The Northern Plains Classis - RCUS2 Northern Plains Classis Primarius Elders Beck, Matthew (First...

The Northern Plains Classis2019 Abstract of the Minutes

Special MeetingJune 23rd, A.D. 2018

First Reformed ChurchHerreid, South Dakota

Spring MeetingMarch 12th & 13th, A.D. 2019

First Reformed ChurchAberdeen, South Dakota

Dedicated in Thanksgiving to God for theyears of service of Rev. and Mrs. Wesley Brice.

Guideline for GivingClassical Dues: $10.00Missions: $40.00Mission Seed Fund: $5.00Total: $55.00

Officers of ClassisPresident: Rev. Paul Henderson

Vice President: Rev. Cody SchwichtenbergStated Clerk: Rev. James Grossmann

Treasurer: Elder Matthew Fickbohm

Permanent Committees of Classis(Underline indicates Chairman)

AuditingHaddock, Davis, Voytek

CampFickbohm, Grossmann, Lassley, Bowen

Candidates and CredentialsPoe, Snyder, Schwichtenberg

Christian Education and PublicationsIrwin, Haddock, Poe, Kappes

DiaconalVoytek, Beck, Dockter, E. Mehlhaff

ExecutiveHenderson, Grossmann, Fickbohm

Home MissionsSchwichtenberg, Haak, Lassley, C. Mehlhaff, DeJong

Interchurch RelationsBowen, Irwin, Henderson, Haak, Brice

Assistant to the ClerkHaak

Table of Contents

Ministers of the Word......................................................................1Primarius Elders...............................................................................2Secundus Elders...............................................................................2Churches in North Dakota...............................................................3Churches in South Dakota...............................................................3Radio Programs of the Northern Plains Classis...............................4Northern Plains Classis Sermon Audio Site:...................................4Special Meeting – June 23rd, A.D. 2018...........................................5I. Services.........................................................................................5II. Organization................................................................................5III. Adoption of the Agenda, Orders of the Day, Special Orders.....5IV. Welcome & Seating of Fraternal Delegates; Welcome & Seating of Visitors............................................................................5V. Announcement of Standing Committees.....................................5VI. Presentation of Overtures, Permanent Committee Reports & Communications..............................................................................5VII. Special Order............................................................................5VIII. Reports of Standing Committees............................................5

A. Examinations and Licensure..................................................6B. Excuses...................................................................................6C. Finances..................................................................................6

IX. MISCELLANEOUS REPORTS AND OTHER BUSINESS....7A. Expression of Appreciation to the Hosting Congregation......7

X. Reading of the Minutes...............................................................7IX. Adjournment..............................................................................734th Annual Spring Meeting – March 18-19, AD 2019..................8I. Services.........................................................................................8II. Organization................................................................................8III. Adoption of the Agenda, Orders of the Day, Special Orders.....8IV. Welcome & Seating of Fraternal Delegates; Welcome and Seating of Visitors............................................................................8V. Reception of New Churches........................................................8VI. Reception of New Ministers......................................................8VII. Announcement of Standing Committees..................................8VIII. Presentation of Overtures, Permanent Committee Reports & Communications..............................................................................9

CAMP COMMITTEE.................................................................9CANDIDATES AND CREDENTIALS COMMITTEE...........11

DIACONAL COMMITTEE.....................................................12INTERCHURCH RELATIONS COMMITTEE.......................12MISSIONS COMMITTEE.......................................................12

IX. Reports of Officers..................................................................15A. President's Report on the State of the Church......................15B. Stated Clerk's Report (Including Necrology).......................17

Necrology for Ruben E. Beck..............................................18C. Report of the Executive Committee's Report of Synod........18D. Executive Committee's Report on the Minutes....................19E. Treasurer's Report and Auditing Committee Report.............20

X. Parochial Reports of Ministers..................................................20Parochial Report of Rev. Hank Bowen.................................20Parochial Report of Rev. James Grossmann.........................22Parochial Report of Rev. Paul Henderson............................23Parochial Report of Rev. Dave Irwin...................................25Parochial Report of Rev. Michael Lassley...........................26Parochial Report of Rev. Phil Poe........................................28Parochial Report of Rev. Cody Schwichtenberg..................29Parochial Report of Rev. Michael Voytek............................30

XI. CONSTITUTIONAL QUESTIONS TO ELDERS.................31XII. REPORT OF NUMERICAL & FINANCIAL STATISTICS. 32XIII. READING OF THE STANDING RULES...........................32XIV. REPORTS FROM CLASSIS FRATERNAL DELEGATES.32XV. ADDRESS AND/OR REPORTS OF FRATERNAL DELEGATES & VISITORS..........................................................32XVI. REPORTS OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES...........................33XVII. REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES.....................33

A. Education, Publications, & Student Aid...............................33B. Services & Interchurch.........................................................33C. Examinations & Licensure...................................................33D. Excuses.................................................................................34E. Finances, Benevolences, & Ministerial Aid.........................34F. Judicial..................................................................................34G. Missions...............................................................................35H. Nominations.........................................................................35

XVIII. MISCELLANEOUS REPORTS AND OTHER BUSINESS........................................................................................................35

A. Expression of Appreciation to the hosting congregation.....35B. Adoption of the Stated Clerk's Report and Executive

Committee's Minutes.................................................................36XIX. Reading of the Minutes.........................................................36XX. Adjournment...........................................................................36

A. Roll Call...............................................................................36B. Devotions..............................................................................36C. The Apostles' Creed, Lord's Prayer, Benediction and Doxology...................................................................................36

APPENDIX....................................................................................37Treasurer's Report.....................................................................382018 Membership & Financial Statistics..................................42Standing Rules..........................................................................44

Abstract of the Minutes – Ministers 1

Ministers of the Word

Bowen, Hank (First RCUS, Aberdeen, SD)3229 385th Ave N, Aberdeen, SD 57401Phone: (605) 824-8108 Email: [email protected]

Brice, Wesley (Retired, Grace RCUS, Dickinson, ND)310-5 Dagnault Avenue, Taylor, ND 58656Phone: (479) 372-1177 Email: [email protected]

Grossmann, James (Eureka RCUS, Eureka, ND)P.O. Box 371, Eureka, SD 57437Phone: (605) 284-2396 Email: [email protected]

Haddock, William (Emeritus, Hope RCUS, Pierre, SD)114 North Highland Ave, Pierre, SD 57501Phone: (605) 838-4326 Email: [email protected]

Henderson, Paul (Hope RCUS, Pierre, SD)105 Lakeview Dr., Pierre, SD 57501Phone: (605) 224-8626 Email: [email protected]

Irwin, Dave (Salem RCUS, Ashley, ND)220 1st Ave SW, Ashley, ND 58413Phone: (701) 288-3265 Email: [email protected]

Lassley, Michael (Covenant RCUS, Watertown, SD)434 30th St NW, Watertown, SD 57201Phone: (605) 881-4997 Email: [email protected]

Poe, Philip E. (Harvest RCUS, Minot, ND)1624 Foothills Rd. SW, Minot, ND 58701Phone: (701) 340-7666 Email: [email protected]

Schwichtenberg, Cody (First RCUS, Herreid, SD)PO Box 724, Herreid, SD 57632Phone: (605) 437-2209 Email: [email protected]

Voytek, Michael (Grace RCUS, Dickinson, ND)1451 1st St. West, Dickinson, ND 58601Phone: (701) 590-5935 Email: [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]







2 Northern Plains Classis

Primarius EldersBeck, Matthew (First RCUS, Herreid, SD)

10861 318 Ave, Eureka, SD 57437Phone: (605) 437-2662 Email: [email protected]

Davis, Brian (Hope RCUS, Pierre, SD)903 N Grand Ave., Pierre, SD 57501Phone: (208)-761-8087 Email: [email protected]

DeJong, Rodney (Covenant RCUS, Watertown, SD)3517 4th Ave. SW, Watertown, SD 57201Phone: (605) 882-4071 Email: r [email protected]

Dockter, Charles C. (Salem RCUS, Ashley, ND)PO Box 515, Ashley, ND 58413Phone: (701) 288-3403 Email: [email protected]

Haak, Doug (First RCUS, Aberdeen, SD)801 S. Aldrich St., Aberdeen, SD 57401Phone: (605) 225-3817 Email: [email protected]

Mehlhaff, Earl A. (Eureka RCUS, Eureka, SD)PO Box 483, Eureka, SD 57437Phone: (605) 284-2698 Email: [email protected]

Snyder, James B. (Harvest RCUS, Minot, ND)2300 19th Ave. NW, Minot, ND 58703Phone: (701) 240-9402 Email: [email protected]

Secundus Elders

Fickbohm, Matthew (Hope RCUS, Pierre, SD)2012 Tiree Dr., Fort Pierre, SD 57532Phone: (605) 280-9330 Email: [email protected]

Kauk, Larry (Eureka RCUS, Eureka, SD)PO Box 42, Eureka, SD 57437Phone: (605) 284-5130 Email: [email protected]

Mehlhaff, Craig (First RCUS, Aberdeen, SD)P.O. Box 162, Akaska, SD 57420Phone: (605) 649-1170 Email: [email protected]











Abstract of the Minutes – Churches 3

Moos, Vernon (Salem RCUS, Ashley, ND)10120 34th Ave S.E., Venturia, ND 58413Phone: (701) 423-5536 Email: [email protected]

Sapp, Steven (Covenant RCUS, Watertown, SD)46375 206th St., Bruce, SD 57220Phone: (605) 627-5691 Email: [email protected]

Churches in North DakotaAshley, ND 58413...................................................(701) 288-3265

Salem RCUS, 209 1st Ave SW (Mail: PO Box 345)Worship: 9 AM; SS: 10:15 AM...............Pastor: Dave IrwinWebsite: www.facebook.com/SalemReformed

Dickinson, ND 58601..............................................(701) 974-4491Grace RCUS, 257 1st Street East, Dickinson, ND 58601Worship:10am; Sunday School: 11:30am; Sunday Night: 6pmPastor: Michael Voytek (wife, Rebecca)Website: w ww. frcdickinson .com

Minot, ND 58701....................................................(701) 340-7666Harvest RCUS, meeting at Grand International Hotel, Norse Room(Mail: PO Box 804, Minot, ND 58702-0804)Worship: 10:30am Pastor: Phil Poe (wife, Karen)Website: www.harvestreformedchurch.org

Churches in South DakotaAberdeen, SD 57401...............................................(605) 229-5953

First RCUS, 818 9th Ave. S.E.Worship: 9:00 am Sunday School:10:15amPastor: Hank Bowen (wife, Patty)Website: www.aberdeenreformed.com

Eureka, SD 57437....................................................(605) 284-2396Eureka RCUS, 310 F Ave. (Mail: PO Box 456)Worship: 9:00 am; Sunday School: 10:15 amPastor: James Grossmann (wife, Michelle)Website: www.facebook.com/EurekaRCUS

https://www.facebook.com/EurekaRCUS

http://www.aberdeenreformed.com/

http://www.harvestreformedchurch.org/

http://www.FRCofD.com/



http://www.facebook.com/SalemReformed




Herreid, SD 57632...................................................(605) 437-2209First RCUS, 601 N. Main St. (Mail: PO Box 212)Worship: 10:00 am; Sunday School 11:00 amPastor: Cody Schwichtenberg (wife, Angela)

Hosmer, SD 57448Hosmer RCUS, 202 West 5th St (Mail: PO Box 136)

Pierre, SD 57501.....................................................(605) 224-7846Hope RCUS, 317 S. GarfieldWorship: 9:30 AM; Sunday School: 11:00AMPastor: Paul Henderson (wife, Tina)Website: www.hopercus.com

Watertown, SD 57201.............................................(605) 878-4567Covenant RCUS, 15 12th Ave NE (Mail: 434 30th St. NW)Worship 10AM Pastor: Michael Lassley (wife, Amy)Website: www.watertownrcus.org

Radio Programs of the Northern Plains Classis

Church Radio Station Time

Aberdeen –Pause for Thought

KGIM – 1420 AMKDBX–107.1 FM

Sundays, 8:30 AM

Salem –Start the Week

KSJB – 600 AM Sundays, 7:45 AM

Eureka –Rev. James Grossmann

KOLY – 99.5 FM Sundays, 9:00 AM

Northern Plains Classis Sermon Audio Site:www.SermonAudio.com/npcrcus

http://www.watertownrcus.org/

http://www.hopercus.com/

Abstract of the Minutes – Special Meeting 5

Northern Plains Classis

Reformed Church in the United StatesSpecial Meeting – June 23rd, A.D. 2018

First Reformed Church, Herreid, South Dakota

I. ServicesFor the opening devotion, Rev. Paul H. Henderson led the Assembly in a devotion entitled: “When inDoubt, Go to the Source”, using Matthew 11:2-6 and Luke 7:18-23 as his text, closing with a hymn, “O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing,” and prayer.

II. OrganizationThe June 23rd A.D. 2018 Special Meeting of the Northern Plains Classis convened at 10:01am on Saturday, June 23rd A.D. 2018 at First Reformed Church of Herreid, South Dakota.President Paul Henderson called the assembly to order at 10:01am. The roll was called following the devotion. There were 7 ministers, 4 elders, and one Licentiate present, for a total of 12, a quorum. Rev. James Grossmann moved that Elder John Bender be accepted and seated as the delegated elder of the First Reformed Church, Aberdeen, SD.The President defined the bar of the house as being the first 5 pews of the church; appointed Elder Rod DeJong as teller; and Rev. Hank Bowen as the Reformed Herald reporter.

III. Adoption of the Agenda, Orders of the Day,Special Orders.

The Agenda, Services and Orders of the Day were adopted.

IV. Welcome & Seating of Fraternal Delegates;Welcome & Seating of Visitors

There were none.

V. Announcement of Standing CommitteesExaminations and Licensure: P. Poe, J. Snyder, H. Bowen, C. Schwichtenberg, G. OppExcuses: J. Bender, C. DockterFinances: D. Irwin, R. DeJong

(Committee Chairman is Underlined)

VI. Presentation of Overtures, Permanent CommitteeReports & Communications

The Overtures, Permanent Committee Reports and Communications were distributed to the StandingCommittees.

