Lutherans are a group of Christians who subscribe to many of the teachings of Martin Luther and his contemporaries. Early in the 16th century, Martin Luther, a monk and professor, posted 95 theses against the practices of the church. What was meant to reform the church, quickly divided it, and the Protestant church was born. While we recognize the divisions in the church, we continue to believe in the one universal church of which we are each a part.
Among the most important of Martin Luther’s theses were those based on salvation. The church was in the practice of selling indulgences or notes forgiving sins. Martin Luther argued that the church could not sell what Christ freely gave, that is, the forgiveness of all our sins. Other issues included the not allowing priests to marry and the power of the pope.
