Participating in the family roots tour in Germany, Sontra(Sep.2025), was a deeply moving and meaningful experience for us. The ceremonies at the Heilbrunn house and the Rothschild house were particularly powerful. Standing in those places, we felt a mixture of honor and sadness. Honor in the legacy of our family, sadness for what was lost, and a strong sense of responsibility to remember and carry these stories forward.

 

Visiting places such as the cemeteries, synagogues, and the old Heilbrunn house in Wichmannshausen added another layer of depth to the journey. One moment that will stay with us was davening Mincha in the Wichmannshausen synagogue. Praying together in a shull where Jewish life once flourished and was later interrupted felt very meaningful. It was as if we were bringing back the voices to the synagogue that had been silent for years.

 

Another unexpectedly emotional experience was when we stumbled upon Victor Heilbrunn’s grave. There was no preparation for that moment, and because of that, it felt especially powerful. Standing there, realizing we were at the resting place of direct family members meant something deeply personal to the three of us, a quiet reminder of continuity and loss.

 

The historical overview provided by Hans Isenberg on the first day greatly deepened the experience. Being in Sontra itself was emotionally meaningful, knowing that our family lived there gave the town a different look and meaning. We were also surprised by the openness and respect shown by members of the local community, suggesting that this event had a meaningful impact beyond our family alone.

 

Overall, the tour met and, in many ways, exceeded our expectations. One especially powerful moment was when Hans pointed out that the name Eliezer appears repeatedly throughout the family line, stretching back generations, while I (Daniel.Eliezer) was participating at the ceremony carrying that very same name. That realization was deeply moving , a living link between past, present, and future. The great highlight for us was this shared sense of connection: to our ancestors, to each other, and to future generations. Our hope is that these experiences encourage continued remembrance and inspire those who come after us.

 

Daniel, Shira & Liora ,

Israel ,Hashmonaim 17.12.25