Commemoration: Johannes Bugenhagen

Today is the commemoration of Johannes Bugenhagen, pastor. From the LCMS Worship Library (Commemoration Biographies):

“Johannes Bugenhagen (1485-1558), from Pomerania in northern Germany, was appointed pastor of Wittenberg in 1523 through the efforts of Martin Luther and thus served as Luther’s own pastor and confessor. One of the greatest scholars of the Reformation era, he helped translate the New Testament into Low German and wrote a commentary on the Psalms. He also worked to organize the Lutheran Church in northern Germany and Denmark, journeying to Copenhagen where he crowned both King and Queen and consecrated seven men to the offices of superintendent and bishop.”

Colored woodcut of Bugenhagen preaching at Martin Luther’s funeral.