“Kingdom Hall,” a simple name with profound meaning. Here before us stands the Königreichssaal. It is a place of worship for Jehovah’s Witnesses here in Frankfurt. But what makes it special? What stories do its walls hold?
The Königreichssaal is more than just a building. It is a testament to the enduring faith and community of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Unlike many other Christian denominations, Jehovah’s Witnesses do not refer to their place of worship as a church. They believe the Bible uses the term “church” to describe the worshippers, not the building itself. Therefore, they call their building Königreichssaal. It is a place where they gather to worship Jehovah. He is the God of the Bible, and to learn about His Kingdom.
Inside the Königreichssaal, you won’t find elaborate decorations or religious symbols like the cross. Jehovah’s Witnesses do not use the cross in worship. They believe the Bible indicates that Jesus died on a simple stake. They also believe the Bible warns against idolatry. The hall is functional and simple, with a podium, a lectern, and rows of seating. There is also a library and an area for Bible-based publications.
Jehovah’s Witnesses have a long and complex history in Germany. The Christian denomination dates back to the 19th century. Today, there are about 170,000 members in Germany, with approximately 2,020 congregations. This equates to about one in every 498 Germans practicing the faith.
In the past, Jehovah’s Witnesses faced significant persecution. During the Nazi regime, they were targeted for their political neutrality and refusal to renounce their beliefs. About 1,500 Jehovah’s Witnesses died during the Holocaust. More than 1,000 died in prisons and concentration camps.
Despite the challenges, Jehovah’s Witnesses have persevered. In 2017, they received the same legal status as major religions in Germany. This was an important step in recognizing their rights and contributions to society.
Each Königreichssaal congregation is supervised by a body of elders. Around 20 congregations form a circuit. Traveling elders, known as circuit overseers, occasionally visit these circuits. They are known for their door-knocking and literature distribution in public squares. However, during the pandemic, they suspended door-knocking. They also ended all public meetings at their 13,000 congregations nationwide. This unprecedented move was not even taken during the Spanish Flu pandemic in 1918.
The Königreichssaal stands as a symbol of faith, resilience, and community. It is a place where Jehovah’s Witnesses come together to worship, learn, and support one another. As we continue our tour, let us carry with us the lessons of the Königreichssaal. Let us remember the importance of faith, the strength of community, and the enduring power of the human spirit.