Bregenz, Courage, and a Surprise Christm

In Bregenz, our first stop was the church in the upper town — quiet, reverent, and perched above the city with a beautiful view. Just outside stood a striking memorial pillar honoring Johann Volkmann, a man executed in 1941 for refusing to swear allegiance to Hitler.

His story echoes the same convictions that shaped the Anabaptist movement: obedience to Christ above all, the courage to resist political pressure, and a conscience that cannot be forced. Seeing that tribute beside the church brought history, faith, and sacrifice together in a powerful way.

From there we wandered downhill toward the harbor on Lake Constance, the water opening between Austria, Switzerland, and Germany. But on the way we stumbled upon something unexpected — a Christmas market already set up in mid-November!

European Christmas markets have a magic all their own: lights, wood huts, the smell of spices, ornaments, handmade crafts. Even though this one was very early in the season, it still felt like stepping into Advent.

A simple walk down the hill turned into a moment of beauty, history, and early Christmas joyRead more