Reformation recital at Lutheran Church
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LEWISTOWN -- The foundations of religious belief have been filtered through centuries of discourse and debate as church scholars and clergymen ascertain the true origin of their faith. In 1517, a German priest and theologian embarked on a sacred endeavor in dispute of certain teachings of his Roman Catholic beliefs. Martin Luther's 95 Theses were hammered to the Castle Church in Wittenberg in hopes of a formal discussion with Catholic leaders. Instead, the act led to Luther's excommunication by the Pope in 1521. The subsequent religious revolution was the start of the Protestant Reformation, and through Luther's teachings, the creation of Lutheranism.
The beginnings of the Lutheran faith will be recreated during a ceremony Sunday, Oct. 30 at St. John's Lutheran Church in Lewistown. The annual Reformation Recital begins at 3 p.m, marking the 31st year for the event. The public presentation was not held during the pandemic.
The recital program was assembled by Patty Loudenslager, St. John's organist and director of music.
"She is the main driving force behind the annual recital," according to Scott Price, who will portray Luther during the ceremony.
The celebration begins with a reenactment of Luther nailing the 95 Theses to the church door.
"It is an honor to portray such a pivotal figure in history," Price said. "I am honored that Patty asked me to do so."
After the ceremonial reenactment, other church members will perform.
"My part is followed by an afternoon of great performers and music," Price said. "This is something St. John's does annually to reach out to the community."
The Reformation Recital includes a welcome from Pastor Allen Hulslander. Geneva Kelly will perform a dance with vocal accompaniment from Katie Becker. Musicians for the recital include Penni Abram, Jerry Stone, Dr. Rich Burns, Steve Rodgers, Peter Marsh, Ali Treaster, Joan Loewen, Patty Loudenslager, Nellie Wilson, Joy Wagner, Terri Limes and flute ensemble, Trillogy. Vocalists will be Bruce and Laura Buffington, Rex Goss, Dave Phillips, Josie Baughman, Greg Shawver, Sue Shawver, vocal students of Dr. Susan Boardman (Cora Hartzler, Emma Sheetz and Gunnar Wagner) and the vocal ensemble, 8 to the Bar.
Refreshments after the recital will be provided by Barnabas Brothers, the church men's group. There will be a free-will offering for St. John's "Under One Roof" campaign to support the current roof project.