VII. Special OrderThe Special Order of the Classis was to examine Mr. Michael Lassley for the purpose of Ordination.

VIII. Reports of Standing CommitteesPlease Note: All recommendations in the Standing Committee reports appear in their final, amendedform, and were adopted unless otherwise indicated.


A. Examinations and LicensureRecommendation #1: That the eight month internship of Mr. Michael Lassley be declared satisfied.

Recommendation #2: That the ordination exam of Mr. Michael Lassley be declared satisfactory.

Recommendation #3: That the documents pertaining to the call of Mr. Michael Lassley be declaredin order.

Recommendation #4: That the Northern Plains Classis schedule the ordination and installationservice for Friday night at 7:30pm on July 13th at Covenant Reformed Church in Watertown. Thatthe Committee consist of Reverends James Grossmann, Paul Henderson, Dave Irwin, and the eldersof the Covenant Reformed Church.

Phil Poe, Hank Bowen, James Snyder, Glenn Opp

The President informed Mr. Lassley of the decision of the Classis. The right hand of fellowship wasextended to Mr. Lassley. Elder Snyder offered a prayer of thanksgiving.

B. ExcusesYour committee received items 2-6. Item 2: Excuse from Doug Haak; Item 3: Excuse from DavidVander Vliet; Item 4: Excuse from Nathan Arbach; Item 5: Excuse from Matt Fickbohm and BrianDavis; Item 6: Excuse from Rev. Bill Haddock

Your Committee considered the requests.

Recommendation 1: That all requests for excuses be approved.

Charles C. Dockter, John W. Bender

C. FinancesJune 23, 2018, Herreid, SD

Your committee received the following travel reimbursement requests:

1. Charles Dockter 100 miles $45.00

2. Michael Lassley 400 miles $180.00

3. Hank Bowen 194 miles $87.30

4. James Snyder 410 miles $184.50

5. Paul Henderson 224 miles $100.80

6. Bill Haddock 224 miles $100.80

Total $698.40

Recommendation #1 That mileage in the amount of $698.40 be paid.

Respectfully Submitted,

David Irwin, Rod DeJong

Abstract of the Minutes – 2019 Annual Meeting 7

IX. MISCELLANEOUS REPORTS AND OTHERBUSINESS

A. Expression of Appreciation to the Hosting Congregation“The Delegates of the June 23rd 2018 Special Northern Plains Classis meeting sincerely thank the beloved saints of First Reformed Church of Herreid, South Dakota for their Christian generosity and hospitality in hosting us. We are grateful to God for the addition of a new minister to our number's this day. Thank You!”

X. Reading of the MinutesAt the end of the business meeting, the minutes for the day were read and corrected. The Presidentasked, “Shall the minutes be now approved?” Since there were no objections, he declared theminutes approved.

IX. AdjournmentThe Northern Plains Classis having completed the business of the Special Meeting adjourned at3:57pm.

The Final roll call showed six ministers, five elders and one licentiate present. For a total of 12. AQuorum. Elder DeJong lead the Assembly in a devotion, closing in prayer.

The Assembly stood and united in reciting the Apostles' Creed and the Lord's Prayer. The Presidentpronounced the Benediction and led the Assembly in the singing of the Doxology.


34th Annual Spring Meeting – March 18-19, AD 2019First Reformed Church - Aberdeen, South Dakota

I. ServicesFor the opening devotion, Rev. Cody Schwichtenberg opened in prayer, giving a devotion from Luke11:1-4 and Heidelberg Catechism QA 122 calling the ministers to pray for the revival of the preaching of the word, singing Hymn 87, “Holy, Holy, Holy”.

On Monday evening at 7:30pm, the Classis met for a worship service with the congregation of FirstReformed Church of Aberdeen, South Dakota. Rev. Phil Poe conducted the worship service andRev. Michael Lassley preached a sermon entitled “Unshaken Hope” using 2 Corinthians 1:1-7 as histext.

The Northern Plains Classis opened its session on Tuesday, March 19th, A.D. 2019 with a hymn 469,“O Lord, how are my foes increased!” and devotion led by Rev. Michael Voytek from Psalm 3, entitled “Salvation is of the Lord”.

II. OrganizationThe 34th Annual Spring Meeting of the Northern Plains Classis convened at 1:15pm on Tuesday, March 18th, A.D. 2019, at First Reformed Church of Aberdeen, South Dakota.President Paul Henderson called the assembly to order at 1:15pm. The roll was called following thedevotion. There were nine ministers and three elders present, for a total of 12, a quorum.

Elder James Fischer was accepted and seated as the elder delegate from Eureka Reformed Church,Eureka, South Dakota.

President Henderson defined the bar of the house as the first seven rows of the church; Elder CharlesDockter and Rev. Voytek as tellers; and Rev. Phil Poe as the Reformed Herald reporter.

Election of Officers: Election by ballot was held for men to serve in the following capacities:President: Rev. Paul Henderson; Vice-President: Rev. Cody Schwichtenberg; Stated Clerk: Rev.James Grossmann; and Treasurer: Elder Matthew Fickbohm.

III. Adoption of the Agenda, Orders of the Day,Special Orders

The Agenda, Services, and Orders of the Day were adopted as presented by Classis PresidentHenderson.

IV. Welcome & Seating of Fraternal Delegates;Welcome and Seating of Visitors

The Assembly also welcomed Brother Jacob Kuik and Brother Peter Veenendaal from the ManitobaClassis of the Canadian Reformed Churches; new Elder Bruce Kappas, Elder John Bender, and ElderCraig Mehlhaff. These men were seated in the bar of the house and given the privilege of the floor.

V. Reception of New ChurchesThere were no new congregations to be received.

VI. Reception of New MinistersRev. Voytek and Rev. Michael Lassley were received, the body extended the right hand of fellowshipto them, and Rev. Bowen offered a prayer of thanksgiving.


VII. Announcement of Standing CommitteesThe chairman of the committee is underlined.

Education, Publications, Student Aid, Services & Interchurch: D. Irwin, M. Voytek, J. Fischer, D. HaakExaminations and Licensure: P. Poe, C. SchwichtenbergExcuses: M. Voytek, W. Brice, C. Dockter, J. FischerFinances, Benevolences, and Ministerial Aid: M. Fickbohm, J. Grossmann, D. IrwinJudicial: H. Bowen, P. Henderson, C. Dockter, P. PoeMissions: C. Schwichtenberg, M. Lassley, D. HaakNominations: M. Lassley, H. Bowen, M. Fickbohm

VIII. Presentation of Overtures, PermanentCommittee Reports & Communications

The Overtures, Permanent Committee Reports, and Communications were distributed to theStanding Committees.

CAMP COMMITTEEEsteemed Brothers,Your Committee met by teleconference on Saturday February 16, 2019. Members participating wereRevs. Carroll, Hall, and Grossmann and Elders Fickbohm and Frey. Revs. Fagrey and Mosleyprovided input via email. Rev. Carroll chaired the meeting and Rev. Grossmann recorded theminutes. A quorum was declared present.The Committee undertook its annual review of the prior year’s camp. The evaluations provided bycampers and counselors proved useful in identifying improvements for 2019. Of particular concernwas many counselors indicating they did not know the campers in their cabin. We hope to improvethis during HYC 2019.The Committee also discussed the schedule for camp. This year we will change the Thursdayschedule to allow campers more time of fellowship and alleviate some over-scheduled times in theevening. Campers should not worry, our classic outings and events are not changing – onlyimproving!The Committee considered the financial report (included with this report) for 2018. We noted thathigher than expected costs in some areas led to a shortfall for the year. As we approach HYC 2019we will seek to control costs and seek additional support from our member congregations. We alsoplan to designate the offerings during HYC to funding new equipment that is needed for the camp.Various camp themes were considered by the Committee. The Committee decided on the theme “Notof the World” for 2019, with the following lessons:

Lesson 1: God’s Will and You!An introduction to the idea of Christian’s living in the world, but not being of the world. A briefstudy on the providence of God, the will of man, and learning to rely on God for all that we need.How should the Christian live knowing they are in God’s Hand?Lesson 2: AuthorityAn overview of how the Christian approaches authority. God’s placement of authority over us. Whenand when not to submit to authority. Exploring the foundational lesson of honoring our parents allthe way to obeying the laws of our country. The ultimate authority of God in defining His creation.Does God define man and woman?Worship Service: In the World, Not of the World – John 17Lesson 3: Christian LibertyApproaches the idea of what Christians are allowed to do, what is beneficial to do, and what isharmful to do. Explores the issue of liberty, maturity in liberty, the freedoms of liberty, and thetensions of liberty. Examples could include what music we listen to, the friends we keep, our manner


of speech, what we wear, etc. How should the Christian live being in the world but not of it?Lesson 4: Approaching MarriageWhat is the purpose of marriage? Who should I marry? How do I choose a husband or wife? Howold should I be when I marry? How do I know when I have found my husband or wife? What isproper in a relationship? “Do not awaken love before it pleases.”Worship Service: The Offense of the GospelLesson 5: DepressionApproaches the issue of Christian’s not always being happy, chipper people. Provides Biblicalexamples of how the Christian handles dark providence, sin, etc. How the Christian approachestimes of darkness when – not IF – they occur. What to do if the Christian cannot feel God’s love.What does the Bible teach about suicide?Lesson 6: ConfidenceHow can the Christian be sure of their salvation? What can the Christian do to be confident inChrist? How can the Christian be confident in God’s Word? Why are there so many Bibletranslations and how do we know which to trust? In a confusing world, why should the Christian beconfident?

Your committee brings the following recommendations.Recommendation #1: TAKE NOTE that the dates of camp are as follows: July 22-26, 2019; July 20-24, 2020; July 26-30, 2021; July 18-22, 2022; & July 24-28, 2023.Recommendation #2: TAKE NOTE that congregations be encouraged to help meet the goal of$2,000 fundraising to support the camp.Recommendation #3: TAKE NOTE that congregations be encouraged to submit registrations by theJuly 1 submission deadline.Recommendation #4: That the budget, including registration fees, for HYC 2019 be approved.Recommendation #5: That the report as a whole be adopted.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the joint committee,H. Bowen, J. Grossmann, & M. Fickbohm for the Northern PlainsK. Carroll, D. Fagrey, J. Hall, J.P. Mosley, S. Frey & S. Ulmer for the South Central

Heidelberg Youth Camp Financial Report and Proposed Budget

2018 Budget 2018 Actual Difference (under)/Over

Opening Fund Balance $5,643.83

Revenue

Camp Fees (95 campers) $16,925 $17,340 415

Donations 1,500 1,023 (477)

Worship Offering 1,000 1,108.00 108

Camp Store Sales 600 606.00 6

Interest 0.44

Total Revenue

20,025 20,077

Expenses

Camp Bob Marshal Rental $11,457 $11,704.92 248


Camp Bob Sewage Surcharge

1,620 1,680 60

Food 3,800 4,528.29 728

T-Shirts & Counselor Gifts 2,500 2,841.36 341

Arts & Crafts 300 45.88 (254)

Supplies and Equipment 400 441.48 41

Administration 100 20 (80)

Camp Store Supplies 525 435.63 (89)500

Designated offering recipient

1,000 1,121.00 121

Total Expenses 21,702 22,818.56

Operating Gain (loss) (2,741.12)

Ending Fund Balance(10/31/18)

2,902.71

* Rental cost: $600 (kitchen use) +[$19 (daily rate/person) X4 (days) X 135 (people)] + 5.5% tax** HYC be designated as recipient of offering this year

Proposed 2019 Fees

Camper

$180 per camper if registration and fee received by June 1. ($5 increase)

$210 per camper if received June 1 or after ($5 increase)

No fee for adult volunteers

Proposed budget is based upon 95 campers and adults

CANDIDATES AND CREDENTIALS COMMITTEECandidates and Credentials Committee 2018Your committee examined two men in 2018 for pastoral ministry in the Northern Plains Classis.On June 23, 2018 Michael Lassley was examined for ordination to the gospel ministry during aspecial meeting of the NPC. Reverend Lassley was examined in the areas of English Bible,Theology Proper, Historical Philosophy and Apologetics, Anthropology and Soteriology (mainlyexplaining the ordo salutis).

Reverend Lassley passed all the areas of the loci in which he was examined.On August 14 Reverent Michael Voytek was approved by brief examination to move from theWestern Classis to the Northern Plains Classis to take up the work in Dickinson, ND. (as AssociatePastor of Aberdeen) Rev. Voytek was asked basically two questions.1. Can you re-affirm your commitment to the doctrines taught in our Three Forms of Unity?2. Can you re-affirm you commitment to the polity and church order of the RCUS as expressed inthe RCUS Constitution?


Rev. Voytek answered both questions in the affirmative without reservation. He was then invited tomove to ND if he still wanted to...he said he did!

Respectfully Submitted,Rev. Phil Poe, Rev. Hank Bowen, Rev Cody Schwichtenberg, Elder Jim Snyder, Elder Rod DeJong

DIACONAL COMMITTEENo Report Submitted

INTERCHURCH RELATIONS COMMITTEEFebruary 15, 2019

Esteemed Brothers and Fathers,

Your Committee has received invitations to:

The Midwest Presbytery of the Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America:

November 6-8, 2018 in Clarinda, IA

Classis Manitoba of the Canadian Reformed Churches:

March 23, 2018 in Winnipeg, MB

September 28, 2018 in Winnipeg, MB

Central Classis U.S. of the United Reformed Churches in North America:

September 10-11, 2018 in Lansing, IL

We were unable to attend any of the meetings to which we were invited.

Invitations for fraternal delegates to our stated March meeting have been emailed to Central Classisof the URCNA, Classis Manitoba of the CANRC, the Presbytery of the Dakotas of the OPC, and theMidwest Presbytery of the RPCNA. Classis Manitoba has promised to send a deputy or deputies asfraternal delegates.


