Bright sunshine, a lively atmosphere, and exciting international encounters characterized this year’s International Day of Encounter in Berlin-Frohnau, which brought together approximately 200 participants from diverse countries and cultures on July 19, 2025. The center of the events was the Schoenstatt Shrine, which in recent years has become an important place of faith, hope, and encounter in the heart of the German capital.
For years, the small chapel in Frohnau has served as a spiritual reference point for people from diverse cultural backgrounds. Faith, community, and internationality converge uniquely at this place. The Day of Encounter has become a beautiful tradition that builds bridges between languages, generations, and life realities.
A celebration of diversity, inspired by the spirit of the Holy Year
In 2025, on the occasion of the Holy Year of the “Pilgrims of Hope,” the shrine became a shining beacon on the Way of Hope, a symbolic pilgrimage route for many faithful from around the world. It was precisely here, in a multicultural neighborhood of Berlin, that what Father Joseph Kentenich wanted to convey became visible when he said that our shrines should be “points of light in the dark night of the world.”
After the solemn greeting in the languages of the countries represented, the delegations proceeded with their national flags toward the auxiliary image of the Pilgrim Mother, adorned for the occasion—a powerful symbol of unity in diversity.
The highlight of the day was the Holy Mass, accompanied by music from the Philippine mission choir. Father Arkadiusz Sosna, who presided over the celebration, emphasized in his homily the common vocation of all: to be bearers of hope in this world, sustained by God’s love and strengthened by the communion of the faithful. Fathers Klaus Krenz and Jeremy, a Divine Word missionary, also concelebrated Holy Mass.
Tribute to Mary: with music, dance, and praise
After the Eucharist, a colorful procession with the Pilgrim Mother and flags made its way to the chapel, where the Blessed Mother was honored with a creative moment of praise.
There were dances by young Filipinos in traditional costumes.
A violin concert by Maurice Pappe.
And a Marian song from the Polish community, performed by the Koperla family.
An alleluia dance with international participants.
And, to conclude, the moving “Stella Maris” by the Filipino choir.
Community, cuisine, and inspiration
At the international buffet that followed, diversity was also reflected in the cuisine: everyone brought something from their homeland, a gesture that shows that sharing creates communion.
A highlight of the program was the presentation by Sr. M. Alena Engelhardt, who came expressly from Schoenstatt. She enthusiastically recounted the life and work of João Pozzobon, whose mission with the Pilgrim Mother has united people around the world for 75 years.
A place that unites – A Day to Remember
This event was not only a celebration of encounter, but also a testament to the Schoenstatt Shrine in Berlin-Frohnau being a place of hope. A place where the Church becomes reality, a home for many, and a starting point for mission.
The next International Meeting will take place on July 4, 2026. We are already looking forward to seeing you again!
Do Widzenia – Nasvidenje – Au revoir – Adeus – Tạm biệt – Murabeho – Adiós – Good Bye!
Photos: Christian Neumann
