The Reformation Continues Brochure — Events to commemorate the 500th anniversary (pdf)
Commemorating 500 Years of Reform
I am excited about the opportunity in this, the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, to lift up and commemorate our heritage not only in the Lutheran church but for the church as a whole as we seek to understand one another. As you can see through this brochure we have a number of events planned to encourage faith and to create an ecumenical dialogue about the faith in our community.
From exploring faith history to delving into theology, art, music along with many worship opportunities, I hope you will feel welcome to join in any of these offerings.
The reformation continues today as we seek by God’s grace to bring together that which is divided in our lives, in our churches and in society. May you discover in the 500th anniversary of the Reformation a deepened passion for peace, justice and unity.
— Pastor Charles Mantey
Luther’s Rose ornament
As part of our Reformation celebration, Saint Mark has commissioned a local company, Pure Grace, to create a Luther Rose ornament. Ornaments will sell for $10 and will be available this summer. Proceeds will raise funds for youth to attend next year’s National Youth Gathering.
Rick Steves’ Luther and the Reformation DVD Available
In this one-hour special, Rick Steves tells the story of a humble monk who lived a dramatic life. Rick visits key sites relating to the Reformation and explores the complicated political world of 16th-century Europe. You can borrow a DVD copy from the Saint Mark Library, or watch it in its entirety online.
Schedule of Events
January–March 2017
Explore How Lutherans Interpret the Bible with former Visiting Theologian Mark Allen Powell. Once series is completed at Adult Forums, DVDs will be available upon request to Pastor.
March 1–April 16th, 2017
Utilize the inspirational Lenten devotional Free Indeed. This Lent, services on Wednesday, as well as the devotional material are based on Luther’s Small Catechism. Take this opportunity to refresh or learn for the first time core principles of the faith.
April 28–30th, 2017
“Making the Angels Laugh” is this year’s theme for the women’s retreat. Come prepared to get to know other Saint Mark women and the unflappable wife of Luther, Katharina von Bora.
June 4th | Pentecost
Explore the mystery reflected in the 3rd Article of the Creed at the 9:30am service, then enjoy a Chili Cookoff (Fiery offerings) and take of tour of the building and many of the ministries that happen at Saint Mark.
June 25th, 2017
Get in the Spirit of Salem’s World Beat by worshipping with music from around the globe. Come dressed in ethnic dress and feel free to sing out in Spanish, or other languages and sample delicacies at coffee hour.
Summer 2017
Join a small group discussion of Together By Grace. Groups meet in homes or at church to consider various articles compiled in this interesting volume.
August 13th, 2017
In honor of the Reformation Anniversary, this year’s Wine, Wisdom and Song will be a German Dinner, auction and Germanic music celebration. 5:00-8:00pm. Location TBA.
September 10th, 2017
Rally Sunday — Join the “Priesthood of All Believers” in Saint Mark’s parking lot for a casual outdoor worship, animal blessing and picnic. This year we are asking people to come in their work clothes, or bring a symbol of their working life, as we celebrate Luther’s understanding of vocation of us all.
September 29–October 1st, 2017
Faith Dialogues — See article below for details.
October 1st, 2017
The National Lutheran Choir with David Cherwien, Conductor. This Minnesota-based choir comes to Saint Paul’s to offer sacred music in celebration of the 500th anniversary of the European Reformation. 4:00pm at Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church in Salem, Oregon.
October 28th, 2017
Saints and Sinners gather for our version of a Harvest/ Reformation Intergenerational Party at 4:00pm. Come dressed as your favorite saint … or sinner!
October 29th, 2017
Our organist, Tim Bibelheimer is sure to “pull out all the stops” on this 500th Anniversary Festival Worship. Historic timeline and artwork will also be displayed.
Salem Reformation Musicfest
On Reformation Sunday, October 29th, you are invited to a Salem Reformation Musicfest commemorating the 500th anniversary of the Reformation.
Sponsored by Christ the Good Shepherd, Holy Cross, & Saint Mark Lutheran churches, come enjoy a time of music and song from local choirs, organists and other musical ensembles. The Musicfest begins at 4:00pm with a reception following. This event hosted by Saint Mark Lutheran Church, and is free and open to the public.
Faith Dialogues to host Dr. Samuel Torvend
Faith Dialogues will be presenting Dr. Samuel Torvend on September 29th, 30th, & October 1st, 2017 for three days of discussion and teaching about Martin Luther and the 500th anniversary of the Reformation.
Friday night lecture // 7:00pm:
All things are being made new: The contemporary relevance of the Reformation
In this presentation, participants will consider the different reforming streams of the sixteenth century that emerged from a fresh encounter with the Bible and the distinctive gifts each reform offers the Christian community today. Anglican, Anabaptist, Lutheran, Reformed, and Roman Catholic forms of renewal and reform will be discussed.
Saturday workshop // 10:00am:
Eucharistic Practice in the Midst of Economic Injustice: An Enduring Legacy of the Luther’s Reformation
This interactive presentation and conversation will invite participants to consider the revolutionary reform of sacrament and social assistance promoted by early Lutheran congregations. At the same time, we will consider the “economy” of the Eucharist and the questions this sacramental practice raises in a land marked by poverty and continued food insecurity. Q&A and discussion to follow.
National Lutheran Choir to perform “Una Sancta” this Fall
October 1st, 2017 at 4:00pm Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church Salem, Oregon
Join the National Lutheran Choir in a concert that commemorates 500 years of reformation. The concert draws from Martin Luther’s explanation on the work of the Holy Spirit—the Holy Spirit calls, gathers, enlightens, sancti es—as well as the ongoing transformation of Christ’s church as it remembers the past, reconnects to the present and re-envisions the future. Choral music, ancient and modern, will bring to life the times and places of this historic journey.
ABOUT THE NATIONAL LUTHERAN CHOIR
Under the direction of nationally known conductor, composer and organist Dr. David Cherwien, the 64-member National Lutheran Choir’s artistry is rooted in its mission to strengthen, renew and preserve the heritage of sacred choral music. And it does so through the highest standards of performance and literature.