EVU Youth Page - People

Albert Schweitzer

40 years ago, on the 4. September 1965 died the great animal friend and philanthropist Albert Schweitzer. We would like to remember of this particular human being, the theologian, organ-player, doctor and philosopher. In 1913, he travelled to Africa and built a hospital in the malaria infested jungle so that he could help lepers in Lambarene. He received the peace-Nobel prize in recognition of his life's work. Many schools are named after him.

Not only people but also animals were welcome in Lambarene. Already as child, Albert Schweitzer pitied the animals and he included them into his evening-prayer. He thought deeply about animal-protection. He tried to put his thoughts into words.

One day in September 1915, he was on a boat going upwards of the Ogowe river. There, he saw four hippopotami on a sandbank walking in the same direction as the boat. Suddenly, he found the words, which he had looked for a very long time: "Reverence for life." This sentence would sum up his life.

Have you already heard about Albert Schweitzer ? If not, there is much more information on the internet.

Why not write to us about your thoughts on "reverence for the life" ?
Why do you think he thought about this on seeing hippopotami on the sandbank ? Why should Albert Schweitzer never be forgotten? Your contribution can be short or long or a picture. However, you should send it by the 15.12.2005.

You will find the address to send contributions on the home page. There will be a reward: All senders will get stickers or a book about Albert Schweitzer. Let’s get started !