Holocaust

A while ago I watched a programme about the Holocaust and Auschwitz.  I was left overwhelmed; I could not comprehend; I could not empathise with those who had been through that horror I could only scream inside.  I feel nervous as a Christian, born long after the 39-45 war, contributing to Holocaust Memorial Day. How could I possibly understand?  How can I avoid insensitivity? I can only grieve and scream.  A poem:

Stand in our midst Lord
stand in our midst
the cross be between us
stand in our midst

The murderous darkness
hidden within
stand in our midst Lord
no light on that hill

Stand in our midst, Lord
dying Jew on a cross
raised up by the mighty
the conquering force

Stand in our midst Lord
allow us to see
the murderous darkness;
give us to grieve

Stand in our midst Lord
the crucified lamb
the suffering servant
the so despised man

Stand in our midst Lord
don’t let us now turn
from the brand on your forearm
and your brothers who burn

Stand in our midst Lord
forbid us to say
that we have any answer
save be it to see
your death within Auschwitz
as you stand in our midst.

Comments

[graham]

Thank you, Caroline. Loved it.

I thought this stanza was unusual:

Stand in our midst, Lord
dying Jew on a cross
raised up by the mighty
the conquering force

Is the ambiguity of 'the conquering force' intentional, or not?

[Mares]

Hello
Wow! What a beautiful discovery! Love your space so much especially the outline of the ritual. Am an RE teacher in Australia and finding stuff like your thoughts is inspirational. Thank you.
Mary

[Helen]

Hi!
I like your poem, this is something I also struggle with, so many lives lost.

May we not forget,

Bless you,
Helen.