On Thursday, June 17, the renowned Martin Luther-The Reformer Exhibit arrived on the Concordia Seminary, St. Louis campus. The nearly 30 shipping crates and containers were unloaded over a two-hour period and were moved into Concordia Historical Institute on the Seminary campus, where the exhibit will be displayed from July 1 to September 25.

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 Durer 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 are also included. Interactive kiosks are an integral part of the exhibit and serve to enhance the visitor's experience.

The Seminary has planned a series of special events in conjunction with the exhibit's time on its campus.

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.

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."

Sunday, August 29 - 7:30 p.m.- A lecture, hymn-sing and demonstration offered by Rev. William Otte, "Luther and Hymnody: To Advance the Gospel!", with organ accompaniment by David Cherwein. The event will take place in the Seminary's Chapel of St. Timothy and St. Titus. This event is open to the public at no charge.

Tuesday, September 21 - the Bach at the Sem 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.

Two Saturdays in September, the 11th and 18th, are being emphasized as days for pastors to bring their confirmation classes to tour the exhibit. The visit may involve 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.

While 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), confirmation classes desiring a brunch visit and/or large groups (20 or more) planning a visit at any time should call CHI (314-505-7900) to schedule a specific appointment.