International News
Archive of Articles
- • A podcast with Oliver Steinrueck on the 100 year anniversary conference Oct 2022.
- • The inauguration of the new Erzoberlenker 09h00 on Thursday 3 June in Berlin.
- • The International Youth Initiative Program (YIP)14th edition program (2021-2022)
- • LOGOS - Consecrating Humanity: Michaelmas Conference on the Beginning of the Second Century of the Christian Community, Dortmund, October 7-11, 2022 - May newsletter
- • LOGOS - Consecrating Humanity: Michaelmas Conference on the Beginning of the Second Century of the Christian Community, Dortmund, October 7-11, 2022 - April newsletter
- • Letter from the organisers of the 2022 Worldwide Conference Logos-Consecrating Humanity
- • Festival "100 Years The Christian Community" LOGOS – Consecrating Humanity – 7-11 October 2022 in Dortmund, Germany
- • Follow the process towards CG 2022: the celebration of the 100th anniversary of The Christian Community
- • Temple Lodge in London offers new Garden Studio Accomodation - June 2019
- • Impressions and thoughts on the first World Goetheanum Forum by David Wertheim Aymes (September 2018)
- • From the international meetings in September by Rev. Reingard Knausenberger (September 2018)
- • Looking over the rim – The Christian Community in the Russian-speaking Regions by Rev. Reingard Knausenberger (September 2018)
- • A Good Idea by Rev. Reingard Knausenberger
- • News from around the world following the International Council and Coordinators meeting September 2013 by Rev. Reingard Knausenberger
- • Golden Reflections by Lisa Yiadon
- • News from France and Rev. Ulrich Becker
- • Priest Ordinations in USA
Podcasts to listen toClick the button above to listen to the podcast.
|
International NewsletterNorth American NewsletterNorth American Seminary NewsletterClick here for the Seminary Newsletter Autumn 2024
Newsletter for Great Britain and Ireland
|
The inauguration of the new Erzoberlenker
The inauguration of the new Erzoberlenker will happen within an Act of Consecration of Man at 09h00 on Thursday 3 June in Berlin.
Vicke von Behr will hand over his collar (of responsibility of office) to João Torunsky.
Vicke von Behr will hand over his collar (of responsibility of office) to João Torunsky.
|
Public Zoom chat about YIP on Thursday 6th May 10:00 CET (Central European Time), Zoom link to join here: CLICK HERE.
|
Greetings,
On behalf of the organising team at the International Youth Initiative Program (YIP) we would like to share with your community that we are currently open for applications to participate in the 14th edition of the program (2021-2022). YIP is an Anthroposophically inspired 10-month residential, holistic education program in societal entrepreneurship for 18–28-year-olds from all around the world, based in Ytterjärna, Sweden.
Participating in YIP14 might be of interest for those in your network.
YIP aims to strengthen young people’s capacity to take personal and collective initiative in the face of current global realities and to find their authentic task in the world. Participants live and learn together to explore the current challenges of our time, grow their personal awareness as well as their ability to work together.
Please find attached a poster which can be printed and shared. We would also be grateful if you have a school newsletter or similar to share this information. CLICK HERE to access media material including social media posts, testimonials and a brief overview of what YIP is. Thank you for your support!
We will be holding a public Zoom chat about YIP on Thursday 6th May 10:00 CET (Central European Time), you can find the zoom link to join here: CLICK HERE.
We would also be willing to schedule a direct call where students can hear more/ask any questions to us as organisers directly.
Warm wishes,
Ami
The Organising Team at YIP
______________________
International Youth Initiative Program
Kulturcentrum Järna 13
15391, Järna
Sweden
Org. Nr. 802439-6965
M +46 7302 53412
www.yip.se
On behalf of the organising team at the International Youth Initiative Program (YIP) we would like to share with your community that we are currently open for applications to participate in the 14th edition of the program (2021-2022). YIP is an Anthroposophically inspired 10-month residential, holistic education program in societal entrepreneurship for 18–28-year-olds from all around the world, based in Ytterjärna, Sweden.
