The 2014-15 Wittenberg Series continues with a cherished university tradition, the annual Festival Choral Eucharist for Reformation, at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, in historic Weaver Chapel. The preacher for the service is The Rev. Suzanne Darcy Dillahunt, Bishop of the Southern Ohio Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA).

Using a service first created by Martin Luther in 1526, the Festival Choral Eucharist for Reformation follows a model of the German mass. Instead of having just a choral structure, the service involves both choral and preaching components. Luther’s goal was to highlight preaching, as well as the sacrament. The service uses various hymns, some of which were written by Luther.

Pre-service music begins at 7 p.m., provided by University Organist David Crean and the Wittenberg Handbell Choir, directed by Professor Emerita of Music Trudy Faber. The Wittenberg Choir, directed by Visiting Professor of Music Frances Fonza, will provide special music during the service, along with the handbell choir.

The Rev. Suzanne Darcy Dillahunt was installed to the office of Bishop of the Southern Ohio Synod of the ELCA in 2013. Dillahunt served as assistant to the bishop in the Southern Ohio Synod since 1997. Prior to that, she served as pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Eaton, Ohio, from 1994 to 2005, Peace Lutheran Church in Gahanna, Ohio, from 1990 to 1994, and Christ Lutheran Church (now known as Faith in Christ Lutheran Church) in Springfield, Ohio, from 1987 to 1990.

Dillahunt earned a bachelor of arts in political science from the University of Arizona in 1981 and a master of divinity from Trinity Lutheran Seminary in 1986. Trinity was founded in 1978 after the decision was made by the ELCA to consolidate Evangelical Lutheran Theological Seminary in Columbus and Hamma Divinity School at Wittenberg. Hamma had served as the theological department of Wittenberg since its inception in 1845.

Now in its 32nd year, the Wittenberg Series brings distinguished lecturers and performing artists of national and international prominence to the Wittenberg campus and Springfield community. To make special arrangements, request a Series poster, or become a friend of the Wittenberg Series, contact Nuggie Libecap at libecapn@wittenberg.edu. All Wittenberg Series events are free and open to the public.