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General Worldwide 1–2/14

■ Anthroposophical Society

General Anthroposophical Society: Easter Conference on Core Tasks Individual Development and Social Capacities February 2014 100 years after the outbreak of World War I the issue of an individual and social capacity for peace No. 1–2 is rages on. This will provide the background for the 's Easter conference on April 17–20 (90 Years of Living with the Christmas Conference Impulse: Working Perspectives) ; the con- ference will be devoted to the accomplishments of the consciousness soul age. Anthroposophical Society 1 Easter Conference he development of The First World War 2 Thanks for Christmas Donations T the consciousness broke out after 500 years 2 Bylaw Amendment Proposal soul puts the individual of consciousness soul 3 Announcement of the Annual human being entirely development; it was fol- General Meeting "within himself." On the lowed 25 years later by the 4 General Secretaries Meeting positive side this means Second World War with 5 Peter Glasby the complete disavowal its apocalyptic causes and 9 Sergei Prokofieff’s 60th Birthday of subservience and belief effects that are a special 11 Members Who Have Died in any kind of authority. burden for a developing The soul's need to revere Europe. The causes and re- Goetheanum something is no longer sults are social ideologies, 3 Building Renovation: directed to people and often ethnically or nation- Canton Solothurn Helps groups; instead, it seeks ally motivated, along with 6 Goetheanum Leadership: objective nourishment in hatred for the potential Winter Retreat individual striving for knowledge and power of an individual human being 6 Anthroposophical Studies at the truth. But on the negative side it brings who seems to be slipping away from the Goetheanum the danger of isolation and loneliness, grip of authority. "The common good followed by insecurity, mistrust, and above the individual good"—a Nazi slo- Anthroposophy in the World anxiety. It is understandable that social gan like this sounds "social" but ignores 7 China: First Waldorf Early unrest, conflicts, and wars have been on individual intention when applied. Ru- Childhood Conference in the increase. dolf Steiner gives clear indications for Guangzhou the Anthroposophical Society and its 8 /Croatia: Course of Development center (the School for Spiritual Science) Cultural Treasure Express RS 153 Joan of Arc was born on January 6, about how an individual path of school- 8 Switzerland: Cultural Youth 1412—at the inception of the conscious- ing and social development can work Exchange with India ness soul age and during the Hundred constructively together. The impulse of Year's War (1339–1453). From age 13 she the 1923/24 Christmas Conference rep- Forum was inspired by the archangel Michael; resents a conscious point of departure, 9 Placement of the Representative of she prevailed at 16 during the siege of the "beginning of a cosmic turning point Humanity Sculpture Orleans, was burned in 1431 as a witch, in time" under the sign of the birth of the Feature rehabilitated 25 years later as a martyr, I and conscious community building. 12 Iceland: Anthroposophical and canonized in 1922—the archetype This impulse has been at work now for Activities of a spiritually led human being who fol- 90 years, and the integrative forces in the lowed only herself and her conscience. anthroposophical movement have been 200 years later the Fama Fraternitatis, an successfully maintained despite inner appeal to the princes of Europe, was put and outer attacks. Strengthening them into circulation; for the first time it pub- and exploring how to apply them fully in licly revealed the Rosicrucian brother- the coming decade is the main goal of the hood with its motto: "Ex Deo nascimur, 2014 Easter conference at the Goethea- in Jesu morimur, per Spiritum Sanctum num. | For the Goetheanum Leadership: revivscimus." Michaela Glöckler, Justus Wittich 2 | Anthroposophy Worldwide No. 1–2/14

■ Goetheanum ■ Anthroposophical Society

General Anthroposophical Society General Anthroposophical Society: Executive Council Initiatives Thanks for the Strengthening the School in the Bylaws Christmas Donation Following repeated discussions in the Goetheanum Leadership and in meetings of the extended Executive Council, the Executive Council will bring a proposed amendment t the start of December I sent an ap- of the Society’s bylaws to this year’s annual general meeting for discussion and a deci- A peal (as treasurer) to all the mem- sion. bers in Germany, Austria, and Switzer- land. An annual appeal, it asked whether he purpose of the proposed amend- The proposal to amend the bylaws is still the community of members in Central T ment is to include the School for Spir- under review by the commercial register Europe would be willing to make an itual Science more clearly in our bylaws, and the tax office; the following wording additional donation to the General An- and relate these bylaws to the founding for the proposal was approved by the throposophical Society at the end of the statutes of the General Anthroposophi- Goetheanum Leadership at its Decem- year. The total donations received are of- cal Society (1923/24). With the auditors’ ber retreat. ten decisive in determining whether the agreement, the 2013 financial report dis- Goetheanum, the School for Spiritual Sci- tinguishes for the first time between the Proposed Article 2 ence, could balance the budget at year’s Society’s tasks and those of the School The Society pursues its tasks and goals end. As of January 17 we have entered for Spiritual Science. The past two years according to the founding statutes given into our accounts about 386,000 Swiss of work by the Goetheanum Leadership to it by and accepted by francs for the Christmas appeal—and the have made it increasingly evident that the members at the Foundation Meeting accounting is still incomplete. All in all, it the Goetheanum is not only the home at Christmas 1923. In accordance with appears that the necessary amount will for the General Anthroposophical Soci- these founding statutes, it is the concern be received. In the name of the Executive ety, but also the seat of the School for of the Society to cultivate artistic, sci- Council I would like to offer our heartfelt Spiritual Science with the stage, its infra- entific and educational activities in the gratitude for this support. When I sign structure, and event management. spirit of the Goetheanum, the School for the many hundreds of gift acknowledg- This impulse to strengthen the School Spiritual Science ments I often ask myself what specific is also connected with fact that the end circumstances made these large or small of 2013 and the start of 2014 mark the Proposed Article 3 donations possible yet again. Equally im- 90th anniversary of the 1923/24 Christ- The General Anthroposophical Society is portant are the good thoughts of those mas conference, and thus the beginning the responsible body for the School for who would like to help, but are unable to of the final decade in this cycle of the Spiritual Science in accord with articles do so—a situation that is often brought School’s social involvement. The Febru- 5, 7, and 9 of the founding statutes. The to expression in very touching letters. | ary annual general meeting of the Swiss Goetheanum Leadership cited in the Justus Wittich, Goetheanum Executive Society (“The Social Form of the Christ- founding statutes includes the mem- Council (Treasurer) mas Conference”) and the Easter Con- bers of the Executive Council as well as ference of the General Anthroposophi- the leaders of the individual Sections of cal Society (“90 Years of Living with the the School; the Goetheanum Leadership Anthroposophy Worldwide appears Christmas Conference Impulse. Perspec- adopts its own ways of working. ten times a year, is distributed by the na- tives for the Next Ten Years”) will focus tional Anthroposophical Societies, and ap- on this set of themes as well. Where Does the Bylaw Issue Stand? pears as a supplement to the weekly Das Now—eight years after the Solothurn Goetheanum. • Publisher: General Anthro- Proposal to Supplement posophical Society, represented by Justus Superior Court’s final decision in 2005— Wittich.• Editorial staff: Sebastian Jüngel, the Bylaws (Articles 2 and 3) this carefully drawn proposal for a bylaw Cornelia Friedrich, Wolfgang Held, Philipp This proposal calls for the deletion of revision represents a first attempt to Tok. Translator for this English edition: Dr. the current article 2 concerning various bring the description in our bylaws more Douglas Miller. We seek your active support and collabora- subdivisions; that article derives from re- into line with the actual life of the Soci- tion. Contact: Wochenschrift Das Goethea- visions made in the bylaws of the Build- ety. A large majority in the Goetheanum num, Postfach, CH–4143 1, Swit- ing Association on February 8, 1925. It Leadership and the extended Executive zerland; fax +41 (0)61 706 44 65; info@das- will be replaced by the “purpose” stated Council felt during the past year that this goetheanum.ch. To receive Anthroposophy in current article 3 with a small edito- was not the right time for a complete by- Worldwide, apply to the Anthroposophical Society in your country, or subscriptions rial change. A new article 3 (concerning law revision in light of other urgent tasks. are available for CHF 30.– (€ 25.–) a year the School for Spiritual Science) will be With the proposed bylaw revision, from the address above. An e-mail version added. As members we have inwardly ac- new members and interested individu- is available to members of the Anthropo- cepted the statutes from the Christmas als would find the following information sophical Society only at: www.goetheanum. conference 1923/24 for decades; they about the constitution of the General org/630.html?L=1. © 2014 General Anthro- posophical Society, Dornach, Switzerland. would now be officially included in the Anthroposophical Society (along with valid bylaws as the “founding statutes” short explanations) in the pink member- of the General Anthroposophical Society. ship booklet: Anthroposophy Worldwide No. 1–2/14 | 3

