Husbands, Love Your Wives
- By Haak, Carl
Today, July 2, is the twenty-seventh 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.
Bless the LORD, O my soul. O LORD my God, thou art very great; thou art clothed with honour and majesty. ...O LORD, how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches. ...The glory of the LORD shall endure for ever: the LORD shall rejoice in his works. ...I will sing unto the LORD as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being. My meditation of him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the LORD. Let the sinners be consumed out of the earth, and let the wicked be no more. Bless thou the LORD, O my soul. Praise ye the LORD. ~ Psalm 104:1, 24, 31, 33-35
Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Rev. H. Bleyenberg (1st week) in Doon (IA) PRC; Prof. D. Kuiper and Rev. C. Spronk in Georgetown PRC; Rev. T. Miersma in Hosanna PRC, Edmonton, AB; Prof. R. Cammenga and Rev. D. Lee in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. S. Key and Rev. J. Marcus in Loveland PRC; Rev. J. Smidstra (1st week) in Lynden PRC; Rev. C. Haak in Randolph PRC; Rev. K. Koole and Rev. D. Noorman 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 Activities/Events
PRC Synod 2023: The PRCA Synod of 2023 convened on Tuesday, June 13, and completed her work on Monday, June 19. The pre-synodical service was held in Southwest Protestant Reformed Church Monday night, June 12. If you missed Rev. Steven Key's message, "In the Potter's Hand," visit the link here. The daily updates may be found on this section of the PRC website.
A highlight of synod was the approval of the examination and candidacy of Sem. Matt Koerner. He is eligible for a call on or after July 15. We praise and thank the Lord for another candidate for the ministry of the Word and sacraments in the PRC. May the Lord show him soon where He will have him labor.
Another significant decision was the adoption of the overture from Providence PRC to hire a third party to investigate sexual abuse in the PRC and to appoint an ad hoc committee to contract with an organization and to receive and review the reports of this body. For more on that decision, visit this page.
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. The various committees of the 100th anniversary steering commitee are busy preparing for this historic event, including a special commemorative book. Watch for further notices and updates!
PRC Seminary Notices:
Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!
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In the early- to mid-1950s, Herman Hoeksema delivered a series of radio sermons on each of the articles of the Apostles’ Creed, thereby presenting and explaining all of the foundational doctrines of the Christian faith. This collection of those sermons is therefore an excellent introduction to a Reformed understanding of the fundamental doctrines of the Christian faith.
But the sermons in this book are more than theological expositions of the doctrines of the Apostles’ Creed. Hoeksema offers insightful, practical applications that flow from the truths of the Creed. Both the Creed’s doctrines and practical implications are crucially important—not only to the individual Christian—but also to the church as a whole. By expounding the Apostles’ Creed, Hoeksema demonstrates that its truths are not empty propositions but living declarations pointing to the Christian’s only hope and comfort in life and death—the triune God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
To order this new RFPA title, visit this page.
"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.
"Contrary to the position of the Anabaptists, we insist that there can be spiritual
freedom that we have gained in Christ Jesus, and that spiritual freedom can co-exist
perfectly with civil bondage. Civil government, then, in Calvin’s thought, is an outward
aid or instrument by which God calls us to and maintains us in communion with Christ,
as does the church through the Word and sacraments. These two are not one and the
same, and we do not identify them. But the civil government exists for the good of those
who in this perishable world belong to Christ Jesus.
"Christ, who is head of the church, is also Lord of the world. This means that
civil order is necessary for the well-being of the church. Church and state must be
distinguished, but not separated. The church gives instruction to the state as to what it
must be and how it must behave. The state must see to it that the church is preserved
in order that the pure gospel may be preached. The state is obligated to uphold both
tables of the law."
Taken from the pamphlet "For God and Country: The Reformed Perspective on Patriotism" by Rev. A. Spriensma
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Today, June 25, is the twenty-sixth 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.
Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's. ~ Psalm 103:1-5
Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Rev. S. Key (2nd week) in Doon (IA) PRC; Prof. C. Griess and Rev. C. Haak in Georgetown PRC; Rev. T. Miersma in Hosanna PRC, Edmonton, AB; Prof. R. Cammenga and Rev. G. Eriks in Hudsonville PRC; Prof. D. Kuiper in Loveland PRC; Rev. K. Koole (2nd week) in Lynden PRC; Rev. J. Engelsma in Randolph PRC; Rev. R. Smit and Rev. J. Mahtani 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 Activities/Events
PRC Synod 2023: The PRCA Synod of 2023 convened on Tuesday, June 13, and completed her work this past Monday, June 19. The pre-synodical service was held in Southwest Protestant Reformed Church Monday night, June 12. If you missed Rev. Steven Key's message, "In the Potter's Hand," visit the link here. The daily updates may be found on this section of the PRC website.
A highlight of synod was the approval of the examination and candidacy of Sem. Matt Koerner. His graduation program was held Thursday night, June 15, in Southwest PRC. He is eligible for a call on or after July 15. We praise and thank the Lord for another candidate for the ministry of the Word and sacraments in the PRC. May the Lord show him soon where He will have him labor.
Another significant decision was the adoption of the overture from Providence PRC to hire a third party to investigate sexual abuse in the PRC and to appoint an ad hoc committee to contract with an organization and to receive and review the reports of this body. For more on that decision, visit this page.
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. The various committees of the 100th anniversary steering commitee are busy preparing for this historic event, including a special commemorative book. Watch for further notices and updates!
Newly admitted seminary student Isaac Van Baren is finishing his pre-seminary Greek reading this summer with Profs. D. Kuiper and B. Gritters.
PRC Seminary Notices:
Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!
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In the early- to mid-1950s, Herman Hoeksema delivered a series of radio sermons on each of the articles of the Apostles’ Creed, thereby presenting and explaining all of the foundational doctrines of the Christian faith. This collection of those sermons is therefore an excellent introduction to a Reformed understanding of the fundamental doctrines of the Christian faith.
But the sermons in this book are more than theological expositions of the doctrines of the Apostles’ Creed. Hoeksema offers insightful, practical applications that flow from the truths of the Creed. Both the Creed’s doctrines and practical implications are crucially important—not only to the individual Christian—but also to the church as a whole. By expounding the Apostles’ Creed, Hoeksema demonstrates that its truths are not empty propositions but living declarations pointing to the Christian’s only hope and comfort in life and death—the triune God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
To order this new RFPA title, visit this page.
"As the pillar and ground of the truth, the church is called to maintain marriage. But so is each believer. The man, or woman, for whom the truth of marriage means sacrifice, suffering, and loss, perhaps all his life, is called to uphold marriage. There are such saints. There are men wickedly deserted, who must live alone all their lives. There are women whose husbands cannot function as husbands in the home, on account of accident or disease. There are men and women with miserable mates. These are called to bear their burdens and suffer for Christ's sake. God's Word and God's institutions are not changed to fit our circumstances. Every believer must be ready to deny himself and to suffer the loss of wife and children for Christ's sake. If one is not ready to do this, he is no disciple of Jesus. Churches today are making every effort to make Christianity an easy religion. It is not. Christ expressly said that His doctrine of marriage means that some make themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake (Matt. 19:12). The people of God in such circumstances will have grace to do what God requires of them. In just this way, they uphold marriage; they witness to the faithfulness of the real marriage. Faithfulness is not easy in the covenant relationship between Christ and the church. For Christ, it meant death; for us, it means tribulation.
"Every married person is called to maintain marriage, especially in these days of the undermining of marriage. He does this by actively, energetically living with his mate from day one of the marriage in the manner prescribed by the Word of God, Holy Scripture, i.e., according to the pattern of Christ and the church. It is a mistake to suppose that all that matters is that we not divorce. The husband must love his wife, day in and day out, after the starry-eyed romance has worn off, with a love that nourishes and cherishes (Eph. 5:25ff.). Live with her, the Word says (I Peter 3:7); live all your life through your wife (I Cor. 11:12); be understanding (I Peter 3:7). There may be no independency, no tyranny, and no bitterness (Col. 3:19). As Christ behaves towards the church ...
