Martin Luther
            QUESTION from Barbara on April 14, 2004

I use to teach the RCIA class at the parish where I live. One of the women on the RCIA Team often spoke of Martin Luther's break from the church and told us that it is a little known fact that on his death bed Martin Luther regretted his break from the Catholic Church and said to whomever it was around him, "Tell them to go back to Rome." According to this woman this quote proves that Martin Luther was sorry that there was a break from the church and that it was his wish that the church be united once again. I found this to be very interesting, but I have not been able to find any foundation to this quote. When I asked her where this information came from she said it came from her sister who is a "sister." I explained that I had been unable to find any resources with this quote and her response was that naturally the Lutherans would not publish this information, feeling that they were right in splitting from the church. Where then, did her sister come upon this quote, if the Lutherans had successfully kept it such a secret, I asked her. She told me that she, herself, did not have that information readily available, but that she would definitely get it for me. But she never did. I no longer am involved with the RCIA team and have lost touch with this woman. So I am asking you if there is any truth to this quote attributed to Martin Luther. Thank you.