November 30, 2004

CHICAGO (ELCA) -- "Luther," the big-screen historical biography of one of the most controversial religious figures in history, is available beginning Nov. 30 from Augsburg Fortress Publishers, the Minneapolis-based publishing ministry of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), according to a news release from the publisher.

The motion picture, released in 2003, is available from Augsburg Fortress on DVD at a special introductory price through December, the news release said. It is also available in the VHS format.

In addition, the DVD or VHS tape, and the book "Martin Luther: A Life," published by Augsburg Books, can be purchased as a package, the publisher said.

Born in 1483 in Eisleben, Germany, Luther was a pivotal founder of the Protestant Reformation. Luther became an Augustinian monk in 1505 and was ordained a priest in 1507. While he studied for a doctor of theology degree, he discovered significant differences between what he read in the Bible and the theology and practices of the Roman Catholic Church. In particular, Luther believed that the Scripture said faithful people are saved by the grace of God and not by any specific things they may do to earn salvation. He objected to the Roman Catholic Church's practice of the sale of indulgences.

On October 31, 1517, Luther posted 95 theses (or challenges to the Catholic Church). Luther hoped the church would reform its practices, but his action ignited a serious conflict. Those who followed his teachings left the Roman Catholic Church. His name became synonymous with the followers of his teachings, and the word "Lutheran" is still part of the names of several church bodies in the world today.

Starring Joseph Fiennes, the film begins with Luther's vow to become a monk and continues through his effort to spread religious freedom throughout Europe. The film was shot on location in Italy, the Czech Republic and several sites in Germany.

"Martin Luther: A Life," lends context and detail to Luther's life, the Augsburg Fortress news release said. The Rev. James A. Nestingen, professor of church history and recognized Luther scholar, Luther Seminary, St. Paul, Minn., authored the book.

Luther Seminary is one of eight ELCA seminaries.

ELCA News Service
Carol Van Dyke is with Augsburg Fortress Publishers, Minneapolis.