Synod 2011 paid tribute to Rev. Cornelius Plantinga Jr. for his service as president of Calvin Theological Seminary for 10 years. “[Plantinga] has left his mark on the institution. He’s left his mark on the denomination,” said Rev. Rita Klein-Geltink, Classis Huron. “Even more importantly, he’s left his mark on many men and women, myself included.”
Synod honored Plantinga with a standing ovation for his years of service and leadership.
Klein-Geltink praised Plantinga for his personal interest in students. “It really was a privilege to be a student at [the seminary] during the years when Dr. Plantinga served as president,” she said.
“During the time each student was at seminary, he would invite them into his home for a dinner party. I remember the evening well,” Klein-Geltink recalled.
Klein-Geltink heard from a friend of Plantinga, “Neal has unswerving integrity, humility, graciousness, and a sense of appreciation. He does not speak ill of others; he has a deep sense of fairness.”
The Board of Trustees of the seminary granted him the title of President, emeritus.
“Neal, we thank God for you,” said Klein-Geltink. You’ve blessed us and may God bless you . . . as you move on from here.”
For more coverage while synod is in session, including webcasts, photos, a discussion forum, reports, and more, see the Synod 2011 website.
About the Author
Ryan Struyk was a former Banner news correspondent for classes Grand Rapids South and Thornapple Valley.
