Woudstra, Marten Hendrik (1922-1991) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

Marten Hendrik Woudstra was born on July 23, 1922 in Bergum, Friesland, Netherlands. Growing up in the Netherlands, Woudstra attended Gereformeerd Gymnasium in Leeuwarden. He went to Theologische Hogeschool van de Gereformeerde Kerken in Kampen, where he earned his diploma in 1946. By 1947 Woudstra decided to immigrate to the United States, where he attended Westminster Theological Seminary in Pennsylvania. He went on to study at Dropsie College for Hebrew and Cognate Languages in 1952. In November of 1953 Woudstra was ordained at the Third CRC of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

In 1955 Woudstra was called upon by the Synod to teach Old Testament at Calvin Theological Seminary. Woudstra received the opportunity to teach at the Reformed Theological College in Geelong, Australia on two different occasions. He also delivered speeches at the Institut Farel in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada.

Not only was Woudstra known as a scholar and minister, but also as an avid writer. He wrote numerous articles for a variety of magazines like the Banner, de Wachter, and Calvin Theological Journal. He also served as the editor for the Church and Nation as well as Reformed Review and The Guardian. He made contributions to Baker's Dictionary of Theology and The Encyclopedia of Christianity. Woudstra was involved in Bible translation, including for the New International Version of the Bible.

Woudstra retired as emeritus professor in 1985. On October 3, 1991 Marten Hendrik Woudstra passed away. He was never married, but was survived by two sisters.