St. Peter’s Cathedral, Munich

I just returned from a trip to Munich, Krakow, Austria, and the towns along the Main River in Germany. I was so grateful to go with my husband, Ron.  Over the summer, I will share my trip with you, posting on Tuesday and Saturday.

We started our trip in Munich, visiting the Old City. In the photo above, you see remains of a Christian martyr, Die Heilige Munditia (c. 250–310 AD). Her jewel-encrusted skeleton is displayed in a glass ossuary at St. Peter's Church. She is traditionally revered as the patron saint of spinsters and single women.

Munich is famous for the Oktoberfest Beer Gardens. Germans love their beer and are very proud of it. A tour guide said told us that long ago, people dumped everything in the river. EVERYTHING. Being polluted, beer was safer to drink than the water. The people now say, “Beer kept us alive!”  I am not a beer drinker. But I do enjoy good wine. Germany makes a dry Riesling, which is quite good. You can find some at Total Wine.

We rode the Hop-on Hop-off bus to get an overall feel for the city. Then we spent some time in the Old City and sat in several of the churches. I love the churches of long ago, with their pillars, artwork, stained glass windows, and ornate décor.  I have heard people complain it is full of idols, but I disagree. Seeing all the artwork of my Lord, reminds me of how much he suffered for us and understands ours completely. Seeing the paintings of the resurrection gives me hope of what is to come.

In the photo below, you see the beautiful stained-glass windows that display many stories of the scriptures. Long ago, people did not have the written Word so the stories were taught from the pulpit and the windows. One of my favorite stories is the story of the Samaritan Woman. She was an outcast in her village and Jesus went out his way to meet with her. Not to judge her but offer a relationship with God and eternal life.  He offers this to us today, too.

Gazing at the photos, what speaks to you?