Calvin Theological Seminary is blessed with a diverse community of over 300 students from more than 30 countries. This diversity enriches our community by bringing together a wide range of cultural backgrounds, experiences, and passions. Three current students—David Seunghwan Roh, Debbie Jin, and Jun Soo Park—say this diversity has shaped their experiences at, and contributions to, CTS.
“The diverse cultural backgrounds of students and faculty have enriched my experience,” said Seunghwan Roh, a doctoral candidate in the hHistory of Christianity. “Engaging with peers from other countries has broadened my perspective on how cultural influences shape our views and decision-making, helping me to approach others with more empathy and understanding. As an international student from South Korea, I believe my presence contributes to the community by offering a unique voice and perspective, enhancing our shared conversations.
“I am particularly excited about CTS's growing diversity, which allows for exploration of how Reformed theology has developed in various cultural contexts,” Seungwhan Roh continued. “The historical movements of liberation and Black theology, as well as the theological expressions in countries like China, Indonesia, and Korea, illustrate the way local experiences shape theological thought. The opportunity to engage in dialogue about these differences has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my time here.”
Jin, a Master of Divinity student, said, “The diversity at CTS has reminded me of the global church beyond seminary. While adapting to different ways of thinking and communicating has been challenging, it has pushed me to grow in my ability to engage with a global context. My Chinese cultural background has shaped how I interact with others, especially through active listening and hospitality.
“What I appreciate most about CTS,” she added, “is its commitment to amplifying diverse voices both inside and outside of the classroom setting. I’m excited about the growing diversity at CTS because it enables students from various cultural contexts to engage with Reformed theology in critical, context-specific ways. This approach equips us to better serve our home countries and apply theological principles in ways that are culturally relevant and impactful.”
And Park, a doctoral candidate in New Testament, reflected, “I’ve been blessed by the diversity of students and faculty, which has broadened my understanding of world Christianity. Hearing firsthand accounts from Christians in countries like Turkey, Palestine, Cuba, and China has deepened my appreciation of and prayer for God’s work around the world. These experiences have also nurtured humility, seriousness, and reverence in my approach to Scripture as I recognize that every interpreter brings cultural presuppositions.
“My time at CTS has inspired my hope for the future as many of my peers aspire to return to their home countries or serve in mission fields using their theological training to contribute to God’s kingdom. The growing diversity excites me, as new students bring fresh testimonies and insights that enrich our learning community. I look forward to the conversations and collaborations that will deepen our faith and equip us for service, building a strong foundation for expanding God’s kingdom.”
Seunghwan Roh, Jin, Park, and hundreds of other students bring diverse backgrounds and experiences to make CTS a place of rich learning, growth, and community. Their unique voices and perspectives continue to shape and strengthen the seminary as a global community committed to expanding God’s kingdom.
About the Author
Leah Jolly, Calvin Theological Seminary
