On Sunday, August 3rd several from the Aalen church traveled to Schwarzenau for the celebration of the 300th anniversary of the "Brethren Movement" begun by Alexander Mack. In August of 1708 Mack was baptized in the Eder river and then he baptized 7 other believers. This was a bold and courageous step at that time, was seen as a challenge to the prevailing religious and political powers and resulted eventually in pressure on the group leading to their move to Pennsylvania. In the New World, with guarantees of religious freedom, the movement grew and spread rapidly.
Our early morning departure (5:30 a.m.) guaranteed a timely arrival for the 10:00 a.m. church service
Our early morning departure (5:30 a.m.) guaranteed a timely arrival for the 10:00 a.m. church service
A brief pit and coffee stop along the Autobahn
The once voluntary contribution has become a mandatory 50 cent charge for use of the rest rooms (check out the sign in the background)!!!
The once voluntary contribution has become a mandatory 50 cent charge for use of the rest rooms (check out the sign in the background)!!!
Just one km to the Brethren "Mecca"
On the banks of the Eder river where the 8 believers were baptized
A transformed horse arena provided a very pleasant setting for the several hundred attendees from around the world - mostly USA with representatives from Philippines, Central Asia, Germany, England, Argentina, Nigeria, Chad, Central African Republic, etc.
Nice to see a familiar face - Steve Kern, presently from Wooster, OH, former colleague on our missionary team in Germany
A "private" tour of the Alexander Mack museum
A final "gathering at the river" with a short address, a song and a prayer
Commemorative plaque near the river (click for close-up)
Part of the Aalen contingent just before heading back home
1 comment:
Zach, you look so old! What happened? Mommy, I like your new sandals ~ very nice!
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