In the Footsteps of Martin Luther:
Exploring the Heritage of the Reformation

Martin Luther, the great 16th century Christian reformer, was born in Eisleben in 1483. He pursued university studies in Erfurt and entered the Augustinian order there in 1505. After ordination, he began teaching in Wittenberg before he was sent to Rome on business for the Augustinians. Upon his return, he challenged both the moral corruption of Rome and a number of church practices—including the selling of indulgences— which he argued ran counter to the spirit of Jesus’s teachings. This unleashed events that would lead to a break with the Roman Catholic Church and the establishment of Lutheran or Evangelica churches.

Travel to places where important change occurred is a powerful way to inspire change and transformation in participants. On-site visits make the lives of visionary men and women more tangible and help participants gain an appreciation for how that vision continues to be relevant today. Participants return home with a new excitement for sharing the heritage of Luther with others whether in local congregational settings or in educational institutions.

Program Objectives

Experience the life and times of Martin Luther

Gain an appreciation for the context of Martin Luther's thought and struggles by visiting medieval German towns and universities. What was life like for ordinary Germans in the 16th century? How did Luther's life mirror that of his times? What were the common views of religion, salvation, indulgences, and other practices that Luther considered? Trace Luther's life and milestones by visiting important places associated with his life and work.

Move the spirit and nurture faith in historical venues

Create memorable moments of prayer and worship in historical venues where Luther and other leaders worshiped, preached and taught. Uncover the spirit of evangelical reform in placed that are deeply moving and inspiring.

Trace the impact of the Reformation on modern life

Luther's reformation impacted religious art, architecture, music, and educational and civic institutions. Travel to places that have been shaped and formed by this heritage. Discover the unique perspectives behind Lutheran art and architecture. Attend musical and cultural events in enchanting Germany settings.

Suggested venues

Illume designs group travel events around the specific objectives of group organizers. These include guided visits to historical sites, worship opportunities at historical venues, cultural activities in enchanting cities, and visits to exhibits about the life of Luther and other Reformers where local experts make history come to life.

Important venues include Wittenberg (Schlosskirche, Lutherhalle, Reformation Museum and Melanchton house), Leipzig (Thomas Church), Eisleben (Peter and Paul Church, Luther's birthplace, and St. Andrew's), Erfurt (monastery and Luther exhibit), Eisenach (Wartburg Castle and Lutherhaus, Bachhaus), and travel along the Romantic Road to Augsburg and/or Munich.

Extensions can be developed to Reformation sites in Switzerland or the Czech Republic. Visits to important museums in Berlin - including the Pergamon Museum - can be included. Some ecumenical groups (Roman Catholic - Lutheran) include visits to Rome to consider the context of Luther's call for reform as well as to visit some of the best preserved early Christian sites in the world.