The EMS Children's Programme “YOU+ME: FRIENDS AROUND THE WORLD” was actively involved in the Encounter Festival in Ulm on June 21, 2026. The day began at the “Haus der Begegnung”, where a children's church service on the theme of “The Wedding at Cana” took place alongside the main worship service in Ulm Minster.

Following the “Messy Church” concept, the children first experienced the biblical story and shared a time of celebration. Afterwards, they explored a variety of interactive activity stations where they learned about different countries and discovered how people celebrate special occasions around the world.

At the South Africa station, two volunteers from the EMS Ecumenical South-North Volunteer Programme joined Emso and the FRIENDS team. Together with the children, they created and braided colourful bracelets from yarn and beads to decorate themselves for the celebration.

Rev. Kang-Hee Han, EMS Liaison Officer for East Asia, also contributed with his family by leading a station about South Korea. There, the children learned about celebrations and traditions in the country. This station was especially popular because each child received a bookmark featuring their name written in Korean characters. Visitors also had the opportunity to sample a variety of Korean sweets, which were enjoyed by many.

After the activities, the children gathered again in the main hall. Together, they sang songs, prayed, and finally had the chance to meet Emso the Elephant, the mascot of the children's programme, in person.

Together with Emso, the children then made their way to the southern square of Ulm Minster. There, they took to the stage and enthusiastically sang “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands” at the top of their voices. It was a wonderful, though already very hot, summer day in Ulm, filled with happy children's voices, smiling faces, and a very joyful Emso.