This October we are celebrating the 500th Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation. Justification by faith reverberated as the drumbeat of the reformation calling men to arms. Sola Scriptura provided the battleground where the war was fought. But let’s not forget one important battle waged—the battle of the beards.

In an August 28, 2013 edition of Christianity Today, Ted Olsen wrote, “[Shaving habits] separated East from the West during the Great Schism, priests from laity during the Middle Ages, and Protestants from Catholics during the Reformation. Some church leaders required them; others banned them.” So, in 1547, Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Cranmer began to grow a beard. Many thought it was to mourn the death of King Henry VIII, but his beard also signaled a break with the beardless Catholic clergy. That explains why so many Reformers donned such rad beards.

Because families should have fun together, the TBC family will be hosting a beard contest during the month of October. All you have to do is send in a picture of the Reformer whose beard you are imitating, along with a picture of your beard to the church office by Wednesday, October 25th. Women and children can participate as well—just be creative!

The winner will get the honor of best Reformation Beard and a prize during the service on Sunday, October 29th. We have some pictures of various beards above, but you are welcome to choose any other reformer's beard to emulate. May the best beard win!