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Announcing Calvin Valor

Calvin – “favored”
Valor – “strength of mind in regard to danger; that quality which enables a man to encounter danger with firmness; personal bravery; courage; intrepidity; prowess” (Webster’s 1828 dictionary)

Born December 8, 2009

at 10:45am

8 pounds, 15 ounces

20 1/2 inches long

We found out we were expecting another dear blessing just as we began planning a trip to Boston this summer to celebrate the 500th birthday of John Calvin (July 10, 1509), the man most responsible for our American system of liberty based on Republican principles of representative government. Due to other circumstances, we did not take that trip, but watched, read, and rejoiced with others who were there celebrating the birth and influence of this great man.

John Calvin was an influential theologian and pastor during the Protestant Reformation. Calvin was a tireless apologetic writer. He is famous for his teachings and writings, in particular for his Institutes of the Christian Religion. Calvin’s thought exerted considerable influence over major religious figures and entire religious movements, such as Puritanism, and his ideas have been cited as contributing to the rise of capitalism, individualism, and representative democracy in the West.

John Adams, Founding Father and the second President of the United States, described Calvin as "a vast genius," a man of "singular eloquence, vast erudition, and polished taste, [who] embraced the cause of Reformation," adding: "Let not Geneva be forgotten or despised. Religious liberty owes it much respect."

Harvard historian George Bancroft wisely stated: "He who will not honor the memory and respect the influence of Calvin knows but little of the origin of American liberty."

It is because of this spectacular timing that we chose to name our newest son Calvin. Our prayer is that he also will be a tireless apologetic, influential in home, religion, and government.

“For there is no one so great or mighty that he can avoid the misery that will rise up against him when he resists and strives against God.” – John Calvin

Stay tuned for more pictures and information on Calvin and his birth...