Protestants and Mountains

Wow. You're actually reading this, despite the crazy title. I hope you find that it's applicable.

On the way to my FIRST EVER protestant service in France, guess what I found across the street? A hotel? Right, but SO much more! Back when this was a monastery (beginning in the XV century), LUTHER HIMSELF stayed here. After I finished taking a bunch of pictures and caressing the wall that Luther graced oh so many years ago, I turned around to see the worship greeter and a beggar-woman at his feet, both staring at me, totally bewildered.

"Ancient Convent (Monastery) of the great Augustinians of the XII century. Chapel built in the XV century."

L'Eglise Réformée Evangelique, also referred to as simply: le Temple. The arched words read "To God be the glory." Notice that the pulpit (la chaire) is front and center, dominating the altar (l'autel), which is simply a wooden table. It comes as no surprise, then, that the serment lasted half an hour while (to my disappointment) there was no communion. Unlike the Catholic churches, the decor in general was simplistic, and there was actually heat! The service was styled much like a contemporary protestant service in the States. A lector read a lesson (or even a gospel lesson), followed by a prayer or a song. The song lyrics were projected on the screen, and a small contemporary band served as accompaniment. We actually sang three very familiar songs: "Cherchez d'abord le Royaume de Dieu" (Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God), "Je  loue ton nom Eternel" (Lord I Lift Your Name on High)- I was VERY tempted to do the motions, and "Blest be the Tie that Binds" (I forget the French name!) Singing "Cherchez d'abord" was an incredible moment, especially when we came to the refrain of "Alleluia." First of all, I love the melody and the lyrics of this song. Secondly, I love that "Alleluia" and "Amen" are universal- it really allows me to experience the power and peace of one united Body. And what's more, how can you translate a cry of praise??? Most everyone sang the descant line, so I continued with the melody...I was quite literally in harmony with a multitude of Francais! Definitely an unforgettable experience.

That same afternoon, Josette and I went on an adventure to view the famous mountain of Provence, Sainte Victoire. Here is a view from the wooded northern side. Picasso's castle and burial ground is just to the right.

La Croix de Provence atop the Sainte Victoire (at the most prominent point, yet not the highest in elevation.)

North side

Le Moulin de Cezanne, appearing in many of his paintings.

View of the Sainte Victoire from the moulin.

The more famous southern side.

Notice that the southern side is sans vegetation. In 1989, a fire ravaged the majority of Sainte Victoire's southern half. Now you can find baby trees planted in an effort of reforestation. Funny that this is considered the more beautiful of the two sides.

Wild Thyme!