On 12 December 2025, the WiB members had the pleasure of coming together at St. Hedwig’s Cathedral, an architectural gem with a stunning interior and impressive crypt, for organ music and a guided tour. Our sincere thanks to Msgr. Tobias Przytarski, Dean of St. Hedwig’s Cathedrale, for a fascinating tour that guided us through the cathedral’s remarkable history; to Mr. Stefan Förner for the excellent organisation, and to the two tour guides for their extensive knowledge and insights.

Following the tour, we walked from St. Hedwig’s Cathedral to the Embassy of Turkmenistan, where we were warmly welcomed by the wife of the Ambassador of Turkmenistan Jemile Rejepova. The cordial Advent gathering also marked the announcement of 2025 as “the International Year of Peace and Trust” and “the 30th Anniversary of Turkmenistan’s Permanent Neutrality”. 

We experienced the richness of their culture and were delighted by the delicious national dishes, the attentive service, along with the Christmas "stollen", mulled wine and home-baked Christmas cookies. A German Christmas song provided a perfect ending to this wonderful event. 

Heartfelt thanks to H.E. Ambassador Berdimyrat Rejepov and Mrs. Jemile Rejepova for their gracious invitation and the special evening of friendship and festive spirit.