■ Anthroposophical Society ■ Goetheanum

Building Renovation Canton Solothurn Helps with the Renovation

hortly before Christmas the Goethe- S anum received an extraordinarily gratifying message. A December 9, 2013 decision by the Canton Solothurn Governing Council found that today the Goetheanum “is recognized by the fed- eration…as an object of national impor- tance” and—in the context of the can- ton’s historical preservation efforts—it promised a contribution of up to 392,000 Swiss francs from the canton’s lot- tery proceeds for the renovation of the “sheathing” of the Goetheanum build- ing. Thus the canton is contributing an amount that represents 23% of the quali- fied costs for the exterior renovation (1.7

Photo: Sebastian Jüngel Photo: million francs). Total costs are 3.8 million Goetheanum: Strengthening it as the home of the School for Spiritual Science francs. The governing council’s decision also noted a “pending” supplemental 1. the Foundation Stone verse of the 1980s to 2002 there was intensive ongo- contribution by the Historical Preserva- General Anthroposophical Society, ing research on this matter by Manfred tion Section of the Swiss Federal Office 2. the founding statutes from 1923, Leist, Gerhard von Beckerath, Wilfried of Culture 3. a description of the School for Spiri- Heidt, Günter Röschert, Benediktus Har- Based on previous experience and tual Science and dorp, Reinald Eichholz, Jaap Sijmons, Se- the financial situation of the canton, 4. the bylaws on record today in the bastian Boegner and many others—the budget planning for the renovation did commercial register. documented course of this constitution- not include a contribution from the his- According to the cantonal courts, the al drama has been sufficiently clarified. torical preservation fund. In financing legal actions of the Executive Council Outside the membership, Rudolf Saacke the project we have now reached the and members of the Anthroposophical has contributed much to the documen- ten-million-franc level with 10,028,000 Society represented an “implied merger” tation. francs. For the projected total costs of of the General Anthroposophical Society 13.5 million francs we will try to raise (founded during the 1923/24 Christmas Discussion by Members the rest of the funds during the course conference) and the Building Associa- There have been widely divergent of the renovations in 2014 and 2015. This tion. The attempt in 2002 (after about 90 interpretations of how Rudolf Steiner spring, a project newsletter will report years) to enter the Society founded at the intended to forge the spiritual-social on the ongoing work of renovation, the 1923/24 Christmas conference (and never impulse of the Christmas conference difficulties produced by the unexpected dissolved) into the commercial registry and the new Society founded then—to- asbestos contamination of the iron cur- with slightly revised bylaws was chal- gether with existing institutions in Dor- tain in the theater, and our further prog- lenged by two groups of members, and nach—into a legally constituted organ- ress. We will also continue tours of the the court found that this attempt had ism. These interpretations would have building for interested members on the no standing. The issue for the court was to be discussed and brought to clarity in first Saturday of each month. | Justus less about the legal entity that had been making a new constitution for the Soci- Wittich, Goetheanum Executive Council created than about the actual activity of ety—and all this in a worldwide, multi- Executive Councils and members over the lingual Society. General decades of the Society’s existence. There We encourage members to discuss Anthroposophical Society had been uninterrupted continuity in the the bylaw revisions to be proposed by human sphere, but without a focus on the the Executive Council at the 2014 annual General Meeting legal/corporate structure of the General general meeting. Thoughts, suggestions, The annual conference and general Anthroposophical Society.. or objections can be sent to: vorstandsas- meeting of the General Anthropo- Today we live with the amended by- [email protected]; or by post to: sophical Society will take place on laws of the former Goetheanum Build- Goetheanum, “Gründungs-Statut,” Post- April 11–13, 2014, at the Goetheanum ing Association which was renamed on fach, 4143 Dornach Schweiz. | For the in Dornach, Switzerland. February 8, 1925. From about the mid- Executive Council: Justus Wittich 4 | Anthroposophy Worldwide No. 1–2/14

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General Anthroposophical Society: Meeting of European General Secretaries A Land of Many Contrasts On January 9–12 the European general secretaries met in Sicily. There was a chance to work with and advise the Goetheanum Executive Council; Palermo (the meeting place) also invited visitors to discover this historically significant island with its traces of Em- pedocles and Klingsor, and to take a look at the Anthroposophical Society in Italy.

