by Hannah McKean| Summer 2024 |
During my month-long stay in Leipzig, Germany, I found myself immersed in a world far removed from the familiar comforts of home. The journey took me to various enchanting destinations, each with its own unique allure. I ventured to bustling cities such as Berlin, Prague, Zurich, and Salzburg, as well as to charming, untouched towns like Dresden, Weimar, Wittenberg, and Erfurt, where the timeless beauty of ancient times was on full display.
Exploring the haunting corridors of Holocaust museums and memorials, I was confronted with the unfathomable atrocities of the past. The weight of history bore down on me, leaving me emotionally shaken yet profoundly moved. These experiences etched an unforgettable mark on my heart, sparking a deep-seated empathy and a fervent dedication to understanding and preventing such heinous acts in the world.
The architecture of the churches I visited was nothing short of awe-inspiring, often leaving me longing to spend more time in their magnificent spaces. As I roamed the streets for hours, I absorbed the rich history and folklore that painted a vivid picture of the towns and their ancient churches, each a testament to human devotion and ingenuity.
Every day offered invaluable learning opportunities. I vividly remember a class outing to Wittenburg. I was drained, sleep-deprived, and cranky. My professor took the class to a church, where, seeking solace, I took a moment to pray. I prayed for patience and grace, yearning for a sense of fulfillment. Yet, at that moment, I felt empty and despondent. It wasn’t until much later that I realized that while I hadn’t felt an immediate connection, God’s presence was indeed with me in a different form—a lesson in the unpredictability and vastness of divine presence.
My time in Germany also brought to light the universality of faith. Despite the language barriers and cultural differences, I learned that the bond of worshipping a constant and unwavering God transcended all boundaries. It became evident to me that even amidst the turmoil of the past, people held onto their faith with a quiet strength, cherishing their beliefs as a deeply personal sanctuary.
Towards the conclusion of my time in Leipzig, I unexpectedly encountered a display of vocal faith. While strolling through town, I stumbled upon a group of young girls singing what sounded like hymns, and a table adorned with Bibles in various languages. In a touching display of unwavering belief, an individual reached out to me, overcoming the language barrier to convey a powerful message of love and acceptance from God. Once again, I was reminded of the omnipresence of a loving and steadfast God, leaving me with a lasting sense of awe and reverence.
My time in Germany was a journey of personal growth, spiritual enlightenment, and unexpected encounters. It taught me many things, brought me wonderful friends, and, most of all, deepened my relationship with God. I learned that God is not confined to a box of expectations, and that His presence can be felt in the most unexpected ways. This realization, that my God is the same God for everyone and me, no matter where I am, was a profound and inspiring lesson.