James Grossmann; Dave Irwin; Paul Henderson; David VanderVliet

MISSIONS COMMITTEEFebruary 16th, 2019Esteemed Brothers in Christ,Over the past year, several men have visited First Reformed Church/Chapel in Dickinson, NDincluding two members of the Northern Plains Classis missions committee. On July 22nd, ElderDoug Haak visited the mission work as part of the ongoing oversight by the Aberdeen consistory andto do a reading service. The main reason for the visit was to give Rev. Wes Brice and Elder JohnHuizinga a much needed break. At that time Rev. Brice was not in the best of health and a heavyburden was placed on Elder Huizinga, with his work and the church.Over the summer, the Rev. Michael Voytek preached a trial sermon and received a call to become themissionary pastor of First Reformed Chapel of Dickinson. He arrived and assumed his pastoral


duties in mid-September. We are thankful to God for the faithful service of Rev. Brice over the pastfew years in his role as the supply pastor while the pastoral search was undertaken. With Rev.Voytek’s arrival Rev. Brice retired from the ministry due to his battle with cancer, On December 2nd,an installation service was held for Rev. Voytek. Rev. Cody Schwichtenberg conducted the servicewith Rev. Hank Bowen giving the charge to the congregation, and Rev. James Grossmann giving thecharge to the pastor. The day before the installation service, Elder Craig Mehlhalf of First Reformed Church, Aberdeenbrought a trailer containing the pulpit, communion table, baptismal, and three chairs which formerlybelonged to Hosmer Reformed Church which were obtained and graciously donated by FirstReformed, Church of Aberdeen. On February 3rd, Rev. Schwichtenberg visited the congregation in Dickinson to oversee the currenthealth of the mission work. The worship service was conducted by Rev. Voytek and Elder Huizingawith Rev. Schwichtenberg preaching the sermon. After the service, the congregation enjoyed adelicious fellowship meal. The consistory then met with Rev. Schwichtenberg to discuss the missionwork.Currently, the consistory consists of Rev. Voytek, two elders and one deacon. On January 27th, aninstallation and ordination service was held for the newly elected elder and deacon. The men whowere ordained and installed were Elder Dan Aune and Deacon Jeremy Cox. Elder Huizingaexpressed his gratitude to God for blessing the mission work with two capable men to servealongside him on the consistory along with the Aberdeen consistory. The congregation has been very supportive of Rev. Voytek as he continues to get to know them andserve as their pastor. There was a significant increase in membership this past year netting tencommunicant members and seven unconfirmed members for a total baptized membership of 37. Ona normal Sunday, there are 33-36 members attending including a number of visitors. The currentcapacity for the worship facility is 58. With an increase in visitors and members, there might be aneed to look for a bigger facility in the future, a project which has already begun. Rev. Brice and his wife Ginger are currently residing in the church parsonage in Taylor, ND. There isaround $30,000 of debt left on the parsonage. Rev. Voytek and his family reside in a temporaryrental home. They are in the process of selling their home in Lodi and are searching and will buy ahome in the Dickinson area after their home sells. Outreach has been a top priority for the consistory and the congregation. Invitation cards have beenmade for members to hand out to family, friends, and strangers inviting them to church. On the card,there is an address, contact information, and service times. Along with the invitation cards, there hasbeen an increased internet presence with a website, Facebook page, and sermon audio account. Biblestudies and a homeschooling group have been tools for outreach in the community. Overall, the fellowship and unity of the congregation is healthy and strong. Please continue to bediligent in prayer for the brothers and sisters in Dickinson. The financial position of the congregation remains strong even with the moving expenses for Rev.Voytek. There is still the challenge, however, of paying off the parsonage debt and determining whatto do with the parsonage in Taylor going forward given the relocation of the parsonage intoDickinson. Rev. Voytek intends to buy his own home so the need for a parsonage will go away. Their proposed support from Synod will be reduced from $12,500.00 to $9,100.00 in the next budgetcycle. They are asking for the Classis support of $18,933.32 to be reduced to $16,066 for the nextbudget cycle.Recommendations1. That Classis provide missions support in the amount of $16,066 for the First Reformed Chapel ofDickinson for the 2019-2020 fiscal year. 2. That Classis overture the 273rd Synod of the RCUS for home missions support for FirstReformed Chapel of Dickinson in the amount of $9,100.00 for the 2019-2020 fiscal year. (thisreflects a 10% reduction from the original support) 3. Last year, there was an error in the budgeted amount recommended to the 272nd Synod of theRCUS for home missions support for First Reformed Chapel of Dickinson in the amount of $10,800for the 2018-2019 fiscal year. The correct amount recommended should have been $12,500.Regardless, the correct financial support from Synod was received. Take Note4. That the Classis budget $1,500 for travel expenses to be used by the consistory of the First


Reformed Church in Aberdeen to visit Dickinson.5. That Classis continue to fund 75% of the costs for Ashley’s radio broadcast, “Start the Week”. Respectfully Submitted,Cody Schwichtenberg; Phil Poe; Rod DeJong; Doug Haak

FIRST REFORMED CHURCH, DICKINSONThree-Year Budget (start is 2012) Adjusted Income

Rounded to $10. Proposed amounts forfiscal years 7/1 – 6/30

2018ACTUAL

2018-2019Monthlyapprovedbudget

2018-2019APPROVEDBudget

2019-2020PROPOSED

2020-2021PROPOSED

2021-2022PROPOSED

INCOME: Offerings 72,299.30 6,000 72,000 90,784 92,850 99,650

Classis Support 18,933.32 1,183 14,200 16,066 7,400 4,000

Synod Support 12,499.98 1,042 12,500 9,100 5,700 2,300

Misc. Income 2,994.24 83 1,000 2,000 2,000 2,000

TOTAL INCOME 106,726.84 8,308 99,700 107,950 107,950 107,950

EXPENSES:

Building - Rent 18,000.00 1,500 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000

Telephone 1,283.77 83 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000

Utilities 2,287.55 125 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500

Maintenance/Building 282.99 42 500 500 500 500

EquipmentPurchases 1,704.82 0 0 0 0 0

Purchases 409.33 42 500 500 500 500

Insurance 501.00 100 1,200 1,200 1,200 1,200

Building Fund 1,520.00 127 1,520 1,520 1,520 1,520

Ministry - Web 184.00 25 300 300 300 300

Church Supplies 1,751.36 42 500 500 500 500

Pulpit Supply 579.95 62.50 750 750 750 750

Books/Instructional 184.85 42 500 500 500 500

Diaconal 1,000.00 25 300 300 300 300

Advertising 318.58 42 500 500 500 500

Miscellaneous 2,762.85 42 500 500 500 500

Sub-totalExpenses 32,771.05 2,299.5 27,570 27,570 27,570 25,750

Parsonage- Rent 9,565.40 167 2,000 2,000 2,000 2000

Mortgage: DebtReduction 7,838.01 469 5,630 5,630 5,630 5,630

Insurance 1,133.00 125 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500

Maintenance &Other 1,066.01 83 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000

TotalParsonage

Expense19,602.42 844 10,130 10,130 10,130 10,130


Rounded to $10. Proposed amounts forfiscal years 7/1 – 6/30

2018ACTUAL

2018-2019Monthlyapprovedbudget

2018-2019APPROVEDBudget

2019-2020PROPOSED

2020-2021PROPOSED

2021-2022PROPOSED

Pastor:Salary 47,928.05 3,833 46,000 49,200 49,200 49,200

IRA/Retirement 800.00 0 0 3,600 3,600 3,600

Health Insurance 2,400.00 0 0 7,200 7,200 7,200

Car Allowance 2,003.65 250 3,000 0 0 0

HousingAllowance 8,489.00 708 8,500 0 0 0

Utilities 0 0 0 3,000 3,000 3,000

Other 8,505.95 42 500 500 500 500

Total MinisterSupport 70,126.65 4,833 58,000 63,500 63,500 63,500

Communicant Members 13 13 21 21 21

Classis Guideline 910.00 83 1,000 1,500 1,500 1,500

Synodical Guideline 0 250 3,000 5,250 5,250 5,250

TOTALEXPENSES 123,410.12 7,975 99,700 107,950 107,950 107,950

DEBT (68,500 orig. loan) 29,884.00

SAVINGS (Cash on hand) 36,523.56

IX. Reports of Officers

A. President's Report on the State of the ChurchBeloved brethren, bond-servants and fellow soldiers of the Lord Jesus Christ: Are you not troubled with all of the news that you hear out there in the USA world, and what it means for us as followers of Christ? As ministers of the Word? As Elders seeking to uphold God’s truth? As citizens who want to see this nation out from under His judgment? For instance, the words spoken by the sitting Governor of Virginia, whereby he coolly, calmly, openly, and premeditatedly, spoke about murdering (eliminating) new born babies! Then there was the New York governing body, legalizing wholesale murder of human beings at birth, made in the image of God, and then, standing up and cheering about it! It is absolutely horrible! Vainly do the nations rage, and the people plot, as the rulers also set themselves together against the LORD and against His Anointed, saying, “Let us break Their bonds in pieces and cast away Their cords from us”, as the psalmist revealed in Ps. 2.So yes, brothers, we know that we are living in the last days, the days which are in fact, perilous, dangerous (II Tim. 3: 1), and filled with anti-Christian spirits which have been at work for many generations! (I John 4:1-3) Again, we see it in the ugly and perverted efforts to absolutely deny God’s word, and ruin or destroy His ordained order in regards to the family, the husband and wife relationship. We see it with that troubled gender identity and anti-marriage mob, who is seeking to establish their perversions as the norm. Such that, no God, no church, and no true believer in Jesus Christ shall ever oppose and speak evil of, or face the onslaught of that hate-filled, strongly deluded crowd, as well the blinded and destined for hell hoards, who support them within our government! Indeed the Word of God clearly sounds forth: “And for this reason God will send them strong


delusion that they should believe the lie that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” “We know that we are of God, and the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one.” II Thess. 2: 11, 12; I John 5: 19So yes, you and I, and the churches we serve, the moms, the dads, the covenant children, the grandpas and grandmas, as well as the brothers and sisters we preach to and work with, are living under this same judgment, and in these same perilous times! Moreover also dear fellow servants and soldiers of the Lord Jesus Christ, as the entire false church, and the society which loves it, continues to denounce sound biblical truth; continues to denounce andrenounce those old, ‘ancient’ three marks of the true church; yea, though they cast them aside as relics of an uninformed, intolerant, and unwanted past, meant only for domineering harsh religious men seeking to exert their control on the society of men and women, we must remain firm and steadfast in our callings! Therefore the Church of Jesus Christ, and this nation - the entire world, and of course then, our little R.C.U.S. and the Northern Plains Classis still needs our help! Still needs us to remain faithful and vigilant to the task and call before us. Wherefore we cannot be afraid of being labeled a ‘hate mongerer’, a bigot, a ‘phobic’ of any kind, or of being labeled insensitive and mean-spirited, if, if, we are fighting humbly and charitably, for the truth of God’s word and for His glory! Indeed, let Godbe true, and every man a liar. (Rom. 3: 4) So yes, this is the culture, the context, the realm, both within and without the church, in which you and I are supposed to carry out our callings as faithful under-shepherds, in service to our Eternal King, and the Shepherd and Overseer of our souls, who gave Himself for the Flock, purchasing themwith His own blood, making them His own peculiar and specially treasured folk. Therefore dear brothers, may we never, ever forget this calling, or the One who leads us into battle on behalf of His Bride, and for His own excellent Name’s sake. May we ever lean upon His everlasting arms! May we ever remain steadfast in this, the blessed ministry of the gospel! “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast immoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” I Corinthians 15: 57, 58Wherefore, it is not only with a burdened heart for these troubles, these sins, and these perversions ofour society, as well as the weaknesses or impurities within the church that I address you this day, but it is also with a steadfast and confident, hope-filled trust in the great Head of the Church, that I am able to look you in the eye, and declare that the state of the Northern Plains Classis, and the churches, those households of faith, though they are under continual assault, are truly being well cared for, and attended to, by you, the Lord’s servants! Praise His name! For in each and every one of your reports I hear the battle cries! I hear the battle songs! I hear the battle prayers! Yes, and I hear and taste the defeats, the victories, as well as the ongoing struggles to remain faithful and true, sincere and loyal, truly devoted to the cause, or better, to the advancement of the kingdom of God, yes, and to see the glorious glad tidings of great joy in Jesus Christ ever proclaimed before a gainsaying, ever careless and troubled, jumbled up mess, and mass of humanity!So praise be to His name that He has not abandoned us as yet, nor turned us over to the errors of the many, who so desire us to move toward, and walk on that broad path, which leads only away from the truth, and straight onto hell and everlasting destruction! So many thanks to each one of you for your faithful labors unto Jesus Christ and His people! Especially we must all rejoice and praise the name of our for Sovereign Lord and King for the tremendous example and witness of love, labor, and downright evangelistic fervor we all have been blessed to witness and be a part of, in the life, ministry and work of Reverend Wes Brice, and his dear wife Ginger! May we all be given a small portion of what God gave to them, that we might staythe course! Praise His name, and thank you “dear ones” for your many years of loving service to your King and His people!Along this line, as I read through your reports, I must say that I was truly enthused as I noted the “characters”, and the different men, God has used and continues to use to feed and care for His sheep! All placed together, and all called to work toward the same goal, battling against the same foes, the same sins, while using the manifold gifts, personalities and strengths, He has given to advance His glorious kingdom. Absolutely amazing and very, very special! It truly testifies of the Lord’s sovereign Headship, loving kindness, as well as His long-suffering.