hen it became clear that the Etna has seen increased activity since W European general secretaries New Year’s. would meet in Palermo, I decided to go to Sicily a week early and explore this Klingsor and Luciferic Forces mysterious island. One of the many A stay in Sicily also raises the question reasons was the fact that it was Rudolf of evil. The journey up to Caltabellotta Rudolf Steiner and anthroposophy in Italy: General secretary Stefano Gasperi (standing) Steiner’s southernmost trip—he spoke (Calot Bobot) is one of those experiences in Palermo about the return of Christ— that leaves us with a lot to think about. emperor tried to build a bridge between and it was also a place Goethe had vis- Rudolf Steiner never wrote so decisively the Islamic and Christian worlds. Some- ited for 40 days. It was possible for me about the presence of evil in a place as thing wonderful took place then: Arabic, to find most of the spots where Goethe he did about this spot. It is said to be the Byzantine, and western European artists had stopped, and to experience what he area where Klingsor worked. This figure worked most closely with one another, had described. One high point was a stay of black magic united with the worst and left the world an example of coop- in the house in Agrigento where Goethe Luciferic forces there—the daughter of eration that was able to rise above reli- had lodged more than 230 years ago (al- Eblis (GA 97, GA 144). This region still gious obstacles. though I did know that beforehand). The radiates a strong influence on people. The work with the general secretaries botanical garden in Palermo is a unique Rudolf Steiner explicitly warned against and the entire Executive Council from feature of Sicily; it was there that Goethe staying the night there. And he is re- Dornach was done in this atmosphere. was able to make significant strides in ported to have forbidden eurythmists Although it might have been justified his research on the archetypal plant. The to go there at all. We might ask how the earlier to ask; “Why go so far south?,” most beautiful Doric temples can also be Klingsor forces live on in today’s world as this question was soon forgotten be- found on Sicily. anti-Grail forces. Where and how do we cause the meeting with the genius loci, find the positive forces of the Holy Grail, with people from the Palermo Waldorf Empedocles and Faust of the good? Part of the answer can be School, and with the members of the Other personalities also stood out in found, for instance, in those refined ar- Empedocles branch and La Fenice pro- the spiritual background of this trip and tistic buildings in Monreale, and in the duced such joy and openness that we the general secretaries’ meeting that fol- Capella Palatina in Palermo where the could only be grateful for this fortunate lowed. Rudolf Steiner describes how he most beautiful mosaics in Sicily can be event. Those members of the General was able to see Empedocles’ spirit in the admired. The cosmic Christ (Pancreator) Anthroposophical Society who felt so atmosphere of the island as he arrived with his powers of consolation, the ef- isolated from everything showed enor- in Palermo by ship. Empedocles of Agri- fect of the light, and the radiance of mous gratitude and humility for the fact gento was the extraordinary thinker who pictures affect you to the depths of your that the Goetheanum Executive Council attempted to explain the world on the soul and draw you upward. and General Secretaries from all of Eu- basis of the four classical elements. He rope had come to be with them. | René was no longer able to find the spirit in Religious Cooperation Becker, General Secretary of the Anthro- the old way, but could not yet meet the Thanks to extensive documentation posophical Society in France Christ in the elements of the earth. Thus received earlier from Hartwig Schiller it Empedocles threw himself into glowing was possible to learn about all these top- t the beginning of the meeting we Etna, a sacrifice to his age. ics before the trip. Several items helped A remembered the Australian general From Rudolf Steiner’s spiritual re- us enter into the soul-spiritual atmo- secretary, Peter Glasby, who had died un- search we know that this individuality sphere of Sicily. In this land of duality, expectedly at an early age; we also greet- was reborn in the figure of the historic good and evil are often side by side. On ed the new general secretary designate Faust. Goethe had attempted to climb the island there is an enormous contrast of Holland, Jesse Mulder. His youth (31) Mt. Etna, but weather prevented it. But between sea and mountain, country and and deep relationship to anthroposophy the spirit of Empedocles-Faust must city, antiquity and modernity, salt (in the promise many years of continued work somehow have had an effect on Goethe west) and sulfur (in the east), dark pow- together. After studying at the Christian although he writes nothing about it. ers and Christian impulses. Community seminary in Stuttgart (Ger- The view of Etna from an altitude of Perhaps the historical figure who most many), Jesse Mulder began a study of 2,000 meters was a powerful experience. embodies the union of these contrasts is philosophy and he is currently finishing This most active volcano in Europe, Mt. Frederick II. The last great Hohenstaufen his studies with a doctorate. Anthroposophy Worldwide No. 1–2/14 | 5

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the blackboard drawings in Rovereto and August 10, 1954 – December 29, 2013 the Biennale in Venice. It was a pleasure to discover extremely positive reports in the media. Peter Glasby † After a roundtable discussion of the uring his last visit to the what touches individuals in the context D Goetheanum—for the General of the General Anthroposophical Sec- Secretaries’ meeting in November tion and what they see as its tasks and where he represented Australia—Pe- themes, it was easy to come to a deci- ter Glasby left with the words: “If I’m sion: beginning with our next meeting we will work directly with the content of optimistic I can say ‘I look forward to the School. That can create the basis for seeing you again in April’—if I’m real- Photo: Supplied Photo: further initiatives. Then all other work- istic I have to say ‘Farewell.’” Ill with Rudolf Steiner and anthroposophy in Italy: General secretary Stefano Gasperi (standing) ing topics can have a positive outcome. cancer, he approached the threshold and allowed his friends to accompany An Active Role and Worldwide View Stefano Gasperi, general secretary of him soberly, lovingly, and freely. the Anthroposophical Society in Italy, The proposed theme for the year is In Peter Glasby one met a friendly then opened the meeting with a look at “‘The I Knows Itself’—in the Light of Mi- adventurer (for instance, his teaching Rudolf Steiner’s connection with Italy. chaelic World Affirmation.” The general could take the form of a canoe trip); He recalled the many lectures held here secretaries recommend reworking this a highly educated scientist (he had along with their themes; and he de- phrasing. The relationship to current is- scribed the traveler in Italy, the spiritual sues could be made clearer, and the impor- left a university career as a paleon- researcher, the founder of anthroposo- tance of anthroposophy for the solution of tologist to become a Waldorf teacher phy who sought forces that would bring life questions should be addressed. although he continued to work with healing and who was able to maintain an Communication among the general universities); an independent and intensive relationship to Italy for about secretaries would be improved by a di- deep thinker willing to tackle uncom- seven years. rect exchange and up-to-date reports. fortable questions in conversation— The conference on “The Soul of Europe” but still remain absolutely loyal; and A Large Number of Physicians planned for this summer in Varna (Bul- finally, an infinitely loving and cheer- The membership of the Anthropo- garia) can serve as a concrete project to ful father who—with his wife Rosi— sophical Society in Italy is distinguished put this cooperative work into practice. opened his home to many people. by an unusually large number of physi- Care and caution are required for any cians. In the past they were often the proposed updating of the bylaws. There As a Waldorf teacher he helped a founders of anthroposophical institu- were suggestions about how the School number of schools in Australia and tions—Waldorf schools and others. Of for Spiritual Science could be included throughout Asia. He was a colleague the 1,250 members about 140 are physi- along with it tasks. of Manfred von Mackensen, Jochen cians; two serve on the Council and ten The wish was expressed that the Bockemühl, Georg Maier, and oth- are active as branch leaders. There are a 2014 Annual General Meeting be shaped ers in Europe whose approaches to total of 35 branches—principally located so that it could become a reflection of he was able to de- in the north—but there is no branch in the worldwide Society and not be over- velop further in his teaching and his Naples. Ten locations in Italy pursue whelmed with local Dornach problems courses. regular work with the First Class of the or a stronger dominance by the German- School for Spiritual Science. speaking countries. He brought his many qualities to Stefano Gasperi sees the Anthropo- The Executive Council was supported his work for the School for Spiritual sophical Society in Italy as something of in its readiness to take part in ongoing Science and the Anthroposophical a late development. It was not founded discussions about a “critical edition” of Society. When asked what should be at the Christmas conference—and until Rudolf Steiner’s writings. Personal posi- said at his “farewell party” he an- 1960 the work was being done quietly tions should be expressed, but no collec- swered: “Please tell everyone I am and inwardly. Today the physiognomy of tive “ex officio” pronouncements should deeply, deeply grateful to the friends be made. The positions taken could cer- the Italian Society is also strongly marked and members of the Anthroposophi- by the presence of members who are ac- tainly be diverse in nature. | Hartwig cal Society. They have continually tive in the biodynamic area. Schiller, General Secretary of the Anthro- enabled me…to deepen my spiritual In recent years there has been a break- posophical Society in Germany through in public recognition for Rudolf experiences in anthroposophy.” We Steiner. A distinctive change could be Source: Excerpts from a more complete gladly return this gratitude from the observed during the period follow- report appearing in Mitteilungen aus dem depths of our hearts. | Johannes Kühl, Anthroposophischen Leben in Deutschland, ing the Bologna congress in 2009; this No. 1–2/2014. Goetheanum change was reflected in the display of 6 | Anthroposophy Worldwide No. 1–2/14

