Celebrating the Seder, here, in Germany was so very profound.
We walked up to the Synagogue, and couldn't help but notice the security cameras, and the fact that we had to be buzzed in.
Once inside the warmth of the people greeted us with smiles. Our new friend Mr. Mitzner took us under his wing. He lead us upstairs to the Synagogue. There stood the original doors from Bamberg's original Syangogue as a silent testimony. (It was burned the morning after Kristallnacht. To learn more click here.)
Michael chose a kippa from the basket and placed it on his head.
We sat holding our books waiting for the service to start. The simple beauty surrounded us as we watched others take their seats.
We weren't aware of the large Russian population, until Mr. Mitzner explained that the majority of the congregation was indeed Russian.
Michael & I were astounded by the Cantor's voice. It was beautiful as it bellowed out welcoming in the Sabbath.
The service was in Hebrew, German & Russian. So, following along was sometimes tedious. However, we did find our places, and we're joyfully singing along from time to time.
The sound of the whole congregation welcoming in the Shabbos was so beautiful, it brought tears to my eyes and joy to my heart.
My little husband standing in front of me, singing his heart out made me smile.
After the service everyone greeted everyone with a handshake and heartfelt and warm "Shabbot Shalom!"
We all headed downstairs for the yummy dinner that awaited.
Mr. Mitzner sat us at his table. He gave us the Haggadah. It was in German, but we followed along best as we could.
Our wine was blessed.
We dipped our bitter herbs into salt water to represent the tears and bitterness of slavery. Thus began the story of Exodus.
I have to admit, I felt that parsley growing and growing in my mouth. So, I did what anyone else would do, swallow it nearly whole then wash it down with some wine.
The matzah was broken.
The sweetest little girl stood in front of everyone and asked the four questions. My favorite part was when she held up the pillow. It was grasped in her hand and held high above her head as she read her part about relaxing.
There was more wine!
More Matzah! This time spread with beets and horseradish.
The Rabbi sang songs, and just for us Americans, she sang one in English (The Ballad of the Four Sons) If you'd like to hear the song click HERE.
Mr. Mitzner told us, and he was right, some people think the Seder is long, but if your heart is in it, it goes fast. The night seemed to zip by.
The first food we ate was an appetizer of Gefilte Fish. Now, I have to admit, I've looked at the jars in the store and grimmaced. Not ever brave enough to take a bite.
However, It is DELICIOUS. :) In fact, I had two pieces.
Then came the most amazing matzo ball soup. My husband all but licked his bowl.
Then we had boiled potatoes, tangy green beans, veggies and fork tender brisket.
We laughed, we talked, we ate & we drank wine (OK, so four cups of kosher wine can be A LOT!!)
It was such a memorable wonderful night.
Michael & I were talking about the wonderful people. He said "You know, I feel like I've known Mr. Mitzner my whole life. He's just that kinda guy."
I nodded in agreement.
I definitely feel blessed to have been invited to such an important holiday, in a land that only 74(ish) years ago would've been forbidden and life threatening. It was humbling and astounding. And here we were, breaking Matzo and singing praises of of how great our G-d is. Michael and I were both blessed and honored to be surrounded by men and women who welcomed us in like long lost family.
Dayenu indeed!