Therefore men, brothers, and all those dear sisters who faithfully strive right alongside these under-shepherds, keep up the good work! Keep your ‘spiritual dukes’ up, and fight with all of the vigor, humility and strength that you can muster, always, always relying upon the power, the strength and the all-sufficient grace, which our Lord has for you, even as you labor for His glory, and the good of His Bride! As Martin Luther wrote, and we sing: “For though this world with devils filled, should threaten to undo us, we will not fear, for God hath willed His truth to triumph through us, the prince of darknessgrim, we tremble not for him, his rage we can endure, for lo! His doom is sure; one little word shall fell him …Yes the body they may kill, God’s truth abideth still; His kingdom is forever!”In conclusion then brethren, I believe that we are in for some turbulent times, both from without and from within the church, of which the N.P.C will not go unscathed, for the arrows and darts of the evilone are being aimed more and more directly upon us, yea, and upon our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Therefore, though we go forth as conquerors in Him, and will never truly be separated from His love; though we are to be “reformed and always reforming according to God’s word”, it will be necessary for us to remain ever vigilant in our duties, holding steadily to the Scriptures, our Confessions, our Directory of Worship, and our RCUS Constitution. For I know that sometimes we think we have a corner on ‘the marketplace of the gospel business,’ oran innovative way to deal with the cultural issues of the day, whereby we are tempted to adjust to them and their ways, and thus to tweak and mess then, with the truths, the practices and the traditions of the church, as lined out in the holy Scriptures and these documents; therefore let us all move very slowly, carefully, and with our hearts grounded in the truth, with our spiritual eyes focused or set upon Jesus Christ, and His glory, and also then, upon the beloved, glorious Body of Christ whom we have been called to serve on His behalf, for yes indeed, we are daily, “touching eternity” if you will. So allow me this loving admonition: Brethren, we must not fail to challenge each other when needed, or neglect to truly hold each other accountable when appropriate, as we strive together in love, both here in the Northern Plains, as well as throughout the regions of the Reformed Church in the United States when we meet for our Synod meetings, for if we do not do this, then we will be, of all men, most pitiful, and not worthy of being called Ministers of the Word, Elders, or under-shepherds. So let us rise up and fulfill our holy obligations in this, the day that He has ordained we should serveand fight! Let us be the generation of ministers and elders who sought to do our part, faithfully, loyally and lovingly all for His glory, as we seek the spiritual well-being of His holy Bride, according to His Word! Now, I leave you with these words: “Glory in His holy name; let the hearts of those rejoice who seekthe LORD! Seek the LORD and His strength; Seek His face evermore!” Psalm 105: 3,4 “But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren beloved by the Lord, because Godfrom the beginning chose you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth, to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle. Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us andgiven us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, comfort your hearts and establish you in every good word and work.” II Thessalonians 2: 13 - 17

Respectfully Submitted, Reverend Paul H. Henderson President – Northern Plains Classis R.C.U.S.

B. Stated Clerk's Report (Including Necrology)March 17th, A.D. 2019Esteemed Brethren,Thank you for the opportunity to serve you as your Stated Clerk over the course of the past year. I will be reporting on my labors since our 33rd Annual Spring Meeting of Classis.Duties Performed:


1. Completed the Minutes from the 33rd Annual Spring Meeting of the Northern Plains Classis and presented them to the 272nd Synod of the Reformed Church of the United States. (There were a few exceptions noted by the Committee on the Minutes of Classis, they are being corrected.)2. Prepared the Abstract of the 33rd Annual Spring Meeting of Classis and delivered copies of them to the churches of the RCUS at the Synod meeting held in Golden Valley, MN.3. Prepared the Statistical Report, Stated Clerk's Report, as well as any items needed for this meeting.Correspondence Sent and Received:

1. Communication with the Elders of Hosmer Reformed Church, Eureka Reformed Church, and First Reformed Church Herreid requesting their answers to the Article 81 Constitutional Questions.

2. A letter from the Stated Clerk of Synod regarding the documents to be submitted to the churches prior to the next session of Synod.

3. Five items to the Stated Clerk of Synod:1. Statistical & Membership Report for the NPC2. Writ of Certification for Classis Delegates to the 272nd Synod of the RCUS3. Addresses of the Churches and Delegates of the NPC4. Report of Changes5. Five overtures from the NPC to the Synod of the RCUS

4. Three Executive Circulars to the Delegates of Classis sent via email and the US Postal Service.

5. Emails and correspondence to denominations with which we have fraternal relations, inviting them to our stated meetings.

6. Communication with the Stated Clerk of the Western Classis of the RCUS receiving Rev. Michael Voytek’s ministerial credentials.

7. Forms for Membership and Financial Statistics, as well as the Form for the Credentials ofElders to Classis to the churches of the NPC to be completed prior to our 34th Annual Meeting.

Note: It would appear that we have not received reports from two of our permanent committees: The Candidates and Credentials Committee and the Diaconal committee.Respectfully Submitted,James Grossmann

Necrology for Ruben E. Beck

Ruben E. Beck was born July 20, 1927 to Edward and Lydia (Schmidt) Beck on the family homestead near Artas, SD. He attended country school and also attended school in Artas and Herreid, graduating from Herreid High School with the class of 1945. He farmed with his family until his marriage. Ruben was united in marriage to Alice Hilgemann on October 19, 1948 at Gluckstahl Reformed Church in McPherson County, SD. He and Alice started their own farm a half mile south of Artas, where they raised small grains and livestock. They semi-retired in 1994 and moved into Eureka. Alice died November 20, 2000. Ruben continued to live in Eureka and made daily trips to help on his daughter and son-in-law’s farm. In 2007, Ruben had a hip replacement and retired from farming. In June of 2012 he entered Good Samaritan Society Herreid.Ruben was a very family-oriented man. He loved spending time with his family and special memories were made with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He enjoyed playing pinochle and visiting with his neighbors. He loved dancing with his wife, Alice. He was a member of First Reformed Church in Herreid and a former member of Eureka Reformed Church where he had been an Elder. He was a past Director of Campbell County Bank and a Director of Artas Coop. Ruben died October 24, 2018 at Good Samaritan Society Herreid.


C. Report of the Executive Committee's Report of SynodJanuary 28, 2019Dear Brothers in Christ,In reviewing the minutes of the 272nd Synod, there are some items that the Classes should takenote of:1. Classes should take note of the corrections that should be made to their minutes as adopted by theSynod (272nd Abstract, pp. 88-89).2. Both membership statistics and financial statistics should be according to the calendar year.3. Standing rules #2 and #3 which respectively read: “The statistics of the Classes for the calendaryear shall be forwarded to the Stated Clerk of Synod May 1”; “The writ of certification fordelegate elders shall be forwarded to the Stated Clerk May 1.”4. That the Stated Clerk of each Classis regularly provide the webmaster, in electronic form, anupdated roll of ministers, elders, and churches following their spring Classis meeting.5. Standing Ministerial Aid recommendation 8 (2013 Abstract page 76), that pursuant to Article 28of the RCUS Constitution, Classes shall not consider a pastoral call letter as “adequate support”to the temporal needs of the called pastor, unless retirement is addressed and funded in the termsof the call.6. That treasurers of the various churches be reminded to comply with Synod standing rule 8 withregard to designating for which fund the monies delivered to the RCUS are to be attributed.7. Please remember to send necrologies to me in time for Synod.8. The Classes are reminded that the 273nd Annual Session of the Synod of the RCUS is scheduledto meet May 20-23, 2019, at Northland Reformed Church, Kansas City, MO.Respectfully submitted,David FagreyStated Clerk, RCUS

D. Executive Committee's Report on the MinutesMarch 17, 2019

Esteemed Brethren,Three (3) circulars were sent out this past year and the following is a summary of that business. Because no objections were received to the circulars, all the recommendations brought by the Executive Committee became actions of the Classis.Volume 33, Number 1The Northern Plains Classis scheduled a Special Meeting at 10:00 a.m. June 23, A.D. 2018 at First Reformed Church, Herreid, SD for the purpose of examining Mr. Michael Lassley for Ordination.The Membership of Frieda Rau and Alma Rau was transferred to the Harvest Reformed Church, Minot, North Dakota according to RCUS Constitution Article 14.Constitution Article 81 answers were noted from First Reformed Church, Herreid, South Dakota and Eureka Reformed Church, Eureka, South Dakota.Volume 33, Number 2The transfer of Rev. Michael Voytek’s ministerial credentials was approved.The call of Rev. Voytek to be Pastor of First Reformed Church, Aberdeen, South Dakota, serving First Reformed Chapel in Dickinson, North Dakota and Rev. Voytek’s acceptance of the call was approved.The installation Service was scheduled for December 2, A.D. 2018 at 2pm (Mountain Time). Rev. Hank Bowen, Rev. Cody Schwichtenberg, and Rev. James Grossmann with the Elders of First Reformed Church, Aberdeen, South Dakota made up the installation committee. Rev. Grossmann gave the charge to the pastor, Rev. Bowen gave the charge to the congregation, and Rev. Schwichtenberg officiated at the service.Volume 33, Number 3Distributed a proposed agenda and services for the 34th annual spring meeting of the Northern Plains Classis with two overtures that had been received.


Respectfully Submitted,The Executive Committee

E. Treasurer's Report and Auditing Committee ReportSee the Appendix of this Abstract for the Treasurer's Report.

X. Parochial Reports of Ministers

Parochial Report of Rev. Hank Bowen

Esteemed Brothers,In Acts 2:40-47 we read of the response to Peter’s sermon on the day of Pentecost: and with manyother words he testified and exhorted them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation.”41 Then those who gladly received his word were baptized; and that day about three thousand soulswere added to them. 42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in thebreaking of bread, and in prayers. 43 Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signswere done through the apostles. 44 Now all who believed were together, and had all things incommon, 45 and sold their possessions and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need.46 So continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, theyate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, 47 praising God and having favor with all thepeople. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.

The parochial report is intended to give an overview of the different aspects of the ministry ofthe pastor within the congregation by presenting a review of the previous year. Having now been inAberdeen over the year and a half mark, I find myself in a better position to have a feel for the natureof the congregation and how things work.

The consistory of First Reformed Church is a tremendous asset for this congregation. They arededicated, knowledgeable and have a heart for the flock. At the end of this past year Elder JohnBender decided it was time to take a break from active service. John was ordained to serve in theoffice of deacon at First Reformed Church in February of 1979. He served in that capacity untilJanuary of 1990 when he was elected and ordained as an elder, an office to which he has givendedicated service and leadership to for just short of thirty years. For many years he has done theimportant work of serving as the clerk of the consistory, along with his duties of teaching thecatechetical students in Sunday School. It is with gratitude that we can look to the Lord whoprovides such high caliber men like Elder Bender to serve in His church.

The various ministries of the church have made good progress midst this past year. TheCatechism Class has three students who are committed to the program. There is a focus on theHeidelberg Catechism, Bible doctrine, Church history and singing of hymns and psalms onWednesday nights. On Sunday Elder Bender teaches English Bible. The overall effectiveness seemsto be improving and there is a constant review and discussion of how to improve in our work ofbringing covenant youth to confirmation.

This is built upon the work done in our Sunday School and Bible School programs. Severalmembers give generously to these areas of our youth ministry. The Vacation Bible School took upthe topic of Knowing the Old Testament last year, and this year focus will turn to Knowing the NewTestament.

There were four Heidelberg Campers last year who handled themselves admirably and gave agood report to the congregation following. I was privileged to teach one of the Senior CampersLectures. This was important given the absence of any campers in recent years. This year we areencouraging all who are eligible to go to Heidelberg Camp to make that a priority.

Our TASC (Teens Actively Serving Christ) group was established last year with the intentionof having a means for our High School and College members to engage in fellowship and activitiesin service to the Lord. This has proven to be a great challenge and little took place this past yearother than their involvement in organizing one Worship Service last summer that includedinvolvement by the youth. There is a need for someone in the congregation to take up a leadership


role and seek to organize and generate more activity in this group.The Coffee Chat, which is the adult Sunday School time immediately following worship, has

seen a tremendous amount of positive interaction. This past year introduced a project of goingthrough the Bible chronologically and then discussing select questions during the coffee hour. Therefreshments were a great addition along with the great benefit of delving into God’s Word toincrease familiarity with the Bible. Of an even greater benefit is the fellowship that it has beennurturing within the congregation. Coffee Chat is now going through the Bible for the second timethis year and we are refining our development of the Bible Proficiency Project questions and studysheet. Added this year is a tab in our Website dedicated to this project.

This past year the Women of Faith group was very active, including the organizing andsponsoring of a Women of Faith Conference in Sioux Falls attended by ladies from throughout theRCUS in the Midwest. The men began their own group this year and have settled on calling it theEarly Risers Club as they meet at 6:30 am on the first and third Tuesday of each month to study abook along with coffee, goodies, and fellowship. Average attendance has been 5-8.

One of the areas of ministry that there is a desire to take more advantage of is social media thathas become ingrained in our culture. We shifted oversight and management of the website andfacebook at the beginning of this year to become an active element within the life of the church.Currently, we are working on a color scheme and at some point, we are hoping to introduce a distinctbranding for First Church.

Over the past few years, we have had oversight responsibilities of our mission chapel inDickinson, ND. One of the primary concerns was to find a missions pastor who would be a good fitto move the work forward and onto being able to organize as a congregation at which point ouroversight would end. The Lord has been blessing the work with new members, they are currently at21 communicant members with six students in Confirmation Class, and numerous children. Theyalso continue to attract visitors and some are expressing interest in membership. Of course, the bignews was the acceptance of a call and the arrival in September of Rev. Michael Voytek as the newpastor. He was duly installed on December 2 and has been well received. We are thankful for thework by Rev. Brice while the search was undertaken.

My duties as a pastor have kept me very busy, something that is a great joy for me, eventhough I wish I had more hours in a day and more energy to accomplish the things to be done. Ipreached 48 times in Aberdeen, twice in Dickinson, and did Missionfest in Eureka. I also was a partof the 150th year Celebration of the Hamburg, MN congregation along with Rev. Bill Haddock wherewe both pastored.

Other areas that have kept me busy were doing the monthly chapel on the first Tuesday at oneof the local nursing homes, and I also do chapel twice a year at one of the other rehab facilities.

An exciting ministry opportunity for me was to become part of the staff for the AberdeenWings Hockey Team as the team chaplain. This is a Development team of players from ages 18-20who are billeted in homes as they work toward obtaining D1 scholarship offers. I hold a chapel everyTuesday morning during the season at 11:30. This includes feeding the hungry players and goingthrough about a 20-minute devotional message. I have been making great use of Kappes’ hamburgerin feeding about 8-10 players each week as they come off of the ice from practice. This position alsoentails counseling of these young men as the need arises over the course of the season. Along withmy work as a Hockey Ministries International Chaplain was an opportunity to work at an HMI campin Fargo, ND for a week with about sixty youth. I was a counselor for seven 12-year-olds and two ofthem professed faith during the week.

There are simply a lot of things we are doing through First Church. The radio program is heardevery Sunday morning, the Bible studies for Sunday are being developed, I was engaged in work fora DMin through Heidelberg Theological Seminary but have now placed that on hold simply becausemy schedule is too full.