Participating in YIP14 might be of interest for those in your network.
YIP aims to strengthen young people’s capacity to take personal and collective initiative in the face of current global realities and to find their authentic task in the world. Participants live and learn together to explore the current challenges of our time, grow their personal awareness as well as their ability to work together.
Please find attached a poster which can be printed and shared. We would also be grateful if you have a school newsletter or similar to share this information. CLICK HERE to access media material including social media posts, testimonials and a brief overview of what YIP is. Thank you for your support!
We will be holding a public Zoom chat about YIP on Thursday 6th May 10:00 CET (Central European Time), you can find the zoom link to join here: CLICK HERE.
We would also be willing to schedule a direct call where students can hear more/ask any questions to us as organisers directly.
Warm wishes,
Ami
The Organising Team at YIP
______________________
International Youth Initiative Program
Kulturcentrum Järna 13
15391, Järna
Sweden
Org. Nr. 802439-6965
M +46 7302 53412
www.yip.se
YIP Poster download |
LOGOS - Consecrating Humanity: Michaelmas Conference on the Beginning of the Second Century of the Christian Community, Dortmund, October 7-11, 2022 - May newsletter
This is now the title, the theme of our major conference, which we have provisionally called CG-2022. This challenging theme is supported by a number of pillars of content, including the sacraments, the Michael Impulse, the question of the powers of inspiration, all with the aim of moving into the second century.
Now, 18 months before this event, preparations are intensifying. While the local planning teams are mainly focused on the practical organizations, the preparation of the content of the themes of the meeting can take place anywhere in the world in our regions and communities. In part, this content related work has already happened and is happening, because we have already received many suggestions. We are open to further suggestions.
Our homepage logos-2022.org is the hub of our communication. These technical means can help to finally really meet and pursue our goals. On the homepage you can find the six-language newsletter for the festive seasons. Those who like to read a lot will find a number of substantive articles on current conference topics, as well as reviews of previous major conferences. Those who like to listen can follow the monthly podcast. Those who like to exchange ideas with others will find our Internet forum and the bilingual journal "This moves us." as an interactive PDF document. Our big meeting in the Michaelmas time 2022 in Dortmund will be a focus, a focal point of today's Christian Community with visitors from all over the world. Conversely, we can already take a look out into the world of the Christian community. For this purpose, you will find on logos-2022.org the possibility to reach the homepage of each worldwide community with two clicks, in order to observe the community life there and the conference preparations, at least from a distance. This can enable worldwide connections.
We do all this with the aim of beginning the second century of our Christian Community in Dortmund at Michaelmas 2022. You are welcome to join us.
Wolfgang Jaschinski
Public Relations for LOGOS
Now, 18 months before this event, preparations are intensifying. While the local planning teams are mainly focused on the practical organizations, the preparation of the content of the themes of the meeting can take place anywhere in the world in our regions and communities. In part, this content related work has already happened and is happening, because we have already received many suggestions. We are open to further suggestions.
Our homepage logos-2022.org is the hub of our communication. These technical means can help to finally really meet and pursue our goals. On the homepage you can find the six-language newsletter for the festive seasons. Those who like to read a lot will find a number of substantive articles on current conference topics, as well as reviews of previous major conferences. Those who like to listen can follow the monthly podcast. Those who like to exchange ideas with others will find our Internet forum and the bilingual journal "This moves us." as an interactive PDF document. Our big meeting in the Michaelmas time 2022 in Dortmund will be a focus, a focal point of today's Christian Community with visitors from all over the world. Conversely, we can already take a look out into the world of the Christian community. For this purpose, you will find on logos-2022.org the possibility to reach the homepage of each worldwide community with two clicks, in order to observe the community life there and the conference preparations, at least from a distance. This can enable worldwide connections.
We do all this with the aim of beginning the second century of our Christian Community in Dortmund at Michaelmas 2022. You are welcome to join us.
