On Sunday, May 3, Valparaiso University will have the pleasure of hosting Thomas Herzer, a concert organist from the historical Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany. This event will celebrate the enduring relationship between Valparaiso University and its Lutheran heritage, as well as serving as a benefit to help install a newly acquired organ in the Castle Church, also known as the All Saints Church.
The Castle Church has a unique history that directly relates to the Lutheran tradition of Valparaiso University. Martin Luther spent time in Wittenberg preaching, and it was on the All Saints Church's door that he nailed his 95 theses confronting the Catholic Church and beginning the Reformation. Martin Luther's tomb still resides in the church today.
Valparaiso University continues to have a longstanding connection with it German roots. Valpo offers study abroad programs in Germany and its premiere choir, the Chorale tours regularly in Germany.
This event will be held in our Chapel of the Resurrection, America's largest collegiate chapel and second largest in the world. The Chapel is of a special design, and the greatest concert organists of our generation have performed on its Redell Memorial Organ.
