Transitions: “You have to come to study that!?!”

by Dorothee Tripodi

We have made it to Berlin. And today, we will begin our journey to explore the Holocaust and its aftermath.

I have experienced so much kindness from this amazing group. When my Verizon global plan experienced an unexpected glitch, students stepped in. People are looking out for each other. We have our own tourgoers extrordinaire so that Susan, Rachel, and I could finish Add/Drop responsibilities, grading, and administrative details, of course.

But what impressed me most where three comments made by the crew leader of our airline, a border police agent and the receptionist of our hotel: all German, all made the same statement: “Oh, you have come to study that!” Their tone surprisingly reverent acknowledging the challenge at hand, especially once they realized why and where we are going in Poland.

There was an understanding that crossed all religious and secular boundaries. There was no question on why this is important, why it takes courage and vulnerability, and why it’s as contemporary as ever. They seemed to know that this travel seminar is not just about history or past events. It is about today’s reality, antisemitism on the rise, multi-cultural realities, and what it means to be part of the German culture. None were critical or defensive.

Our receptionist was concerned, “You will give them a break and let them experience our modern Berlin, won’t you?” Yes, all day Saturday. She was much relieved.

The flight attendant on my side of the aisle began addressing me with “meine dame,” and I have never been called “my lady.” I told him my first name was fine, but no! Some German traits have remained the same. No problem with direct instructions, but I could sense the care.

The police officer reminded me to hang on to my passport.

The Uber driver informed our students that they needed to expand their culinary experience beyond the German meat and potatoes.

The chief of the crew observed that this travel seminar will be life-changing if we let it.

They always are.

So today we embark on a journey that will include public and practical theology, history, ethics, and yes, biblical understanding, pastoral care, and every aspect of theological education, including service to the Polish community. We will make new friends who undoubtedly won’t mind challenging us and  who share the same passion to continue to “study and embody God’s love and the human spirit.”

We will stand together and continue to face and study just that grateful for global mission partners and for God’s presence even in the darkest times and hours and all its complexity as part of our common human journey.

Yes, we have come to study and to experience just that!