Wolfgang Jaschinski
Public Relations for LOGOS
LOGOS - Consecrating Humanity: Michaelmas Conference on the Beginning of the Second Century of the Christian Community, Dortmund, October 7-11, 2022 - April newsletter
This is now the title, the theme of our major conference, which we have provisionally called CG-2022. This challenging theme is supported by a number of pillars of content, including the sacraments, the Michael Impulse, the question of the powers of inspiration, all with the aim of moving into the second century.
Now, 18 months before this event, preparations are intensifying. While the local planning teams are mainly focused on the practical organizations, the preparation of the content of the themes of the meeting can take place anywhere in the world in our regions and communities. In part, this content-related work has already happened and is happening, because we have already received many suggestions. We are open to further suggestions.
Our homepage logos-2022.org is the hub of our communication. These technical means can help to finally really meet and pursue our goals. On the homepage you can find the six-language newsletter for the festive seasons. Those who like to read a lot will find a number of substantive articles on current conference topics, as well as reviews of previous major conferences. Those who like to listen can follow the monthly podcast. Those who like to exchange ideas with others will find our Internet forum and the bilingual journal "This moves us." as an interactive PDF document. Our big meeting in the Michaelmas time 2022 in Dortmund will be a focus, a focal point of today's Christian Community with visitors from all over the world. Conversely, we can already take a look out into the world of the Christian community. For this purpose, you will find on logos-2022.org the possibility to reach the homepage of each worldwide community with two clicks, in order to observe the community life there and the conference preparations, at least from a distance. This can enable worldwide connections.
We do all this with the aim of beginning the second century of our Christian Community in Dortmund at Michaelmas 2022. You are welcome to join us.
Wolfgang Jaschinski
Public Relations for LOGOS
Now, 18 months before this event, preparations are intensifying. While the local planning teams are mainly focused on the practical organizations, the preparation of the content of the themes of the meeting can take place anywhere in the world in our regions and communities. In part, this content-related work has already happened and is happening, because we have already received many suggestions. We are open to further suggestions.
Our homepage logos-2022.org is the hub of our communication. These technical means can help to finally really meet and pursue our goals. On the homepage you can find the six-language newsletter for the festive seasons. Those who like to read a lot will find a number of substantive articles on current conference topics, as well as reviews of previous major conferences. Those who like to listen can follow the monthly podcast. Those who like to exchange ideas with others will find our Internet forum and the bilingual journal "This moves us." as an interactive PDF document. Our big meeting in the Michaelmas time 2022 in Dortmund will be a focus, a focal point of today's Christian Community with visitors from all over the world. Conversely, we can already take a look out into the world of the Christian community. For this purpose, you will find on logos-2022.org the possibility to reach the homepage of each worldwide community with two clicks, in order to observe the community life there and the conference preparations, at least from a distance. This can enable worldwide connections.
We do all this with the aim of beginning the second century of our Christian Community in Dortmund at Michaelmas 2022. You are welcome to join us.
Wolfgang Jaschinski
Public Relations for LOGOS
Letter from the organisers of the 2022 Worldwide Conference Logos-Consecrating Humanit
Dear members and friends of The Christian Community,
We would like to draw your attention to our extended homepage logos-2022.org that includes the Easter Newsletter online in 6 languages. Further, one can travel via internet to all worldwide congregations and find substantive contributions on conference topics, but also reviews of previous large conferences. Those who like to listen can follow the monthly podcast. Those who like to exchange ideas with others may use our internet forum and the bilingual journal "This Moves Us" as an interactive PDF document. We are currently working on making more multilingual pages available.
Nowadays, we experience for the second time a worldwide Passion of unimagined magnitude. May Easter give us the strength for an inner and outer resurrection.
