John Calvin: His Life and Legacy, a DVD
In celebration of the Calvin Jubilee, the Office of Theology Worship and Education of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is launching a 60-minute documentary entitled John Calvin: His Life and Legacy.
More than 30,000 English-speaking congregations around the world trace their lineage through John Calvin. He is a figure of remarkable significance in the history of the Reformed tradition. The 500th anniversary of Calvin’s birth provides a compelling opportunity to re-examine his life and thought.
John Calvin: His Life and Legacy combines insightful interviews of well-known Calvin scholars with creative and stunning visuals from such historical places as Geneva and Paris. This documentary will stimulate audiences and inspire a greater passion and understanding of their history as Reformed Christians.
Watch trailers of this DVD and find out how to order.
John Calvin’s Jubilee
July 8–11, 2009
Montreat Conference Center, Montreat, N.C.
co-sponsored by the Office of Theology and Worship and Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary
Celebrate the 500th anniversary of John Calvin’s birth by participating in a conference on Calvin’s legacy July 8-11 at Montreat Conference Center. We will explore Calvin’s continuing influence on Reformed faith and life through lectures, panels, discussion and worship. An expanded bookstore will feature both new and classic publications. Arrange lodging and meals at Montreat. Download the event schedule. Download a printer-friendly flier about this event. 
John Calvin 500!
Joseph D. Small
Director, Theology
Worship and Education
Many Presbyterians greet the news that 2009 will mark the 500th anniversary of John Calvin’s birth with a yawn, a roll of the eyes or even a derisive snort. Why are we so dismissive of our forebear in the
Reformed tradition?
Lutherans adore Martin Luther. Methodist hearts are strangely warmed by John Wesley. Anglicans even have a sardonic fondness for Henry VIII. But Presbyterians are uncertain about John Calvin and his legacy. Calvin is not a Reformed idol. John Calvin would have been pleased by our reluctance to revere him. He did not want to be idolized by future generations. In order to discourage veneration, he specified that he be buried in Geneva’s common cemetery in an unmarked grave. Contemporary visitors to Geneva may stumble upon Rue Calvin, but his house no longer stands, and no one even knows where it was.
We need not put Calvin on a pedestal in order to appreciate the ways in which his perspectives on Christian faith and life have shaped Reformed churches throughout the world and continue to shape our church today. [Keep reading]
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