The age of European reformations unfolded in a world so far removed from our own that the events and ideas which emerged a half millennia ago may no longer seem relevant. Yet, through this archway in Coburg, Germany passed a band of fellow travelers carrying ideas which are still fundamental and essential to the identity of millions of Lutherans around the world.

Martin Luther passed through this archway on April 30, 1530 under the protection of the Elector of Saxony, John the Steadfast. When Luther passed under this archway, he did so quite aware his protector, his friends, and his ideas could travel where he could not go. Martin Luther remained behind at the Veste Coburg, having traveled as far as he could in Saxony. Martin Luther remained behind in this castle because he lived under an i...