■ Goetheanum

Goetheanum Leadership: Winter Retreat jected cost will be about seven million Swiss francs. 1.2 million francs are already Self-Transformation on Behalf of the World available ( stage at the Goethe- On December 9–11, 2012, the Goetheanum Leadership met for its winter retreat. The anum) and three million francs should be main focus was the triad of science, art, and religion in connection with the founding raised by ticket sales, leaving 2.8 million of the new Mysteries and the 1913 foundation stone laying. Also discussed were Faust, francs to be raised by donations. Faust the Goetheanum building and grounds, and conference planning. I is planned for summer, 2015; the full performance of Faust I and II is planned ur central theme concerned anthro- sense of responsibility. This served to help for 2016 beginning at Easter (Ascension, Oposophical research and forms for formulate the title for 2014/15 theme for Whitsun) and continuing into summer the School for Spiritual Science. One ele- the year: “‘The I Knows Itself’—in the Light (conferences). As a project shared by the ment is the relation between object and of Michaelic World Affirmation.” whole Goetheanum Leadership, the pro- subject. Unlike traditional science, Rudolf duction will involve all the Sections. There Steiner’s spiritual science does not as- Full Performance of Faust I and II will also be a special group to work with sume a separation between subject and We discussed the relationship among Margrethe Solstad (eurythmy director) object; instead, it assumes mutual rela- the School, the Society, and practical and Christian Peter (acting director). tionship. Both are considered essential. fields—three tasks the Goetheanum It also requires an absolutely transparent Leadership has taken up. We looked at Shared Responsibility for Regular acquisition of knowledge schooled in the how this relationship could be formed Conferences methodological fundaments of science. organically so that the School (and thus The Goetheanum Leadership heard The subject makes a connection with the worldwide work on the First Class) could about the latest developments in regard object, must transform itself. The object cultivate a close connection to practical to ideas for the Goetheanum grounds “awaits” interest from the subject; the fields and also bring its impulse to the (planned approaches to the West en- object cannot appear unless the subject Anthroposophical Society. The implica- trance from the north), current progress makes itself known. tions even extend to how the Class work on the renovation, and ideas about the Our work on the theme for the year is formed, but without imposing some interior design of the Goetheanum. will continue with added motifs from required form on it. A look ahead to the 2014/15 confer- the ninth Michael letter (November 16, The Goetheanum Leadership dis- ences focused on the School for Spiritual 1924). Rudolf Steiner states that Michael cussed a full production of Goethe’s Faust Science conference on July 27–August 3, says “yes” to the world and Ahriman says I and II at the Goetheanum. Based on our 2014 (with all 19 lessons of the First Class “no” (all the while exalting himself). The shared work on the content of Faust start- freeheld), and on an intention to have anniversary of the onset of World War I ing with the September Goetheanum certain regular conferences carried by draws attention to the relationship of self Leadership retreat, Margrethe Solstad (as the entire Goetheanum Leadership (e.g. and world—the arc between subject and a member of the stage leadership) and Faust). | Sebastian Jüngel object. That implies that we involve our- Seija Zimmermann (as the member of selves in the world and say “yes” to the mo- the Goetheanum Leadership responsible Source: Christiane Haid and Paul Mackay as ment, not just “complain” about things. for the stage) have decided to go ahead spokepersons for the Goetheanum Leader- ship. Instead, we should accept and exercise a with the planned performance. The pro-

Anthroposophical Studies at the Goetheanum—In German, English, Spanish and Portuguese

t is a great joy for us to tell you that as of Students can study Rudolf Steiner’s main works I September 2014 the International Anthropo- in Spanish and Portuguese, English, and Ger- sophical Studies at the Goetheanum will offer man—with opportunites for creative activities an opportunity for study in Spanish and Portu- with experienced anthroposophical artists: clay guese in addition to the studies in English and modeling, painting, drawing, speech formation, German. We hope to expand the possibilities and eurythmy. Participants can visit places of cul- for interested individuals to meet anthroposo- tural relevance in the surrounding area: Switzer- phy at the Goetheanum, a place for deepening land, Germany, Italy and France. and opening questions about human existence, The Spanish and Portuguese course will last life, and our present time—and a place where one trimester; those interested in continuing the cosmopolitan signature of contemporary is- can do so with studies in English or German. sues can be experienced in connection with the We look forward to offering our heartiest study of spiritual science. The Anthroposophical welcome to people from many different places Studies program is meant to offer development in the world! | Virginia Sease, Joan Sleigh, Edda toward understanding ourselves and the world in its spiritual Nehmiz, Constanza Kaliks, Robin Schmidt, Bodo von Plato dimension, and toward finding ways to become more active and creative in many different realms of life. Further Information: www.studies.goetheanum.org Anthroposophy Worldwide No. 1–2/14 | 7

■ Anthroposophy in the World

China: First Waldorf Early Childhood Education Conference in Guangzhou who are enrolled in training courses or have recently completed a course. A Tremendous Pioneer Spirit In order to coordinate all this activity, The Waldorf movement in China is expanding and it held its first teacher’s conference Thanh Cherry, who has played a key role in Guangzhou on November 26–December 1, 2013. In addition, the Chinese Waldorf in the development of Waldorf educa- movement has been officially accepted into the International Association for Steiner/ tion in China since the very beginning, Waldorf Early Childhood Education (IASWECE). was asked in 2010 by the Pedagogical Section, the Friends of Waldorf Educa- n a warm November evening tion, and IASWECE, to act as Coordina- O near the Pearl River delta outside tor of the Waldorf Early Childhood China Guangzhou more than 500 Chinese Wal- Training and Mentoring Project (WECC). dorf kindergarten teachers gathered ex- Parallel to the development of the WECC pectantly. Each held a silken lotus flower program, Chinese Waldorf early child- with a glowing candle, and one by one hood educators have also begun to work they placed the flickering lotus onto the in a country-wide collaboration: the Chi- water. Slowly the hundreds of floating na Waldorf Early Childhood Educators lights began to drift across the lake, il- Forum (CECEF). It has six regions, each luminating the darkness as participants with a regional coordinator. Each region crossed a footbridge and to the confer- organizes mentoring, introductory and ence center. The sounds of the guqin, a deepening courses, and conferences classical Chinese 7-stringed pentatonic within its region, but all activities are instrument, wafted through the hall, and coordinated in the country-wide forum. the Soul Calendar verse for Christmas The forum also has the task of planning was spoken in Chinese and performed publications and translations as well as in eurythmy. Thus, in an atmosphere of establishing new training centers. beauty and reverence and deep listen- Supplied Photo: ing, the first Waldorf Early Childhood Waldorf kindergarten: for children (and parents) Membership in IASWECE Educators Conference in China began! A highlight of the conference for me furnishings and play materials, develop was the moment when I, as a represen- Also Changing Parents’s Lives play areas and gardens, while also at- tative of the IASWECE council, could for- Participating in this conference was tending training courses and promoting mally welcome China as a new member a special privilege for me. I had taught in their communities. in our association and present a letter in the Waldorf early childhood training Most Waldorf kindergartens in Chi- of acceptance to Hao Bing from Beijing, course in 2008 in Chengdu when the Chi- na are in vast urban areas and the par- who is the vice-chairperson of CECEF. Li nese Waldorf movement was just begin- ents who send their children are highly Zhang, the first Chinese Waldorf kinder- ning to develop. At that time there were educated and successful. Through their garten teacher and chairperson of CECEF, about 20 kindergartens and a handful search for the very best education for was unable to attend the conference, of Waldorf school initiatives in China. their child they discover Waldorf edu- but was very much in our thoughts. Today, five years later, there are more cation, and then often find that their Early childhood colleagues represent- than 300 Waldorf kindergartens! About lives are changed in ways they had not ing 30 countries around the world col- 30 of these communities have founded dreamed possible. They discover that laborate through our IASWECE council Waldorf school initiatives. Some kinder- their involvement in Waldorf education meetings to sustain, deepen and meta- gartens were Montessori pre-schools makes them active participants in the morphose Waldorf education so that its until the director or teachers or parents renewal of human culture, bringing heal- universally human spirit can light up in discovered Waldorf education and initi- ing and planting seeds for the future. the hearts and creative will of human be- ated the transformation into Waldorf ings in all cultures around the world. The kindergartens. Others are being founded Country-Wide Collaboration lotus candles gently floating in the lake by parents or educators already familiar Training courses are absolutely essen- at the beginning of the conference are with Waldorf education. tial in the development of Waldorf early an image of this, shining together in the As members of the IASWECE Coordi- childhood education in China. There are darkness and illuminating the world. | nating Group, Clara Aerts and I were in- five training programs in Chengdu, Bei- Susan Howard, Amherst (United States) vited to visit a number of kindergartens jing, Xi’an, Guangzhou, and Hong Kong, in Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and the Guang- with a sixth program opening soon in Susan Howard is the Coordinator of the Wal- zhou area during our two-week visit to Nanjing. Most of the tutors for these dorf Early Childhood Association of North America (WECAN), a member of the Coordi- China for the conference. We experi- training courses come from abroad—the nating Group of IASWECE, and director of the enced a tremendous pioneering spirit US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Waldorf early childhood training program at there; parents and teachers are working Europe. International mentors are also Sunbridge Institute, Spring Valley, New York. together to build kindergartens, make needed for the hundreds of students 8 | Anthroposophy Worldwide No. 1–2/14

