We toured the "fairy tale" castle of Neuschwanstein, built but never completed by Ludwig II, king of Bavaria, and the son of Maximillian II who built the Hohenschwagan castle nearby. Ludwig II built two other castles as well and was considered the "Mad King" who was informed he was no longer king, being declared insane. Interestingly, the next day he was found dead due to mysterious circumstances. On the recommendation of the hotel staff, we took a trip and saw another of his castles, the Linderhof. On the way we stopped by to view the Wies Chapel which is a "Cathedral in the Pasture"--not unlike the "Cathedral in the Cornfield" of Flatville which Pastor David can relate to.

We also stopped and visited the charming town of Oberammergau, the site of the Passion Play, which they are gearing up for in 2010. Its. the longest running event being held every decade since...can't remember how far back it goes. Were somewhat disappointed in the Theatre in which it is held, but really liked the fresco paintings on the exterior of homes and business establishments. It truly expresses a Bavarian feel with a more Swiss Chalet look than the half timber buildings of old Germany.

The weather has been heavy overcast, mist, some rain all week. There was, however an unusual beauty in the mountains as clouds hovered low around the "fair tale" castle. We were fortunate to be able to retain the same room for the second night.

Yesterday morning, we travelled north---l like these Autobahns...you really zip along and the kilometers pass by quickly going 180 km an hour! It is remarkable, we have not seen one accident yet! We headed to Augsburg to catch the last Luther stop at St. Anna Church where Luther had been summoned. During the heresy tril in October 1518 Luther lived in the Monastery at St. Anna. He was to recant his reformatory teaching before the papal legate, Cardina Cajetan. It was here in 1530 during the Imperial Diet that the Protestant princes and representatives of the Imperial cities presented the Augsburg Confession to Emperor Charles V.

We drove into Augsburg, trusting Helmtraut--our trusty guidance counselor and found a Anna parking garage into which we descended five levels and then ascended by "lift" to the entrance of the Augustanahaus. There we were greeted by two friendly individuals who were very gracious in giving us directions. One even decided to give us a personalized tour of the facility which is undergoing major rennovations, especially in the sanctuary. Many "saints" are laid to rest in the floors and walls of this church. Perhaps the most interesting place in this church/monastery besides the room where Luther stayed, and the Confession Room, is what is called the Luther Stair case where some of Luther's writings were kept. Augsburg is the home of many famous personages and its history dates back to about 3 or 4 B.C. playing a prominent role in many aspects of European history, being at the crossroads of major trading routes.

An added bonus for me was the Jakob. Fugger chapel which he had built as a burial place for himself and his brothers. He was of the famous banking family, and I have in my stamp collection a stamp that commemorates his contribution to German history and to his charitable spirit.

We then visited Dachau and saw the "showers" and "ovens" in which more than 44,000 were gassed and cremated. The memorials, Russian Orthodox, Prostestant (Evangelical Church of the Reconciliation was most notable), Catholic, and Jewish, spoke eloguently to a higher meaning and purpose of life. I left feeling as if I smelled and reeked of flesh stench.

We arrive in Munich and today enjoyed navigating the U (ndergroud) to the Marienplatz which is the old part of town where one can only walk. We viewed the Frauenkirche, and St. Peter's church which had 12 side altars in addition to the "high" altar. We also viewed the President's residence for the Sovereigns of Bavaria. The Hall of Antiquity is awesome where the king had his architect commission busts of famous people he could admire. One could gain a history lesson and a half here....maybe 200 or so history lessons!

We leave tomorrow flying to Prague, where we will be met by a friend of Betty's side of the family who will be giving us a tour of this beautiful city.

In spite of the weather, we are enoying ourselves, taking in more than one can possibly comprehend, and have been in more massive cathedrals than I would have expected to see. One thing sure, if one has any sensitivity at all you really feel insignificant in the midst of such beauty and majesty, and I have to say, it certainly does go a long way in pointing one to Someone above!

Miss you all, but am looking forward to the latter part of the journey as well, tracing the footsteps of Paul,

Blessings to you all,
Paul