Picture a haven of peace nestled in the heart of bustling Berlin. This is the Berliner Mennoniten-Gemeinde a place where history whispers and faith flourishes.
Founded in 1887 the Berliner Mennoniten-Gemeinde is a federally registered non-profit association. It’s a vibrant community rooted in Anabaptist tradition. The congregation found its home in the Menno-House in 1952. This building has witnessed countless services celebrations and acts of community. Around 100 baptized members call the Berliner Mennoniten-Gemeinde their spiritual home. Many more children and regular attendees join them for Sunday services. These services usually attract 20 to 30 participants plus guests. The Berliner Mennoniten-Gemeinde truly is a welcoming space for all. Regardless of background age or beliefs everyone is embraced.
The Berliner Mennoniten-Gemeinde’s work is driven by about 20 volunteers. A pastor also contributes half-time. All major decisions are made during congregational assemblies held at least annually. The Church Council handles weekly activities. Anyone interested is welcome to participate in council meetings. This inclusive approach is central to the Berliner Mennoniten-Gemeinde’s identity. It emphasizes communal decision-making and shared responsibility.
The Church Council has a four-person board. This board includes a chair vice chair secretary and treasurer. The current board members are Torsten Seefeld Ulrike Stobbe Joachim Ewert and Dennis Flex. The pastor and a Theological Working Group representative are also part of the council. The Theological Working Group explores theological and spiritual matters. Ordained ministers Helga Köppe Bernhard Thiessen and Nicole Witzemann are among its members. Deacons are also included. They focus on assisting those in need. The resident caretakers of the Menno-House and other dedicated members complete the council.
Nicole Witzemann serves as the pastor. She began her role in September 2020. She’s married with a son. Nicole’s background is in Baptist ministry. She served various Baptist congregations and organizations after graduating from the Baptist Seminary in Elstal in 2003. She also worked part-time for the Ecumenical Council Berlin-Brandenburg. Since September 2021 she’s also a chaplain at the Diakonie-Hospiz Wannsee.
The Berliner Mennoniten-Gemeinde’s history is rich and multifaceted. From its humble beginnings in 1886 with occasional services in hotels and Moravian Brethren churches to its current home in the Menno-House the congregation has endured and grown. It played a vital role in post-war relief efforts. This involvement underscores the Berliner Mennoniten-Gemeinde’s commitment to its community and its enduring faith. Its story is one of resilience adaptation and unwavering dedication to its principles.