Mike Crudge works at the Baptist National Support Centre and is a graduate of Carey Baptist College (2000-2002). He is a member of Royal Oak Baptist Church.
This year marks a remarkable milestone for New Zealand Baptists: Carey Baptist College, our very own theological college, is celebrating its Centenary.
For 100 years, Carey has been the place where men and women have been shaped, stretched, and sent out — equipped to lead churches, serve communities, and proclaim the gospel across Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond. From pastors in your own congregation to missionaries around the world, chances are someone in your church's story has a connection to Carey.
Official celebration
The official Centenary celebrations are happening on 20 and 21 March 2026. This is a moment to gather at the new Carey campus in Te Whare Tōtara, Greenlane, Auckland - to give thanks, and marvel together at a hundred years of God's faithfulness through an institution that has consistently served the Baptist family.
The sharing of stories
As part of the Centenary, Carey has been collecting stories from alumni across the decades — snapshots of how their time at college shaped their faith, their ministry, and their lives. These stories are worth reading. They're a reminder that theological education isn't just an academic exercise; it's formation for the long haul of ministry, mission and following Jesus. If you studied at Carey and have a story to share, they'd love to hear from you too.
Whether you have a personal connection to Carey or simply want to honour what God has done through a century of New Zealand Baptist churches training faithful learners through our college: celebrate 100 years — and to whatever God has in store for the next hundred.
Register for the Centenary celebrations
Read the alumni stories and share your own
Photo taken from Carey Baptist College Facebook Page
