calvin Archives

Reformation Lessons and Carols

Posted August 19th, 2022

On Reformation Sunday, observed the last Sunday in October, Presbyterians are reminded of their Reformed heritage, hearing once again how in 1517 Martin Luther nailed to the cathedral door in Wittenberg, Germany, his Ninety-five Theses. Some pastors might use this Sunday, which is Oct. 30 this year, to reenact Luther’s bold move, while others might choose to open worship with Luther’s majestic “A Mighty Fortress is Our God.” Still others will weave in the Reformation mantra “reformed and always reforming” into the sermon, prayers or benediction. Last fall, though, the Rev. Carol Holbrook Prickett took the celebration of Reformation Sunday a step further. The pastor of Crescent Springs Presbyterian Church in Crescent Springs, Kentucky, created a service to educate today’s “reformers” of the legacy of following a God who is always creating something new.

Study up: A Reformation anniversary reading list

Posted October 11th, 2017

As the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation is celebrated later this month, that seems to be the case. Just as printing presses rushed to distribute copies of the 95 Theses that Luther reportedly nailed to a church door on Oct. 31, 1517, publishers have released a number of books in the past year on Luther, his fellow Reformers and the lasting impact of his action, which ultimately led to the schism in Christianity between Catholics and Protestants.

Trio of resources available for study of the Protestant Reformation

Posted June 9th, 2017

Congregational Ministries Publishing (CMP) of the Presbyterian Mission Agency is highlighting three resources in celebration of the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation this year. The publications are intended for use in study by children, youth and young adults and adults.

Book Review: ‘Protestants: The Faith That Made the Modern World’

Posted March 31st, 2017

On the eve of the 500th anniversary of Martin Luther’s Reformation-launching writings and disputations, scholar and author Alec Ryrie has released a book he hopes will explain the origins and impact of the Protestant movement.

Presbyterian Panel study shows Presbyterians agree on the centrality of Christ for salvation

Posted January 9th, 2017

In a recent denominational survey, nearly three-quarters of Presbyterians said that “Jesus Christ is the only Savior and Lord,” a finding that stands in contrast to an earlier study on Presbyterian views of salvation.