The date of the Mission Council in Vienna had been fixed long ago already. It was marked fat in our calendars, because we are planning to go to South Africa as volunteers for one year. When we finally started the long journey to Vienna we had many questions on our minds, like: Will our English be sufficient? Will we get more information about our service in South Africa? We were very eager to meet with the other volunteers as well as with the South-African delegate, Rev. Paul Msiza.

When we arrived on Thursday morning with the night train we were tired, but we were welcomed very warmly by our hosts. Some other volunteers had also already arrived. So we made a little tour together through the center of Vienna and talked a little.

Then in the afternoon the Mission Council officially started with a presentation round, and we were astonished to see how many countries were represented. We were very grateful for the kind hospitality of the students of Vienna, who accomodated us for three nights.

Friday began with the probably most challenging topic: the financial status. We learned that the German Union is one of the biggest unions and financially one of the most powerful ones. But as for the rest of the topic, we hardly could get into it. What was really thrilling for us were the reports of the Partner Unions. In an impressive way it was made clear how much the work overthere is depending on political stability.

Then during supper we had time for talks, which for us were definitely an important highlight. If you intend to live for one year in a country of a totally different culture it is a great help to share other people’s experiences. So in order to continue the talks we met late at night in one Vienna’s pubs.

Then on Saturday, more or less rested, we could participate at one of the workshops, before a sightseeing tour was on the programme (ESPECIALLY integrated in the agenda!), which gave once again time to talk with other volunteers. After another evening in one of the bars, we had to start our way back home early on Sunday morning.

Last but not least we will keep a very good memory of the the edifying services. Especially on Saturday evening the differences between the cultures seemed to be surmountable and enriching through celebrating and praying together. The 9-hours train ride was passing very quickly, as we had enormously many impressions to digest and we were happy to get some rest after the very eventful days and short nights.

Anita & Andreas Kirsten

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