November 2026
From Pastor Scott:
I became a pastor because of the Reformation. Some people are moved by camp experiences or youth groups. I passed through the early stages of life without realizing how the Spirit was working in my life.
However, in high school, the Holy Spirit worked through a play we performed for our congregation. I played John Eck, the Roman Catholic theologian who challenged Luther about the Scriptures. The line I remember was: “Everyone should read and study the Bible for themselves. That is insane.”
Of course, I understood the converse of that argument well. And, I was intrigued by the other side of Eck’s argument. When I learned the history of the Reformation, I also was inspired by the courage Luther exhibited by standing up to human power far greater than the power he possessed. And, since the Moravian settlement in North Carolina was close to where my mother had grown up, I was interested in the tragic history of John Hus nearly 100 years before Luther nailed the 95 Theses to the church door.
My curiosity about Reformation history continued when I went to seminary. And, in some ways my life as a pastor has been molded by my ongoing interest in how the Reformation continued.
As Lutherans, we tend to retain a positive image about this history. However, we might also remember that Luther’s theological efforts resulted in the 30 Years War in the 17th century. (That however, is a lesson for another day.)
The Reformation still provides all of us with a simple message: We live, prosper and discover salvation not because we are special, but because of the power of God’s grace.
This Sunday, we celebrate the Reformation and God’s gifts of grace. I hope you will enjoy the celebration. Our worship service begins in person and on-line at 9:30 a.m.
Peace in Christ,
Pastor Scott