With best regards,
Wolfgang Jaschinski
Redakteur/Editor LOGOS-2022 Newsletter
[email protected]
Ulrich Goebel und Tim Gottschalk
LOGOS Tagungsbüro / Conference Office: Hainallee 40, D 44139 Dortmund
[email protected]
We would like to draw your attention to our extended homepage logos-2022.org that includes the Easter Newsletter online in 6 languages. Further, one can travel via internet to all worldwide congregations and find substantive contributions on conference topics, but also reviews of previous large conferences. Those who like to listen can follow the monthly podcast. Those who like to exchange ideas with others may use our internet forum and the bilingual journal "This Moves Us" as an interactive PDF document. We are currently working on making more multilingual pages available.
Nowadays, we experience for the second time a worldwide Passion of unimagined magnitude. May Easter give us the strength for an inner and outer resurrection.
With best regards,
Wolfgang Jaschinski
Redakteur/Editor LOGOS-2022 Newsletter
[email protected]
Ulrich Goebel und Tim Gottschalk
LOGOS Tagungsbüro / Conference Office: Hainallee 40, D 44139 Dortmund
[email protected]
Festival "100 Years The Christian Community" LOGOS – Consecrating Humanity – 7-11 October 2022 in Dortmund, Germany
LOGOS – Consecrating Humanity is now the title of our conference. Up to now we have deliberately spoken provisionally of CG 2022, but now the planning teams have committed themselves to a message with which we want to enter our second century. While there will be translations of the subtitle, the German will use the English version.
Choosing this title took many months, so we did not make it easy for ourselves. It was not intended to be a catchy advertising slogan, nor an attention-grabbing headline on a poster, but rather a signpost for our future that expressed some content.
Let us look at some details. The Act of Consecration of Man is a deed, an act. Humanity means both the state of being human as well as the quality of being humane – being compassionate, sympathetic or generous.
The striving for humaneness is expressed in the formulation of human rights or in the Charter of the United Nations. However, we often see how difficult it is to be humane in unjust and violent living conditions. But as Christians we are striving for more than humaneness. We try to see beyond human beings here and now in this earthly world, and strive to see their full nature that reaches into higher worlds.
The title LOGOS – Consecrating Humanity thus emphasises the desire, the hope, the prayer that in our time through the Logos a consecration may take place both of the whole of humanity and of humaneness.
The term “consecrate” means to make something sacred, which immediately takes us to the realm of sacraments. This brings us to an important part of the conference. For the sacraments were already to be a focal point of the conference.
Many groups, organisations and states around the world are committed to humanity, to social renewal, to sustainability in every respect, to humaneness and tolerance. And we should support these as a Christian Community. However, only churches can bring the sacraments into the world, and we in The Christian Community strive for a renewed understanding of the sacraments. For this reason, various sacraments will be part of the conference, both thematically and practically – even the sacrament of Ordination of Priests will be celebrated there.
In preparation, a newsletter contained a series of contributions on the sacraments of the Christian Community, Rev Volker Harlan (Easter 2020), Rev Michael Bruhn (St John’s Tide 2020), Rev Anastasiia Mazur, and Rev Tom Ravetz (Michaelmas 2020) and is accessible at https://cg-2022.org/wp/index.php/filedownload/. The last edition can be downloaded from the link above this article.
So let us become attuned to LOGOS – Consecrating Humanity. The claim that the sanctification of humanity and humaneness may take place in this time is lofty and in a way superhuman. To live up to this claim is a tremendous challenge. And time is pressing.
Choosing this title took many months, so we did not make it easy for ourselves. It was not intended to be a catchy advertising slogan, nor an attention-grabbing headline on a poster, but rather a signpost for our future that expressed some content.
Let us look at some details. The Act of Consecration of Man is a deed, an act. Humanity means both the state of being human as well as the quality of being humane – being compassionate, sympathetic or generous.
The striving for humaneness is expressed in the formulation of human rights or in the Charter of the United Nations. However, we often see how difficult it is to be humane in unjust and violent living conditions. But as Christians we are striving for more than humaneness. We try to see beyond human beings here and now in this earthly world, and strive to see their full nature that reaches into higher worlds.