Another important area of ministry is seeking to provide opportunities for fellowship throughoutside picnics, fifth Sunday hymn sings, and other activities. Those who have taken advantage ofthese times of getting together have expressed a great deal of appreciation for just getting togetherand having fun, and maybe even getting wet.

One of the areas that is so important to our worship and which we are so thankful for is the useof their talents by Becky Mehlhoff and Patty Bowen in playing in our worship services. They make a


great team in bringing a high quality of complementary instrumentation to help us in raising ourvoices in praise to God.

Our membership remains very stable at 91 with 20 unconfirmed members. Ethan Morlock wasreceived by confirmation, Donna Kappes was received by letter and Elizabeth Neihlich byProfession. Four members were dismissed and our brother Marvin Moser, who was the janitor foryears in the Eureka congregation, was called to his heavenly home at the end of this year.

So what is our vision for the year that lies ahead? Points of emphasis will continue to includenurturing a greater sense of community and hospitality within our congregation. As a congregation,we need to become more active in reaching out and inviting people to come to church. There is aparticular need to increase our numbers in the area of younger families with children. But given allthis, I believe there is a great sense of joy within the congregation like the early saints of whom it issaid, and they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking ofbread, and in prayers.Respectfully submitted,Rev. Hank Bowen

Parochial Report of Rev. James Grossmann

Esteemed Fathers and Brothers,Paul says in Ephesians 4:11-16, "11And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets,

some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, 12for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ, 13till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind ofdoctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, 15but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ—16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love."

I do not wish to preach a sermon on this passage, but notice the emphasis on the fact that God gives pastor and teachers not to do all the work of ministry, but to equip the saints for the work of ministry. Notice that this ministry to one another “will edify the body of Christ” and produce unity of faith and knowledge.

It has been my joy and privilege to serve the brothers and sisters at Eureka Reformed Church this past year as Minister of the Word. I have been blessed to preach for 49 regular worship services.Some of those services were designed to provide worship when the weather was too problematic to invite the church members. We also celebrated Good Friday, Ascension Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas with worship. Due to weather, we canceled our planned New Years Day service. My Sermons have been largely in series format from the books of Isaiah, Philippians, Mark, Romans, Exodus, 2 Timothy and 2 Samuel. We have held worship at the Eureka Health Care Center on the fourth Wednesday of almost every month. On most months, I have provided a devotion for our Ladies Aid. Our Sunday Evening Bible Study is coming to the end of a study of the first 11 chaptersof Genesis. We are considering future studies on evangelism, peacemaking, or Discipling. We have begun an Adult Sunday School, reading through the Bible in a year. We are well into the New Testament. I was also privileged to serve as a counselor and give a lecture at our Heidelberg Youth Camp this July.

Over the past year, we have lost 2 members to death. The funeral of Darlene Neuharth was held March 23rd. The funeral of Nita Krein was held October 13th. We also Hosted the Funeral of Reuben Beck. We received the transfer of Nathan and Kelsi Arbach with three sons from First Reformed, Herreid, SD. With these changes, our membership stands at 107 communicant and 8 baptized members.

We have celebrated the Lord’s Supper three times this year. We were providentially hindered from celebrating in April. On each occasion, shut-in communion was offered to our shut-ins in the Eureka Health Care Center, the Assisted Living, and to those in their own homes. A total of 80 members or 73% of our members partook of the Lord’s Supper this year. This is a rise of 3% over last year.


Our ministry of Vacation Bible School continued this summer. We had 29 students attend! Praise the LORD. We are humbly thankful those who contribute their time and efforts to make this possible. Please join me in praying for the young people who have been attending and for the opportunity to impact our community through this ministry again this summer. This is an excellent ministry we can have in our community.

Our Sunday School now consists of 11 young men! It has been an outreach opportunity as well as an opportunity to train our covenant young men in the things of the LORD.

Following a hail storm, our insurance replaced our roof. This was not without problems, in that while the roof was opened, it rained in for 15 minutes. We are currently in the process of havingthe water stains removed from the church ceiling.

My duties as Stated Clerk of the Northern Plains Classis continue and have been slightly up from previous years.

I am very sad to report that we will not be performing and hosting an Easter Cantata this year. In fact, we are at this point unable to field a choir. This is understandable as our congregation ages, however, it still is a sorrow to me personally. As one of our elders noted, this perhaps, can be an opportunity to concentrate in other areas and explore other ministries for our church. One possibilityI hope to pursue would be a men’s Bible Study/Leadership training class. I hope to focus this class on discipleship, as Paul spoke of in the Ephesians passage I quoted at the beginning of this report.

We also joined other churches in the classis to began to help a student in the Philippines pay for his seminary education with Heidelberg Theological Seminary. Dr. Koerner reports that they are finishing up their first year of classes and that they have 25 students taking classes with them. By allreports they are excited about the Reformed faith and have been learning quickly. Please pray for them.

I have just taken the classroom work for the seventh of eight courses on a path for a Doctor of Ministry degree. These courses have been taxing, however, they have been helpful and have had much application in my ministry here. The D.Min project looms ever closer, a project by which I amintimidated. At this point it seems that the dissertation will be in the area of Pastoral Counseling. I also completed and received my Master of Divinity degree on June 1st.

As always, I pray that I have accomplished an acceptable job for the glory of our Savior and for the extension of His Church. On all of these items, I request your prayers that I may be able to balance my labors for Classis and Synod with faithfully ministering to God's Church in Eureka.

I continue to encourage the brothers and sisters of the congregation in Eureka to prayer for the church. Prayer for their pastor, for the youth, for outreach, for the RCUS as a whole. Prayer that God would use the broadcast of our worship services, our VBS, our Mid-Winter Conference and other opportunities He would supply to bring His word to our community. May God Richly Bless Eureka Reformed Church in 2019,Respectfully Submitted,Rev. James Grossmann

Parochial Report of Rev. Paul Henderson

Dear fellow servants and followers of the Lord Jesus Christ,We serve, we fight, we stumble and fall; we pray and read, get back up again and do it all over

again; all supposedly for the glory of our sovereign Lord Jesus Christ, and the spiritual well-being of His people. Supposedly, I say, because it sure seems like those words—that ‘motto’ or mantra, yes, that sound biblical directive comes so easily from my lips, yet in truth, it certainly does not always show itself readily in my attitude, my practice, nor in my service while in this blessed, good fight of faith! Nonetheless, the Lord of glory accomplishes His will and plans and therefore always receives the glory, honor and praise! For He is decidedly jealous for His own glory, honor and love! He will not give it to another! And He is jealous for our love, and always sees to it that His servants come back to and continue on persevering in His strength, grace and mercy! I praise His name for His long-suffering!

So once again I present to you the temporal, and the spiritual welfare of Hope Reformed Church in Pierre, as well as the labors to which I have been engaged. Financially we are always struggling to make our Guidelines, both of Classis and Synod, and to do the labors here in Pierre, that we are


called to carry out! Though we have been faithful to send in what we have collected, we are often torn between doing this, and keeping ourselves afloat, that is, in paying an adequate salary to the pastor, as well as in keeping up our properties, some advertising, and thus in seeing our name out there for the community to know that we still exist and are alive! This has been Hope’s dilemma for much of its history. But this year, we as a church body have decided to take a bolder step toward ‘advertising’, using the newspaper, the local city-wide ad newsletter, as well as the internet and Facebook angle to accomplish this goal. Yet, we are doing this with the possibility of not fulfilling our obligations to the R.C.U.S. In other words, we want to survive by promoting and preserving what we have, while making a diligent effort at ‘reintroducing’ ourselves and the gospel of Jesus Christ to a city, who knows not the name of Hope, and who needs more of the gospel truth! Now mainly, this struggle comes because of the lack of actual, ‘living stones’, or members! For the members we have now are currently giving faithfully! They have provided what the pastor, the property and the monthly bills and other things have needed! There is no shortage of faithfulness here, such that with their giving, along with some outside ‘extra’ giving, we were able to put up a new church sign over our front doors, put new windows and new appliances in the manse. Yet, a newparsonage roof will most likely be in our near future, as it has continued to leak over the past 10 years or so. Therefore we are committing ourselves to this ‘ad/marketing campaign’ for three years, such that our guidelines to both Classis and Synod may take a hit. Otherwise we will have to go backto the drawing board and make some tough decisions as to whether or not Hope Reformed is still a viable work; OR perhaps, make changes to the manner in which a pastor is called, and thus goes about his calling here in Pierre (part-time work/call a single man, etc.,)

So we continue to praise God for the giving thus far, and for a commitment toward our new and improved ‘marketing’ effort, looking to our Lord to bless our efforts! We know that unless the Lord builds it, we labor in vain. So with hope we look to God to send new people both to our Sunday service, as well as our Wednesday study by way of this ‘marketing’ campaign, and the living stones which are connected to it!

In regards to the spiritual welfare of these ‘living stones’, I believe that all in all everyone is continuing to seek their Lord’s will, and to be a witness of His grace in their personal lives. After all,they, yes we are the living ‘billboards’, the “Facebook pages’, and the ‘newspaper ads’ that people see each and every day! Attendance is very good on the Lord’s Day as well as Sunday school and Wednesday evening Bible Study. The elders continue their diligence in overseeing the flock and in keeping yours truly on his toes! Folks volunteer and help out when needed, and by and large, there ispeace in the church. Difficulties are dealt with and biblical solutions and remedies are sought out and pursued. All in all, the Spiritual Council, as well as the members seek to follow the Apostle Paul’s admonitions in I Thessalonians 5: 12-15: “And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those wholabor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly inlove for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves. Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.”

To this end I labor! Thus the congregation has heard sermons series on Titus, Zephaniah, Psalm 45, and an assortment of sermons, mainly from the Old Testament. Sunday school has been studying of late, what it means to be reformed, and always reforming. On Wednesdays we took a look at the Attributes of God, and are currently studying the nature and scriptural elements of public worship, using the R.C.U.S. Directory of Worship. I continue to encourage our littler youth, ok, have fun withthem; strengthen the older youth, my own children for now, and seek to build up the young, but olderones among us. I participated and spoke at our Heidelberg Youth Camp. I enjoy our once a month service of singing and study at the Lincoln Apartments. Visiting, counselling and doing all of the other little things fill out most weeks. I also have one in confirmation and he is hanging in there, seeing that I am his father too!

Also, we had the privilege of having Reverend Tim Marinelli and children with us for Mission fest! What a couple of powerful sermons, and what a blessed family, as they have all been through many trials and afflictions in the past two years. Thankfully the folks in Menno invited me to their Mission fest services and we all had a wonderful time in worship and during the fellowship meal! It was also a good time of fellowship and worship as I ministered God’s word to the brethren up there in Dickinson! They are a hungry, and lively bunch of folk! We were blessed to visit with elder


Huizinga and family after the service. It was also a treat to dine with our esteemed father and mother in the faith, Reverend Wes Brice and his dear wife, Ginger! We were treated like royalty! Indeed what precious times!

This year in January I was asked by Dale Bartscher, President of the Right to Life in South Dakota to give the invocation at the Sanctity of Life rally at the Capital. It was kind of exciting, for I was privileged to be on stage with our new Governor, Kristi Noem, our Congressman, Dusty Baker, and a few other great folks who are staunch supporters of God’s word in regards to the ending of the heinous sin of murdering the unborn, and fighting as well, for a host of other family issue oriented measures. Unbelievably, the Governor and I high-fived! Go figure!

Once again, as the pastor, I am out there in the community engaging the people I meet, always looking for opportunities to actually confront and deal with people where I find them on their sojourn, that is, whether they are headed for heaven or hell. I have and continue to strive at encouraging the brethren to do the same! Moreover I seek to promote a genuine friendliness, and an honest, open, heartfelt joy at welcoming the strangers whom God may bring through our doors! For beloved, it is way too easy for us to remain “comfortable” in our reserved pew seats, and habits, suchthat we stick to ourselves and our own little comfort zones or kingdom spaces! Basic, good ole friendliness goes a long way!

As always, prayer is a must! This too must be diligently practiced and done, for it is perhaps the most important part of my service and fight! God help me to pray unceasingly for His people and His glory!Respectfully Submitted,Pastor Paul H. Henderson

Parochial Report of Rev. Dave Irwin

Dear Fathers and Brothers in Christ, We are reminded in I Peter chapter 2:1-10 that the Christian church is not a man-made social

club, we are not a social services organization created by some wealthy philanthropist, nor are we a school of human thought and philosophy. Rather, we, “...as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.... a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people: that ye should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” (I Peter 2:5 & 9). Christ has called us out of this dark world to show His praises to the world around us. Christ Jesus has called and claimed us out of this world to be His own peculiar people, His royal priests, His holynation. He purchased us by His blood on the cross, and He claims us by the Spirit working faith in us by means of causing us to believe the Gospel. And in this way, Jesus is building a Temple for God's Spirit to dwell in – not a building made with human hands out of bricks, wood, and plaster, buta building made of stones – living stones – individual believers. Together, we are to “put aside all malice” (I Peter 2:1) as we are built together as the the people of God, and the living Temple of God,built by God's own hands.

Over the 2018 calendar year, it has been my honor and privilege to serve as the pastor at Salem Reformed Church in Ashley, North Dakota. Although I had already been serving as pastor for most of 2017, my installation service did not take place until Sunday evening, February 25th, with Rev. Hank Bowen of Aberdeen leading the service, Rev. Schwichtenberg of Herried giving the charge to the congregation, and Rev. J. Grossmann giving the charge to the pastor.

As minister of Word and Sacrament in 2018, I have been privileged to lead at approximately 49 worship services in our church, including Ascension Day and the Christmas program. The majority of our sermons in 2018 systematically explored the Gospel of John, from John 6:1 through John 12:19, with a few forays into Hebrews, I Corinthians, and the Gospel of Luke. We celebrated the Lord's Supper 3 times in 2018 (March 11th, July 22nd, and October 28th), and held adult Sunday School 8 or 9 times this past year. We had no baptisms, confirmations, or weddings in our church in 2018, though I did hold marriage counseling classes for a young couple before their wedding. I officiated over 3 funerals and led one pre-funeral prayer service.