"The wife must submit and obey, reverencing her husband (Eph. 5:22ff.). She lives her life as a 'help' to her husband—this is her life (Gen. 2:18). Her one question is: 'How can I please my husband?' (I Cor. 7:34). There is no rebellion, insubordination, disobedience, or nagging; neither is there any independency, i.e., that the woman lives a certain part of her life 'on her own,' 'doing her own thing,' finding 'fulfilment' apart from her husband. Does the church live any part of her life independently of Christ? The moment that we do, we find 'fulfilment' with some other god, and this is what happens to many wives today—they end up 'fulfilled' in the arms of another man. The woman's 'liberation' movement is antichristian deviltry, from beginning to end. No Christian can make peace with it.
"Living so with each other, the husband loving and the wife submitting, the married couple simply rule out the very possibility of divorce. For the husband to love his wife means certainly that he does not divorce her; for her to submit means certainly that she does not run off and leave him. Besides, when he loves and she submits, they grow closer; the intimacy becomes deeper; and the unique bliss of marriage becomes richer. The thought of divorce never even comes into their heads.
"We must work at our marriages. It is exceedingly strange that we often devote our energy to other things, far less important than our marriage, and allow our marriage to drag along as best it can."
Taken from the pamphlet "Marriage and Divorce" by Prof. D. Engelsma
The PRC Synod of 2023 met at Southwest PRC (Wyoming, MI) for a fifth day this Monday, June 19.
Below is the report of the second clerk of synod, and attached is the specific decision of synod with regard to a third-party investigation (in your browser click on the title to this news post and it will take you to the attachment download at the bottom of that specific page).
The first matter synod treated today was a recommendation to express sorrow to females abused by a former pastor in the denomination. A letter was adopted to be distributed through each consistory of the PRCA to the congregations. The letter expresses sorrow that the former pastor, representing the church in his work, used his position to abuse sheep and cause them great anguish. It also acknowledges and apologizes for the neglect of the broader assemblies of the PRCA in not expressing this sorrow sooner. The letter closes stating: We are broken for you, sisters. We, as well as our churches, pray for you and for your healing. Know that the Good Shepherd loves and cares for you, His wounded and hurting sheep. Be assured that the all-sufficient Savior, who died for you, rose again, and ascended into heaven, will provide for all your needs. “The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee” (Psalm 9:9-10).
The rest of the morning session and a good part of the afternoon was spent deliberating on a recommendation to approve “the substance of an overture from Providence PRC to hire a third-party organization to investigate sexual abuse in the PRCA.” The recommendation carefully outlined the scope, the implementation, the reporting, the mutual accountability, the hiring, and the financing of the work of the investigation. Synod adopted the recommendation on the basis of three grounds:
An ad-hoc committee was appointed to hire and liaise with a third-party organization for the investigation into sexual abuse in the PRCA.
Synod treated a recommendation to approve the overture of Zion PRC “to appoint a study committee to develop the proper biblical, confessional, and theological groundwork that could be used in the local congregations to guide them in understanding and addressing the evil of abuse.” Synod appointed six men to this committee.
At the end of the day Synod adopted several motions presented by Committee 5. The highlights include:
Synod adjourned around 6:50pm. Rev. Eriks closed with prayer.
May the decisions of synod be to the honor of our God and welfare of our churches.
On behalf of Synod,
Rev. C. Spronk, 2nd Clerk
Today, June 18, is the twenty-fifth 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.
But thou, O LORD, shalt endure for ever; and thy remembrance unto all generations. Thou shalt arise, and have mercy upon Zion: for the time to favour her, yea, the set time, is come. For thy servants take pleasure in her stones, and favour the dust thereof. So the heathen shall fear the name of the LORD, and all the kings of the earth thy glory. When the LORD shall build up Zion, he shall appear in his glory. He will regard the prayer of the destitute, and not despise their prayer. This shall be written for the generation to come: and the people which shall be created shall praise the LORD. ~ Psalm 102:12-18
Classical appointments and pulpit supply for today in the vacant PRCs: Rev. S. Key (1st week) in Doon (IA) PRC; Prof. B. Gritters and Rev. M. McGeown in Georgetown PRC; Rev. M. DeBoer (2nd week) in Hosanna PRC, Edmonton, AB; Prof. R. Cammenga and Sem. A. Haveman in Hudsonville PRC; Rev. J. Holstege in Loveland PRC; Rev. K. Koole (1st week) in Lynden PRC; Sem. A, Van Dyke in Randolph PRC; Prof. C. Griess and Prof. D. Kuiper 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!