The title LOGOS – Consecrating Humanity thus emphasises the desire, the hope, the prayer that in our time through the Logos a consecration may take place both of the whole of humanity and of humaneness.
The term “consecrate” means to make something sacred, which immediately takes us to the realm of sacraments. This brings us to an important part of the conference. For the sacraments were already to be a focal point of the conference.
Many groups, organisations and states around the world are committed to humanity, to social renewal, to sustainability in every respect, to humaneness and tolerance. And we should support these as a Christian Community. However, only churches can bring the sacraments into the world, and we in The Christian Community strive for a renewed understanding of the sacraments. For this reason, various sacraments will be part of the conference, both thematically and practically – even the sacrament of Ordination of Priests will be celebrated there.
In preparation, a newsletter contained a series of contributions on the sacraments of the Christian Community, Rev Volker Harlan (Easter 2020), Rev Michael Bruhn (St John’s Tide 2020), Rev Anastasiia Mazur, and Rev Tom Ravetz (Michaelmas 2020) and is accessible at https://cg-2022.org/wp/index.php/filedownload/. The last edition can be downloaded from the link above this article.
So let us become attuned to LOGOS – Consecrating Humanity. The claim that the sanctification of humanity and humaneness may take place in this time is lofty and in a way superhuman. To live up to this claim is a tremendous challenge. And time is pressing.
Temple Lodge in London offers new Garden Studio Accomodation
We are extremely proud to be able to offer three new, exciting rooms to our guests at Temple Lodge. These unique and elegant rooms have been designed and purpose built so that they overlook our lovely garden, giving guests the feeling that they're occupying a tastefully furnished en-suite Garden Room.
They are situated far enough away for privacy from the main house but close enough to walk across the newly paved pathways to the dining room, where you can enjoy a delicious organic breakfast. The breakfast is of course included in our very reasonable room tariff.
The rooms are provided with Wi-fi, a desk and chair to work at, and a comfortable armchair. Of course, the other little extras, like tea and coffee are provided, while assorted snacks are available for purchase.
When next booking your London accommodation with us please do enquire if one of the Garden Studio Rooms is available. If you're able to book one it will certainly enhance your stay in London, making it more memorable and enjoyable.
They are situated far enough away for privacy from the main house but close enough to walk across the newly paved pathways to the dining room, where you can enjoy a delicious organic breakfast. The breakfast is of course included in our very reasonable room tariff.
The rooms are provided with Wi-fi, a desk and chair to work at, and a comfortable armchair. Of course, the other little extras, like tea and coffee are provided, while assorted snacks are available for purchase.
When next booking your London accommodation with us please do enquire if one of the Garden Studio Rooms is available. If you're able to book one it will certainly enhance your stay in London, making it more memorable and enjoyable.
Impressions and thoughts on the first World Goetheanum Forum - September 2018
by David Wertheim Aymes
The World Goetheanum Forum was held for the first time over three days, from 28th to 30th September 2018, at the Goetheanum. I personally was pleased that such a meeting had been called as it was appealing to those in the business sphere rather than the traditional arts, medical or farming initiatives. It came shortly after the reshuffling of the Vorstand at the Goetheanum and as such it hinted at freshness and a desire to see things done differently. I had to go and see. My work in South Africa has been done essentially alone with only the support of the written words of Dr Steiner. I wanted to see how my work corresponded to what was coming out of the ‘mother organ’ in Switzerland. I wanted to find next steps for myself one way or the other.
The conference format consisted of five lecture-cum-report sessions from someone in business or in the Vorstand followed by questions or comments. Some of these sessions were presented by more than one speaker. There were two sessions of 12 mini workshops run in parallel, where one could choose a subject or speaker of interest and delve deeper and interact slightly more than in the question sessions after the reports. The first and last tea breaks of the conference were managed networking sessions with a gong sounding every three minutes encouraging delegates to either change contributor or change group. Topics or questions were given to discuss in these sessions; such as “why are you here?” For the first hour in the mornings one could choose an activity like singing or meditation or something else like this.
