“Aramaic. Ever heard of it?” Imagine prayers whispered in the language of Jesus himself. Right here, at St. Jakob von Sarug. This church stands as a testament to a vibrant Syriac Orthodox community in Berlin.
St. Jakob von Sarug on Potsdamer Straße began its journey as St. Ludgerus, a Catholic Church. The building transformed in 1985. It became a spiritual home for Syriac Orthodox Christians. This change marked a new chapter. St. Jakob von Sarug became a beacon of faith.
The Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch is an ancient church. It believes in divine inspiration from the Holy Scripture. Its teachings are based on interpretations by early Church fathers. Traditions passed down from the apostles support it.
The church welcomes all. It offers solace to those burdened. It embodies gentleness and humility. These values echo the teachings of Christ. St. Jakob von Sarug serves over 60 parishes. About 100000 members are part of the Antiochian Archdiocese in Germany.
In December 2018, the church opened its doors to the Berlin Football Association. The Committee for Integration and Diversity visited. They learned about the Syriac Orthodox faith. They shared a meal in the community room. They discussed faith, football, and life.
The service at St. Jakob von Sarug is unique. It is held in Aramaic. This connects worshippers to the ancient world. It is the language spoken by Jesus Christ.
The St. Jakob von Sarug Monastery in Warburg is a spiritual center. It is the seat of the bishop. Its walls have stories spanning over a century.
Leading the Antiochian Archdiocese is Archbishop Mor Philoxenus Mattias Nayis. He assumed his role in December 2012. He guides the community with devotion.
The SOKAD Youth is very active. It is the church’s official youth association. Archbishop Mor Philoxenus Mattias Nayis founded it in March 2013. It integrates the youth into the church community.
Looking at St. Jakob von Sarug, one sees more than a building. It is a place of community. It is a place of ancient traditions. It is a place of heartfelt faith. The Syriac Orthodox Church welcomes everyone. It enriches Berlin’s diverse religious landscape.