Luther Seminary co-hosted with the National Lutheran Choir a commemoration of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation on Oct. 27-28. The event brought theologians and musicians together with congregational leaders and members for shared music, meals and conversation.
Dr. Deana Thompson kicked off the event with a reflection on Martin Luther and the merits of social media in her lecture, “The Viral Reformer and the Virtual Body of Christ.”
Workshops ranged from in-depth readings of Luther’s writings and present-day application of Luther’s teachings to explorations of music and the intersection of the arts with Reformation concepts.
The National Lutheran Choir performed a newly commissioned piece, “Holy Spirit Mass” by Norwegian composer Kim André Arnesen. The performance at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis delighted listeners with a soaring rendition of ancient words drawn from the liturgy.
Dr. Don Saliers engaged the musical legacy of the Reformation with his lecture, “Saints and Sinners Sound the Glory,” detailing how Luther inspired generations of composers to match culturally relevant music with words of lament and praise found in scripture.
More than 1,000 people gathered for worship at Central Lutheran Church in Minneapolis with ELCA Presiding Bishop Elizabeth Eaton preaching and music led by the National Lutheran Choir and massed choirs from area churches. Listen to audio from the Oct. 28 service of evening prayer on Central’s website (scroll down to October Services).