There were 130 attendees from all over, mostly economically active people acting out of some kind of Anthroposophic influence: bankers, farmers, consultants, industrialists, retailers and so on. There were also some young people who were, for example, engaged to someone who had a connection to Anthroposophy. These people were never heard unless one met them at the dinner table and specifically engaged them. They had some really fresh and meaningful questions. Most of the current Vorstand members were there as well as past members. The gathering happened in the Schreinerei, the same venue where the Christmas gathering of 1923 took place.
The people that were seen on stage most often were the organisers and the chosen presenters, such as Helmy Abouleish, Peter Blom, the Italian retailer Fabio Brescacin, Michael Brenner Weleda, Dr Petra Derkzen, Gerald Haeffner, Georg Soldner, Dr Ha Vihn Tho, among others. There was a clear sympathetic connection amongst them. When they were not on stage, they sat near each other. There were not a lot of questions after each talk. Everyone in the audience knew that there was time pressure and 10-15 minutes of question-time did not leave a lot of space for deepening anything. I was not able to contribute much at the question sessions after the reports; there was simply no opportunity. I asked a few questions trying to stimulate a different slant to things. During the reports, I tried to listen to the topic in German and then to find out why the presenter was saying what they said.
I joined the singing in the morning. We made a lot of progress in two sessions. I had to really concentrate and be present to stay with it and be part of it. I did enjoy this. I also went to Helmy’s workshop where the question was how do we apply the sentient, mind and consciousness soul to individual, social and societal life? I found the introduction clear but the contributions of others too far off the topic. I attended another workshop on working together – how do we do this? A farmer gave his ideas on how he had done this.
What I found very relevant was this table put up by Rembert Biemond:
1923 2018
Foundation Stone 1 1
Membership 12000 42000
Initiatives 5 30000+
On Payroll of initiatives 70 ±500000
Clearly the membership has not grown anywhere like the people working for initiatives connected to the concepts of Anthroposophy. To me this is worrisome as they are not actively participating in gaining or growing Anthroposophical knowledge.
So, in conclusion, I got to hear a lot about what was not working and indeed what was working in the world and several pleas for solutions, but no concrete next steps based on the essence of Anthroposophy and Spiritual Science. Things that were working were the Biodynamic initiatives, the banks, and some others. What was missing though is how these got to work and what role the human being, conscious of himself/herself, enabled this to come about.
This article was edited by John-Peter Gernaat as the webmaster. The original was written as a report and David included a critical analysis with recommendation for the improvement of future forums such as this one that the organisers only would benefit from.
The World Goetheanum Forum was held for the first time over three days, from 28th to 30th September 2018, at the Goetheanum. I personally was pleased that such a meeting had been called as it was appealing to those in the business sphere rather than the traditional arts, medical or farming initiatives. It came shortly after the reshuffling of the Vorstand at the Goetheanum and as such it hinted at freshness and a desire to see things done differently. I had to go and see. My work in South Africa has been done essentially alone with only the support of the written words of Dr Steiner. I wanted to see how my work corresponded to what was coming out of the ‘mother organ’ in Switzerland. I wanted to find next steps for myself one way or the other.
The conference format consisted of five lecture-cum-report sessions from someone in business or in the Vorstand followed by questions or comments. Some of these sessions were presented by more than one speaker. There were two sessions of 12 mini workshops run in parallel, where one could choose a subject or speaker of interest and delve deeper and interact slightly more than in the question sessions after the reports. The first and last tea breaks of the conference were managed networking sessions with a gong sounding every three minutes encouraging delegates to either change contributor or change group. Topics or questions were given to discuss in these sessions; such as “why are you here?” For the first hour in the mornings one could choose an activity like singing or meditation or something else like this.
