Martin Festival in Germany

On November 11th of each year the Martin festival is celebrated across Germany. This is especially a festival for the children. On this day they parade through the streets with self-made lanterns and sing songs of St. Martin. Martin often rides ahead on a horse and the singing of the children is supported by a brass band. The St. Martin's procession ends afterwards with a big pretzel at the St. Martin's fire.

We celebrate the festival to remember the life and work of Martin von Tours, who lived in the first half of the 4th century. Martin grew up as the son of a soldier. It was very clear to his father that Martin should also become a soldier. And he did. As a Roman officer, Martin shared his coat with a beggar who

is freezing in the winter. This was very unusual for an officer. Martin soon realized that he wanted to put his life under God. He lived a modest life and was finally elected bishop. Shortly before his death, he said that he wanted to be a light for the people.

On St. Martin's Day we remember how important it is to share and help each other.

This year the St. Martin's processions and fires unfortunately had to be cancelled due to corona. Nevertheless we did not give up making lanterns! The children hung their lanterns in the windows and brought small lights to people who could use a light (the attention). We shared our lights.

Author: Anne-Katrin Aßmann

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