Evangelism in Berlin

A report from Berlin.

A. BUERGER, Secretary, Central European Division

After careful study a large evangelistic cam­paign was launched in Berlin throughout the first quarter of 1956. The city seemed to us especially ready, since more than three mil­lion people are crowded together here in nar­row bounds. Insecurity and tensions are the in­habitants' constant companions. This might be the reason that they are open-minded for the message. The past has proved that the gospel proclamation has fallen on fertile soil, for one in every one thousand inhabitants is an Ad­ventist.

The question of whether to hold meetings at a central point—a hall with several thou­sand seats—or to conduct separate meetings in the different districts, was considered. In view of the time-consuming rides in the city, it was resolved to launch a series of lectures almost simultaneously in four districts. Berlin-Neu­k011n, Berlin-Schoneberg, Berlin-Steglitz, and Berlin-Tegel were chosen. Large rooms or halls in schools, with from five hundred to one thou­sand seats, were rented.

In the selection of topics, an effort was made to attract as many people as possible by the presentation of subjects of general interest. Therefore a political topic was chosen—"Asia Has the Word—and the Power, Too"; a dis­sertation on life's questions—"Man Between Marriage Distress and Domestic Happiness"; and a religious topic—"Is the Bible Really True?" In the last discourse was raised the question: "What will be different tomorrow?" The speakers on these subjects were the breth­ren of the division—W. Mueller, M. Busch, and A. Buerger—and the brethren of the Berlin Conference, with G. Roenisch, president. All meetings were embellished by lantern slides and musical selections.

We have launched a large promotion cam­paign. During these days the announcements appeared on about nine hundred advertising pillars. And fifty thousand handbills were dis­tributed by our church members and through the mail.

The first discourses showed that our expecta­tions with regard to attendance had been re­alized. We were also greatly cheered that after the first meetings some dozens of addresses were handed over to us. It is our conviction that the interest of perhaps a thousand inquiring souls was aroused during these weeks in Berlin. We also believe that the Lord will hear the many prayers and that souls will accept the truth. The meetings that follow will also be conducted in public halls.

In addition to these large meetings the min­isters are following up their evangelism in the local church meeting halls. May God give us His blessing, that we may carry through a really successful evangelism during these weeks.


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A. BUERGER, Secretary, Central European Division

May 1956

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