NJ Seminary Head Forced to Quit Early Over Daughter's Wedding

March 10, 2005

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ — The president of the New Brunswick Theological Seminary whose contract was not renewed after he performed the ceremony at his daughter's wedding to another woman has now been told to pack up and get out three months early.

Rev. Norman Kansfield was told in February that the Seminary, affiliated with the Reformed Church in America, would not renew his contract went it expired at the end of the academic year.

This week Kansfield was informed that he must leave by March 28.

Trustees at the school insist the new date is not an act of vindictiveness. Trustee Rev. Larry Williams said the board felt it would be better for Kansfield's successor to begin while the school was still in session.

In a letter sent shortly before last June's wedding of his daughter, Anne, Kansfield informed the board of his decision to officiate, and said he wasn't seeking the permission of the trustees.

The school has about 220 students all training to enter the Reformed clergy.

Kansfield will be replaced on an interim basis by the Rev. Edwin Mulder, the former general secretary for the Reformed Church in America.