Founded in approximately 1919 the Olga-Gemeinde in Stuttgart boasts a rich history. Initially a congregation of the New Apostolic Church it later separated. This resulted in the community adopting a new identity and path. The church building itself dates back to 1912-1914. It originally held 650 seats a testament to its size and importance within the community.
The Olga-Gemeinde’s story is interwoven with the history of Stuttgart. It’s stood as a witness to significant historical events. Its existence reflects changes in religious landscape in Germany. In 1918 and 1919 unrest within the New Apostolic Church affected Stuttgart. The Olga-Gemeinde was at the center of this upheaval. Around 300 members under the leadership of Georg Paulus and Otto Müller broke away. They embraced the Pentecostal movement.
The building itself held a unique significance. It remained in the private ownership of its leaders. The church’s then-unofficial status enabled this continuity. This transition allowed the new community to continue using the building. Today’s Olga-Gemeinde however is unclear about its connection to this initial schism. The Olga-Gemeinde’s present-day congregation numbers around 50 members. It’s a multigenerational and multicultural community. Their motto is “Church for the city.” This highlights their active engagement in the surrounding community.
In 2019 the Olga-Gemeinde celebrated its 100th anniversary. This centenary celebration was attended by about 100 visitors from other churches. The event was a mixture of reflection and future-oriented hope. A highlight was a performance on the old church organ. This instrument had long been hidden behind a curtain. Pastor Samuel Krauter’s sermon encouraged looking forward to the future. Guests included Pastor Martin Lutzweiler and Pastor Helmut Strobel. They both shared past connections to the Olga-Gemeinde. The celebratory lunch included a traditional “conference soup.” It was a recipe that had served the congregation for decades.
The Olga-Gemeinde is more than just a building. It is a living entity a community. It stands as a testament to faith resilience and adaptation in the heart of Stuttgart. It is a vibrant community that reflects the city’s diversity and continues to serve and inspire. Remember its story of growth and change as you continue your tour of this historical area.