PRC Evangelism Activities/Events:
Southwest PRC in Wyoming, MI, host this of year's PRC Synod
PRC Synod 2023: The PRCA Synod of 2023 convened last week Tuesday and labored through Friday but did not complete her work. It will reconvene Monday morning at 8 am. The pre-synodical service was held in Southwest Protestant Reformed Church Monday night, June 12. If you missed Rev. Steven Key's message, "In the Potter's Hand," visit the link here. The daily updates may be found on this section of the PRC website.
A highlight of synod was the approval of the examination and candidacy of Sem. Matt Koerner. His graduation program was held Thursday night in Southwest PRC. He is eligible for a call on or after July 15. We praise and thank the Lord for another candidate for the ministry of the Word and sacraments in the PRC.
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. The various committees of the 100th anniversary steering commitee are busy preparing for this historic event, including a special commemorative book. Watch for further notices and updates!
PRC Seminary Notices:
Pastor M. Wee from the PRC's sister church in Singapore (Covenant ERC) is present at synod and led in devotion and gave an address to the body last week.
Listen to the Reformed Witness Hour each Sunday - on a radio station near you, on Sermonaudio, or on your favorite podcast - wherever you are!
The PRC Psalter is back in print. Need one for your family worship? Call the PRC Seminary for orders (616-531-1490)
"The church has special reason for proclaiming and defending marriage. In doing so, she witnesses to the gospel itself. Not only is the truth of marriage an important part of the doctrine of Jesus which He has commissioned us to teach all nations to observe (Matt. 28:19-20), but marriage itself is the symbol of the relationship of intimate love between Christ and His church—the symbol of the covenant of grace.
"Ephesians 5 teaches this. From verse 22 on, the Holy Spirit calls the wife to behave towards her husband as the church behaves towards Christ, and the man to behave towards his wife as Christ does towards the church, because marriage is the earthly picture of the spiritual relationship, or bond, between the heavenly Bridegroom and His wife. This is plainly stated in verse 32. Verse 31 has quoted God's words on marriage in Genesis 2:24, words that emphasize that marriage is intimate union: 'and they two shall be one flesh.' Then, Paul says: 'This is a great mystery.' What is a great mystery? Earthly, human marriage, we would answer. No, says Paul, 'but I speak concerning Christ and the church.' The reality of marriage is the intimate, covenant relation of Christ and the church, because marriage, my marriage, your marriage, the institution of marriage, is the God-appointed symbol of Christ and the church.
"In this real marriage, the one Man, Christ, and His bride, the elect church, are so united, by the wonder of the grace of the Holy Spirit, that the two become one: Christ is the Head, and we are the body. There is inseparable, unbreakable union. Christ never divorces us, much less takes another. By the power of His efficacious love, the church never leaves Him, gives herself to Him alone, and desires Him alone. Her love-song is: solo Christo, 'Christ alone.' By the grace of God, the covenant is characterized by faithfulness, faithfulness born of love and serving the interests of love.
"This constrains the church in her doctrine of marriage. As she hears the gospel of faithful love—and experiences it—so does she preach and defend faithfulness in marriage. Where the gospel of the gracious, faithful covenant is lost, there the picture is corrupted also. Always in Israel's history, two sordid things were found together: Israel went a-whoring from Jehovah after the idols, and Israelite husbands and wives committed adultery.
