Here stands Mar Mari Kirken a testament to faith. It is also a symbol of community for Assyrians in Aarhus. Let’s delve into the story of this church. It is a story rooted in migration and a desire to preserve cultural identity.
The story of Mar Mari Kirken begins in 1985. A large group of Assyrians migrated from Iraq to the Aarhus area. This influx of people created a need for a spiritual home. The Assyrian Church of the East recognized this need. They established a congregation in Aarhus. It was named Mar Mari after one of the church’s founders. He lived in the 1st century. Initially the congregation had about 100 members.
For many years the Mar Mari congregation lacked a permanent building. They borrowed space from local Danish churches. These included Helligåndskirken and Skjoldhøj Kirke. They also borrowed from Christianskirken, Hasle Kirke and Tilst Kirke. Helligåndskirken was used most often.
The dream of owning their own church became a reality in 2007. The congregation purchased land in Tilst. Construction began in 2012. Many volunteers from the community helped build the church. After four years of hard work the Mar Mari Kirken was completed.
In November 2016 the first service was held in the new church. The church was officially consecrated in April 2017. The Bishop of Aarhus Stift attended the ceremony. The Assyrian Bishop of Scandinavia and Germany was also there.
Today Mar Mari Kirken serves more than just a religious purpose. It is a cultural center for its members. The church hosts social activities for its members.
To become a member of Mar Mari Kirken one must be baptized. Baptism must be in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Active members pay dues. They also adhere to the church’s beliefs. One cannot be an active member of this church and another at the same time.
The congregation of Mar Mari Kirken has grown. It started with 100 members in 1985. Today it has around 350 members. About 310 are active members. These members come from Iraq, Iran, Syria and Lebanon.
Mar Mari Kirken stands as a symbol of perseverance. It represents the Assyrian community’s dedication to their faith. It also shows their culture in a new land. The church offers a place of belonging. It is a place to worship. It is also a place to connect with others.