March of the Living: Day 4

Day 4 of the March of the Living in Poland -

We returned to Auschwitz I. Even though it was drizzling and grey, the weather was nowhere near as volatile as it was here just yesterday afternoon.

Yesterday's focus was the March. Today, we learned more about what the Nazis did to Jews throughout Europe, detailing what took place at Auschwitz. Our guide took us through the standing exhibits that are housed in the original barracks. Towards the end of our time within the camp, we paused at giant volumes that list well over 4 million documented names of Jews killed by the Nazis during the Holocaust.

We then went into the Polish town of Oświęcim. The German name of this town is Auschwitz. Oświęcim is a bit remote which may be why the Nazis chose it as where they would build one of their death camps. They also chose it because it is a train depot; transporting Jews to this area food not require much new infrastructure.

Oświęcim was also home to a Jewish community of 8,000 which made up over 50% of the local population. We visited a street which used to be a center for Jewish community. The town's Great Synagogue no longer stands. The only reminder that it was once there is a small memorial surrounded by a few tall trees. Around the block from this site is a beautiful restored synagogue [and coffee shop!] The last Jew of Oświęcim is the wife of the tour guide who spoke with us. They are a young couple so perhaps they will attract the next wave of Jews who will call this place home.

And yet... it was at this place that we sang and danced together for the first time as a group on this experience. What joy it was to bring our songs and dances to this city, cursed by what the Nazis did, but still bearing the spiritual remnants of our people and eternal tradition.

That was how we got ready to welcome Shabbat. We were part of a service at the Reform Temple in Krakow. After Shabbat dinner and dessert, we had a group conversation and then headed off for some well-needed rest.

Shabbat shalom from Poland.