To Frau Jorger letter 2 - Martin Luther

TO FRAU JORGER

Concerning an Evangelical service in her house. September 12, 1535.

Grace and peace in Christ with my poor paternoster, honored and dear lady! I have seen Herr Andres, and received your letter, and thank you for your present, especially the small groschen, which I would like to know if it were good, for it looks so new it might be counterfeit. Herr Andres also tells me that you are anxious to know if you might, with a good conscience, have preaching in your house (as your pastor has no objections), solely for your own people, and no outsiders belonging to the church. If your pastor permit it, then you may have it till it is forbidden you, for you are not expected to please every- one, although eventually you may be compelled to give way to the powers that be. Each one in things like these takes the responsibility upon himself. And do not mind although the preacher may not have been consecrated by a bishop, for it is not to the office of preacher he is set apart, but rather to the practice of private mass, and such priests are Baals and Jeroboams. Whoever is called is consecrated, and may preach to those who have called him; that is our Lord’s consecration and ordination, and is a right honorable one. My housewife sends her kind regards to you all. I commit you to God. Amen.

At Wittenberg, Sunday. MARTIN LUTHER . (De Wette.)