My name is Marco Metting from Germany and I stayed at the Schoenstatt Centre at Campsie Glen for 2 Months. It was one of the best times in my life.

I must admit that I did my social service at the Schoenstatt Sisters of Mary in Vallendar after the German equivalent to the A-Levels in the UK. Therefore, I knew what the sisters are like.

A lovely group of people who are locked deep inside my heart, but the sisters in Scotland have a certain British humour you only can find at the Schoenstatt Centre in Campsie Glen. I’m quite sure you as British citizens don’t recognize that, but for a foreigner like me it is something very special and unforgettable.

I arrived at Campsie Glen late in the evening and couldn’t recognize the beauty of that place at the first glance, but when I pulled my window blinds back on the first morning I was so amazed because of the great countryside.

It was more beautiful then I imagined. After getting my breath back, I explored the yards and Glasgow. For me it was such a contrast to come back from Glasgow. Going out of a busy city and coming in (I prefer the word home) to a peaceful place. It took just 5 minutes and I was totally relaxed. I think, this is because of the special atmosphere in Schoenstatt.

The word Schoen-statt mirrors everything you find while passing through the entrance door. A beautiful place!

During my visit I was involved in the youth program. A very special event, which I think, is so important for small children. To have a very positive experience with religion can guide kids through their whole life. If you show the children that religion is not a boring part of our life but a kind of lifestyle to lean on whenever they want, children won’t lose their faith.

Through different workshops (handwork, stories, scavenger hunt, impressions in the Shrine and holy mass) the kids were guided through the story "The road to Emmaus". Not only the Kids learned much, even I have learned more on these days than in my religion courses in school, because of the engagement of the sisters and their helpers.

I recognized that each one of us got so much back from the children’s behaviour and attitude that every single day was a real pleasure.
One could experience these days through the kids´ eyes.

But it is not only the project I’ll always remember when thinking about my trip to Scotland. My thoughts will be with the people I have met during my visit, too.

I don’t want to name them because I’m scared to forget someone. You all will take very special part in my heart...thank you very much!

Marco

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