2026 Kuyper Conference and Prize

In celebrating the legacy of the birth of Calvin University and Calvin Theological Seminary in 1876, the 2026 Kuyper Conference will focus especially on the relationship of Abraham Kuyper and Neo-Calvinism to these two institutions and the broader Christian Reformed Church in North America (CRCNA). The sesquicentennial of the founding of the denomination’s theological school, which would later become two higher educational institutions, is a uniquely appropriate occasion to examine the roots of these schools in the Reformed tradition and the particular significance of Kuyper and Dutch Neo-Calvinism on their growth and development. “For the past,” says Kuyper, “lives on in the present. The centuries are not juxtaposed to each other as airtight compartments; what was then works on now.” With plenaries focusing on the relationship between Kuyper and the antirevolutionary movement, including G. Groen van Prinsterer (d. 1876), as well as the cross-fertilization of scholars, theologians, and pastors from the Free University of Amsterdam and North America, this conference will focus on the rich history and legacy of these institutions in the past with an eye toward the present as well as the future.

In addition to the advancement of scholarship, this conference aims to foster personal and professional networks of scholars, pastors, ministry professionals, civic leaders, and practitioners with interests in Kuyper and neo-calvinism as well as Reformed theology and public life. While papers and sessions related to the general conference theme are encouraged, proposals for concurrent sessions are also welcome on topics that engage with aspects of the life and work of Abraham Kuyper, neo-calvinism more broadly, and public theology and public life. Papers from historical as well as interdisciplinary, ecumenical, critical, practical, missional, pastoral, and constructive perspectives are welcome. Proposals for short paper sessions (3-4 presenters), roundtables (3-5 participants), and from students are especially encouraged.

One-page proposals should include a proposed paper title or roundtable theme, a brief description of the focus of the presentation (one to three paragraphs), and the presenter’s institutional affiliation and contact information, including email address. Proposals received after the December 15, 2025, deadline will be considered on a space-available basis. Individual paper and/or complete session proposals, as well as questions about the conference, may be sent to: Dr. Jordan J. Ballor, Kuyper Conference Coordinator.

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