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Austria/Croatia: Cultural Treasure Express Switzerland: Cultural Youth Exchange with India A Train for the Earth Finding One’s Own Path in Life On June 6–9 Cultural Treasure Express For the last year and a half the youth group at in Basel has RS 153 will travel from Salzburg to Donji been working on a cultural youth exchange in India (February 28–March 21 including Kraljevec and back. The special train is a meeting with Rajagopal). The cultural treasures and problems of each country have dedicated to . been studied through theater—currently in a play they wrote, Navati.

Sebastian Jüngel: Will the Cultural Trea- he 18 members of the youth group sure Express offer a typical educational T and 50 young activists from the Ekta tour for anthroposophists? Parishad movement intend to exchange Vera Koppehel (laughs): But aren’t an- ideas about democracy. The experiences throposophists supposed to be unteach- of a small country with a lively grass- able? No, it will be different from the roots democracy will meet experiences 2011 Rudolf Steiner Express (which was in one of the most populous democra- unique). The focus for Rudolf Steiner’s cies where Ekta Parishad works to pro- 153th birthday will be on cultural trea- tect the rights of those without land or sures. Unfortunately we were unable to rights. Fears will be overcome through organize a train to Koberwitz because theater, and courage to assert individual we lacked a partner there. Nonetheless, views is to be awakened. As the project

what Rudolf Steiner developed in Kober- description states, the point is to “carry Supplied Photo: witz in 1924 represents one of his great- the earth and human civilization toward Begun: Navati in Switzerland est cultural deeds. Among other things the future” on the basis of “what each the train will offer an education in the culture can sensibly contribute.” Swiss woman and her autistic grandson, sense of “quality awareness” with an her homesickness grows, and Navati re- emphasis on seed stock. Finding and Following One’s Own Path turns to her village which has been de- Jüngel: How? The youth group performed a play stroyed in meantime by a corporation. Koppehel: That will be shaped by each about Mahatma Gandhi in 2013, and they of our guides in their own “seed culture have been preparing Navati, a play about Working with the Given Situation department.” With patents, hybrids and the differences and similarities in the lives The play shows the most intensive manipulation of genes, seed stock has of people who live in Switzerland and In- involvement and identification with the now become one of the most pressing dia. It was written by Sarah Kissling and characters, and it touches on how life issues worldwide. In Donje Kraljevec, our Juri Fischer in consultation with Lia Hasler can go on in a land strongly marked by destination, the passengers will plant and Leyla Arfai. They have included choral social issues--whether through poverty a garden for the Rudolf Steiner Center songs that are intended to provide a char- or wealth. The music and its multilevel and—we hope—at other spots in the vil- acteristic insight into the culture of Swiss composition make the play into a serious lage. This is being done in the context of young people. The premiere took place (in artistic creation: the framework story-— the Whitsun conference: “At the Center German) at the Basel Christian Commu- diary notes by Navati’s mother—starts of Agriculture.” nity. The play will be presented in English out with the motif of forgetting: “but Jüngel: How ecological is train travel? in India. that does not work…once a thing is writ- Koppehel: Train travel brings an experi- Navati portrays the story of an Indian ten down, it can’t just be erased.” It is ence of various landscapes. More social family: always on the edge of poverty, simply necessary to work with the given contact is possible—unlike auto travel— caught up in the class awareness of caste. situation but not lose sight of one’s own and it can develop during the trip. A bus Navati’s love for Nalin has no place in her path. Opposite streams of time continu- would be too slow, and there is no con- parents’ world view since Nalin comes ally meet in the play: remembered past nection by water. Part of the trip will from a lower caste: “This is not about and current experience become an image be by steam; it will further reduce the you; it is about the family.” As a “compro- through Navati as a girl and as a young speed. Anyway, Rudolf Steiner had a spe- mise” Navati is sent to stay with Paul, a adult. Tobias Eckinger, leader of the youth cial connection to trains. Another aspect rich friend in Switzerland. This is especial- group,is now looking forward with antici- is – as we found in 2011—that the train ly painful for Navati who loves not only pation to the actual meeting between the allows for closer focus. And that’s what Nalin but also her homeland.. But Paul young people from Switzerland and those we want: to draw our Whitsun attention sees only a future lover in Navati, and he from India. | Gabriela Jüngel, Dornach to the biodynamic landscape. ■ keeps her at home rather than letting her (Switzerland) attend school. When Navati protests she The Cultural Treasure Express is an initiative by lands on the street without any contact to Navati: February 1, 7.30 p.m., Febru- ary 2, 5 p.m., Christian Community Basel, Vera Koppehel, Sandra Percac, and Peter Dani- the Swiss who live in their own world. Na- ell Porsche. Information/Reservation: www. Lange Gasse 11, Basel (CH). Contact: Tobias kulturgutexpress.com vati begins to doubt: “Am I too stubborn? Eckinger, [email protected]. Should I give in?” After connecting with a Anthroposophy Worldwide No. 1–2/14 | 9