"Do not think for a moment that this implies that the church has no eye for the happiness of the saints, or that she lacks compassion for the sinner. But compassion for the sinner never lets him go on in sin. It calls him back. Perhaps it calls the sinner to a painful action, e.g., the Lord's 'sell all that thou hast ... and follow me,' but love imperiously calls the sinner from sin. Nor is the church unfeeling and hard-nosed in condemning divorce. Rather, in the love of Christ she seeks the genuine bliss of the saints. Divorce means ruin and misery, now and eternally. Marriage, even a difficult one, means joy—above all, and in any case, knowledge of the approval of God."
Taken from the pamphlet "Marriage and Divorce" by Prof. D. Engelsma
After a wonderful commencement-celebration program of a new PRC Seminary graduate last evening (Candidate Matt Koerner), Synod returns to its work this morning at Southwest PRC, considering reports from its committees of preadvice.
Look for the daily end-of-day report later today.
Since we are breaking until 2:00pm for committees to work, it seemed good to do a morning report on the activities of synod today.
The work of synod began today with treating the report of the Foreign Mission Committee (FMC). We are thankful for the labors of Elders Perry Van Egdom, Doug Brands, Brian Gritters, Mike Van Bemmel, and Ed Van Egdom, and Revs. De Boer, Barnhill, and J. Laning on the FMC in the last year. The advice submitted was recommitted. Synod will likely consider the reformulated advice this afternoon.
Rev. R. Smit speaking on foreign missions in the Philippines (recently returned to the States)
Synod also recommitted advice regarding a protest in order to add grounds. The reformulated advice will also likely be treated this afternoon.
Synod treated the report of the Board of Trustees (BOT). The BOT members in the past year include: Nick Kleyn, Don Offringa (synodical treasurer), Doug Mingerink (synodical clerk), Sid Mideama (president of the BOT), Dirk Westra (asst. synodical clerk), Tom Holstege (asst. synodical treasurer), and Revs. Eriks and Langerak.
Synod approved several recommendations of the BOT regarding the corporate restructuring of the PRCA. Presently the PRCA is incorporated in the state of Illinois, but the denominational offices are in Michigan. Synod adopted the recommendation to reincorporate in the state of Michigan. A recommendation to change the name of the Protestant Reformed Churches in America (PRCA) to the Protestant Reformed Churches in North America (PRCNA) failed.
The BOT reported on work that it is doing with Hosanna PRC of Edmonton AB to resolve a conflict with a group that continues to use the name of Protestant Reformed even though it is has left our denomination.
Synod approved the recommendations of the Emeritus Committee for the financial support of sixteen ministers/widows of ministers. Synod also approved the recommendation to increase the amount of “no questions asked” funds for retired ministers to $28,000 for 2025. Synod expressed thanks to Brian Gritters, Chester Hunter, and Ed VanEgdom for their work on the committee in the past year.
Synod thanked Don Offringa and Pamela Bos for their work as the synodical treasurer and bookkeeper.
Synod thanked Rev. Barnhill, Rev. Carl Haak, Mr. Terry Dykstra, Mr. Dan VanUffelen, Mr. Bert Wories, and Prof. Gritters for their work on the 100th Anniversary Committee. This committee has been disbanded because a new steering committee has now been appointed synod.
The synodical deputies of Classis East reported that it concurred with Classis West in September of 2022 to approve the retirement of Rev. Key. Synod approved of this work of the synodical deputies.
Synod received a report of work the Catechism Book Committee is doing to revise the Juniors and Seniors curriculum. Synod decided to postpone approval of the work until 2024 and thanked the committee for its work.
Synod approved the work of the Student Aid committee in providing assistance to seminary students. The churches are asked to take one collection for student assistance in 2024. We thank the committee of John DeVries, Brandon VanOverloop, Jon VanOverloop, Steve Bylsma, and Brian Kalsbeek for their work.
On behalf of synod,
Rev. C. Spronk, 2nd Clerk
Synod returned to the report of the FMC regarding mission work in the Philippines. Approval was given to the “decision of Doon PRC’s council and the FMC to begin the process of withdrawing the missionaries.” The FMC and Council of Doon were directed by synod to “close the mission field in the Philippines and take necessary steps to bring the work to completion.” The FMC and Doon’s council were also instructed to “write up an evaluation of their work in the Philippines, including especially what can be learned from it both positively and negatively for future mission work, and present this as a report to Synod 2024. Ground: It is important that we remember our history and learn from our previous experiences. Such an evaluation will help facilitate this.” The PRCA desires to help our sister churches in the Philippines and adopted a recommendation to “instruct the Contact Committee to consider offering assistance to the PRCP in the form of visiting ministers providing pulpit supply.” Synod expressed thanks to the FMC, Doon PRC, and current and past missionaries (and their wives) involved in the work: Revs. Spriensma, D. Holstege, Smit, D. Kleyn.”
