Monsma, Martin (1893-1968) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

Martin Monsma was born in Berlikum, Friesland, Netherlands on November 23, 1893.  In September of 1902, the Monsma family immigrated to the United States. Even at an early age, Monsma expressed his interest in becoming a minister.  He attended Calvin College and Seminary earning his diploma in 1924.  His first call to service came from Doon, Iowa. He was ordained on October 8, 1924. He chose Psalm 39:7 as his inaugural sermon.

He served the Doon congregation until 1928. He went on to serve the following churches Detroit, MI (1928-34); Second, Pella, IA (1934-43); and Grandville Av., Grand Rapids, MI (1943-53). In 1953 Rev. Monsma returned to Calvin Theological Seminary, this not as a student, but rather a faculty member. He accepted the position of lecturer in Practical Theology.  A year later he became professor of Practical Theology. He remained a professor at the Seminary until his retirement in 1964.

Monsma was very involved in denominational boards and committees. He served on the Calvin College Board of Trustees; Church Order Revision Committee; Home and Foreign Missions' Educational Policy Committee; Committee on Ecumenicity and Interchurch Correspondence; and the Committee on Revised Compendium.  Monsma also found time to write articles and publish books. He even was the founder and editor of Daily Manna, a devotional calendar which he overall saw for 32 years.

Martin Monsma died on January 31, 1968 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He passed away due to a heart attack. He was survived by his wife, Marie Vos, with whom he married in 1924. Together they had 3 daughters and two sons, who also survived him.