Not even the Pentecost divine service could take place as usual! For the Chief Apostle and many millions of our members, this year was yet another difficult period defined by a global pandemic.

The Latin term sub rosa—literally meaning “under the rose”—signifies that any content discussed remains under the seal of secrecy. Often these words are found carved into confessionals. They are intended to convey the idea of confidentiality.

Human beings can choose what to do and what not to do. We are not free to decide, however, whether we sin by our decision and thus incur a debt before God. Personal responsibility also means being willing to bear the consequences of our actions.

The fall session of the District Apostle Meeting has ended. Prominent topics were our concept of ministry, biblical authorship issues, and a new Guide for Ministers.

Zero tolerance. This is the stance taken by the New Apostolic Church towards sexual abuse and assault. And this is what Chief Apostle Jean-Luc Schneider made clear at the conference of the District Apostles in Zurich, Switzerland.

Do not marginalise or pass judgement, but look at the soul, the Chief Apostle urged recently. Reality, however, is sometimes different. This is Sandra’s experience. Her problem: who she loves and how others feel about it.

Seasons change life cycles in nature. And also in our own everyday life we experience changing phases of cold and warm, darkness and light. How good it is that Jesus Christ accompanies us on our way. Thoughts from District Apostle Helper Frank Dzur (Canada).

Always so many changes! There is hardly any other church that has developed so far in such a short time. For many, the reaction to this is: “I can’t even recognise my own Church any more!” And yet others are happy about the changes. How are we to deal with this?

Bringing the word of God to the people? That goes beyond the altar too. But at times the two go hand in hand—like in Uzbekistan, where a New Apostolic Priest is currently directing the affairs of the national Bible society.

Holger Hantke (70) worked as a composer in the creation of a number of sheet music collections for the New Apostolic Church. Born in Lübeck and today a resident of Hamburg, he talks about his life and what he thinks of New Apostolic music.

“Belief in miracles is a sign of lacking humbleness,” saysChief Apostle Jean-Luc Schneider. After all, man is not greater than God, and thus cannot prescribe to Him what He should do or when He should do it! A pretty clear statement, isn’t it?

Twelve eggs for a month’s worth of wages! Unbelievable and yet bitter reality. The only thing that can help in circumstances such as these is hope for a better future. District Apostle Helper John Fendt (USA) reports on his work.

He was and remains an example not only in terms of pastoral care and leadership qualities. Also as a researcher he proved his mettle and how things can be done: District Apostle Karl Weinmann would have celebrated his 120th birthday today, 14 September 2021.

When someone takes their own life, it is often said that they probably saw no way out or had no other choice. But this is not the whole truth: there are ways to prevent suicide. Here’s a call for more compassion and counselling.

What is there to discuss when a minister meets with believers for a pastoral care visit? That depends on the particular situation. It would certainly not be entirely absurd to think that they might talk about content from Holy Scripture. Or perhaps rather not?

The great shepherd’s heart has stopped beating. District Apostle (ret.) Markus Fehlbaum of Switzerland passed away yesterday after a long and serious illness with many ups and downs. As a tribute, here is his portrait once more.

Some look back with gratitude and joy and have happy memories, others look ahead hopefully as they face special challenges. Here is a look at some of the activities in our congregations around the world.

This week we take a look at an anniversary in Australia and a campaign for a better future. There certainly are reasons to celebrate, but there are also always moments to pause and reflect and pray for others.