Is it possible for eight believers in an attic to change Berlin? It may sound like a humble beginning. Yet, that’s how the New Apostolic Church in Berlin started. This is a story closely connected to Ernst Traugott Hallmann. He was a key figure in the church’s early days.
Hallmann’s story began in 1854 in Silesia. At 19, he embraced the New Apostolic faith. This decision shocked his parents. They disowned him for fifteen years. Eventually, they too joined the New Apostolic Church.
Four years after being sealed, Hallmann became a Priest. He moved to Berlin. In a small attic in Fischerkiez, he held services for eight people. His congregation saw him as a servant inspired by Jesus’ love. Thanks to him, the church in Berlin steadily grew. Soon, the attic became too small for the thirty members.
Finding new premises was difficult. The economic situation was tough. Hallmann often pawned his frock coat. He did this to pay the church rent on time.
In 1893, Hallmann was ordained as a Bishop. He was responsible for Berlin and East Prussia. Chief Apostle Friederich Krebs sent him to Ku00f6nigsberg. New Apostolic Christians were scattered there. They needed care. Within three months, Hallmann gathered a small group. It gradually grew.
His East Prussia mission was demanding. Hallmann trekked through snow and ice for hours. He was often exhausted. Long train rides with standing-room only pushed him to his limits. Because of his efforts, congregations grew. In 1897, a separate district of East Prussia was founded.
In 1897, Chief Apostle Friedrich Krebs ordained Hallmann as an Apostle. The number of New Apostolic Christians increased in his district. By 1905, he returned to Berlin. Over thirty congregations had been established. Reports from the magazine Der Herold highlighted Hallmann’s achievements. On Christmas 1901, he sealed 71 people in two services. In 1902, around 500 people were sealed in East Prussia.
Chief Apostle Krebs called Hallmann back to Berlin in 1905. He handed over a well-managed district. The newly ordained Apostle Wilhelm Oehlmann took over. Before Hallmann could resume his duties, Chief Apostle Krebs died. His successor, Hermann Niehaus, honored Krebs’ decision. He entrusted the fifty congregations of Berlin to Hallmann.
During Hallmann’s seventeen years in Berlin, the district grew. It expanded to 146 congregations with about 20,000 members. In his final years, Hallmann suffered from asthma. He died at 68. Chief Apostle Niehaus spoke at his funeral. He recalled the small beginnings of the church. He expressed gratitude that God worked through Hallmann.
Today, the New Apostolic Church stands as a testament to those humble beginnings. It shows the enduring power of faith. Ernst Traugott Hallmann’s dedication helped establish the New Apostolic Church. From eight believers in an attic to many congregations today, the church’s roots run deep in Berlin. His legacy remains a vital part of the New Apostolic Church. It continues to inspire its members.