Outside of our church, I held an estimated 9 or 10 regular chapel services at the local nursing


home, plus at least two memorial services there (for residents who were unable to attend their loved one's funerals). I preached at two community services in Ashley (Memorial Day observances and also at the community summer celebration). I also preached at 1st Reformed Church in Aberdeen, SD for their Missionfest, and filled in one or two times each for Rev. James Grossmann in Eureka, SD and Rev. Cody Schwichtenberg in Herried, SD. I also led an estimated 48 Bible studies at the nursing home in Ashley.

In other outreach efforts, we began holding a men's fellowship breakfast once a month starting last October. Over the radio, we broadcast 51 “Start the Week” programs over KSJB AM 600 in 2018, with an estimated weekly audience of somewhere between 15,000 and 20,000 listeners. The program airs every Sunday morning at 7:45 am, and several people in the community have thanked us for airing the program. Most of these “Start the Week” programs covered the early chapters of theGospel of Mark. Closer to home, recordings of our Sunday church services continue being broadcast over our local access cable channel on Monday afternoons.

Christ added some to our number and called others away. Ruby Beck became our newest member, with her letter of dismission from the RCUS church in Eureka being received by the Spiritual Council on January 3rd. At the same time, Donna Kappes was granted a letter of dismissionto be received by the RCUS church in Aberdeen, SD. Clara Kost, who had been a member of the church here in Ashley since June of 1943, was called home to be with the Lord on February 10th, with her funeral on February 17th.

One special challenge for myself personally this year was when my wife Trena left me in October, and filed for divorce in December. When she left, Trena expressed her intention to find someone else. Trena had never joined the church when we moved here, so church discipline was notan option. She ceased attending church with us during the summer of 2018. She has rejected the Biblical doctrine of total depravity, and wishes to devote her energies to promoting human potential and liberal social justice issues. Both the Consistory and the congregation at Salem Reformed have expressed their desire for me to remain on as their pastor here in Ashley. I am grateful for their friendship, prayers, and support during this time of loss, as well as for the understanding, prayers, and support from the members of Classis. I am very thankful that God Himself is an ever present help in time of trouble, and in the midst of our thorns, that His strength is made perfect in our weakness.Respectfully submitted – Rev. Dave IrwinPastor, Salem Reformed ChurchAshley, ND

Parochial Report of Rev. Michael Lassley

Fellow members of the household of God within the Northern Plains Classis,It has been an honor and a pleasure to serve with you this past year, both as a Licentiate and, as

of July 11th, a Minister in the R.C.U.S. For my part, I have only thanks to give. For it has been apparent that the faith of the body of Christ at Covenant Reformed in Watertown, SD continues to grow abundantly, as does the love of its members one for one another.” (2 Thess 1.3 ESV).

As the church’s faith in the Lord and adherence to his gospel continues to create and atmosphereof unity and peace among this household of God, they continue to build up the church as they should...evidenced as more and more of our members seek to explore and exercise the various gifts with which they have been blessed to the benefit and enjoyment of all; making the care of their soulsby the Spiritual Council and Consistory a great joy and a cause for thanksgiving and praise to our Lord.

In last years report we discussed the possibility of adding several new members to our congregation. In response, a four-week Inquires Class which provided an overview of the history R.C.U.S, the Reformed faith, and the vision of Covenant Reformed Church was developed and implemented. Shortly thereafter, thirty-four souls were added to our family (seven by Reception of Certificate, nine by Renewal of Profession of Faith, and eighteen Covenant children) resulting in the baptisms of eight children into the Covenant of Grace, in the name of Father, of the Son, and the of Holy Spirit. Hallelujah and Amen! To him be the glory, forever and ever. Amen.


To continue the praise, we also had two young adults James Dragt Jr. and Ashley Dragt satisfactorily complete requirements for Confirmation and welcomed into full communing membership.

This past year we only lost one member due the membership of Deb Syms being transferred to New Hope PCA in Abbeville, S.C. where she moved to assist her aging mother (with the understanding that she would keep a close eye on the PCA).

In last years report we were also considering how to implement a program of Christian Education at Covenant Reformed. Shortly afterwards, we launched our Covenant Life groups, (Sunday school with an emphasis not only upon teaching but nurturing as well); consisting of five youth groups and one adult group led by (Brian Ardry, Lori Sapp, Gisele Stout, Amy Lassley, & Julie Knock), along with a Christian Education committee (C.E.) (Paula Dejong, Gisele Stout, Brian Ardry and myself) in order to serve the church by advising the Spiritual Council in its oversight of the quality of education taking place with in the Covenant Life groups.

The development of the Covenant Life Groups along with feedback from our C.E. committee also lead to the reorganization of our Confirmation Group which is now incorporating, not only Norman Jones’ book on the “Heidelberg Catechism” and B.K. Kuiper’s book on “The Church in History” but also the “Word’s of Faith” from the Confirmation Handbook, a four semester survey of the Bible “The Most Important Thing You’ll Ever Study” by Starr Meade, the Belgic Confession, theCanons of Dort, and a study on church polity and the R.C.U.S constitution. We currently have six youth in our Confirmation group one of whom has special needs due to Downs Syndrome (Payton Lassley). I have found that with some modification to the Heidelberg Catechism, Payton is not only able to participate but to make progress in memorizing the modified questions as well. Along with this, I have also begun to see the common stigmas held against him begin to soften among his peers and the church as he is allowed to participate and struggle right along with the rest of us.

Along with Covenant Life Groups, the bi-weekly outreach ministry of Covenant Reformed Youth Fellowship (C.R.Y.F. ) was also launched; again with an emphasis on providing both a teaching and nurturing environment for the older youth within the church and without. There is evidence that it has drawn the older youth of our church into community with one another, as well asa few outside the church as they have been brought together for an hour every other week, this past year to interact with the wisdom in Proverbs and an overview on Worldviews, followed by pizza andan hour of various games with one another.

We have also been blessed to establish a Worship Committee (Lori Sapp, Roxanne Towles, Ben Barthel, and myself) to advise the Spiritual Council on matters of worship and special services throughout the year; the fruit of which we have already been blessed by the formation of a youth choir lead by Andrea Sapp, with talk of expanding to include adults.

In our bi-weekly Bible Studies this past year we have waded through the epistles of 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus, and 1& 2 Peter; sharpening one another in our understanding of the gospel and how it applies it to our lives, both as individuals in our various fields and as the church in our culture.

The bi-weekly Women’s Fellowship group completed its first book study over “The Envy of Eve,” while our bi-weekly Men’s Fellowship group was able to put a good dent in a book study over “How Jesus Run’s the Church”; a study intended to piggy back on our study of Pastorals as we seek to continue to emphasize the necessity of competent biblical leadership in the church. The Men’s fellowship group also held its first annual Clay Pigeon Shoot Out, or as some have justifiably referred to it: The Clay Pigeon Shoot “At.”

Adding to these various ministry we were also blessed to be able to host for community: a Reformation Party, a Christmas program, and get our website updated so that Sunday sermons can now be accessed on-line.

This past year, the church was also able to give above its pledge for a special offering to support the work of Heidelberg Theological Seminary in the Philippines as well as an offering for the seminary itself.

Financially, the church continues to be blessed by increased and stable giving; fueling the desires and prayers of even more ministries and especially of having a facility of our very own from which to worship, reach, nurture, and teach many more with the gospel through the Reformed faith.

Near the end of the year the Spiritual Council approved the addition of Covenant Reformed’s first, second Deacon; an office which Allen Towles will soon be ordained and installed along with a


new Elder Brian Ardry.As we look forward into the new year, areas of focus will include continuing to seek how to

better minister to those members who live at greater distance from Watertown, how to more effectively minister to the young adults and young families among us, broadening and understandingspecial needs ministry in our community, biblical evangelism, community outreach, involvement with the local evangelical ministerial group here in town, updating our radio ministry, and as always being on the look out for how to transfer our values and vision into new vehicles by continuing to encourage our members to explore and exercise their various gifts to better worship, reach, nurture, and teach Christ to one another and to the lost.

In closing, I again express thanks to our Lord for his mercy and faithfulness for all of his work in and through the body of Covenant Reformed church here in Watertown and within the Northern Plains Classis of the R.C.U.S.; including all of our brothers and sisters through the Denomination and beyond. We sincerely look forward to serving along side of you all in making our Lord Jesus better known and adored in 2019.Though late, respectfully submitted on behalf of the Consistory of Covenant Reformed ChurchIn the name of our Lord and our God... Jesus Christ,The Rev. Michael E. Lassley

Parochial Report of Rev. Phil Poe

Esteemed Brothers,In April I will have completed nine years as pastor of Harvest Reformed Church. In God's

providence my time with the congregation has been very pleasant. This is a gentle congregation of brothers and sisters in Christ. This is something for which any pastor would be most grateful.

Elder Jim Snyder and Deacon Elton Dockter are to be thanked for their faithful service on the HRC Consistory. Jim faithfully prepares every week to present a teaching portion on one of the “Three Forms of Unity.” The congregation, each Lord's Day, reads in unison a paragraph from one of the Three Forms as our confession of faith. Following our confession, Elder Jim Snyder takes about 7 to 10 minutes to expound and apply that Lord's Day portion. This year (2019) we are going through the Belgic Confession of Faith. Also, in my absence and during vacation times Elder Snyderfills the pulpit and exhorts the congregation. He also finished up our Wednesday evening study on “Theonomy and Christian Reconstructionism.” Elton Dockter also gives a significant amount of time for the finances, budget, and paying the bills. He has done an excellent job.

Speaking of the budget, we thank God that we were able to pay all of our bills and denominational dues as well as “giving above and beyond” to WBM, the work of Nap Narag in the Philippines, Heidelberg Theological Seminary, and diaconal hurricane relief to our OPC brethren. All praise to God for enabling us to be a giving church!

I am still preaching through the Book of Acts and plan to finish this Spring. Next, Lord willing,I plan to preach and teach a brief series from the prophet Malachi. On Sunday evenings several meetat the parsonage where we are continuing to study Old Testament history. We are just beginning the book of First Samuel. Elton Dockter and my wife, Karen, both continue Sunday School classes for children and youth at the same time.

Our Men's study group meets on the first and third Wednesday nights of each month. We are now nearing the finish of the book by Jerry Bridges, titled, “Respectable Sins.”

We have a very active women's ministry which goes by the name, “Friends of Phoebe”. These sisters in Christ prepare meals for those who are recovering from surgery, enduring extended illnesses, having babies, moving, etc. They also prepare gift boxes for college students, missionaries, and those in the military. They also plan and prepare our Mission-Fest dinner. I praiseGod for their faithful and conscientious service on behalf of the saints. They also meet once a monthfor Bible study.

Our current Confirmation Class consists of two catechumens, Ethan Dockter and Savannah Milam. Both are excellent students and will be ready for Confirmation by the Fall.

On August 26 we had our Annual Mission-Fest with Rev. Mike Lassley as our guest preacher. Mike preached the Word during the morning worship service and then again after dinner. It was great fellowship to have Mike, Amy and all the kids with us for a whole weekend and Lord's Day! I


also had the privilege of preaching two sermons for the Herried congregation this past fall for their Mission Fest. I had the privilege of delivering two sermons for the congregation in Herried, SD for their October Mission Fest Sunday where Rev. Cody Schwictenberg is the pastor.

I have been working with Sam Hoverson in a course of study on Reformed Doctrine (Berkhof's Systematic Theology). The goal is to eventually get Sam up to speed for election to the Diaconate. He is a very eager student with a servant's heart (a very good combination.)

During the past year I officiated two funeral services. I also officiated the wedding ceremony forSam and Kristine Rau following several months of pre-marital counselling. Sam is the son of the late Aaron Rau, who was an Elder of long standing at the Kassel Reformed Church.

I am sad to say that the past year (2018) was not a year of statistical growth. We lost three members through erasure, one judicial and two administrative. We received no new members. However, the Lord is faithful. Early this year we received one new adult member on profession of faith and another family plans to join soon.

My prayer is that God would continue to bless the future of Harvest Reformed Church as He hasin the past, and for our part may we be one that He can bless!Respectfully Submitted,Rev. Phillip Edwin Poe

Parochial Report of Rev. Cody Schwichtenberg

Esteemed brothers in the Lord Jesus Christ, In Philippians 4:11-12, Paul says, “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I

know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.” Paul’s ministry wasn’t easy as you all know. He faced persecution, imprisonment, conflict, false teachers, and above all things, he was concerned for the congregations around the Roman world. Even in the many trials of ministry, Paul was content in every situation. Personally, this has been the hardest year of my ministry. In 2018, I have faced the trials of having two elders and their families move away, two members pass away, one major counseling situation (which was thankfully resolved), and a multitude of members facing health problems. (All this happened in a 5-month span) Despite all this, I’m learning to be content in every situation by God’s grace.

In the sufferings and trials of ministry, I have seen myself and the congregation at First Reformed Church grow spiritually. In Romans 8:28-29 says, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.” I take great comfort in this passage. God uses every circumstance we face, whether that be joys or sorrows, to make us more and more into the likeness of Jesus Christ. Just as I encouraged my congregation, I want to encourage you brothers to ponder and meditate upon how God has sanctified you over the past year in your joys and sorrows.

Despite the struggles in the life of the church, God has blessed our congregation in many ways. He has blessed the church with a new elder Matthew Beck who was ordained and installed in September. He is a man willing to learn and has taken the office and role of elder very seriously. Currently, we have only one elder, but the spiritual counsel is diligently searching for qualified men. We have two men in mind, but with Elder David Vander Vliet’s departure in December, there was little time to find his replacement before our annual congregation meeting. One of my goals is to train the new elders, so that they are equipped to care for the spiritual needs of the congregation. Another blessing, God has given the congregation is potential new members. Before the Arbach family left for Eureka, they invited a young family from Hague, ND to attend worship around Easter.I have had an opportunity to visit and get to know this family. They are currently taking membership classes. God has also been blessing our community with the proclamation of His Word. Our weekly sermon messages are played by the local cable provider every Sunday at 4pm. I have heard from a variety of people in Herreid and the surrounding area who watch and listen every Sunday.

