Stutthof
Today was our trip to Stutthof Concentration Camp with the Holocaust Survivors. As you might imagine, it is always a somber time as we walk through the camp. But there is a Star of David monument next to the gas chamber where the atmosphere always takes a little turn. Many pick up rocks to place at the base in remembrance. This year someone had added a sign that read “Next Generation Israel”. Then we join hands in a circle around the monument for prayer and a few songs – a declaration that the Jewish nation that still lives! I was honored to stand between two of them, one a big man with a soft heart who was a little emotional as the singing began. I felt him squeeze my hand tight and he gave me a little half-smile and a kiss on the hand as the circle broke. Although we can’t communicate in words, I pray that the love of God is just pouring out of us into them.
The Journey Back 