One of the unique realities about Berlin is the convergence of East and West in this city. Every German I spoke with this week reminded me of the sizeable differences between what used to be called “East Berlin” and “West Berlin.” While it is true that all those living here are “Berliners,” the old distinctions have not gone away. One person even reminded me that 10% of those living in the former East Berlin long for the “good ole days.” By that they mean, they long for the socialist Germany to reemerge.
Today I had the chance to meet and dialogue with three of East Berlin’s young urban church planters: Christian, Constantino and Fridtjof. All were in their early 30’s, single, theologically trained and very earnest and dedicated to what they were doing. Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Manhattan has influenced all three, and each has attended the Redeemer Church Planting Institute. Here they are part of German Free Church. In 2005 Christian and Constantino started a church in one of the most artistic, socially liberal and edgy parts of East Berlin. The name of the church is The Berlin Project. Recently that time a young and attractive German-Korean gal has joined their team. The church is reaching 350-400 people weekly in their makeshift sanctuary, which meets in a local theatre. Please understand, this many people by German standards in a formerly communistic, largely atheistic country is considered a mega-church. The area teems with young urban professionals, freelance artists, musicians and an assortment of counter-cultural icons. It’s an edgy, sophisticated, trendy and professional. On the counter of the restaurant where we enjoyed lunch that day rested a socialist magazine heralding the fall of the Bush regime, the erosion of the American Empire and the ascendancy of all-things Obama. Right in the heart of anti-American hatred and socialist propaganda are three young and courageous German leaders seeking to spread the fragrance of Christ! There are few things that enthuse and jazz me more than the opportunity to dialogue bring encouragement to people like these.
Even though these leaders by every definition are considered successful, they too carry the treasure in jars of clay. They suffer discouragement, heartache, and frustration and are generally overworked and under-appreciated for what they are doing. So what I did was take the short time I had with them to applaud their efforts, affirm their vision and offer encouragement.
BrookLink exists to serve, encourage and develop indigenous Christian leaders across the world. Whether in an African village or European world-class cities like Berlin, the need is the same.
Thanks to your support and your prayers, it’s working.
S t r e t c h e d
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