Chapter 9: Bridges

In this emotionally charged episode, we explore the complex reunion between David Cohen and his sister Rachel after three years of painful separation. Following David's conversion to Mormonism—which led his Jewish family to hold a shiva and declare him dead—we witness the siblings navigate the raw terrain of familial bonds tested by religious choices.

Against the backdrop of increasing Nazi persecution in 1938 Hamburg, David approaches Rachel outside their old synagogue with an urgent request: help convince Jewish families to escape Germany while there's still time. Their conversation reveals the devastating realities facing their community as Friedrich's underground network works to forge documents and create escape routes for targeted families.

This episode powerfully examines how personal faith intersects with moral duty during crisis, as David explains to Rachel that while he found truth in a new religion, his ethical compass remains unchanged. Through their cautious reconciliation, we see how shared values of preserving human life can bridge seemingly insurmountable divides, culminating in Rachel's agreement to help the vulnerable Kaufmann family.

"Bridges" offers a poignant meditation on the nature of identity, exploring how we can remain connected to our roots even as we evolve beyond them—symbolized by David's continued wearing of his father's watch despite his family's rejection. In times of moral crisis, the episode suggests, what ultimately matters is not which prayers we speak, but whether we answer humanity's call when it matters most.