The symbolic move of nailing theses declarations to church doors, not uncommon among academics in the 16th century, was intended to spark discussion among faculty at the University of Wittenberg, where Luther was a professor.
But when a printer spotted the theses, published them and spread them across Europe Luther’s words sparked the Protestant Reformation in a matter of a few weeks.
Luther’s act of Oct. 31, 1517, is remembered each year on “Reformation Day” in many Lutheran and Reformed church communities.
On Nov. 1 at 6:30 p.m., several Rangely churches will host a Reformation Day Faire, an interactive evening about the origins and spread of Protestantism, at Rangely’s First Baptist Church.
“Anyone is welcome to come and learn about this exciting period of history, when so much was changing in the world,” said Julie Noyes, an event organizer. “We also want families to understand the heritage we have as Christians and to teach that to our kids.”
The faire will feature a “museum” with books along with displays and art projects by homeschool students learning about the Reformation.
Organizers also plan to offer games related to various cultural and faith-based practices of the period, the 2003 movie “Luther,” prizes and refreshments.
The event is free and open to families and children. For more information, contact Noyes at 629-3711.