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well as all the many other im- sculpture “home” and forms 60th Birthday on January 16 Placement of the Represen- pressions it gives, there is also the condition in which some- A Tribute to Sergei tative of Mankind Sculpture a deep homelessness about it. thing of the Word can resound O. Prokofieff’s The sculpture is a “refugee”, in us. Imagining the sculpture Anthroposophical Work There is at present a debate which is not and cannot ever there will not be a restoration, s the longest-serving about whether to find a bet- be where it would have been at for the sculpture never was Amember of the current ter place for Rudolf Steiner’s home on earth. This homeless- there, and it will also not be a Executive Council of the Gen- sculpture, The Representative ness in no way at all weakens sentimental substitute…: it will eral Anthroposophical Society of Humanity. One of the op- the powerful gestures and tre- truly be spiritually a comple- I am naturally able to look back tions is to put it at the back of mendous presence of The Rep- tion and a new beginning. … on important events from past the stage in the Goetheanum resentative of Humanity, but There is no place on earth now years. Among these, the publi- Great Hall, a place that seems the sculpture as a whole can where the sculpture truly be- cations by Sergei O. Prokofieff, to correspond to its originally never be “at home” on earth. longs. Wherever it is will be a my colleague for many years, intended position in the First The opportunity, the need, the provisional compromise, but play an important role for me Goetheanum, and also to a re- task of accompanying and real- not without meaning or pur- as well as for the thousands of mark Rudolf Steiner is reputed izing the transformation of the pose. It only matters that it be people who found that these to have made. earthly building into a super- protected from the elements, works speak to them and help In January 1923 Rudolf Steiner sensible reality was imposed well illuminated and freely ac- orient them in anthroposophy. and those with him experi- on Rudolf Steiner and many cessible. Letters offer ample evidence enced that the building had of those who were in Dornach Then our physical encounter of the connection between been consumed by the flames. then. Something akin to that with it can be the beginning of his work and the growth in It is possible for us now to look process can be a task we freely our spiritual work with it and membership of the General back at that tragedy and the take up now.…Can we give this for it. If it were put at the back Anthroposophical Society and unfolding of the events dur- sculpture a home, at first in of the stage of the building we the School for Spiritual Science. ing the following year leading our hearts, and then, without have now, it would, on purely Along with an appreciation to the Christmas Conference, having to lose it here on earth practical grounds, so often not for his worldwide activity as a and with the utmost reverence (as the building has been lost) be visible, and the illusion of lecturer, this admiration found affirm that what had been de- can we connect this sculpture it being at home there might expression during his reconfir- stroyed physically on the earth through our inner activity with make it seem unnecessary mation as an Executive Council now lived on, indestructibly its intended home? If even only to do what has been here de- member in 2011 when over a in a spiritual dimension. Ac- some of us who already feel a scribed…. | Andrew Wolpert thousand members enthusi- companying and being aware connection with the sculpture (Great Britain) astically affirmed his work. In of that transformation was a can begin to do this, then we reality, the scope of his accom- reality for Rudolf Steiner, and will achieve spiritually what plishments is so great that only maybe also for others around was not possible on earth.… a few significant aspects can him who had known, worked be highlighted here. on, and loved the Goethea- Homecoming in Imagination num. Coming to terms with its Can we at first just “think” the Beginning of His Activity as physical destruction was the whole sculpture at the back of an Author unavoidable precondition for the stage, in the east and fac- The author of these lines recalls finding it again in the super- ing west, surrounded by the a telephone call from Stuttgart sensible. carved columns, and under the that reached her in Los Angeles On the Report of the Annual smaller cupola with the paint- at the beginning of the 1980’s Powerful But Homeless Meeting of the Anthropo- ed ceiling depicting a differ- sophical Society in Italy with the astonishing report There is nobody alive today ent dynamic between Christ, (Anthroposophy Worldwide that a young Russian named who saw that building. But and Lucifer and Ahriman? Can No. 4/2013) Sergei Prokofieff had just given anybody who goes to Dornach we allow that imagination to an extensive lecture about the today can see the one part of become active, bringing the The weekly verses from Ru- 1923/24 Christmas Conference that building that was not de- whole composite artistic ex- dolf Steiner's Anthroposophi- without notes and in an im- stroyed - the sculpture that Ru- perience to life as if we were cal Soul Calendar were led by perfect but quite understand- dolf Steiner carved with Edith there and as if we were walking Magdalena Pederiva at the re- able German. By age 14 Sergei Maryon that was intended to through the building in which quest of the participants, not Prokofieff had already met be placed in the Goetheanum architecture, sculpture, the by Annemarie Bäschlin. They the works of Rudolf Steiner but never was. This work of colored windows, and painting were freely chosen by various through a family friend, and art actually belongs to the all combine to create the space groups and arranged accord- he soon realized that a knowl- building that no longer exists in which the Word can still be ing to the natural course of the edge of German would be es- on earth. Certainly we are for- spoken and heard? This inward year. | Magdalena Pederiva, sential; he immersed himself tunate to have it here, but as creative activity brings the Dornach (Switzerland) in Rudolf Steiner’s language 10 | Anthroposophy Worldwide No. 1–2/14

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by working with the Founda- about membership in the An- on the power of their faith bol- tion Stone Meditation. His throposophical Society and in stered by the phenomenon of book Rudolf Steiner and the the School for Spiritual Science stigmata and the lack of need Founding of the New Myster- and a very comprehensive vol- for nourishment. Still others ies appeared in 1982—when ume for the members of that take up the challenge and ex- he was 28 years old. The last School. amine for themselves Sergei sentence of Sergei Prokofieff’s Prokofieff’s findings as well as foreword to that volume ap- The Background of the further aspects of the issue— plies to his work today as it did Research Results in 2013 as the author of this article then: “[The author hopes] that These birthday greetings has done. Sergei Prokofieff’s in its existing form the present would be incomplete with- results are easily followed, fully work will be of sufficient help out mentioning events during understandable, and verifiable to every anthroposophist who the last decade that occupied through one’s own research. To

