Musical superstars assemble in the town of Altenstadt/WN
In the picturesque town of Altenstadt an der Waldnaab, Germany, the annual tradition of the Sternsinger (Star Singers) continues to thrive. Dressed as the Three Wise Men, these children and youth went door to door, singing carols and blessing homes as part of a nationwide tradition that raises funds for charitable and developmental projects worldwide.
The Sternsinger, an integral part of German cultural and religious life, have been active in Altenstadt for many years. This year, seven groups, each consisting of four altar servers, spent two days visiting homes in the community, continuing a long-standing cultural and religious practice.
The funds raised by the Sternsinger support mission-based initiatives promoting education, health, and welfare for children around the world. This year's theme, "Together for our Earth - in Amazonia and worldwide," highlights the importance of preserving the environment and aiding those in need.
The Sternsinger tradition, which originated in 1959, is recognised as intangible cultural heritage in Germany. The funds they raise go to projects supported by the Kindermissionswerk, one of the largest charitable organisations in Germany focused on child mission work and aid.
Elsewhere in Germany, a severe accident occurred on the B 299 near Grafenwöhr due to a driver falling asleep at the wheel. Fortunately, all parties involved escaped mostly unharmed.
In a separate incident, a burnt-out car with a body inside was found in Stetten near Neunburg vorm Wald. The Amberg Criminal Police are currently investigating the incident.
Meanwhile, at the Catholic parish church of "Heilige Familie" in Altenstadt, the Sternsinger's activity culminated in a service sending out the Sternsinger for the year.
In other news, the Oppl Zoigl Stube in Mitterteich has announced its closure in November. Wilhelm and Elisabeth Oppl, the owners, have made the decision to close the establishment that has been selling fass beer for many years. However, the Oppl Zoigl Stube in another location will continue its service.
Finally, three breads from the Weiden bakery Brunner have received top grades: the Upper Palatinate Landbrot, the Swiss Mountain Bread, and the Authentic Stone Oven Bread. The awards were no coincidence, as the quality of these breads has consistently been recognised for their excellent taste and quality.
[1] Das Kindermissionswerk "Die Sternsinger": https://www.sternsinger.de/ [2] UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List: https://ich.unesco.org/en/list/intangible-heritage [3] Critique of missionary work abroad: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/mar/23/critics-say-germanys-sending-of-missionaries-is-a-colonial-hangover [4] Sternsinger's fundraising focus: https://www.sternsinger.de/en/our-projects/ [5] Sternsinger tradition in Germany: https://www.bundesregierung.de/breg-de/themen/kultur-und-medien/1450009,--intangible-cultural-heritage-in-germany.html
