NL: New institute 'Refo500' gives attention to 2017 Reformation Jubilee

The basic idea is that between 2010 and 2017 consideration will be given in numerous ways and locations to specific events and themes from the time of the Reformation. A further aim is to indicate the relevance these events and people surrounding the Reformation might have for today. In order to accomplish this goal the overview below will serve as a guideline and a means to direct the way the various elements that will be studied should be incorporated in the final product of our presentation in 2017.

The name Refo500 is brief and easy to recognize. It lends itself for international use and also readily suggests that the project is not limited to the life of Martin Luther but includes the Reformation movement in general as well as the Catholic Reformation. Refo500 conjures up a variety of associations and this aligns well with the diverse and multi-colored nature of a project that wants to be intentionally more than ‘reformed’. Consequently, the organizers partnering with Refo500 aim at a broad focus group, namely, the general population and specifically all who have an interest in the history and culture of Europe or who because of their academic training or work are regularly confronted with this theme.

Refo500 wants to serve as facilitator by creating a context within which project partners can work to accomplish their own goals and can make optimal use of the available P.R.-tools, expertise, networks, information, ect. In this way Refo500 intends to work as a platform. In addition, Refo500 fulfills an umbrella function because partners can create a link between their own project (and projects in which they are already a partner) and Refo500 by making use of the facilities within this platform. One can think here of a broad array of activities and products, such as scientific editions but also popular works, exhibitions, lectures, conferences, films, stands at fares, travels and excursions, teaching material, debates, CD’s, concerts, etc.

Partners are given freedom to supply their own interpretation of the Reformation relative to their projects which they wish to bring under the Refo500 event. As a result of this generous approach the Reformation as such is not being defined in terms of its content or meaning by the organizers of Refo500.

Refo500 cooperates with international project partners, who annually provide a financial contribution to support this project.

Press conference
On 16th February 2010, Philip Melanchton’s birthday, the Refo500 will be officially presented to the international press. If you are interested in becoming a partner or you wish to share your ideas or suggestions for the ongoing planning of Refo500 we encourage you to seek contact with the project’s director Prof. dr. Herman J. Selderhuis: hjselderhuis@tua.nl