Personal Reflections by Sandra Bünger
Moscow left a deep impression on me.
I arrived in the evening – the city glowing with countless lights, the Hotel National standing proudly across from the Kremlin. It felt like stepping into a painting filled with history and presence. In the lobby, I met the first delegates. There was excitement everywhere – curiosity, anticipation, a sense of renewal.
And yes, I also felt a certain tension. I wondered how we, as Europeans, would be received in these times. Yet stronger than any doubt was my desire for peace, genuine dialogue, and encounters from heart to heart. That hope stayed with me from the very first moment.
Encounters That Stay
One conversation touched me deeply – a talk about God, near the church by the Kremlin on a warm evening after the event.
It wasn’t planned; it felt like a quiet invitation to open my heart even more to God as a loving Father. A moment that still resonates within me.
Another unforgettable experience was a night boat ride on the Moskva River – the reflections of the city lights shimmering on the water, and within me, a calm certainty that peace is possible.
And then there was that special evening with our delegation: a cozy, rustic tavern, laughter, songs from different countries, and a blend of English, German, Romanian, and Russian words floating through the air. We understood each other – even without perfect translation.
Every toast honored someone, and the men stood up for the women. It was a rare kind of respect, simple and sincere.
Moments on Stage
When I finally stepped onto the stage, my heart was racing. It mattered to me to express myself well in English, even though it isn’t my native language.
I wanted to share my perspective on the situation in Germany – why we founded WAVe, what we stand for, and why true dialogue between people is so essential.
After my speech, many came up to me, thanking me, smiling, saying kind words. I could feel that the message had reached them. That moment meant a lot to me.
Goosebumps and Gratitude
Later, when the opening and closing videos produced by our WAVe media team were shown on the big screen before more than 4,000 people, I felt pure goosebumps.
Tears filled my eyes. I was proud – of our team, our creators, and of what can happen when people come together with heart, courage, and vision.
I felt simply grateful to be part of it all – grateful for the people who made the long journey to Moscow to speak about peace and values.
And I am already curious which country will host the next World Assemblee, carrying this movement forward.
“Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”
— 1 John 3:18