November 11, Remembrance Day, is celebrated very differently in Central Europe, Germany in particular. Perhaps there is some national sensitivity to the two Great Wars as some European countries were the opposing side in relation to the Western powers. The Germans are especially sensitive to matters relating to WWII because of the Nazi government’s atrocities. Additionally, suffering two major wars, European countries seem to prefer avoiding the negativity of military conflicts. Instead, they prefer some kind of joyous celebration for November 11. Hence, November 11th is a joyous day with two major occasions to celebrate and have parades.
St. Martin’s Day, Nov. 11
“Lantern, lantern, sun, moon, and stars. . . ” is a refrain that echoes through the autumn streets of Germany every year on November 11. Happy children with colourful, handmade lanterns promenade through the streets, cheerfully singing learned songs of joy. Candles in the lanterns flicker playfully, bringing a sparkle to the children’s eyes. Brimming with excitement, each child hopes to catch a glimpse of the man dressed in a medieval soldier’s uniform riding his majestic steed leading their procession like the Pied Piper of Hamelin.
St. Martin, a Roman tribune in Savaria, now known as Hungary, joined the Roman army in 320 A.D. Soon after his baptism at 18, he became the third bishop of Tours, France. He became famous for his missionary work and his helping of the poor and ostracised.
His legend of helping the poor grew so that eventually he was canonized and regarded as a saint.
To this day, St. Martin’s Day is celebrated in his honour with candle-lit lantern processions and bonfires in the some Central European cities, the flames symbolizing how light brings holiness to the dark. Even though the tradition of the large, crackling fire is gradually being lost, the lantern processions continue as a delightful custom in many cities. Both young and old enjoy seeing the children lighting up the darkened streets with their lanterns and singing: “Up and down the streets, again the lanterns illuminate: red, yellow, green, blue, dear Martin come and look!”
Contributed by K. Brinck
