Lutherans gather in Windhoek for 500th anniversary of the Reformation

Earlier this month, a large delegation from Germany, led by the Premier of Thuringia visited Namibia to attend the Twelfth Lutheran World Federation Assembly and to participate in the local commemoration of Luther’s revolutionary contribution to faith.

The Thuringian Premier, HE Bodo Ramelow used the opportunity to visit President Dr Hage Geingob and his Special Envoy, Dr Zedekia Ngavirue. He also met the Minister of Rural and Urban Development, Hon Sophia Shaningwa.

The German State of Thuringia is the location of many places which played an important role during the Christian Reformation spearheaded by Martin Luther, including the Wartburg Castle where Luther translated the Bible into German. The Lutheran World Federation Assembly also celebrated the 500th anniversary of the Lutheran Reformation. The Premier accompanied Dr Geingob at this event. A group of 32 musicians from Germany performed for the august audience.

In the picture, from the left are Bishop Munib Younan, the outgoing President of the Lutheran World Federation, HE Dr. Hage Geingob, Matthias Erben who conducted the German orchestra performing at the President’s dinner, HE Dr Ramelow and Dr Martin Junge, the Secretary General of the Lutheran World Federation. (Photograph by Maria Namundjembo)