Hope PRC continues to work with Rev. Titus and saints in Myanmar, and Georgetown PRC continues to work with Pastor Paulraj and saints in India. Synod approved the work of the FMC with Hope and Georgetown, and we pray that God will continue to preserve and bless the saints in Myanmar and India with whom we have fellowship in the Lord.
Prof. Huizinga read a letter informing synod of his acceptance of the decision to reappoint him as Professor of Dogmatics and Old Testament Studies for a 3-year term. He also asked for prayers for himself and his colleagues in the seminary.
The one protest submitted to Synod this year was declared legally before it. Synod sustained the protest. In January of 2022 the Synodical Deputies from the West concurred with the decision of Classis East to approve the deposition of a minister. They reported their action of concurring with Classis East’s decision to Synod 2022. The protest contended that the error of Synod 2022 was that it approved the work of the Synodical Deputies without receiving or reviewing the grounds for the deposition of the minister. Synod agreed with the protest and declared that “Synod 2022 erred in approving the report of the synodical deputies of Classis West regarding the deposition of [the former pastor] without background material, decision, and grounds of Classis East.” The information was submitted and received into the records of synod. A portion of the advice regarding the protest was recommitted for reformulation.
Synod recessed at 5:00pm and will reconvene Monday at 8:00am.
We thank SW PRC (especially the caterers!) for hosting synod this week and look forward to enjoying their hospitality again Monday.
On behalf of Synod,
Rev. C. Spronk, 2nd Clerk
This evening, the PRC Seminary will hold its commencement program, with Sem. Matt Koerner graduating and Prof. R. Cammenga giving the address. The program will be held in Southwest PRC beginning at 7:30 p.m.
Sem. M. Koerner successfully sustained his exam at the PRC Synod this week and was declared a candidate for the ministry of the Word earlier today.
The Southwest PRC choir will also sing a few numbers.
You are cordially invited to join us in celebrating this wonderful event and another candidate for the gospel ministry in the PRC.
"And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding." ~ Jeremiah 3:15
"And I will set up shepherds over them which shall feed them: and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall they be lacking, saith the LORD." ~ Jeremiah 23:4
The PRC will convene at 8 am in Southwest PRC today. After opening devotions, synod will continue with the oral examination of Sem. Matt Koerner. This is the schedule as adopted by synod and which will be followed this (Thursday) morning:
a. Church Polity: 45 minutes (Questions by Prof. Gritters)
d. Church History: 45 minutes (Questions by Prof. Kuiper)
e. OT History: 45 minutes (Questions by Prof. Huizinga)
f. NT History: 45 minutes (Questions by Prof. Cammenga)
g. Practica: 20 minutes (Questions by Rev. Mahtani)
The examination will be livestreamed through Southwest PRC's website. Visit the link here for that.
Prof. B. Gritters examining in the knowledge of the Church Order
Prof. D. Kuiper examining in knowledge of Church History
Prof. B. Huizinga examining in Old Testament History
Rev. Jon Mahtani exams Sem. Koerner in Practica
*UPDATE: Synod has unanimously approved all aspects of Matt Koerner's examination and declared him a candidate for the ministry of the Word and sacraments in the PRC, eleigible for a call on or after July 15. We praise God for upholding the brother and enabling him to give a good testimony of his readiness for the work of a pastor. Now may the Lord soon provide a call and place of labor for him in the churches. Great is God's faithfulness!
Pres., Rev. G. Eriks, informing Matt and Sharon Koerner of synod's decision on his examination and candidacy.
This afternoon synod will continue to treat the advice of its committees (see Day 1's webpage for the layout of the committees and their work).
