Report by Ms. Beate Wagner, Zusmarshausen, Germany
On Sunday, May 22, 2022, Zusmarshausen held a peace celebration event.
In his speech, Mayor Bernhard Uhl welcomed the Ukrainian guests in their native language. Touching on the war in Ukraine, he said, “Let us live peace together, in the community, in solidarity with the Ukrainian people.” Igor Meisner, from the Ukrainian Association of Augsburg, expressed his heartfelt thanks for the peace festival, and urged the participants to support the Ukrainians with all the means at their disposal. Ukrainian student Katja Parhidco thanked Zusmarshausen for its commitment warmly. Pastor Ulrich Funk’s words moved the participants—“Where does peace come from, and where does peace go? Peace is a gift and a task—let us stand together!” A Ukrainian choir let the Ukrainians be at home for moments, with emotional tears flowing on their cheeks. Marktkapelle Zusmarshausen further garnished the celebration solemnly. A peace demonstration followed, in which participants felt the sense of community that exists between all people beyond language barriers. The demonstration was concluded by Franziska Schechinger singing “Give peace a chance” by John Lennon.
After the blessing of the fountain by Father Philip, a linden tree in the Moosdreieck, designated as a peace tree, was decorated with peace wishes.
Photos: courtesy of the City of Zusmarshausen