30 Years of World Heritage Status for the Luther Memorials | Focus on the Castle Church in Wittenberg Starting October 7 | Reformation Day Services and Concert, Special Tours, Organ Music, and Much More

"30 Years. 6 Sites. ONE World Heritage." Starting October 7, the Castle Church in Wittenberg takes center stage in the World Heritage anniversary celebrations for the Luther Memorials in Eisleben and Wittenberg. It ranks among the most significant sites associated with the Reformation. Every year on October 31, a Reformation Festival in Wittenberg commemorates Martin Luther’s publication of the 95 Theses on the door of the Castle Church in 1517. Festive church services and a celebratory concert take place in the church on Reformation Day. In addition, the Protestant Preachers' Seminary and the Castle Church congregation are hosting concerts, guided tours, events, and prayers for peace throughout the month.

Prayers for Peace at the Wittenberg Castle Church on October 12, 19, and 26, at 6:00 p.m.

October 12, approx. 6:30 p.m.: Reading with Dr. Reiner Haseloff: "Not with Our Country: An East German Perspective"

Throughout October, the Protestant Preachers' Seminary and the Castle Church congregation invite you to attend prayers for peace featuring musical accompaniment. Through hymns, biblical texts, and the Prayer of St. Francis, we bring our longing for peace before God.

A period of silence lies at the heart of this approximately 30-minute service, during which candles are lit at the peace candelabrum. In prayer, we can bring the suffering and hardship found in the world's crisis regions—as well as our own petitions for peace and reconciliation—before God.

Monday, October 12, 2026
6:00 p.m.: Prayer for Peace with Pastor Birgit Neumann-Becker and Cantor Philipp Spielmann
Approx. 6:30 p.m.: Reading by Dr. Reiner Haseloff: "Not with Our Country: An East German Perspective"

For the first time in Wittenberg, Dr. Reiner Haseloff—former Minister-President—will read from his new book, in which he reflects on his political career. At a time when trust in parliamentary democracy is waning and the country's capacity for reform is under strain, he discusses how Christian values ​​shape his understanding of politics and identifies the resources, conflicts, and limits he perceives. In this book, the author looks to the future, finding hope in a positive identification with our country and the strengthening of universal human values.
The prayers for peace and the reading will take place in the chancel of the Castle Church.

The castle church can be visited at the following times: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday or public holidays from 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The tower opens at the same time as the castle church, last ascent possible until 4 p.m. [Info from 21 September 2026]