In 2025, the NAK-Diakonia Foundation spent more money than it received. The annual report shows where the funds went, and what they made possible.
NAK-Diakonia, the aid agency of the New Apostolic Church Switzerland, spent almost CHF 1.27 million last year. This was offset by revenues of just over CHF 918,000. Including investment income, the foundation recorded a deficit of around CHF 336,000. The foundation is well positioned to absorb the shortfall: at the end of the year, its capital still stood at just over CHF 11.45 million.
In 2025, the foundation was able to count on greater private support. A total of 453 individual donations with no specified purpose were received: 34 more than in the previous year. Their total value even rose by 36.75 per cent to just over CHF 293,000. Another CHF 825,000 came from the thank-offering of the New Apostolic Church Switzerland.
From education to emergency aid
The annual report details how the money is used. The spectrum ranges from training for ministers, teachers, and musicians, to children’s and youth activities, church buildings, and direct support for people facing difficult circumstances. The aim is to create the best possible conditions for the sustainable development of the congregations in the countries within the District Apostle Area of Switzerland.
It is not a major event that accounts for the greatest financial outlay, but something very down-to-earth: buildings. Most of the money is spent on the provision and upkeep of churches and meeting places. In 2025, the programme focused on Romania and Austria.
Learning for the future
A significant proportion of the funding is invested in people. Take Spain, for example. In June, the teachers responsible for religious education in the Church met in Barcelona. The programme covered block teaching and distance learning, new teaching materials and challenging lessons. In Switzerland, meanwhile, 21 teachers gathered at the Sursee campus in August for a training session. The workshops took a very practical approach to teaching materials, methods, and lesson plans.
Also ministers received training. At a seminar in Maria Waldrast, Austria, the agenda covered theological fundamentals, emergency pastoral care, and mindfulness. Among other things, the participants identified digital resources, targeted training courses, and stronger networking as opportunities for pastoral care in the future.
When goodness is contagious
Fostering fellowship is also part of our mission. Around 180 young people from all over Spain gathered in Guadarrama at the end of September. The motto: “It’s time to do good!” The young people expressed the theme through song, dance, theatre, and street interviews—and even in a news programme about a fictional “virus of goodness” that spreads generosity and humility. The event concluded with a divine service conducted by District Apostle Thomas Deubel.
Support for young musical talent is also part of the foundation’s work. The Youth Symphony Orchestra of the New Apostolic Church Switzerland brings together young musicians from across the country. In November, they gave a concert at the Teatro Sociale in Bellinzona—with a programme ranging from nineteenth century works to Disney classics.
Help when times are tough
Unemployment, illness, or other hardships can leave fellow believers in social distress. Following an assessment of each case, the foundation provides one-off emergency financial assistance. In Switzerland, additional support is available through a social counselling service.
The annual Christmas campaign is also part of these efforts. Depending on the country, it supports socially disadvantaged Church members with food parcels or vouchers. In Switzerland, the campaign was once again made possible by a donation from another foundation.
“What has been achieved gives us cause for gratitude and, at the same time, for confidence,” writes District Apostle Deubel, the foundation president, in the foreword to the annual report. “Looking back strengthens our resolve to continue on the path we have taken to keep our eyes focused on the future.”
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