“Man muss sich dieser Stätte in Ehrfurcht nähern.” That’s what someone might say upon seeing the Evangelisches Gemeindezentrum. For thousands of years humans have built houses to honor God. This Gemeindezentrum in Berlin has been around since 1991.
Every day people of different ages come to the many activities here. Over the years the list of events has grown longer and longer. The Evangelisches Gemeindezentrum is a place where everyone can feel comfortable and safe. It isn’t just a church. It’s a Gemeindezentrum that combines spaces for worship and various community activities under one roof.
The church space is at the heart of it all. Its height and size define the center. The building shows what the community stands for. The Evangelische Kirchengemeinde Berlin-Hellersdorf is an open house shaped by the spirit of Jesus. Inspired by God and each other it delights the people around it.
As you get closer the Evangelisches Gemeindezentrum looks like a large tent. Superintendent Rissmann preached at the dedication service. He said “The wandering people of God are pitching their tent in Hellersdorf.” That’s exactly what the architect Heinz Tellbach wanted to express.
At its core the Evangelisches Gemeindezentrum is an octagon. It’s formed by two offset squares. This octagon is a symbol of God’s fullness and universality. Churches are built to honor God. This shape isn’t common. You might recognize it from the small Seiffen church in the Erzgebirge or the Frauenkirche in Dresden. The octagon of Aachen Cathedral is also famous. German kings were crowned there.
The Evangelisches Gemeindezentrum is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a place where community and faith come together. It’s a symbol of openness. It’s a tent pitched for all. Come on in and find your place in this unique space.