Semper Reformanda

Seeing as today is Reformation Day, I thought I'd share something to get us is in the mood.

The Reformation Polka by Richard Gebel
(To be sung to the tune of "Supercalifragilistic-expialidocious")

When I was just ein junger Mann I studied canon law;
while Erefurt was a challenge, it was just to please my Pa.
Then came the storm, the lightning struck, I called upon Saint Anne.
I shaved my head, I took my vows, an Augustinian! Oh...

Chorus
Papal bulls, indulgences, and transubstantiation--
speak your mind against them and face excommunication!
Nail your theses to the door, let's start a Reformation!
Papal bulls, indulgences, and transubstantiation!

When Tetzel came near Wittenberg, St. Peter's profits soared.
I wrote a little notice for the All Saints' bull'tin board:
"You cannot purchase merits, for we're justified by grace!
Here's 94 more reasons, Brother Tetzel, in your face! Oh...
(Chorus)

They loved my tracts, adored my wit, all were exempleror.
The Pope, however, hauled me up before the Emperor.
"Are these your books? Do you recant?" King Charles did demand.
"I will not change my Diet, sir, God help me, here I stand!" Oh...
(Chorus)

Duke Frederick took the Wise approach, responding to my words,
by knighting "George" as hostage in the Kingdom of the Birds.
Use Brother Martin's model if the languages you seek.
Stay locked inside a castle with your Hebrew and your Greek! Oh...
(Chorus)

Let's raise our steins and Concord Book while gathered in this place
and spread the word that "catholic" is spelled with lower case.
The Word remains unfettered when the Spirit gets His chance,
so come on, Katie, drop your lute and join us in out dance!

Everybody!....

Papal bulls, indulgences, and transubstantiation--
speak your mind against them and face excommunication!
Nail your theses to the door, let's start a Reformation!
Papal bulls, indulgences, and transubstantiation!



Happy Reformation Day Everybody