Renowned Evangelist to Receive 2025 Kuyper Prize

Rev. Stephen Tong will be the recipient of the 2025 Kuyper Prize to be awarded by Calvin University and Calvin Theological Seminary. 

The Kuyper Prize, established in 1998 by Rimmer and Ruth de Vries, is named after Dutch theologian and politician Abraham Kuyper. It is awarded each year to a scholar or community leader whose outstanding contribution in their chosen area reflects the ideas and values characteristic of Kuyper’s Neo-Calvinist vision of religious engagement in matters of social, political, and cultural significance in one or more of the “spheres” of society.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this recognition. My only desire has been to serve God and spread his truth to the nations,” stated Dr. Stephen Tong. “I am grateful for the countless lives that the gospel has touched through this ministry, and I pray that this work will continue to inspire others to live out their faith with conviction. All glory belongs to God alone.”

Rev. Tong's influence extends beyond ministry. Through his work in education, the arts, and community building, Tong has empowered countless individuals to live out their faith boldly. 

“Reverend Stephen Tong's lifelong dedication to evangelism has had a profound impact on millions around the world,” said Greg Elzinga, president of Calvin University. “His unwavering commitment to spreading the gospel, especially in regions where Christianity is often challenged, is a remarkable testament to his faith and vision.” 

Tong is a globally respected evangelist who has preached to over 37 million people during his 66-year ministry across Asia, Europe, Africa, Australia, and the Americas. Born in Xiamen, China, in 1940, he now ministers from Jakarta, Indonesia. Known for his strong foundation in Reformed theology, Rev. Tong focuses on removing rational barriers to faith and leading people back to Christ. His media ministries have reached hundreds of millions in mainland China, and his influence has led countless individuals into full-time ministry. 

As the founder of Stephen Tong Evangelistic Ministries International (STEMI), he oversees a global network of offices promoting his evangelistic vision. He has also spoken at numerous international conferences, including events hosted by the Billy Graham Association, and he has received an honorary doctor of divinity degree from Westminster Theological Seminary.

In addition to his work in evangelism, Tong is a composer, conductor, architect, and artist. He designed the Reformed Millennium Center in Jakarta, the world's largest Christian Reformed Evangelical church, and he has composed over 200 hymns. Tong is a key figure in the classical music scene in Indonesia, serving as the principal architect, founder, and music director of Aula Simfonia Jakarta. This venue, inaugurated in 2009, is recognized as Indonesia's only classical concert hall that meets international standards. Under his leadership, Aula Simfonia Jakarta has broadened its reach through initiatives such as Konser Akbar Monas and has organized Grand Concert Tours to various locations including Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, New Zealand, and Australia. In summer 2025, Tong plans to lead the fifth tour of this series to locations on both the West and East Coasts of the United States. 

“We are honored to recognize Dr. Tong for his faithful service and his enduring influence on the advancement of the gospel worldwide,” said Jul Medenblik, president of Calvin Theological Seminary. “His legacy extends far beyond his powerful evangelistic messages.  Through his academic contributions, artistic achievements, and architectural visions, he has shaped the church and our time's cultural and intellectual landscape.”

Recent recipients of the award include the following:

• 2024: Sid Jansma Jr., an influential leader in industry and in business, serving for more than 40 years as leader and CEO of Wolverine Gas and Oil Corporation, and currently as its chair of the board. 
• 2023: Makoto Fujimura, a world-renowned modern artist, author, speaker, and founder of the International Arts Movement and the Fujimura Institute; his artistic work expounds on, popularizes, and builds on Kuyperian theology.  
• 2022: Ruth Padilla DeBorst, a theologian, missiologist, educator, and storyteller, doing important work in theological and missional leadership development in Latin America.  
• 2021: Rachael Denhollander, a leading voice on the topic of sexual abuse, recognized for her work as an attorney, author, advocate, and educator. 
• 2020: David Brooks, a longtime New York Times op-ed columnist who writes about politics, culture, and the social sciences.
• 2019: Dr. John M. Perkins, one of the leading evangelical voices to come out of the Civil Rights Movement. 
• 2018: Daniel Bourdanné, general secretary of the International Fellowship of Evangelical Students (IFES).