Theology Conference 2026
"Being Human: Dust yet Crowned with Honor"
Rochester Christian Reformed Church | October 10 - 11
Dr. Mary Vanden Berg is professor emeritus of systematic theology at Calvin Theological Seminary. Her research interest is theological anthropology. Specifically, she considers questions surrounding what it means to be human for those at the margins of life, and the impact of sin on human relationships.
Conference Schedule:
Saturday, October 10th
Bagels & Coffee | 8:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Session 1 | 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Topic: What is a Human Person?
This session will explore what we mean when we talk about a human person. What are some of the chief characteristics that define us and set us apart from other mammals? We will also think together about our primary vocation as humans.
Session Reading Materials:
Small group discussion | 10:00 - 11:00 AM
Questions from small groups | 11:00 AM-11:30 AM
Session 2 | 11:30 AM-12:30 PM
Topic: A Little Lower than the Angels
This session will dig a little deeper into what it means to be human and explore human finitude, a topic not regularly discussed in church or elsewhere. Specifically, we will consider humans as finite, dependent beings.
Session Reading Materials:
Kelly M. Kapic. “Is Identity Purely Self-generated?” [from You’re Only Human: How Your Limits Reflect God’s Design and Why That’s Good News (Grand Rapids: Brazos, ), 72-94.]
This session will consider human suffering in the Christian life. How do we minister to persons and/or their loved ones suffering the regular losses of dementia or other progressive illnesses, or those who lose their hope-for future through miscarriage, still-birth, or the birth of a disabled child?
Session Reading Materials:
Sunday, October 11th
Adult Sunday School | After Service: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Topic: Dust You Are
This session will consider the reality of humans as mortal, death, and Christian funerals. We will consider the ambiguous word “dignity” as well as how death and baptism are connected.
Session Reading Materials:
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Childcare:
Childcare will be available for children ages 0-5 on Saturday morning and Sunday after church.
Please note: there is no childcare for the session on Saturday afternoon.
Reading Materials:
The above reading materials were provided by Dr. Vanden Berg to help attendees prepare for each session.
Vanden Berg, Mary, "Mary Vanden Berg on Science and Theology" (2020). Resound Podcast. 10.
