Founded on prophetic visions, the Apostolische Kirche Berlin stands as a testament to faith. It also reflects the resilience of a community. This church’s story begins not in Berlin but in Wales. The Welsh revival of 1904 and 1905 sparked a movement. This led to the creation of the first national Apostolische Kirche in Wales in 1916.
The founders aimed for a New Testament model. They emphasized the roles of apostles and prophets. They also valued spiritual gifts for building up the church. The movement spread globally. By the end of the 20th century, it had over six million members in more than 70 nations.
During the Nazi era, Pfingstgemeinden or Pentecostal churches faced prohibition in Germany. After the war, Christians gathered again. They shared their faith. This fellowship led to the formation of the Apostolische Kirche. Support came from Denmark and Great Britain.
The official founding meeting occurred on September 29, 1949. It was held in Berlin-Lankwitz. Legal establishment as a united association happened on June 15, 1953. The location was Berlin-Neukölln. The church was registered on June 28, 1954. Its name was “Apostolische Kirche – Urchristliche Mission e.V.” The “Urchristliche Mission” clarified its adherence to early Christian principles. This distinguished it from similar organizations.
After World War II, the Apostolische Kirche Berlin maintained communities. These were in Wedding, Wilmersdorf, Kreuzberg, Spandau, Charlottenburg, and Neukölln. The Berlin Wall’s construction in 1961 caused separation. Half the members of local groups could no longer attend services. Political factors significantly impacted the growth of Berlin’s congregations.
Following the wall’s construction, West Berlin congregations merged. They met at Kirchhofstraße 30 in Berlin-Neukölln. After Berlin’s division, the church organized social aid. It packed and sent aid to East German citizens. The Berlin Senate provided substantial financial support for these efforts.
A wooden barrack served as the community house. It was a gift from Denmark. When it became dilapidated, a new building was planned. It was constructed in Berlin-Rudow at Zwickauer Damm 17. The groundbreaking took place on July 26, 1977. The dedication occurred in summer 1978. The community remains in Rudow to this day. It is known as “Z17”.
Initially, the church operated as a single registered association. This allowed it to gain legal recognition in Germany. Local congregations became independent. This created a need for a parent organization. The Dachverband Apostolische Kirche Deutschland e.V. was formed. It handled essential church functions.
Since July 11, 2015, the community has operated as “Apostolische Kirche Berlin e.V.” The non-profit association was registered on September 9, 2015. Its registration number is VR 34338 B in Berlin-Charlottenburg.
Today, the Apostolische Kirche Berlin stands as a symbol. It reflects the enduring power of faith. It also demonstrates community support. The church welcomes all. It provides a space for worship and fellowship. It also serves as a reminder of Berlin’s divided past. It also stands as a beacon of hope for the future.