Schripsema, Herman J. (1902-1989) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

Herman J. Schripsema was born in McBain, Michigan on October 7, 1902. When Schripsema was a young boy, he became very ill. His father prayed for his sick son's recovery and he promised that his son work for God and his kingdom. Once he recovered, young Schripsema knew he wanted to become a missionary. Once he grew up, Schripsema's first career was teaching at the Lucas, Michigan Christian School. Schripsema then decided to enroll at Calvin College. He earned his B.A. in 1929. Schripsema went on to Calvin Theological Seminary to pursue his passion of ministry. In 1932 he graduated from the Seminary and soon after married Cora Van Liere.

In 1933 Schripsema's first call to service was in Eagle Butte, South Dakota, where he and his wife would minister to the pioneer families of the surrounding area. By 1937 Schripsema went on to serve a struggling congregation of Pine Creek in Holland, Michigan.  In 1943 Schripsema received the call to  become a missionary to the Navajo mission field.  His first call came from the Carisso Mission in Teec Nos Pos, Arizona in 1943. In 1945 Schripsema went on to serve the Farmington Mission in New Mexico. He would serve there until his retirement in 1965.

Schripsema served as the editor of The Christian Indian for eight years. He also helped start a radio ministry which was broadcasted in the Navajo language. Schripsema also wrote catechism material for children and new members of the church. On April 29, 1989 Schripsema suffered a massive stroke. He passed away on June 25, 1989.