Sanctuary Series offers Reformation documentary

Travel expert Rick Steves created a television documentary on Martin Luther and the Reformation, which marks its 500th anniversary this year. CONTRIBUTED

Travel expert Rick Steves created a television documentary on Martin Luther and the Reformation, which marks its 500th anniversary this year. CONTRIBUTED

The musicians and concerts will give the spotlight to another form of art at the next Sanctuary Series event.

This year is the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, one of the most important religious events of the last millennium. The documentary film “Rick Steves’ Luther and the Reformation” will investigate it and help with understanding the events.

It will be shown 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 15 at High Street United Methodist Church, 230 E. High St. Admission is free, but goodwill offerings to support the series will be accepted.

According to J. Chris Moore, High Street’s Musical Director of Traditional Worship, the film was meant to be a teaching tool for churches and also have wider appeal reaching beyond just a church audience.

“There have been good movies about Martin Luther, but Rick planned a broader coverage —­ explaining the historic, economic, and social context of the Reformation, and how this tumultuous age helped Europe leave the Middle Ages and enter our modern age,” Moore said.

The documentary deals candidly with Luther’s human foibles and weaknesses and his transformation into “the Great Reformer.” It will also help to explain concepts people may have heard of but didn’t really understand.

A reception will follow the screening in the church commons.


WANT TO GO?

What: Sanctuary Series: Rick Steves' Luther and the Reformation

Where: High Street United Methodist Church, 230 E. High St., Springfield

When: Sunday, Oct. 15, 3 p.m.

Admission: Free; donations accepted

More info: 937-322-2527 or go to www.highstreetumc.com

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