Creepy Things are Happening in Germany

[written by Natalie]

The team had to get up earlier than normal, but it was a small sacrifice to visit Luther’s old stomping grounds. The girls and I watched the Luther movie last night in preparation! Dieter dropped the ladies off at the Zug (train) station where we waited for everyone else. Cary, Daniel, Maria, Martin, Josh, and Sam came as well. We had plenty of time to explore the many-leveled station. There were souvenirs, pastries, and even… Starbucks! Eventually, our group made it to the correct platform and waited for the train to arrive.

When we got on, I tried to sit in the first class seating, but Sam was quick to kick me out. But, coach seating was very nice too, so I conceded. A little jingle played each time we were about to approach a stop (which of course was the perfect time to give cheesy smiles and groove). I joked that the first class had better music.

Finally, we arrived in Lutherstadt Wittenberg. Our tourist mob trekked along the cobblestone streets and saw the old buildings looming ahead. I half-expected to see a monk rushing to the church, but alas, it was not to be. Lutherhaus was a large museum devoted to its famous occupants, the Luthers. Mr. and Mrs. Weinberg sat in the infamous seats built into the doorway. Apparently, Luther’s ex-nun wife had them put in as a birthday gift.

Inside, we learned about his works, family, beliefs, surroundings, church, and impact. He certainly had a way with words. Our group was once again reminded that although most of his theology was “wunderbar”, we must always hold everything we hear up to the Word. Even Martin Luther made some mistakes.

Luther’s dedication to the truth of our Lord was certainly inspirational. I read it only took him 11 years to translate the German New Testament from the original language. Plus, he wasn’t trying to stop the church, he was trying to reform it. Luther was quite the “fiery” believer! I encourage you all to refresh your memory and explore his story or read some of Luther’s works.

The teams’ favorite sights included: old coins and seals; original books and handwriting; being scared in the cellar; and reading histories and quotes. There was even an impressive well pump system made of wooden pipes that still works today. Of course, that was added 10 years after Luther’s death… it’s still cool.

We even stopped at the official gift shop where certain people purchased Lutherbeer, Luther socks, Luther necklaces, and even Luther postcards.

Next, our spectacular tour guide, Cary, took us to: famous statues of Melancthon and Luther; Luther’s university; the town church where Luther preached; the town execution site; a Holocaust memorial monument; and the Prussian-built royalty-only church where Luther posted the 95 thesis, preached on occasion, and is now buried.

Eventually, we were very hungry and stopped at Noemi: Pizza & Nudel Express. Most got lasagna, pizza, or pasta. It was fairly cheap and very tasty. The drinks were very tiny, though! On the way back to the train, we stopped for ice cream. There are so many Italian gelato places, it’s like the Starbucks of Germany.

 

I’m not so sure what the evening holds, but I’m sure everyone will find something fun. It’s the American way!

Oh and as for the post title, it has really nothing to do with the blog. It’s merely a bizarre suggestion from our favorite Bibelgemeinde Berlin Intern, Sam.