The idea is simple. Rent or buy a copy of the classic black and white film, Martin Luther (also available in Spanish). Or show the latest, Martin Luther, Heretic, in full color. Schedule a showing time (in Wisconsin, the annual state teachers convention usually falls at the end of October--just before Reformation!). Schedule a night when it may be most convenient for your members and/or prospects, keeping in mind those with children and school concerns.
We provided refreshments. Couches and easy chairs were available at Salem, as well as folding chairs. We encouraged parents to bring sleeping bags for their children. In this casual setting members could refresh their memory of Luther's life while prospects learn who this man was.
Publicity for this event went beyond the Sunday bulletin. An announcement was placed in our prospect newsletter (The Salem Update) one month before the showing. A full page insert was also designed and used in the bulletin. We created and mailed personal invitations to all people on our prospect list. A heavy emphasis was placed on having members invite Friends, Relatives, Associates, and Neighbors. News releases were also sent out to the various media outlets (many radio stations play community events free of charge).
The evening began with a devotion on Habakkuk 2:4. A question and answer session was held after the movie, and visitors were welcome to stay later and discuss the movie more. A booklet that explained the historical setting around Luther was also prepared and handed out.
Salem had 30 people show up at the inaugural Luther film night. The next Luther film night is 29 October 1999. Feel free to contact John Hoh (john.hoh@mail.mei.com) for more information. The accompanying booklet is included here for your use.
For further historical information, check out Luther and His Times, The Story of Civilization by Will and Ariel Durant, and Here I Stand by Roland Bainton. Also check out the 95 Theses that are conveniently posted on Praise Today!
John L. Hoh, Jr.
Editor, Praise Today
Chairman, Salem's Evangelism Committee
HAND BOOK TO THE REFORMATION
A companion to the movie Martin Luther
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