This evening, the PRC Seminary will hold its commencement program, with Sem. Matt Koerner graduating and Prof. R. Cammenga giving the address. The program will be held in Southwest PRC beginning at 7:30 p.m. The Southwest PRC choir will also sing a few numbers. You are cordially invited to join us in celebrating this wonderful event and another candidate for the gospel ministry in the PRC.
Congratulations to Candidate Koerner and his wife, Sharon! Mr. Koerner answered questions this morning on Church Polity, Church History, OT and NT History, and in a Practica examination. Synod unanimously approved his examination and declared him a candidate for the ministry of the word and sacraments. The Stated Clerk of Synod, Mr. Doug Mingerink, will inform the congregations of the PRCA and our sister churches that Cand. Koerner will be eligible for a call on or after July 15, 2023. We trust the Lord will call him to the particular congregation where He is pleased to use Cand. Koerner as an ambassador for Christ.
Synod treated recommendations from Committee 2 regarding the work of the Domestic Mission Committee (DMC). The men serving on the DMC from June 2022-June 2023 are: Elders Brad Dykstra, Doug Dykstra, Randy Dykstra, Mike Gritters, and Jon Lubbers and ministers Revs. Haak, J. Holstege, Lee, Smidstra, and Spronk.
Synod approved the work of missionary Rev. Laning, Zion PRC, and the DMC in the work of home missions and expressed gratitude to them for their labors. Rev. Laning’s wife, Margaret, was included in this expression of gratitude. We thank God for providing a domestic missionary for our churches and for the good beginning Rev. Laning has made in his efforts to call the lost unto salvation in Jesus Christ.
Synod heard reports of the work of the DMC in seeking new fields of labor, expanding the denomination’s radio witness, updating prca.org, producing a manual for missions, and support for the work of the Reformed Witness Hour radio program. Synod approved the labors of the DMC in these areas.
Synod treated the report of the Theological School Committee (TSC). Members of the TSC the last 12 months included: Elders Brendan Looyenga, Joel Minderhoud, Doug DeBoer, John VanBaren, Doug Pastoor, and Revs. Langerak, Eriks, Mahtani, and Noorman.
Synod approved the appointments of Prof. Cammenga and Gritters for another year of teaching in our seminary. Prof. Huizinga was reappointed to another three-year term as professor. Professors Griess and Kuiper did not need to be reappointed at this time and continue to labor with the other professors faithfully in the work of training men for the ministry.
It was reported to synod that the current students are doing well and that Arend Havemen will enter his final year of seminary this fall, Aaron VanDyke will enter his third year, and Bruce Feenstra will enter his second year. Synod also approved the admission of Mr. Isaac VanBaren to begin studies in the seminary this fall.
Synod adopted a proposal from the TSC which reads: “In light of our current great need for pastors, we request synod to permit the TSC, in consultation with the faculty, to admit provisionally into the seminary older students, who lack all or some of the pre-seminary requirements, with a special program of study that is designed to make up for this lack but is somewhat less than the normal education for our ministers (a four-year undergraduate degree plus four-year seminary program). The specifics of such a program would be on a case-by-case basis, and depend on the student’s age, experience, educational background, gifts, etc. Formal admission and approval of the specific program would be sought at the following synod.”
Synod expressed appreciation to Professors R. Cammenga, C. Griess, B. Gritters, B. Huizinga, D. Kuiper, and to Mr. Charles Terpstra, for their faithful service at the seminary. It also expressed special thanks to Mrs. Sharon Koerner for her years of faithful service as seminary secretary and commend our sister to the Lord’s care as she moves on to another calling.
The final act of synod today was to begin discussing the report of the FMC regarding foreign missions. The first recommendation was discussed until synod recessed for the day at 5:00pm.
At 7:30pm tonight the delegates will attend the graduation ceremony of Seminarian Koerner at Soutwest PRC.
Synod will meet again Friday morning at 8:00am.
