Bible found in a Wisconsin Lutheran church may or may not enhance understanding of the text, but it certainly is providing a new perception of “pigskin” in Packer country.

A 340-year-old discovery has put a small Lutheran school and church in Bonduel on the world-wide map. A 17th Century Bible was found inside St. Paul Lutheran School.

It’s old world craftsmanship, that’s survived more than 3 centuries. According to researchers, the 1,500 page Lutheran Bible was printed in 1670 in Germany.

It’s a re-published version of Martin Luther’s translation of the Holy Bible.

“We’ve spanned this gap with this Bible, 2 centuries, most of our stuff is from the 1800′s floating around here,” explained Church Pastor Timothy Shoup.

More than two years ago, sixth grade teacher, Debra Court discovered the book in an old safe located in the school. Her initial thought, it’s just another old book.

“I was looking for the old Baptism records to show my students and then up here in the corner was where the Bible was tucked,” explained Court.

But it took two years to realize how special it was. Eventually, the pastor sent pictures to the Concordia Seminary Library in St. Louis. A cataloger there was able to authenticate the 340-year-old book.

Officials say the book looks to be in relatively good condition, especially because the brass clasps that are still in tact. They say detailed illustrations were also impressive.

Read More: http://blogs.fox11online.com/2011/01/11/1670-bible-found-in-bonduel/