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United Kingdom Transferred to District of Northern Germany

February 15, 2009 was an historic, joyful and emotional day in Birmingham, United Kingdom, as the soul care and administration of the New Apostolic Church in the UK, Ireland and Isle of Man was entrusted to District Apostle Karlheinz Schumacher and Apostle Rudiger Krause, from Hamburg.

For many years the islands were looked after by Apostles from the USA District Church and on February 15th the transfer was made official.

District Apostle Leonard Kolb (USA) held the Divine Service in the Bethel Convention Centre, in Birmingham and over 800 souls were in attendance. Accompanying him were District Apostle Schumacher, (Northern Germany) Apostle Reinhard Hecht (USA) and Apostle Rudiger Krause (Hamburg).

In an atmosphere of joyful anticipation, District Apostle Kolb used a text word chosen by our Chief Apostle as a special word for this district. It is taken Isaiah 41:13 and emphasized the ways our Heavenly Father wants to securely lead and guide us. If we offer Him our trust and learn not to worry, realizing that our circumstances are what He has permitted, we are reaching out with our right hand towards our Savior.

The District Apostle mentioned that he was aware of over 60 references in the Bible where our Heavenly Father urges us to “fear not”. He asked the congregation to consider that the persistence of this message means that God is truly telling us something, and we should reach out in faith rather than overwhelm ourselves with worry!

District Apostle Schumacher was called to assist, and he lovingly highlighted the need for togetherness; when we are close then we can follow easily. He also offered his hand to the congregation, adding that his other hand was confidently with our Chief Apostle.

Both Apostles Hecht and Krause assisted further and at the conclusion of the service District Apostle Kolb, in a heartfelt address, transferred the responsibility for the United Kingdom, Ireland and the Isle of Man to District Apostle Schumacher.

Following the service the congregation could enjoy fellowship with the Apostles and District Leaders and many photographs were taken as a reminder of this unique day.

In addition to this Divine Service, District Apostle Kolb held a Ministers’ and Wives’ service on Saturday, February 14, also in Birmingham with over 200 in attendance.

At the end of the service each visiting Apostle enjoyed an interview with one of our sisters, who asked various questions on behalf of the congregation about themselves, their hopes for the future and their most memorable experiences. It was a special moment and highlighted the love that binds us all as God’s children.