During this fall semester, Dr. Cornelis Venema will be teaching an elective on the life, theology, and legacy of John Calvin (DE 542). Since this year marks the 500th anniversary of Calvin’s birth, it is an appropriate time to consider Calvin’s life and influence. Area pastors and others are invited to attend or audit the class, which will meet on Wednesday afternoons at the seminary from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. If you have any questions or desire further information, please contact the seminary at 219.864.2400 or use the online contact form.

Dr. Cornelis P. Venema, recently came out with an important new book. A growing trend among Reformed churches is the practice of admitting young children to the Lord's Supper. In Children at the Lord's Table?, Venema provides an insightful analysis of the arguments used by advocates of this recent trend. Presenting a historical, exegetical, and systematic treatment of the subject, Venema demonstrates the validity and value of having covenant children partake of communion subsequent to their personal profession of faith.

After three busy years of classroom instruction and pastoral experience, six seniors graduated on May 15 and anticipate being called to service as ministers of the Word and sacraments. Michael Bentley, Simon Lievaart, Peter Lindstrom, Chris Moulton, Zechariah Schiebout, and Gary Zekveld are the Mid-America graduating class of 2009. Graduation was held at Calvary Community Church in South Holland, IL.