This past year, I have preached sermon series from the Gospel of Mark, Philemon, Jonah, Romans 12, and Psalm 51. In Sunday School, we have been walking through the Ten Commandments from Noman Jones’ workbook through the Heidelberg Catechism, and the children


are continuing to learn from the Gospel accounts. Currently, our children’s Sunday school consists of4 students and two visiting children from the community. In the Fall Bible study, we watched a videoseries on Hebrews 11 taught by Paul David Tripp. In worship, we took a break from the Heidelberg Catechism to spend some time studying the Canons of Dort. One thing that we have added to our order of worship is responsive Psalm readings. Other teaching opportunities included our annual Vacation Bible School and Reformation Day party. The congregation also enjoyed hearing sermons from the Rev. Phil Poe, James Grossmann, and Dave Irwin who preached in my absence and Sunday’s off. We attempted to get Rev. Paul Henderson to preach, but providentially, the weather didn’t permit it.

I would like to close this report with one final blessing that the LORD has blessed us with in 2018. Due to the generous giving of our members, visitors, and people with ties to the church, we have been able to make changes to the interior of the worship area. Six burgundy and gold Scripture wall banners and nine white blinds were installed in the summer. In ministry and the Christian life, there will be suffering and hardship. Even in the hardest of times, there is always a blessing to thank the LORD for including the suffering itself.Respectfully Submitted,Pastor Cody Schwichtenberg

Parochial Report of Rev. Michael Voytek

January 31, 2019Fathers and Brothers,

“Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in His holy mountain. Beautiful in elevation, the joy of the whole earth, is Mount Zion on the sides of the north, the city of the great King” (Psalm 48:1-2). “The LORD loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob. Glorious things are spoken of you, O city of God!” (Psalm 87:2-3). “You are all fair, my love, and there is no spot in you” (Song of Solomon 4:7). Such are the thoughts of God toward His beloved bride, the Church. He has spared no expense to redeem her from the slave market of sin. He has presented her to Himself spotless and pure, arrayed with a gown of righteousness, clean and white. He has placed upon her head many crowns of glory. She is called “Hephzibah” because she is His greatest delight in all the world. She is the apple of His eye, He shelters her under the shadow ofHis wings. She is safe and secure in His love. No one shall be able to separate her from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Such are the promises of God concerning us. Take courage therefore; "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go (Joshua 1:9)."

I would like to begin my parochial report by reflecting upon what has transpired in 2018 at First Reformed Church/Chapel in Dickinson, North Dakota. In January of 2018 our Lord blessed us with the reception of 7 new communicant members and 11 children. In September, He brought about a major change after Rev. Wes Brice retired due to his battle with cancer and yours truly began servingas missionary pastor. Then on December 1st, elder Craig Mehlhalf of First Reformed Church, Aberdeen brought a trailer containing the pulpit, communion table, baptismal, and 3 chairs that formerly belonged to Hosmer Reformed Church and were donated to the mission work here. It is fascinating to consider that many years ago the congregation of Hosmer Reformed Church planted First Reformed Church in Aberdeen, South Dakota and now the congregation in Aberdeen is planting a church in Dickinson. Thus the “grandmother” church provided the church furniture to continue the legacy in a new location.

Throughout the year we have been blessed with the fruit of God’s Word through the preaching and teaching ministry of the church. Since my arrival here in Dickinson, we spent a few Sundays answering the question “Why go to church?” and then completed a short series on the book of Ruth. Furthermore, since we are still a mission church plant of First Reformed Church, Aberdeen, we decided to begin an extended series of sermons from the book of Acts. During the adult Sunday School we spent time addressing a number of topics including what is the biblical justification of thestructure of our order of worship on Sunday mornings, what are the elements of prayer, how to get more out of your private and family devotions, etc.. We reinstated the Sunday evening Bible study and began a survey of the Old and New Testament books of the Bible. Another very important part


of the teaching ministry of the church that should be mentioned is the confirmation preparation of the youth of the congregation. It is my joy to report that 6 youth are preparing for confirmation, diligently pursuing a deeper understanding of the truth as well as preparing to make a credible profession of faith.

We also have been also blessed by God through the exercise of the gifts of the members of the church such as the weekly snacks and monthly shared lunch, the weekly maintenance of the facility, the faithful recording of the sermons, and the exercise of musical gifts to assist us in our worship of God. There are many others who faithfully serve Christ and His church through their prayers and service of love and mercy. We have proposed the addition to the ministry of the church through a monthly men’s gathering and a bi-monthly women’s gathering for Bible study, prayer and fellowship. May the Lord continue to add other opportunities to glorify Him in loving and serving others.

As we have been challenged in the past by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to be His witnesses throughout the whole world (Acts 1:8), we have faithfully attempted to be lights and witnesses to thelost both far and near. Besides the website (frcdickinson.org) and Facebook presence, in late November we established a sermonaudio.com account and began to upload the Sunday morning sermons. We received the December report and are very excited about the impact we are having across the nation and around the world. We also had invitation cards and gospel tracts printed and made available in order to be able to invite others to the church. It has been reported that 65% of visitors who attend and later become members of a church are the result of being invited by a member of the congregation (the percentage is 6% of those invited by the pastor). Thus, an average member is 10 times more effective than the pastor. Please pray for the Lord’s blessing in this important area of outreach. I have been attempting to reach the lost by visiting various coffee shops and other locations and have recently joined the local Eagles club.

Another aspect of the ministry that the Apostle Paul mentioned in his charge to the Ephesian elders recorded in Acts chapter 20 was that of oversight of the flock. This responsibility includes both the proper administration of the sacraments and Christian discipline. I am pleased to report that the Spiritual Council of First Reformed Church, Aberdeen and especially Elder John Huizinga take this responsibility very seriously, being zealous to guard and protect the flock. The Lord’s table is properly guarded, with all visitors who desire to partake interviewed prior to the service. I am excited to report that at the annual congregation meeting this month (January), Mr. Dan Aune was elected as elder and Mr. Jeremy Cox as deacon. They were subsequently ordained and installed on Sunday, January 27th. Please pray for the Lord to bless their ministry as officers in His church.

My family and I want to express our gratitude to the members and visitors of the First ReformedChurch, Aberdeen and the ministers and members of the Northern Plains Classis for receiving us so warmly and encouraging us in the transition back to North Dakota. I will close with a passage from the prophet Isaiah that summarizes my hope and prayer for the church throughout the world; “For Zion's sake I will not hold My peace, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until her righteousness goes forth as brightness, and her salvation as a lamp that burns. The Gentiles shall see your righteousness, and all kings your glory. You shall be called by a new name, which the mouth of the LORD will name. You shall also be a crown of glory in the hand of the LORD, And a royal diadem inthe hand of your God. You shall no longer be termed Forsaken, nor shall your land any more be termed Desolate; but you shall be called Hephzibah, and your land Beulah; for the LORD delights in you, and your land shall be married. For as a young man marries a virgin, so shall your sons marry you; and as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you” (Isaiah 62:1-5).Your fellow bondservant in Christ,Rev. Michael Voytek

XI. CONSTITUTIONAL QUESTIONS TO ELDERSThe President asked the Elder delegates that were present the Constitutional Questions from Article81 of the Constitution of the Reformed Church in the United States. The following are the questions


that were read and the answers that were given:

1. Are the doctrines of the Gospel preached in your charge in their purity, agreeably to the word ofGod? All Elder delegates answered Yes.

2. Is careful attention given to the instruction of the youth for confirmation, the reception ofmembers into the Church, and the Christian nurture of the members? All Elder delegates answeredYes.

3a. In providing spiritual nurture for the congregation, is visitation faithfully performed? All Elderdelegates answered Yes.

3b. In providing spiritual nurture for the congregation, is Christian discipline faithfully exercisedaccording to the Constitution? All Elder delegates answered Yes.

4. Are the sacraments of Holy Baptism and the Lord's Supper properly administered in accordancewith the constitution? All Elder delegates answered Yes.

5a. In providing for the furtherance of Christian stewardship, are the apportionments for the Classispaid according to the Guidelines for Giving? All Elder delegates answered Yes.

5b. In providing for the furtherance of Christian stewardship, are these monies sent promptly to theClassis treasurer? All Elder delegates answered Yes with the exception of the Elders fromMinot and Watertown who answered No.

5c. In providing for the furtherance of Christian stewardship, are the apportionments for the Synodpaid according to the Guidelines for Giving? All Elder delegates answered Yes with theexception of the Elders from Ashley, Herreid, and Pierre who answered No.

5d. In providing for the furtherance of Christian stewardship, are these monies sent promptly to theSynod treasurer? All Elder delegates answered Yes.

6. Are the church records properly kept? All Elder delegates answered Yes.

7a. Is the temporal contract between minister and people fulfilled in your charge? All Elderdelegates answered Yes.

7b. Is the temporal contract between minister and people adequate to meet his temporal needs? AllElder delegates answered Yes.

The president instructed the Stated Clerk to communicate with the consistories of Minot and Hosmerto provide a signed document containing their answers to the Article 81 Questions, to becircularized.

XII. REPORT OF NUMERICAL & FINANCIALSTATISTICS

See the Appendix of the Abstract for this Report.

XIII. READING OF THE STANDING RULESThe Standing Rules were read by the Stated Clerk.

XIV. REPORTS FROM CLASSIS FRATERNALDELEGATES

There were none to report


XV. ADDRESS AND/OR REPORTS OFFRATERNAL DELEGATES & VISITORS

Brother Jacob Kuik of the Manitoba Classis of the Canadian Reformed Churches addressed thebody, bringing their greetings.

Rev. Grossmann read fraternal greetings from Classis Central of the URCNA.

XVI. REPORTS OF SPECIAL COMMITTEESThere were no Special Committees to give a report to the body.

XVII. REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEESPlease Note: All recommendations in the Standing Committee reports appear in their final,amended form, and were adopted unless otherwise indicated.

A. Education, Publications, & Student AidYour committee received two reports – one from the Permanent Camp Committee and the other fromthe Christian Education & Publications Committee.Your Committee makes the following recommendations:

Recommendation #1: Take Note that the dates of camp are as follows: July 22-26, 2019; July 20-24, 2020; July 26-30, 2021; July 18-22, 2022; & July 24-28, 2023.Recommendation #2: Take Note that congregations be encouraged to help meet the goal of$2,000 fundraising to support the camp.Recommendation #3: Take Note That congregations be encouraged to submit registrations by the July 1 submission deadline.Recommendation #4: That the budget, including registration fees, for HYC 2019 be approved.Recommendation #5: that the Permanent Camp Committee Report be adopted.Recommendation #6: We recommend and nominate Rev. William Haddock to continue as the editor of the Northern Plains Chronicles for another one year term (March 2019-March 2020).Recommendation #7: We recommend that the classis pay the editor of the Northern Plains Chronicles a $200.00 stipend for the 2019 term.Recommendation #8: We recommend that Classis overture Synod for the publishing of more hardbound Heidelberg Catechism books with Scripture proofs. We recommend that this publishing be of the 2013 edition of the Catechism.Recommendation #9: We recommend that the Classis overture Synod for the development of an RCUS smartphone app that includes all of our church’s confessions and catechisms.

Rev. David Irwin, Rev. Mike Voytek, Elder Jim Fischer, Elder Doug Haak

B. Services & InterchurchThe Services & Interchurch Relations Standing Committee Received one Report from the

Interchurch Relations Committee.The Standing Committee made one edit to the report: editing out the world “only” as redundant andunnecessary. There were no recommendations or actionable items in the report.Rev. David Irwin, Rev. Mike Voytek, Elder Jim Fischer, Elder Doug Haak


C. Examinations & LicensureThe Examinations & Licensure committee had no business to transact.

D. ExcusesYour committee received the following items:Items # 6, 8, & 9, excuses from Elders James Snyder, Matthew Beck, and Rod DeJong.Recommendations:#1, That Elders James Snyder, Matthew Beck, and Rod DeJong be excused from all meetings ofClassis.Respectfully Submitted,Rev. Wesley Brice, Charles Dockter

E. Finances, Benevolences, & Ministerial AidYour committee received the following items:

Item #1: Overture from Hope RCUS on behalf of Mrs. Norman Jones.Item #2: Overture from Covenant RCUS on behalf of Mrs. George Syms.Item #10 : Overture from First RCUS on behalf of Rev. and Mrs. Wes Brice.Report of the Auditing (Permanent) Committee.The following reimbursement requests:

Hope RCUS (Henderson): $146.70First Chapel (Voytek): $274.50Harvest (Poe): $233.10Covenant (Lassley): $ 93.00First – Herried (Cody): $ 90.00Salem – (Dockter): $ 73.80

Your committee makes the following recommendations:1) With regards to the reimbursement requests for the Spring Meeting, that all be granted in

the total amount of $911.10.2) With regards to Item #1, that the NPC Stated Clerk be directed to overture Synod of the

RCUS for ministerial aid of $14,400 annually on behalf of Mrs. Norman (Lena) Jones. 3) With regards to Item #2, that the NPC Stated Clerk be directed to overture Synod of the

RCUS for ministerial aid of $23,500 annually on behalf of Mrs. George (Debbie) Syms.4) With regards to the Permanent Auditing Committee Report. Take note.5) That the Classis budget $600 for Sermon Audio for 2019 and that pastors be encouraged

to use this resource. 6) That the dues for 2019 be set at Classical Dues: $10 ($5 decrease), Missions Guideline:

$40 ($10 decrease), and $5 for the Missions Seed Fund (no change).7) With regards to Item #10, that the NPC State Clerk be directed to overture Synod of the

RCUS for ministerial and of $26,750 annually on behalf of Rev. and Mrs. Wes Brice. Respectfully submitted,Rev. James Grossmann, Rev. David Irwin, Elder Matthew Fickbohm

F. JudicialRecommendations:

1. From Item 5: That Classis declares the proposed constitution for Grace Reformed Church of Dickinson, North Dakota (currently First Reformed Chapel) and the Memorial of those desiring to organize as a congregation to be in order.2. That Classis approves the request of Grace Reformed Church of Dickinson, ND to organize as a congregation of the Northern Plains Classis, Reformed Church in the United States.


