‘Reformation 500 Club’ supports Wittenberg Project

The Wittenberg Project, launched in May, is providing a new initiative encouraging LCMS congregations and schools to participate in restoring a place where Lutherans — and especially those who don’t yet know Christ — can gather, learn and confess Christ as Savior.

The initiative, known as the “Reformation 500 Club,” offers a way for LCMS congregations and schools — through a commitment to give or pledge to raise $500 in the coming year — to sponsor the renovation of the Old Latin School in Wittenberg, Germany. As an added incentive, the first 500 congregations or schools to join the Reformation 500 Club will have their gifts matched dollar-for-dollar by an anonymous donor.

“This is an opportunity for every congregation to be part of something historic,” said Mark Hofman, executive director for LCMS Mission Advancement. “How a congregation or school chooses to raise or gift their $500 is totally up to them. For a congregation, this might be something for an adult Bible class or a youth group to designate as the recipient of their offerings, in the name of the entire congregation.

For schools, the Reformation 500 Club could be the choice for a portion of their chapel or classroom offerings, or even a fun event centered on a missions theme.”

The Wittenberg Project involves the renovation of the Old Latin School, located in the center of old-town Wittenberg, Germany, in advance of the 500th anniversary of the Reformation in 2017. The renovated four-story building will serve as the venue for faithful Lutheran education and a platform for Gospel proclamation to the thousands of people visiting this historic city.

“This is an exciting time for the Lutheran church,” said the Rev. David Bueltmann, president emeritus of the LCMS Central Illinois District and advisory member of the International Lutheran Society of Wittenberg. “Our congregations and schools have an opportunity to be involved in a lasting legacy. They can be a part of history and help to spread God’s Word to the world. I have spoken to many churches and schools who are excited to be involved.”

To learn more about The Wittenberg Project and the Reformation 500 Club, visit thewittenbergproject.org. Once there, visitors may download the Reformation 500 Club enrollment form and flier, view videos about The Wittenberg Project and follow fundraising and renovation progress. For more details, call Patty Mainer at 888-930-4438.

Posted June 6, 2014