This story was updated May 16 after additional reports were processed by synod Monday night. The version below reflects all of Synod 2026’s actions regarding affiliated schools.
In Monday morning and evening sessions, synod delegates spoke about the various Christian colleges and universities associated with the Christian Reformed Church.
Synod delegates expressed appreciation for the following:
- The 150th anniversary of Calvin Theological Seminary and Calvin University, located in Grand Rapids, Mich.
- The service of seminary president Jul Medenblik, who expects to retire in 2027.
- Ronald Feenstra, professor of systematic and philosophical theology for 34 years, upon his retirement.
- Kuyper College president Patricia Harris, who has retired after 13 years at the Grand Rapids-based college.
- Record enrollment at Redeemer University at 1,100 students. The university is in Ancaster, Ont.
- Redeemer’s launch of Canada’s only Reformed Christian master of education degree.
- Dordt University’s longstanding relationship with the CRCNA and its shared commitment to Christ-centered higher education. The university is in Sioux Center, Iowa.
- The King’s University in Edmonton, Alta., for its report and invited it to send a representative to the next synod, given that synod has not hosted a King’s representative since 2019.
Synod lamented the closure of Trinity Christian College after 66 years. Trinity is in Palos Heights, Ill.
Synod prayed for the following:
- The search process to lead to the next president of Calvin Theological Seminary.
- Trinity Christian College: that it might close well, in helping students complete their academic pursuits at other academic institutions, as it seeks to help faculty and staff transition, and that the legacy of Trinity Christian College will continue to bear fruit for many years to come.
- Each of the affiliated schools, as it received their reports.
Synod 2026, the annual general assembly of the Christian Reformed Church in North America, is meeting June 12-18 on the campus of Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Mich. Go to crcna.org/synod for the livestream, photos, reports, and a live blog of synod proceedings and decisions. Find daily news and our video Synod Recap at thebanner.org/synod.