3. From Item 7: That Classis set time aside following the completion of the Reports of Standing Committees to discuss the overture from First Reformed Church of Aberdeen regarding what constitutes proper remuneration for pulpit supply within our Classis congregations.Assessment: It is the position of the RCUS that the determination of payment for pulpit supply is solely the responsibility and under the authority of the local church consistory. However, biblical principles must be taken into consideration as the consistory determines what constitutes a fair wage,and employs the principle that the worker is worthy of his hire. Therefore, the Judicial Committee does believe there is benefit for a dialogue to occur within the Classis of what should be considered afair honorarium, payment for mileage, and reimbursement for any other costs associated with inviting a guest pastor who supplies our pulpits so that there is a uniform and equitable compensation within the Northern Plains churches.Respectfully submitted,Rev. Hank Bowen; Rev. Paul Henderson; Rev. Phil Poe; Elder Charles Dockter

G. MissionsRecommendations 1. That Classis provide missions support in the amount of $9,100 for the First Reformed Chapel of Dickinson for the 2019-2020 fiscal year. (This is a change from the permanent missions committee’s recommendation of $16,066 due to an error discovered by the Classis treasurer)2. That Classis overture the 273rd Synod of the RCUS for home missions support for First ReformedChapel of Dickinson in the amount of $9,100.00 for the 2019-2020 fiscal year. (this reflects a 10% reduction from the original support) 3. Last year, there was an error in the budgeted amount recommended to the 272nd Synod of the RCUS for home missions support for First Reformed Chapel of Dickinson in the amount of $10,800 for the 2018-2019 fiscal year. The correct amount recommended should have been $12,500. Regardless, the correct financial support from Synod was received. Take Note4. That the Classis budget $1,500 for travel expenses to be used by the consistory of the First Reformed Church in Aberdeen to visit Dickinson. 5. That Classis continue to fund 75% of the costs for Ashley’s radio broadcast, “Start the Week”.Rev. Cody Schwichtenberg, Rev. Michael Lassley, Elder Doug Haak

H. NominationsRecommendations:1. That the following nominations be approved:

Executive: Henderson, Grossmann, FickbohmAssistant to Clerk: Haak

Auditing: Haddock, Davis, VoytekCamp: Fickbohm, Grossmann, Lassley, BowenCandidates & Credentials: Poe, Snyder, SchwichtenbergChristian Education & Publications: Irwin, Haddock, Poe, KappesDiaconal: Voytek, Beck, Docter, E. MehlhaffHome Missions: Schwichtenberg, Lassley, C. Mehlhaff, DeJongInterchurch Relations: Bowen, Irwin, Henderson, Haak, Brice

Respectfully submitted,Rev. Michael Lassley; Rev. Hank Bowen; Elder Matt Fickbohm


XVIII. MISCELLANEOUS REPORTS AND OTHERBUSINESS

A. Expression of Appreciation to the hosting congregationThat the following expression of thanksgiving be printed in the abstract and in this Sunday’sbulletin. “The Delegates of the 34th Northern Plains Classis praises our good and gracious God andgives thanks for his works in and through the body of Christ at First Reformed of Aberdeen, SouthDakota. The generous provisions and gracious hospitality we have been shown while in yourpresence is revealing of the great love you have for our Savior and we sincerely give thanks to ourLord for you all.”

B. Adoption of the Stated Clerk's Report and Executive Committee's Minutes

The Stated Clerk's Report and Executive Committee's Minutes were all adopted by the NorthernPlains Classis.

XIX. Reading of the MinutesOn Tuesday morning, March 13th, the minutes on part of the previous session were read andcorrected. The President declared the minutes from the previous session to be approved as read andcorrected.

At the end of the business meeting, the minutes for the day were read and corrected. The Presidentasked, “Shall the minutes be now approved?” Since there were no objections, he declared theminutes approved as corrected.

XX. AdjournmentElder Fickbohm moved that the Classis adjourn to the 35th Annual Spring Meeting of the Northern Plains Classis to begin on March 9th, A.D. 2020 at 1:00pm, at Salem Reformed Church of Ashley, North Dakota.The Classis adjourned at 12:12pm on March 19th, A.D. 2019.

A. Roll CallThe final roll call showed nine ministers and four elders present for a total of 13, a quorum.

B. DevotionsElder Haak closed the meeting by reading from Ezekiel 13:1-10.

C. The Apostles' Creed, Lord's Prayer, Benediction and Doxology

The Assembly stood and united in reciting the Apostles' Creed and the Lord's Prayer. The Presidentpronounced the Benediction and lead the Assembly in the singing of the Doxology.


Rev. James W. Grossmann, Stated Clerk


APPENDIX


Treasurer's ReportStatement of Financial Position – Year Ended December 31st, 2018

The Notes to these financial statements are integral to the statements.


Statement of Activities – Year Ended December 31st, 2018



Statement of Fund Balance – Year Ended December 31st, 2018



Note 1: The Classis operates on a calendar year fiscal year (January 1 - December 31).

Note 2: Beginning in calendar year 2012 the Classis implemented accrual basis accounting. Accrualbasis accounting focuses on matching expenditures and revenues of the period to which they pertain.The financial activity of the Classis through January 31st, 2018 was evaluated to determine to whichperiod the transaction applied.

Note 3: Accrual basis accounting includes the recognition of revenue not yet received and an amountdetermined to be uncollectible. As the Classis requires all dues to be received no later thanNovember 30th, no recognition of dues not received is deemed necessary and has, therefore, notbeen performed.

Note 4: The Classis holds two Certificates of Deposit with BankWest of Pierre, SD. The terms ofeach are as follows:

Note 5: The Classis collects dues from congregations for both Home Missions and Classical Funds.The following schedule reports the dues actually received from congregations for 2018:


Matthew Fickbohm, Treasurer, Northern Plains Classis


2018 Membership & Financial Statistics

Ashley Eureka Herried Minot

Number of Elders 4 2 3 1 2 1

Number of Deacons 3 2 3 2 1 1

Communicants Last Year 106 24 107 52 13 37

Received – Confirmation 1 0 0 2 0 0

Received – Transfer 4 1 2 0 0 0

Received – Profession 8 0 0 0 0 0

Total Received 13 1 2 2 0 0

Total Old & New 119 25 109 54 13 37

Lost – Dismissal 2 1 0 2 0 0

Lost – Erasure/Discipline 4 0 0 2 0 3

Lost – Death 1 1 2 2 0 0

Total Lost 7 2 2 6 0 3

Total Communicants This Year 112 23 107 48 13 34

Unconfirmed Members 36 0 8 4 0 9

Total Baptized Members 148 23 115 52 13 43

Number of Families 54 19 66 27 11 19

Children in Sunday School 30 0 11 4 0 6

Adults Baptized Last Year 0 0 0 0 0 0

Infants Baptized 8 0 0 0 0 0

Total Baptisms this Year 8 0 0 0 0 0

Members' Lord's Supper 113 19 80 48 0 34

Lord' Supper Observed 8 3 3 4 0 12

Receipts – Sunday Offerings $190,694 $45,227 $111,577 $59,872 $0 $72,467

Receipts – Special Offerings $1,860 $5,695 $0 $13,052 $0 $7,542

Receipts – Other Sources $34,428 $3,935 $17,445 $64 $0 $4,960

Total Receipts $226,982 $54,857 $129,022 $72,988 $0 $84,969

Budgeted Synodical Funds $15,388 $3,526 $28,444 $8,123 $0 $9,516

Budgeted Classical Funds $7,420 $710 $7,490 $3,500 $0 $2,590

Non-Guideline Causes $2,118 $434 $2,358 $1,304 $0 $500

Non-RCUS Benevolences $1,000 $250 $750 $0 $0 $1,750

Other General Expenses $192,384 $48,362 $81,626 $59,739 $0 $67,800

Total Disbursements $218,310 $53,282 $120,668 $72,666 $0 $82,156

Value of Church Buildings $350,000 $25,000 $250,000 $40,000 $0 $0

Value of Parsonage $40,000 $45,000 $100,000 $25,000 $0 $300,000

Property Improvements $450 $4,214 $943 $293 $0 $0

Present Property Debts $29,844 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0

Debt Paid Last Year $7,838 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0

Synod Giving per Communicant $145 $147 $266 $156 $0 $257

Classis Giving per Communicant $70 $30 $70 $67 $0 $70

Total RCUS per Communicant $235 $195 $358 $249 $0 $341

Aberdeen (Includes

Dickinson)

Hosmer (2015

numbers)


Pierre Watertown Difference

Number of Elders 2 2 18 17 -1

Number of Deacons 0 1 14 13 -1

Communicants Last Year 22 23 387 384 -3

Received – Confirmation 0 0 5 3 -2

Received – Transfer 1 0 14 8 -6

Received – Profession 0 17 6 25 19

Total Received 1 17 25 36 11

Total Old & New 23 40 412 420 8

Lost – Dismissal 0 0 8 5 3

Lost – Erasure/Discipline 0 1 14 10 -4

Lost – Death 0 0 8 6 -2

Total Lost 0 1 30 21 -9

Total Communicants This Year 23 39 382 399 17

Unconfirmed Members 6 25 67 88 21

Total Baptized Members 29 64 449 487 38

Number of Families 13 18 218 227 9

Children in Sunday School 6 24 65 81 16

Adults Baptized Last Year 0 0 0 0 0

Infants Baptized 0 8 3 16 13

Total Baptisms this Year 0 8 3 16 13

Members' Lord's Supper 23 35 85.60% 88.22% 2.62%

Lord' Supper Observed 7 6 42 43 1

Receipts – Sunday Offerings $57,840 $79,499 $568,504 $617,176 $48,672

Receipts – Special Offerings $7,548 $3,252 $47,076 $38,949 -$8,127

Receipts – Other Sources $1,215 $0 $76,131 $62,047 -$14,084

Total Receipts $66,603 $82,751 $691,711 $718,172 $26,461

Budgeted Synodical Funds $3,089 $5,924 $80,101 $74,010 -$6,091

Budgeted Classical Funds $1,540 $1,610 $25,873 $24,860 -$1,013

Non-Guideline Causes $312 $3,252 $10,497 $10,278 -$219

Non-RCUS Benevolences $2,376 $0 $6,055 $6,126 $71

Other General Expenses $59,928 $84,099 $399,521 $593,938 $194,417

Total Disbursements $67,245 $94,885 $522,047 $709,212 $187,165

Value of Church Buildings $112,000 $0 $777,000 $777,000 $0

Value of Parsonage $105,000 $150,000 $763,000 $765,000 $2,000

Property Improvements $7,000 $5,212 $46,009 $18,112 -$27,897

Present Property Debts $0 $0 $37,722 $29,844 -$7,878

Debt Paid Last Year $0 $0 $7,826 $7,838 $12

Synod Giving per Communicant $140 $258 $207 $193 -$14

Classis Giving per Communicant $70 $70 $67 $65 -$2

Total RCUS per Communicant $225 $469 $301 $284 -$17

Totals 2017

Totals 2018


Standing RulesOrganization

1. The Standing rules shall be read during the session of Classis.

2. That the Northern Plains Classis hold its annual meeting on the second Monday in Marchand shall meet each day until all business regularly brought before it has been disposed.(2009)

3. The worship services of Classis shall be prepared by the Executive Committee, and theseproposed services shall be circulated before Classis.

4. Nominations for all officers of Classis shall be made by secret ballot. All namesappearing on the nominating ballot shall be candidates, and if there is not an election onthe first ballot, only the names with the two highest totals of votes shall be candidatesuntil there is an election.

5. Every charge that will not have an elder delegate at the yearly Spring meeting of Classisshall, before the date of the meeting, send the answers to the questions placed before theelder according to Article 81 of the Constitution. This copy shall be signed by all theelders of the charge, and sent to the Stated Clerk.

Correspondence

6. The statistics, Credentials of Elders to Classis and the Mailing Addresses of Delegates toClassis shall be forwarded to the Stated Clerk by February 1st. (2010, 2012)

7. The reports and recommendations of the Permanent and Special committees of Classisshall be completed and mailed or emailed to the Consistories of all the Churches byFebruary 15th before the Spring Meeting of Classis. Parochial reports from all Ministersand Licentiates are to be sent to the President by February 15th before the Spring Meetingof Classis. Excuses for these requirements are to be made by written request to theExecutive Committee of Classis by the chairman of the committee involved, at least twoweeks before the meeting of Classis. (2012, 2014)

8. Overtures sent to the Stated Clerk of Classis four weeks in advance of Classis shall becircularized, but overtures may be submitted to Classis at any time.

9. If pastors, elders, and members of congregations request information from the ExecutiveCommittee of Classis concerning constitutional matters and procedures, as provided inArticle 91, the answer shall, if the request is in order and in written form, be presented inwritten form and relevant only to the item in question.

10. All documents submitted to Classis be written on sheets of white paper measuring 8.5inches wide and 11 inches long. (2005)

Financial

11. The Classical dues shall be due on the first of November and are to be paid not later thanthe 30th of November of the current year. (2013)

12. The monies sent to the Treasurer shall be made out in check form to “Northern PlainsClassis,” and shall be designated for which fund and how much for each fund.

13. The President of Classis shall receive two hundred dollars ($200.00), the Stated Clerk


shall receive five hundred dollars ($500.00), and the Treasurer two hundred dollars($200.00) for the Classical year. (2008, 2013, 2014)

14. Travel reimbursement shall be paid only to those delegates whose congregations havepaid the Classical dues in full to the Classis Treasurer, and those delegates who haveattended all sessions or have been properly excused by Classis.

15. The Treasurer shall reimburse travel to and from Classis, or for Classis business, at themileage rate established by the Synod in its standing rules. When distance and timerequire public travel on public transportation to and from Classis, or for Classis business,they shall be granted full fare. (2007, 2017)

Examinations

16. It shall be the practice of the Classis before ordaining candidates for the ministry andbefore installing ordained ministers from other denominations, to require no less than aneight month internship for them under the supervision of a pastor of the Classis who hasserved in the Reformed Church in the United States for at least five years. During thisinternship particular emphasis shall be placed upon learning the peculiarities andpractices of the RCUS. This internship requirement may be fulfilled either before or afterthe candidate has received a call or is licensed. (2010)

The Northern Plains Classis - RCUS2 Northern Plains Classis Primarius Elders Beck, Matthew (First...

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Transcript of The Northern Plains Classis - RCUS2 Northern Plains Classis Primarius Elders Beck, Matthew (First...