Reflections on Wittenberg

On the first Sunday of August, we visited Wittenberg, a town whose fame probably stems from Martin Luther’s nailing of the 95 Theses. The town’s style was a mixture of medieval buildings and cobblestone roads. It was really pretty, but rather secluded. I thought it was interesting how small it actually was; I always imagined it to be bigger. What I found most impressing though, was the church design. The church had a second-floor balcony overlooking into where the congregation sat. The railings were decorated with shields each with a different coat of arms. I don’t think any of the other churches had anything like that.

The town is almost a ghost town, because there really is nothing to do there. (I have to say though, the gelato there is probably the best I’ve had of all the German towns we visited. I might be biased because the gelato guy gave me a MEGA-scoop.) Professor Nielsen mentioned that the town was trying to increase tourism because not many people came to visit. In my opinion, it does have a significance in the Reformation, but I don’t think that alone is significant to attract visitors.

 

From the time we’ve been here, I’ve realized that religion is declining. The younger generation don’t really identify as being religious. They believe that as long as you live a life that is ethically and morally good, it’s enough. Maybe to most Germans, Wittenberg is just an artefact of little significance. I was told that younger Germans weren’t going to church anymore because during the Berlin Wall times, they weren’t allowed to worship in a congregation, so they didn’t grow up with that culture. The Reformation, the 95 Theses, and Luther aren’t of much significance in their eyes. It’s kind of sad if you think about it. Besides the fact that it isn’t part of the culture, maybe the gorgeous churches are the reason younger generations of Germans don’t go to church. They look like relics of the past.

Around the world, there are more modern churches that a lot of people seem to go to. There are also more modern forms of worship than just singing hymns. Maybe that’s what Germany needs to help rekindle religion.

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