Celebrating Christmas with our German community marked 2008 as unique for us. Different customs, foods, language and landscape shaped the holiday. P.J. flew in for an eleven day visit, his girlfriend Sara also was our guest. Definitely, we missed Gretchen and Simon, who were in Illinois gathered around Nussbaum's tree.
An especially beautiful memory for us was when Bamberg Cathedral darkened,only candles and tree lights could be seen. Organ music and voices blended together as "Silent Night" was sung. Simple elegance combined with Christmas peace was evident. We continued to stroll the cobblestone city streets, people watching and sensing magical spirits.
Village residents in Rattlesdorf gathered at town square before 10:30 Mass spreading cheer. Community band members trumpeted carols while others sipped warm drinks. The clock struck 10:25 and all headed to church one block away.
Christmas Day brunch at our apartment featured sausages, eggs, stollen, juice, etc. Back to our favorite spot once again Banz Abbey, we worshipped at 2:oo Vespers and then were really lucky! The Cafe was open so we dined at the Abbey. Apple strudel with warm vanilla sauce was our Christmas pudding.
An especially beautiful memory for us was when Bamberg Cathedral darkened,only candles and tree lights could be seen. Organ music and voices blended together as "Silent Night" was sung. Simple elegance combined with Christmas peace was evident. We continued to stroll the cobblestone city streets, people watching and sensing magical spirits.
Village residents in Rattlesdorf gathered at town square before 10:30 Mass spreading cheer. Community band members trumpeted carols while others sipped warm drinks. The clock struck 10:25 and all headed to church one block away.
Christmas Day brunch at our apartment featured sausages, eggs, stollen, juice, etc. Back to our favorite spot once again Banz Abbey, we worshipped at 2:oo Vespers and then were really lucky! The Cafe was open so we dined at the Abbey. Apple strudel with warm vanilla sauce was our Christmas pudding.
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