The world of Martin Luther will be available for Concordia Seminary visitors to view this July 1-Sept. 25 as they visit the “Martin Luther – The Reformer Exhibit.” The free exhibit will be displayed at Concordia Historical Institute (CHI) on the Seminary campus.

Twelve chronological stages of Martin Luther’s life are presented in the exhibit through more than 100 books, manuscripts, illustrations, paintings and other documents. Stunning replicas and facsimiles of original items include the first Gutenberg Bible, paintings and illustrations by Albrecht Dörer and Lucas Cranach, Sr., illuminated manuscripts by Luther and a letter by his wife.
Personal items from the Luther household, including his goblet, and even his death mask also are included. Interactive kiosks are an integral part of the exhibit and serve to enhance the visitor’s experience.

“We are honored to host such a renowned exhibit and to offer it free of charge to the St. Louis area public,” commented Rev. Glen Thomas, vice president for seminary relations at Concordia Seminary. “Touring the exhibit will provide an enjoyable and educational experience for visitors as they are transported back in time to the world of Luther. The exhibit appeals to people of all ages, and
we invite individuals, groups within congregations, school classes studying history or religion, and many others to take advantage of this rare opportunity.”

The Seminary has planned a series of special events in conjunction with the exhibit.

Thursday, July 1 – A grand opening observance will begin in the Seminary’s Werner Auditorium at 7:00 p.m. and then move to CHI. The general public is invited to this grand opening of the exhibit. Special guests from Germany and Washington D.C., also will participate.

Saturday, July 10 – A campus open house (Mission Semfest) for the 2004 Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod Convention delegates and guests will offer a special opportunity for them to visit the exhibit. This event is not open to the general public.

Wednesday, September 15 – Luther’s German Mass will be celebrated in the Seminary’s morning chapel service. This will be followed by a lecture, “Luther and Catechesis as It Impacts Daily Life,” delivered by renowned Luther scholar Eric W. Gritsch. At 7:00 p.m. on the same day, Gritsch will deliver another lecture for the general public, “Luther’s Theology as Catalyst, Guide and Norm for Social Change.”

Tuesday, September 21 – The Bach at the Sem concert series at Concordia Seminary will offer a special sacred concert at 7:00 p.m. as an integral part of the Seminary’s 2004 Theological Symposium. The American Kantorei, under the direction of Robert Bergt, will present BMV190a, “Sing to the Lord a New Song,” demonstrating Luther’s influence on Bach. This sacred concert is offered to the public free of charge and no tickets are issued.

Sept. 11 and Sept. 18 are emphasized as days for pastors to bring their confirmation classes to tour the exhibit. The visit may include a brunch in the Seminary’s dining hall, either preceded or followed by a visit to the exhibit and a tour of the Seminary campus, if desired. The brunch will be provided free of charge to the confirmation youth, but advance reservations are needed as exhibit visitation space is limited.

Individuals are welcome to visit the exhibit at any time during CHI’s operating hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday). Groups of five or more planning a visit to the exhibit should call CHI at (314) 505-7900 to schedule a specific appointment. To arrange a tour of the Seminary campus and lunch in the dining hall, call (314) 505-7378.