by Lynn Wellumson

While doing research for our reformation tour to Germany last month, I came across the information that Katharina had given Martin a Pirna sandstone portal as a birthday gift.  This became of great importance to me to locate and photograph.  In my mind, it was a 4 inch square tile looking piece of pottery.  Imagine my surprise to find it was an entire doorway.  As you can see there were two seats where they could sit and look over the grounds surrounding the Black Cloister.  Since Katherina had gardens and various farm yard animals as well as up to 30 guests at a time, there must have always been something to observe.

I was also surprised to find a statue of Katharina in the courtyard, presumably life sized.  She was wearing a wedding ring on her left pointer finger and unexpectedly I found the museum where it is on display.  The ring is not a simple gold band but has many Christian symbols and is a beautiful piece of jewelry.

The reformation tour highlighted our heritage of Scripture alone, Grace alone, Faith alone, Christ alone, and to God alone be the glory.

Our 2017 WMF day business meeting began with Revelation 21:6-7 (ESV)  Änd He said to me, Ít is done!  I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end.  To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment.  The one who conquers will have this heritage, and I will be His God and He will be my son.