Zurich/Brussels. Since the start of September, the members of the New Apostolic congregation in the Belgian capital of Brussels have been the proud owners of a new church building. District Apostle Bernd Koberstein dedicated the new place of worship at 80 Avenue Franz Guillaume and rejoiced over the special celebratory event together with the 250 members and guests in attendance.
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The new church building in Brussels
Photo: ENA Belgique
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An international congregation
Photo: ENA Belgique
He based his sermon on Psalm 122: “I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go into the house of the Lord’ […] Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: ‘May they prosper who love you. Peace be within your walls, prosperity within your palaces.’”
A new church building in our time? The move became necessary owing to the constantly growing number of members—especially children, who have in the meantime become the predominant age group within the congregation! In the recent past, more and more members of the congregation would have to retreat to adjoining rooms and even the stairwell during the divine services. It was barely possible to conduct orderly classes and care for the children in suitable fashion anymore. So it was that a former factory building was finally selected and renovated. The acquisition and renovations required a total of some 2.6 million Euros. This represents an above-average investment for the District Church, however it is unavoidable in view of the high price of real estate in the European capital. The congregation’s previous real estate will be sold in turn. In addition, an apartment was integrated into the new church building with the intent of generating revenues from rent.
Great commitment within the congregation
The church building lives up to the expectations of an attractive congregational life for all members, especially children, young people, and seniors. The character of the church nave is both sacred and comfortable. The acoustics are excellently suited to choral and instrumental music. From an adjoining room, up to 30 parents and infants can participate in the divine service through a glass pane. Beyond that, the building contains numerous meeting rooms and classrooms, booths for interpreters, and a kitchen.
An international congregation
The composition of the New Apostolic congregation in Brussels is very international. Its members are predominantly from Belgium and other countries in Europe and Africa. It is for this reason that all divine services are either consecutively or simultaneously interpreted. Four languages are ever-present, namely: French, Flemish, German, and English. Visitors to the New Apostolic Church in Brussels will quickly feel that the members belong together, regardless of their heritage. The harmonious interaction and cooperation of the members is remarkable. The congregation looks confidently into the future. It is rich in children and has many active members who participate joyfully in congregational life.
The New Apostolic Church in Belgium has its own website at www.nak.be.