The Bubonic Plague

Reformation Day is this Saturday, October 31 -- the anniversary of the day in 1517 when professor and monk Martin Luther wrote a letter to the Archbishop of Mainz protesting the sale of indulgences, among other church practices. As was the custom in his hometown of Wittenberg, Germany, Luther nailed his letter to the door of Castle Church, sparking the Protestant Reformation.

In honor of Reformation Day 2020, the Presbyterian Historical Society is reminding churches of "The Plague Song" by Ulrich Zwingli, a priest in Zurich, Switzerland, who was closely associated with the Reformation alongside Luther and John Calvin. Early in his ministry at Groosmunster Church, Zwingli contracted the bubonic plague, which killed nearly half the residents of Zwingli's hometown, Zurich. Zwingli battled the plague in 1519 and 1520, ultimately recovering fully and living another 10 years.

Zingli's "The Plague Song" was included in many 16th- and 17th-century hymnals, and the hymn serves as an apt reminder that our most challenging times can often lead to profound and sorely needed change. As millions battled and succumbed to the Black Death, leaders like Luther, Calvin, and Zwingli fought for renewal and reformation. And thanks to the printing press, their ideas spread across the western world and Protestantism was birthed.

Zingli's song is divided into three sections: At the Beginning of the Illness, In the Midst of his Illness, and During Convalescence. For more history on Zwingli's illness and the lyrics to his hymn, you can view the Presbyterian Historical Society's Reformation Sunday insert here.

As in the era of the bubonic plague, COVID-19 is not a time to wait and despair. Change undoubtedly will emerge from the trials of this year. What will your role be? How can you seek justice, offer peace, and give voice to those who have no voice?

Happy Halloween.

Jennie