The New Apostolic Church is dedicating a space for children’s rights. In southern Germany, a former church building is being transformed into a place where the younger generation can help shape what comes next.
The church has been deconsecrated, and its next purpose has been decided: the building on Bienwald Street in Karlsruhe is to become a home for children’s rights. Known as Forum K, the project is an initiative of the German Child Protection Foundation Hansel+Gretel. According to the project description, it will be Germany’s first permanent centre dedicated to children’s rights.
Construction is now underway. The project’s launch was celebrated with a ceremony at the building site on 18 September 2026. Operations are scheduled to begin in mid 2027. The New Apostolic Church Southern Germany reported on its website.
The Church helps build a new future
The New Apostolic Church Southern Germany is both the developer and a project partner. It has signed a 20-year usage agreement with the foundation. Covering approximately 600 square metres, the former church will be transformed into a place for learning, exchange, and community engagement.
The initiative to give the building a new role in society was driven in large part by Michael Ehrich, the retired District Apostle. He wanted to preserve the building for the local community beyond its original religious purpose.
“What convinced me from the outset was that this building was not simply being repurposed but given a new mission that suits its character: bringing people together, providing guidance, and fostering a sense of responsibility,” he said at the site celebration. Among the guests were Yvette Melchien, Karlsruhe’s councillor for social affairs, and Günther H. Oettinger, a former prime minister of Baden-Wuerttemberg.
Children have a say
What belongs in a centre dedicated to children’s rights? Future users were invited to share their ideas during the project’s development stage. Pupils from the Ernst-Reuter School in Karlsruhe contributed their suggestions, while other young people took part in an online survey.
Their wishes and expectations are being incorporated into the design of Forum K. Participation is therefore an integral part of the project even before the renovation is complete: children and young people are to help shape a place that will ultimately serve them.
Plans include workshops and interactive exhibitions, as well as spaces for creativity and physical activity. New media formats will also give young people opportunities to express their views and make their voices heard.
Adults learn alongside the children
The centre’s work will extend beyond children and young people. Schools and professionals working with children are among its intended audiences, alongside policymakers, media representatives, and community initiatives. Conferences and other opportunities for dialogue are planned to facilitate this exchange.
From mid 2027, Forum K is to become a place to learn, get involved, explore, and connect. The programme will include workshops, interactive exhibitions, expert conferences, and congresses, as well as creative and activity spaces. New media formats are also to be developed, in which children and young people can contribute their perspectives.
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Photo: Micha Roth
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Photo: Micha Roth
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