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 transition from active teaching to retirement after 17 remarkable years at Calvin Theological Seminary.

This event was more than a milestone; it was a moment to honor the journey, calling, and legacy of someone who has faithfully served the church and her students with grace, intellect, and deep pastoral care.

A Calling that Took Root – and Bore Fruit

Mary’s vocational story is as unique as it is inspiring. After earning her Bachelor of Science degree at then Calvin College, she devoted herself to family and ministry in various capacities before sensing a call to theological education. That call led her back to Calvin Seminary, where she earned her Master of Theological Studies in 2002 and later her Doctorate in 2008.

Mary joined our faculty on July 1, 2008, and since then has shaped hearts and minds in classrooms here and around the world—including guest teaching in Indonesia and Africa at the invitation of alumni who knew her as teacher or peer. In addition to her service at Calvin Seminary, she also taught at Kuyper College and Western Theological Seminary, expanding her ministry’s reach across institutions and continents.

A Life Rooted in Faith and Wonder‘

Mary’s identity is deeply rooted in her faith. She would be the first to say she is, above all, a child of God. The daughter of a pastor, Mary’s own story began in Smithers, British Columbia—perhaps explaining her enduring love of the great outdoors. Whether it’s hiking, camping, or downhill skiing, Mary’s joy in creation reflects her theological conviction that the world is a gift to be stewarded and enjoyed.

As a faculty member, she has been a thoughtful mentor, a rigorous thinker, and a compassionate presence. Students speak of her ability to make complex doctrines both accessible and meaningful. Her colleagues affirm her wisdom, warmth, and steady encouragement.

Mary’s impact extends beyond lectures and syllabi. Many will remember the well-worn chair in her office—the “comfy chair”—as a place where countless conversations took place, where discernment was nurtured, and callings clarified.

A Historic and Hopeful Legacy

When Mary was granted tenure, she became the first female tenured faculty member in the nearly 150-year history of Calvin Seminary. This was not just a personal milestone—it was a communal moment of gratitude and growth. Mary opened doors and hearts, especially for women discerning a call to theological study and ministry.

Mary is also currently working on a forthcoming book with Dordt University Professor Gayle Doornbos. And during the event, attendees were offered copies of her published work, Aquinas, Science and Human Uniqueness: An Integrated Approach to the Question of What Makes Us Human. For those who missed out, it is available online.

Click here to buy a copy of Mary’s book!

Watch: A Legacy of Grace, Theology, and Mentorship

If you were unable to attend this special event in person, or if you would like to revisit the wisdom and warmth of Dr. Vanden Berg’s reflections, we invite you to watch the recording of her Last Lecture. It is a thoughtful, heartfelt message that offers both theological insight and personal encouragement—a fitting capstone to a remarkable ministry.

Click here to watch Mary Vanden Berg’s Last Lecture.

In His Service with You,

Jul Medenblik

President, Calvin Theological Seminary