November 11 is a day of great remembrance. Not only is it the day to commemorate the Armistice or the end of WWI , in America we call it Veteran’s day, in Germany for obvious reasons it is not celebrated in the same manner. Here in Germany they celebrate the feast day of St. Martin or Tours.
On this day in Ladenburg, all the children gather excitedly with their parents and their hand made lanterns and make a parade around the town to the city gate, this Medieval structure is called St. Martin’s Gate. So it is only fitting.
Leading the way, on horse back is St. Martin in his Roman helmet and scarlet cloak. Everyone sings songs and waves their lighted lanterns while the story of St. Martins life and his generous deed towards the pauper is acted out by local school children dressed in his likeness and the likeness of the beggar.
If you are not familiar with the story of St. Martin you can read more about his life at this link:
Martinstag
Living in Germany not only as an American but a proud wife of a U.S. Army Veteran, I enjoy my position as observer perched on my chair between these two worlds. Most of the day I spend thinking of those who gave all their tomorrows for our today and those currently in harms way. But it is this light filled celebration at the end of this day of remembrance which I look forward to in order to lift this heavy day.
I hope you enjoy this slide show of images from an American perspective.
Also I would like to say Hello to Mrs. Jochetz’s Class, I hope you find this story interesting!
by lthek
2 comments
link to this post email a friend