Apostolische Gemeinde

Did the year 1955 hold a special significance for the Apostolische Gemeinde in Essen? It certainly did. This was the year the Apostolische Gemeinde emerged in Germany, born from a schism within the New Apostolic Church. The specific location here in Essen, on Blittersdorfweg 15a, became a home for this newly formed Protestant free church. The Apostolische Gemeinde, with its headquarters in Düsseldorf, distinguishes itself through its leadership structure. Apostles and bishops, together with elders, guide the congregation. This church isn’t isolated. It connects with other apostolic communities throughout Europe and beyond. It’s part of a larger network, the “Vereinigung der Apostolischen Gemeinschaften in Europa” (VAG), and maintains contact with similar communities across the globe, from Australia to the Philippines. The history of the Apostolische Gemeinde in Essen is intertwined with the broader history of apostolic movements. These movements, originating in 19th-century Great Britain, shared a fervent anticipation of Christ’s return and emphasized the restoration of the apostle’s office. The split that led to the formation of the Apostolische Gemeinde revolved around a prophecy by Chief Apostle Bischoff, predicting Christ’s return during his lifetime. Since the 1970s, the Apostolische Gemeinde has embarked on a path of theological reflection. This has led to a deeper understanding of the church, sacraments, and ministry. This journey has brought the Apostolische Gemeinde closer to the core principles of the Reformation. It has fostered greater ecumenical openness, culminating in a formal reconciliation with the New Apostolic Church in Düsseldorf in 2014. The Apostolische Gemeinde in Essen adheres to the Apostles’ Creed as its central confession of faith. It also recognizes the Niceno-Constantinopolitan Creed as a shared expression of Christian belief. Importantly, the Apostolische Gemeinde sees itself not as the only true church but as a part of the “one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church.” Sunday services, often including Holy Communion, are central to the life of the Apostolische Gemeinde in Essen. The church also holds sermon services, small group meetings, Bible studies, and various community gatherings throughout the week. The Apostolische Gemeinde, like the New Apostolic Church, recognizes three sacraments: baptism, Holy Communion, and sealing. Baptism, usually administered to children, is seen as the sacrament of rebirth and incorporation into the body of Christ. The church accepts trinitarian baptism with water performed by other churches as valid. Holy Communion is understood as a multifaceted remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice. It’s a communion with the risen Lord, an acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord, and an anticipation of the eternal fellowship with him. Sealing is the third and final sacrament, celebrating the Holy Spirit’s work and gifts among believers. The Apostolische Gemeinde recognizes several other ceremonies as blessings. These include child blessings, confirmation, marriage, and ordination. Ordination, bestowed by an apostle through prayer and the laying on of hands, is a prerequisite for leading the congregation. It is also required for performing sacraments and blessings. Significantly, the Apostolische Gemeinde introduced the ordination of women in 2003.