Life and times of Luther on show
Next year marks 500 years since the Reformation, which was set in motion when Martin Luther nailed his 95 Theses on the church door of Wittenberg. In commemoration of this world-changing event, a DVD series has been produced about the life and times of Luther. Jonathan Kotzur of St John’s Lutheran School in Kingaroy, Queensland, explains the impact the A Man Named Martin series has had on staff and students.
We were excited to hear about the A Man Named Martin DVD series which has been produced in the lead-up to the 500th anniversary of the Reformation in 2017.
We ordered a copy of Part 1: The Man and some extra study guides, and each week staff have gathered for a Faith Focus time before school. What a perfect opportunity to enrich our staff’s understanding of our Lutheran context and history!
The makers of this series have done a professional and inspiring job.
This past term we watched and discussed this video, and the overwhelming response was one of intrigue and amazement at the details of Luther’s life. Staff found the sessions very easy to watch, and pitched at a level that was clear to understand, even given the wide range of prior knowledge.
Teachers said they appreciated the depth of what was discussed, and felt that having worked through Part 1, they had a much better understanding about Luther and the context of the Reformation. Many ‘light bulb’ moments were experienced:
‘Ah, now I actually get it!’
In Year 7 Christian Studies, one of our teachers shared sections of the video with students to enhance their understanding of their unit of work on the Reformation. Students appreciated the variety of presenters, the artwork and location settings.
The pace was brisk and it sustained their interest.
Jonathan Kotzur is Assistant Principal at St John’s Lutheran School, Kingaroy Queensland.
After a successful launch of the first part of the A Man Named Martin series, Part 2: The Moment is now available from Lutheran Media, in partnership with Lutheran Hour Ministries. Part 2 explores how and why the Reformation took place and the struggles and opposition Luther had to overcome and endure. You can view and download the videos for Part 1 or Part 2, or order the DVD version, which comes with a printed discussion guide, for $15 each at www.lutheranmedia.org.au/luther or by phoning 1800 353 350. You can buy extra printed discussion guides for $2 each.
What others have said about A Man Named Martin
‘Our small group enjoyed the first Martin Luther DVD. When’s the second DVD available?’
‘The videos were very engaging. I’ve watched them at least twice. Can I have the second DVD too?’
Contact Lutheran Media at
a: 197 Archer Street
North Adelaide SA 5006
e: luthmedia@lca.org.au
p: 1800 353 350
More information: Lutheran Media website.
This feature story comes from The Lutheran October 2016. Visit the website to find out more about The Lutheran or to subscribe.
