sustain an appeal of Grandville PRC’s Consistory against a decision of Classis East. Grandville contended that Classis East did not give a proper ruling on a statement quoted and explained by Rev. Koole, namely,“Scripture teaches that something must be done that we may be saved.” Synod decided to adopt the advice the committee and made the judgment that the statement “a)…is erroneouswhen referring to our good works, and b) Rev. Koole’s explanation and use of [the statement] was erroneous” on two grounds.

The third recommendation of Committee 3 advised synod to sustain an appeal of Grandville’s Consistory against a decision of Classis East regarding a second statement quoted and explained by Rev. Koole, namely, “We must accurately distinguish between a right to life and the possession of life. The former must be assigned to the obedience of Christ, that all the values of our holiness may be entirely excluded. But certainly, our works, or rather these, which the Spirit of Christ worketh in us, and by us, contribute something to the latter.” Synod also approved this recommendation making the judgment that “a) Statement #2 is erroneous, and b) Rev. Koole’s promotion of the statement was erroneous” on two grounds.

The fourth recommendation of Committee 3 advised synod not to sustain an appeal of Grandville’s consistory against the decision of Classis East regarding a third statement quoted and explained by Rev. Koole, namely, “Hence, I conclude, that sanctification and its effects, are by no means to be slighted, when we treat of assuring the soul as to its justification.” Synod approved the recommendation and made the judgment that “a) this statement, although not a clear statement of orthodoxy, is not erroneous, and b) Rev. Koole’s explanation and use of the statement were not in conflict with Scripture, the confessions, and Synod 2018” on the basis of two grounds.

The fifth and final recommendation of Committee 3 advised synod to sustain Grandville Consistory’s appeal against a decision of Classis East advising the consistory “to publicly retract its decision to charge Rev. Koole with the public sin of teaching false doctrine.” Synod adopted the recommendation to sustain Grandville Consistory, which means that the consistory does not have to retract publicly its decision. The two grounds were adopted by synod with a lengthy section of explanation that is not copied here for the sake of space but should be carefully read when the Acts of Synod 2024 are published. The important points to be noted include 1) it was proper for the consistory to require of Rev. Koole a public apology for publicly teacher error, 2) there is no evidence that Rev. Koole deliberately or purposely was seeking to teach contrary to the Scriptures and the Reformed Confessions, and 3) Grandville’s Consistory never sought to use Articles 79 and 80 of the Church order to charge Rev. Koole with deliberately and persistently teaching contrary to Scripture and the Reformed confessions.

After concluding the advice of Committee 3 synod treated advice from Committee 2 that had been recommitted for reformulation. Synod adopted the recommendation of the committee to provide financial assistance to the Berean PRCP for a downpayment for a parsonage for the congregation.

Synod also adopted a recommendation from Committee 2 to provide each family in the PRCA with a total of three copies of the revised Psalter (earlier synod decided to provide each family with 1 copy and decided on 2 more copies today).

Professor Doug Kuiper read to synod a letter accepting its appointment for permanent tenure as Professor of Church History and New Testament in our seminary.

Synod ended the day by treating a number of recommendations from Committee 5. Some highlights:

1. Approved emeritation requests for retired ministers and their wives.
2. Approved of subsidy for 6 needy churches for 2025.
3. Adopted a budget for 2025. The total of budgeted expenses is $2,911,326. The synodical assessment per family in 2025 was set for $600, the same as in 2024. Note: the estimated number of families used for these assessments in 2025 was 2,100.
4. Appointed Faith PRC as the host of Synod 2025 to convene on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at 8:00am. Faith looks forward to hosting synod for the examination of Seminarian Aaron VanDyke, a member of Faith!

Synod is in recess until 8:00 am on Thursday. Committee 4 will be working until then to prepare advice on the six protests of the decision of Synod 2023 to approve the hiring of a third-party organization to investigate sexual abuse within the PRCA.

I should have mentioned this earlier, but it must be said that Trinity PRC, the custodians and kitchen committee especially, has done an amazing job hosting the sessions of synod.

Please continue to pray for the delegates and the work of synod.

For Synod 2024,

Rev. C. Spronk, 2nd Clerk

And a lighter moment of synod. Rev. W. Langerak, president of Synod 2024, with a special cup.

On Monday, June 17, 2024, the PRC Synod returned for another session beginning at 8 a.m. They met for the morning, covering material from Committee II on the Foreign Mission Committee before turning to the material from Committee IV on the third-party investigation and the protests related to it. Some of the advice was recommitted to that committee, and at that point synod decided to recess until Tueasday morning to allow Committees III and IV time to bring advice.

Synod plans to resume work at 8 a.m. Tuesday morning.

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Synod Day Five Report

Synod began its day by adopting various guidelines for giving financial assistance in foreign lands.

Synod took a noteworthy decision to declare Prof. Ronald Cammenga emeritus (retired) and expressed appreciation to Prof. Cammenga for his 45 years of faithful service as a minister of the Word and sacraments in our churches, 20 of these years as a professor in our seminary. We pray that God bless Prof. and Rhonda Cammenga as they continue in a different station to serve the kingdom of God.

Synod approved significant revisions to the catechism material for the Juniors (4th and 5th graders) curriculum.

Synod sent the material of the six protests regarding the hiring of third-party to investigate sexual abuse in the PRCA back to the committee of pre-advice to provide reformulated advice.

Synod approved of the work of a special committee that is working on an abuse manual that is intended to provide guidelines for the churches and encouraged the committee to continue its work.

Synod recessed in order to give committee III (appeals regarding doctrine) and Committee IV (protests regarding the third-party investigation) time to work.

Synod will begin its work on Tuesday, June 18, at 8:00am by treating the material of Committee III

For Synod 2024
Rev. C. Spronk, 2nd Clerk