Trip Planner 2017 Trip Planner for Faith-based Travel | Page 10

CELEBRATING THE REFORMATION ANNIVERSARY THROUGH TRAVEL REFORMATION TOURS by Rowena Drinkhouse Reformation Tours Churches around the world are gearing up to celebrate the 500-year anniversary of the start of the Protestant Reformation. In October 1517, the German monk Martin Luther nailed 95 theses to the door of the Castle Church in Wittenberg. This precipitated the reform of medieval Christianity, which changed the world forever. If you’re wondering whether you are impacted by his legacy: • Do you sing in church? • Do you have access to the Bible in your own language? • Do you see your job as a vocation (and you aren’t a monk or nun)? • Do you believe that you are forgiven and saved by grace? • Do you think girls should have the same educational opportunities as boys? • Do you agree that clergy should be able to marry? Martin Luther has been called “the last medieval man and the first modern one.” This is the perfect time to learn more about his life and legacy on 8 trip planner a tour to Germany. Your group can walk in the footsteps of Luther as you visit stunning castles, magnificent cathedrals, historic restaurants and many of the homes that he lived in. If you are ready to connect with your Christian heritage here are some of the places we recommend including in your tour: Wittenberg, Germany St. Mary’s Church Known as the Mother Church of the Reformation, this where Luther held services in German (rather than in Latin), served both bread and wine for communion, and first ordained Protestant priests. He married Katherine von Bora here in 1525, an event that is celebrated by the town every year in June. Castle Church This church once held one of Europe’s largest collections of holy relics. Now the main attraction is the magnificent bronze doors with castings of the 95 Theses. Inside the church are the graves of Luther and his colleague Melanchthon. Energetic travelers can climb the 289 steps to the top of the tower for spectacular views.