is seeking a personal and living Sergei Prokofieff’s attention Supplied Photo: cite only one example among relationship to the Christmas as well as that of many other many: in Judith von Halle’s Conference as the true center members who hold varied well as the principle of logic. portrayal of Rudolf Steiner’s of the anthroposophical move- points of view. Without mak- Thus he stands decidedly in spiritual identity (see Rudolf ment in the world, and to its ing any claim to complete- the company of Rudolf Steiner, Steiner, Meister der Weißen founder—Rudolf Steiner.” This ness, a brief summary of these making clear that the realm of Loge [Rudolf Steiner, Master book soon became available in events might be helpful here, objective fact is important to of the White Lodge]) she con- other languages; the third edi- especially for non-European him, not anything personal. He nects him with a being known tion (2007) is 550 pages long. members. During the week wrote about his findings, no- in occult circles as Serapis. Not More books followed, and two preceding Easter 2004, Judith tably in his recent book “Time only is the explanation she new ones will appear in 2014. A von Halle—a coworker in a Journeys”—a Counter-image to suggests for this complex list of Sergei Prokofieff’s works Berlin branch and a member Anthroposophical Spiritual Re- name erroneous but according was published in January 2014; of the General Anthroposophi- search published at the time he to various traditions the being it notes more than 50 books cal Society since February stepped out of his active role itself is not a human being but along with their publishers 2003—experienced stigmata with the Executive Council for belongs instead to the Egyptian and editions. His many articles accompanied by abstention reasons of health and became world of gods as Sergei Proko- in Das Goetheanum and other from physical nourishment. At an emeritus Executive Coun- fieff describes in detail. Some journals must also be acknowl- this time she became an active cil member. Using only a few theosophical sources, howev- edged here. lecturer and began to publish examples of her visions from er, identify Serapis as a Master, descriptions on the basis of among many, Sergei Proko- e.g., A. P. Sinnett in The Mahat- A Wealth of Themes her pictorial phenomena, her fieff shows in this book how ma Letters, and Henry Steele Whereas Sergei Prokofieff’s “time journeys,” accompanied Judith von Halle presents a sig- Olcott who claimed to have most-cited works concern by frequent references to Ru- nificant problem in regard to received “letters” from Master the Mystery of the Christmas dolf Steiner’s work. The themes anthroposophy by “…ever and Serapis. But how would theos- Conference with its Founda- are drawn largely from esoteric again making reference to Ru- ophists relate to the statement tion Stone meditation, and the Christology with traditional de- dolf Steiner in her lectures and that Rudolf Steiner is Master Christ impulse in connection, scriptions and are supplement- books, and putting forward her Serapis? (see Sergei Prokofieff, for example, with the Philoso- ed by conclusions based on her visions as being equivalent to “Time Journeys”, p. 92-93). For phy of Freedom, all his writings “time journeys.” Her images of- his spiritual research…” (“Time my part, I think it entirely inap- have truly found their place ten make a strange impression Journeys”, p. 81) propriate to speculate about among the classics of anthro- on people familiar with Rudolf Rudolf Steiner’s identity, let posophy today. A few examples Steiner’s Christology. Various Views among the alone in this way. will indicate his thematic range: During the past years—in addi- Members What effect does this descrip- The Spiritual Origins of Eastern tion to his work as an Executive How are we to think about tion by Judith von Halle have Europe and the Future Mysteries Council member, many lecture this? Many members experi- in the world? What picture of the Holy Grail; three volumes tours, lectures at the Goethea- ence this conflict so acutely of the serious quality in Ru- on The East In the Light of the num, and research for his own that they often avoid the mat- dolf Steiner’s anthroposophy West; The Mystery of the Resur- books—Sergei Prokofieff found ter on the basis of other respon- does it present to seekers and rection in the Light of Anthro- it necessary to take up the task sibilities or the grotesque qual- other esoteric streams? Today, posophy; and numerous works of examining Judith von Halle’s ity in some of the visions. This if “members who wish to be about particular individualities, publications and reports from means they read neither Judith active” want to work in the among them Novalis, Deme- her “time journeys” drawing von Halle’s work nor Sergei Pro- sense of anthroposophy—and trius, Goethe, Voloschin, and on his own access to bibli- kofieff’s discussions of it; they if their circumstances allow—it Schiller. Also deserving men- cal, historical, and especially form no judgment. Others are is certainly important to take tion here are substantial works anthroposophical sources as drawn to these visions and rely up this issue with the help of Anthroposophy Worldwide No. 1–2/14 | 11

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Sergei Prokofieff’s book. The tribution to the International developed that the first lecture fieff—my esteemed colleague central question is: How do Anthroposophical Studies Pro- took an hour as planned; the in the Executive Council of the we understand what it means gram in English at the Goethe- second was significantly longer; General Anthroposophical So- to represent anthroposophical anum. Of course, students had and the final lecture lasted at ciety from 2001 to March 2013 spiritual science and its found- no idea he had already pub- least two hours—not because as well as an eminent scholar of er today? Of course, familiarity lished enormous works on his Sergei Prokofieff spoke longer Rudolf Steiner’s works. Sergei with relevant works by Judith theme, the “The Founding of than planned but because the Prokofieff’s own books and lec- von Halle is a necessary pre- the Anthroposophical Society students asked so many ques- tures along with his spiritual, requisite because otherwise at the Christmas Conference tions, and he stayed to answer cultural research have contrib- the basis for Sergei Prokofieff’s 1923/24.” Very few of them them good-naturedly, unhur- uted for over three decades to corrective research would be were even familiar with his riedly, and with humor. They making anthroposophy more missed, as well as the basis for grandfather’s name, “Sergei experienced him then—and accessible to our epoch.—Vir- our own investigative scrutiny. Prokofiev.” He was simply one still today—as a friend at the ginia Sease of the English-speaking instruc- Goetheanum. An Example of His Teaching tors. His course was the last of Thus it is a great pleasure to Virginia Sease is a member of For many years Sergei Proko- the term and it involved four write these heartfelt birthday the Executive Council at the Goetheanum fieff made a significant -con lectures, each for one hour. It greetings for Sergei Proko-

We have been informed that the following 84 members have crossed the threshold of death. In their remembrance we are providing this information for their friends. | The Membership Office at the Goetheanum Carita Kankkonen Ekenäs (FI) June 5, 2012 Thérèse Doyon Basel (CH) November 3, 2013 Gudrun Bernhardt Pietralunga (IT) December 3, 2012 Lutz Kroschel Timmendorferstrand (DE) November 8, 2013 Christel Fleischmann Heidenheim (DE) February 1, 2013 Waltraud Weissinger Ostfildern (DE) November 9, 2013 Maria Winkler Herbrechtingen (DE) February 2, 2013 Sabine Aim Paris (FR) November 10, 2013 Ingeborg Rommel Stuttgart (DE) February 26, 2013 James Gillen Thornhill (CA) November 10, 2013 Gertrude Kraus Wien (AT) April 4, 2013 Jean Mehlin Tours (FR) November 11, 2013 Barbara von Nostitz Peterson Viroqua/WI (US) April 17, 2013 Josephine Loher Maulbronn (DE) November 12, 2013 Christine Félix Frechendets (FR) April 25, 2013 Konrad Rudnicki Kraków (PL) November 12, 2013 Heinrich Schmidt Owingen/Taisersdorf (DE) May 22, 2013 Lieselotte Gärtner Bad Liebenzell (DE) November 13, 2013 Agneta Bruun Helsinki (FI) June 21, 2013 Theodor Kroehnert Göppingen (DE) November 14, 2013 Elfriede Schmalle Onoway (CA) July 3, 2013 André Vanière Chatou (FR) November 16, 2013 Ingrid Wegener Goslar (DE) July 5, 2013 John Canning Aberdeen (GB) November 18, 2013 Erich Renner Augsburg (DE) July 9, 2013 Marie Krösche Bielefeld (DE) November 21, 2013 Margarete Zobel Neuwied (DE) July 19, 2013 Adeline Bianchi Berkeley/CA (US) November 23, 2013 Annemarie Blumenthal München (DE) July 28, 2013 Gerda Streng Berlin (DE) November 24, 2013 Jaap Schippers Driebergen (NL) July 28, 2013 Heinrich Teichmann Hamburg (DE) November 25, 2013 Albrecht von Werder Hannover (DE) August 3, 2013 Nicole Aretz Borchen (DE) November 27, 2013 Frau W. Frima Eindhoven (NL) August 16, 2013 Michaela Brunner Nürnberg (DE) November 28, 2013 Brigitte Steinmüller Bonn (DE) August 22, 2013 Wolfgang Egner Brühl (DE) November 29, 2013 Louis Boeken Driebergen (NL) August 31, 2013 Marianne Altmaier Schwörstadt (DE) November 30, 2013 Wilhelmina van der Knaap Driebergen (NL) September 11, 2013 Siegfried Baumann Gundelsheim (DE) November 30, 2013 Amunda Egeler Zeist (NL) September 12, 2013 Irina Melikischwili Tbilissi (GE) December 2, 2013 Karin Kesselhut Borchen (DE) September 12, 2013 Renate Thomas Stuttgart (DE) December 2, 2013 Winfried Sperling Ostfildern (DE) September 16, 2013 Inge Gollhofer Salzburg (AT) December 4, 2013 Wilhelmina Huisman Doorn (NL) September 18, 2013 Manfred Heid Niefern-Öschelbronn (DE) December 4, 2013 Wolfgang Koch Abtlöbnitz (DE) September 18, 2013 Ingeborg Unverdorben Freiburg (DE) December 4, 2013 Ingeborg Erdlenbruch Badenweiler (DE) September 24, 2013 Wolfgang Tittmann Stuttgart (DE) December 5, 2013 Karl Braig Kornwestheim (DE) September 26, 2013 Rolf Bally Basel (CH) December 6, 2013 Birgitta Baumgratz Hamburg (DE) October 1, 2013 Helga Luz Stuttgart (DE) December 6, 2013 Irmgard Hillesheim Eschenbach (DE) October 1, 2013 Horst Quittenbaum Nürnberg (DE) December 13, 2013 Catharina Huybregtse Amsterdam (NL) October 1, 2013 Frauke Rosenbohm Freudenstadt (DE) December 16, 2013 Schio Oniani Tbilissi (GE) October 5, 2013 Maria Hitsch Hallwang (AT) December 22, 2013 Hadwig Sturm Kassel (DE) October 5, 2013 Karin Meyer Kiel (DE) December 22, 2013 Frau A. H. Quist Apeldoorn (NL) October 6, 2013 Peter Glasby Samford (AU) December 29, 2013 Christiaan Murre Tuitjenhorn (NL) October 9, 2013 Betty Colville Bielside (GB) December 31, 2013 Clementia Bohlmeijer Neck (NL) October 11, 2013 Carlo Gosteli Basel (CH) in 2013 Heinz Kelpe Argelès-sur-Mer (FR) October 12, 2013 Elsbeth Knöpfel Grabs (CH) in 2013 Elgin Gerlach Köln (DE) October 16, 2013 Beatrice Samuel Stourbridge (GB) in 2013 Edo Sprong Almere (NL) October 16, 2013 Marianne Hanak Napier (NZ) January 1, 2014 Volker Schmitt Frankfurt (DE) October 22, 2013 Luise Stursberg Freiburg (DE) January 1, 2014 Frederick Heasman Padstow (GB) October 27, 2013 Ingrid Bindel Stuttgart/Birkach (DE) January 2, 2014 Susanne Panchaud Gut Basel (CH) November 2, 2013 Albert Gessler Binningen (CH) January 4, 2014 From November 12, 2013 to January 13, 2014 the General Anthroposophical Society welcomed 178 new members and noted 131 resignations 12 | Anthroposophy Worldwide No. 1–2/14

