Holocaust Remembrance Day: A town once inhabited by Nazis reconciles with the past

Tübingen, a picturesque German college town, has managed to flourish today despite its dark past. Once home to infamous Nazi captain Theodor Dannecker and a training ground for SS soldiers, the city has made significant strides in acknowledging and confronting its history.

The University of Tübingen, which proudly declared itself “Jew free” during the Nazi era, now grapples with its past in an effort to move forward. Jobst Bittner, founder of Tübingen’s TOS Church and the March of Life initiative, leads the charge in promoting awareness and understanding of the city’s role in the Holocaust. Descendants of Nazis and Holocaust survivors come together to organize marches against antisemitism, fostering a spirit of reconciliation and remembrance.

The TOS Church in Tübingen serves as a beacon of hope and unity, with banners calling for the release of hostages held by Hamas and a “Museum of Guilt” displaying the city’s dark history. Young people in the congregation sing Hebrew songs and celebrate Jewish holidays to honor the Jewish roots of Christianity and promote friendship and understanding.

Heinz Reuss, an elder at TOS Church, recalls a turning point in 2003 when congregants discovered their own family members’ Nazi pasts. This led to a powerful period of repentance and healing, culminating in a prayer march involving descendants of Holocaust survivors and Nazis. The March of Life movement, which began in Tübingen, has since spread to multiple countries, promoting remembrance, reconciliation, and a stand against antisemitism.

As Holocaust Remembrance Day approaches, survivor Irene Shashar will share her story at TOS Church. Born in Poland during the Nazi occupation, Shashar credits her mother’s bravery for helping her survive the horrors of the Holocaust. Her resilience and determination serve as a powerful reminder that the atrocities of the past must never be forgotten.

Tübingen’s journey towards reconciliation and understanding serves as a model for other communities grappling with dark chapters in their history. By acknowledging the past and working towards a more inclusive and compassionate future, the city is paving the way for healing and unity.