President’s Blog
October Memories: Birthdays, Ordination, and Installation
It was an October day in 1978. It was a day like most days, except it was my first birthday away from home. At home, I knew what to expect.…
Celebrating the Work of the Holy Spirit
I am starting my fifteenth year as President of Calvin Theological Seminary and what a privilege it is to serve the Church in this way. I get asked from time…
Welcoming New Students to Calvin Theological Seminary: Will You Join Us?
When you begin a trip, whether across town or across the globe, you probably rely on your phone and the included GPS system to get you to the right destination.…
Driver’s Education for Life and the Church
I learned to drive on country roads around Fulton, Illinois. There were three of us students who rode with our teacher, Mr. Black, while we each took turns behind the…
You’re Invited: The Global Leadership Summit at Calvin Theological Seminary
When I reflect on my journey-from lawyer to church planter to now serving as President of Calvin Theological Seminary-I’m deeply aware of how the mentoring and formation I received shaped…
Commencement Address: An Eternal Perspective on Your Ministry
You may forget most, if not all, I share with you today, but I am going to ask that you think about this key phrase as not only an anchor…
Celebrating the Legacy of Dr. Mary Vanden Berg: A Trailblazer in Theology and Mentorship
On April 10, we gathered as a community to celebrate the “Last Lecture” of Dr. Mary Vanden Berg—Professor of Systematic Theology and the Jean and Kenneth Baker Chair holder—marking her…
2025 Kuyper Conference: Reflection on Seeds Planted
If you were going to invest in the life of a person, what would that look like? I saw one answer to that question on a recent international trip. Jackie and…
Introducing The Forum Platform: A New Way to Serve the Whole Church
As we look toward the 150th anniversary of Calvin Theological Seminary in March 2026, I am filled with excitement to share a new resource with you: The Forum platform. Over…
Life Lessons – Gratitude
“What do you say?” I have had the privilege of giving gifts to young children and then hearing young parents (just like Jackie and I did for our children) prompt…
Words Matter: Getting Specific
We live in a world of slogans and soundbites. If you doubt this, just watch political commercials for the next few weeks! I believe one of the reasons why we…
Words Matter! Disaffiliation or Separation – What is the Difference?
“The difference between the almost right word and the right word is really a large matter—it’s the difference between the lightning bug and the lightning.”– Mark Twain Current conversations within…