■ FeatureAnthroposophy in the World

Iceland: Anthroposophical Activities Anthroposophically oriented healing is practiced by individuals throughout Taking Up the Anthroposophical Healing Impulse Iceland; as yet there is no established Heathen and Christian paths once met in Skálholt (southern Iceland) to create a place organizational entity to support them. of great spirituality, a spirituality that can still be experienced there today. The one- They often came (and come) from abroad. time bishop’s see will be the site for the 2014 Heath Week to be offered by anthropo- On the island—almost exclusively in the sophical therapists and artists on July 6–12, 2014. greater Reykjavik area—there are two small Waldorf schools (up to the 10th A young Icelandic woman, Heida Olaf- grade), a few kindergartens connected sdottir, returned to Iceland two years with them, some biodynamic farms and ago after pursuing a six-year training as markets and health food stores that sell a curative eurythmist in Germany and their products, as well as a bakery that Switzerland. She works in a Waldorf bakes with biodynamic grain. Thus there school and Waldorf kindergarten as a is a limited network for anthroposophy eurythmist and curative eurythmist, and and people associated with its approach. at the curative Skaftholt farm as a cura- There is also a small Anthroposophical tive eurythmist. Olafsdottir’s circle of Society with branch evenings. friends soon had the idea of establishing a therapy group in Iceland and becom- Meeting in Skálholt. ing active in the fields of rest and regen- One of the relatively unknown his- eration. This led to the Health Week in torical details about Skálhol is that in Skálholt during summer 2014: sessions the Middle Ages it had the largest Nor- on therapy in several anthroposophical dic stave church (a cathedral) ever built. healing disciplines (with optional con- Unfortunately the enormous building sultation by physicians), practices like burned down after a relatively short embrocation or special baths, artistic time. There is currently an effort to re- courses (both individual and group), and construct this wooden cathedral.

vegetarian food according to the Haus- König Gerhard Photo: Today Skálholt has been enhanced by chka nutritional approach. Full of atmosphere: Iceland, Dynjandi waterfall the presence of a beautiful International Cultural and Meeting Center (where the Curative Education as a Starting Point probably at its peak when health conference will take place), and Iceland has an astoundingly small came to Solheimar for a visit in August well-known musical events. Its isolated population in relation to its size (a little 1936 and got to know Iceland in the location in a grandiose landscape invites over 320,000 souls). If we look back at the process. The co-workers at Solheimar us to visit and explore. Mighty glaciers history of the anthroposophical move- (often German-speaking) were mostly gleam in the distance between moun- ment in Iceland—and it is astonishingly sent from Sonnenhof to Solheimar on tain ranges, the nearby glacial river Hvi- long—we will inevitably arrive at the her recommendation. When the chaos ta rolls to the sea, and horses and sheep year 1930 when the young and ener- of war intervened, the contact with Son- graze on the meadows in the midst of getic Sesselja Sigmundsdottir founded nenhof was lost—Iceland was occupied widely scattered farms a home for mentally handicapped chil- by the British during the war and thus it During summer the light is every- dren in southern Iceland near the famed became impossible for foreign workers where, and Ita Wegman herself was im- Geysir. She had done her training at the to remain. The exchange was gradually pressed by this land full of atmosphere. Sonnenhof in Arlesheim—only a few built up again after the war. She (among others) saw the high moun- years after the first anthroposophical- tains in Iceland as the remains of sunken curative institution was founded at the The Influence of Individuals Atlantis, and she thought about the rela- Lauenstein in Jena. Ita Wegman was the Sesselja Sigmundsdottir died in 1974. tionship among the four types of ethers patron of Sigmundsdottir’s “Solheimar” After her death the use of anthropo- in the landscape, and the phases in the (the home still exists today). sophical-therapeutic treatments for pa- Earth’s evolution during the distant past. Until the outbreak of World War II tients was at least partially abandoned Marko Pogačnik identifies Iceland as the Solheimar had developed into a cura- in favor of a conventional approach. In crowning chakra in the temple of the tive home for children with almost all the meantime Solheimar has grown into entire European landscape. | Gerhard the characteristics of an approach ori- a large town. Still there today, however, König (Iceland) ented to anthroposophical healing and is the diverse and artistically oriented Waldorf education. Anthroposophical workshop devoted to caring for adult Literature: Leben durch Islands Vermächtnis physicians from other countries came to residents. The staff whose practice in- by Lisa Schroeter-Bieler. Information: www.healthweeks.is. There Solheimar for frequent visits. The con- cludes applied anthroposophical cura- will also be a three-day study tour to cul- nection to the Medical Section at the tive education has moved to Skaftholt tural and natural sites. Goetheanum and to the Sonnenhof was (founded in 1980).