Unfamiliar sounds echoed through the village on Sunday evening. Japanese culture undeniably enriched the celebration on the terrace of the Reformed Church.

Taiko drums were originally used in Japanese temples. Assistant Vicar Benjamin Bartholomä held his farewell service together with the Goraiko Taiko group. The rhythms of the drums, accompanied by dance and exclamations, captivated those present, particularly against the magnificent backdrop of the view from the church terrace. No less gripping was the unusual passage from the extra-biblical Coptic ‘Gospel of Mary’.

The vicar alternated several times between the powerful drumming and powerful words: It is not only in the New Testament that Mary Magdalene stands for authenticity. We must lend an ear not only to the deafening beats of the taiko drums, but also to the quiet voices. On the terrace, welcome gusts of wind in the warm weather underscored the drum rolls, song and words. Finally, Benjamin Bartholomä was honoured.

Andreas Maurer (Church Councillor), Bertina Adame (Church Team) and Cédric Schmid (Chair of the District Church Council) thanked him for his courageous and successful service in Walchwil. We can now look forward to the inauguration of the newly elected pastor, Ruth Schäfer, in September! Text and photos: Hans Ruedi Kilchsperger