The 2019 Spring Conference at Mid-America Reformed Seminary featured Dr. James Berry, who spoke on “Understanding the Insanity of Addiction.” Dr. Berry is Associate Professor and Vice Chair of the Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry at West Virginia University, where he also serves as the Director of Addiction Services. He is a recognized expert … Continue reading Spring conference on Addiction in Indiana
On December 10, 2016, Aaron Warner was ordained in the Reformed Churches of New Zealand (RCNZ) and installed as the minister of the Reformed Church of Palmerston North. Rev. Warner was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and is a 2015 graduate of Mid-America Reformed Seminary. About 100 people attended the ordination and installation, … Continue reading The path to ministry from Michigan to New Zealand
When Classis Michigan of the URCNA met on October 11, 2016, the primary item on the agenda was the candidacy examination of Arjen Vreugdenhil. According to Classis Clerk Greg Lubbers, delegates took most of the day to conduct a through exam before determining “without dissent” that Mr. Vreugdenhil had sustained all sections of the examination. … Continue reading Classis Michigan declares URCNA candidate
On May 4, 2016, Mr. Michael B. Deckinga began his position as the Vice President of Advancement at Mid-America Reformed Seminary in Dyer, IN. The VP of Advancement nurtures the Seminary’s external relationships and advances its mission through marketing, communications, and development. Mr. Deckinga’s work includes managing fundraisers and gifts as well as providing … Continue reading Mid-America appoints new Vice President of Advancement
Vice President of Administration retires after 35 years Over 100 people gathered on the evening of May 11, 2016, to celebrate Florence Kooiman’s 35 years of faithful service to Mid-America Reformed Seminary . The bittersweet celebration also marked her retirement in the summer of 2016 from her position as Vice President of Administration. Anyone … Continue reading Mid-America no longer going with the “Flo”
You or your pastor may be all too familiar with conflict within the church. According to Rev. Jeff De Boer, Director of Enrollment Management at Mid-America Reformed Seminary, it is the primary reason for pastors leaving the ministry. “Preparing for and reflecting on conflict is very important for the continued well-being of the church,” … Continue reading Seminary’s alumni conference focuses on conflict
The Board of Trustees of Mid-America Reformed Seminary recently announced the appointment of Rev. Andrew Compton as Assistant Professor of Theology to teach Old Testament courses, beginning June 1, 2016. Dr. Cornelis P. Venema, President of Mid-America, says, “Andrew was judged to have the combination of pastoral experience and academic excellence in Old Testament … Continue reading Mid-America announces new appointment
Rev. Jeff De Boer has been appointed by Mid-America Reformed Seminary to its newly-created Director of Enrollment Management (DEM) position. The 2000 graduate of Mid-America pastored the RCUS congregation in Garner, IA, and currently serves a PCA in North Liberty, IA. He begins in January of 2015. Rev. De Boer said his responsibilities will include … Continue reading New Director of Enrollment for Mid-America
Members of the United Reformed Churches owe Rev. Edward J. Knott a debt far greater than most realize. He provided biblical servant leadership at crucial points in the federation’s history, but this humble hero would be the first to downplay his role and redirect all glory to God. Few ministers have accomplished more during their … Continue reading Rev. Edward J. Knott’s journey and leadership
In August of [2013], Rev. Arthur Besteman gave up preaching. He’d hoped to continue until he was 85, the age at which his wife’s father retired, but he was 80 and felt that it was time. He still goes out on pastoral visits and conducts funerals. In fact, the same week he gave up regular … Continue reading The privilege of proclamation: Reflections on 55 years of ministry