Bethany Lutheran Church celebrates the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation

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Bethany Lutheran Church celebrates the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation

(Crystal Lake, IL)- Join us on May 21 at 4 pm at the church as we close our season with an inspiring 500th anniversary Reformation Revival featuring the choirs of Bethany Lutheran Church under the direction of noted composer, choral director and organist Dr. Michael Burkhardt. Dr. Michael Burkhardt is internationally known for his innovative and inspiring hymn festivals and his creative work with children. He is currently Director of Worship and the Arts at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Livonia, Michigan, Director of Worship and the Arts for the Southwest Michigan Synod of the ELCA, and Artistic Director of the Detroit Handbell Ensemble. From 2001-2007 he served on the faculty of Carthage College (ELCA) in Kenosha, WI, as Director of Choral Activities, College Organist, and Artist in Residence. Prior to his appointment at Carthage, he was a Faculty Associate in organ at Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ. In addition, he served Christ College Irvine (LCMS) Irvine, CA, as College Organist and head of studies in church music and music education, as well as Luther Seminary, St. Paul, MN, and Trinity Seminary, Columbus, OH, as Guest Lecturer in their Master of Sacred Music programs. Dr. Burkhardt is a graduate of Carthage College, Kenosha, WI. He earned his M.M. degree from Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX, and his D.M.A. degree from Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ.

He has performed and led seminars at both national and regional events for the American Guild of Organists, the Hymn Society, the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians, the Presbyterian Association of Musicians, the Fellowship of United Methodists in Music and Worship Arts, and the American Choral Directors Association. He made his symphonic hall debut in 1999 at Meyerson Symphony Hall in Dallas, TX, and since 2003 has made four performance-teaching tours to South Korea and Singapore.

Bethany Lutheran Church is a community of faith committed to gathering people together for renewal and service. Located at 76 West Crystal Lake Avenue, the corner of Crystal Lake Avenue and McHenry Avenue, the congregation has a global mission with a downtown Crystal Lake center. Bethany Arts Series presents several musical programs each year to inspire, comfort, entertain and engage the community. The concert is hosted by the church with a free will collection. A brief reception will follow the concert with the performers. For more information, view our Facebook page or visit the Bethany Lutheran Church website www.BethanyCL.com.