Sunday, a day when singing in church is as natural to Mennonites as castles are along the Rhine. It was fitting that the Faith and Life Women’s Chorus should complete its singing engagements at a church service. The Choir, once again, was warmly welcomed for the morning worship service at Ludwigskirche in Freiburg. And yet again, we had another mountain-top experience. Rather than standing at the front of the sanctuary, we sang from the back balcony and were accompanied, not by piano, but by the glorious sound of the pipe organ. Leanne checked off another item on her bucket list by playing this wonderful pipe organ (and she even managed to play with her feet!). It was interesting to be a part of this special service which included the baptism of two young people. Perhaps one of the most fascinating aspects of the service was listening to their own organist accompany the hymns. Of course, watching him use all 3 manuals, plus the full range of foot pedals, was also amazing! His jazz-influenced interpretations and unique improvisations added a special sense of creativity to the worship music. What a wonderfully inspiring way to begin this last leg of our tour.
The whole group had lunch together at Restorante Pizzaria Adler, a quaint Italian restaurant in Emmendingen. During the meal we had a time of sharing; people shared highlights and general impressions and feelings of the tour. Many commented on the bonding experience that has happened. Some shared about their homestay experiences – even a little house in the middle of a cemetery – and the generous hospitality we had everywhere we went. It was a time of tears and laughter for all of us. Here Theresa and Sarah Klassen left the group to continue their adventure. As we travelled to Landau our group got smaller again. We waved good bye to Leanne Regehr Lee as she caught her train so she could catch her flight back home.
When we arrived at our hotel, we learned there was a pool. Our first pool on the entire trip. What a nice surprise. Even nicer was taking a short walk to a charming old building which houses the restaurant Zum Trifels, and having the meal paid for by our tour company OIK. The room was filled with laughter and smiles as we enjoyed a leisurely dinner. The pool will have to wait until tomorrow.
Submitted by: Leanne Regehr Lee, Janet Marchylo, Elaine Loewen, and Ernie Epp
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