On behalf of synod,
Rev. C. Spronk, 2nd Clerk
The PRC will convene at 8 am in Southwest PRC today. After opening devotions, synod will proceed to the oral examination of Sem. Matt Koerner. This is the schedule as adopted by synod yesterday and which will be followed this morning and Thursday morning:
a. Intro to Dogmatics: 20 minutes (Questions by Prof. Cammenga)
b. Six Loci of Dogmatics: 30 minutes each (Questions by Prof. Cammenga)
c. Church Polity: 45 minutes (Questions by Prof. Gritters)
d. Church History: 45 minutes (Questions by Prof. Kuiper)
e. OT History: 45 minutes (Questions by Prof. Huizinga)
f. NT History: 45 minutes (Questions by Prof. Cammenga)
g. Practica: 20 minutes (Questions by Rev. Mahtani)
The examination will be livestreamed through Southwest PRC's website. Visit the link here for that.
This afternoon synod will begin to treat the advice of its committees (see Day 1's webpage for the layout of the committees and their work).
Sem. M. Koerner with his parents, Jim and Beth Koerner
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Immediately after opening devotions, the oral examination of Seminarian Matt Koerner began. Professor Cammenga asked questions for Introduction to Dogmatics, the Study of God, the Study of Man, the Study of Christ, the Study of salvation, the Study of the Church, and the Study of the Last Things.
From June of 2022 to June of 2023 Elders Dave Kregel, Sid Miedema, and Pete VanDerSchaaf, Revs. DeVries and McGeown, and Profs. Dykstra, Griess, and Gritters have served on the Contact Committee. The Contact Committee reported on work with Covenant Protestant Reformed Church in Northern Ireland, Covenant Evangelical Reformed Church in Singapore, The Protestant Reformed Churches in the Philippines, The Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Australia, The Confessing Protestant Reformed Congregation of Giessen Germany, and The North American Presbyterian and Reformed Council. Synod approved all the above work performed by the Contact Committee.
Synod had the privilege of welcoming and hearing from Rev. Marcus Wee (photo above) from the Covenant Evangelical Church in Singapore and Dr. Bernhard Klautke (photo below) from the Confessing Protestant Reformed Congregation of Giessen Germany. We are thankful for the fellowship we have with these men and the churches they represent in the Lord.
The Contact Committee also reported on some work done by Trinity PRC with contacts in South Korea and work done under the oversight of First PRC (Grand Rapids) in Mexico.
The Contact Committee still communicates with churches in Namibia and South Africa, although there has been little contact in the past year.
Synod approved a budget of $71,000 for the Contact Committee for 2024.
Synod treated a report from the Psalter Revision Review Committee. This committee was appointed in 2020. Members are Belinda Brummel (Zion), Don De Jong (Holland), Michelle Drnek (Trinity), Pam Dykstra (Faith), Matt Elzinga (Zion), Cal Kalsbeek (Hope), Steve Kuiper (Southwest), Rev. W. Langerak (Trinity), and Shelly VanderKolk (Hudsonville). Advisors to the committee are Josh Hoekstra (Hudsonville), Prof. Gritters (Hudsonville), and Prof. Kuiper (Trinity).
The committee reports that it intends to present a final product for the review and approval of Synod 2024.
Synod approved some changes to the doxologies that will be included in the revised Psalter (if the Psalter is approved by Synod 2024). Noteworthy is that synod approved the addition of the Gloria Patri. Approval was also given to proposed changes for the songs of Mary, Zacharias, and Simeon. Synod approved changes of the tunes for the Lord’s Prayer and the addition of tunes and lyrics for the Apostle’s Creed and the Ten Commandments.
Synod approved adding to the mandate of the Psalter Revision Review Committee:
1. To recommend how to implement the use of the revised Psalter should synod approve it,
2. To recommend to Synod 2024 how to publish and print the revised Psalter should synod adopt it, and
3. To take steps to familiarize the denomination with the final product. For more information on the work of the revision of the psalter visit www.thepsalter.net.
Synod failed a motion to declare a protest against a decision of Synod 2022 illegal. It also declared three overtures legally before it. Around 4:30pm synod decided to recess until 8:00am Thursday.
On behalf of synod, Rev. C. Spronk, 2nd Clerk
Classis East
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