There were 130 attendees from all over, mostly economically active people acting out of some kind of Anthroposophic influence: bankers, farmers, consultants, industrialists, retailers and so on. There were also some young people who were, for example, engaged to someone who had a connection to Anthroposophy. These people were never heard unless one met them at the dinner table and specifically engaged them. They had some really fresh and meaningful questions. Most of the current Vorstand members were there as well as past members. The gathering happened in the Schreinerei, the same venue where the Christmas gathering of 1923 took place.
The people that were seen on stage most often were the organisers and the chosen presenters, such as Helmy Abouleish, Peter Blom, the Italian retailer Fabio Brescacin, Michael Brenner Weleda, Dr Petra Derkzen, Gerald Haeffner, Georg Soldner, Dr Ha Vihn Tho, among others. There was a clear sympathetic connection amongst them. When they were not on stage, they sat near each other. There were not a lot of questions after each talk. Everyone in the audience knew that there was time pressure and 10-15 minutes of question-time did not leave a lot of space for deepening anything. I was not able to contribute much at the question sessions after the reports; there was simply no opportunity. I asked a few questions trying to stimulate a different slant to things. During the reports, I tried to listen to the topic in German and then to find out why the presenter was saying what they said.
I joined the singing in the morning. We made a lot of progress in two sessions. I had to really concentrate and be present to stay with it and be part of it. I did enjoy this. I also went to Helmy’s workshop where the question was how do we apply the sentient, mind and consciousness soul to individual, social and societal life? I found the introduction clear but the contributions of others too far off the topic. I attended another workshop on working together – how do we do this? A farmer gave his ideas on how he had done this.
What I found very relevant was this table put up by Rembert Biemond:
1923 2018
Foundation Stone 1 1
Membership 12000 42000
Initiatives 5 30000+
On Payroll of initiatives 70 ±500000
Clearly the membership has not grown anywhere like the people working for initiatives connected to the concepts of Anthroposophy. To me this is worrisome as they are not actively participating in gaining or growing Anthroposophical knowledge.
So, in conclusion, I got to hear a lot about what was not working and indeed what was working in the world and several pleas for solutions, but no concrete next steps based on the essence of Anthroposophy and Spiritual Science. Things that were working were the Biodynamic initiatives, the banks, and some others. What was missing though is how these got to work and what role the human being, conscious of himself/herself, enabled this to come about.
This article was edited by John-Peter Gernaat as the webmaster. The original was written as a report and David included a critical analysis with recommendation for the improvement of future forums such as this one that the organisers only would benefit from.
by Rev. Reingard Knausenberger
When in Berlin, the meetings are always in the rooms of the Circle of Seven and the Foundation, spread over two floors. There is a large ‘boardroom’ and a beautiful little chapel, plus all the necessary administrative office spaces, smaller meeting rooms, kitchen and eating space, plus rooms for the members of the Circle of Seven, who spend a lot of time there during the course of the year. This year we began with the international Council meeting, where the Lenkers, country coordinators and Foundation executive members come together to essentially hold the AGM. This is a unique configuration of people, all committed and engaged with The Christian Community as something close to the heart, bearing the awareness of how this spiritual impulse is grounded and sustained. I don’t think there is another place where from around the world every aspect of Christian Community is gathered in one place with such diversity and intensity for just a few hours. Much like our Southern African Regional Council, it is a festive occasion, but intense hard work and focus.
From the Lenker conference which proceeded thereafter, I can say the same. Coming together creates a world-wide focus and realistic assessment of where we are and what we are dealing with. Three new Lenkers were welcomed this year, as some had handed over responsibilities, mostly due to age. The northern German Region was split, so that it now has two Lenkers, instead of one. Each area has between 20 and 30 priests and many filial situations, so that to work together effectively there needed to be more definition and consolidation. A ‘Middle Europe’ Region has formed, connecting Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary and Romania, with support given to Slovakia, Slovenia and Croatia as areas of outreach with budding initiatives. For the next two years the former Lenker of Switzerland will accompany this region. Another topic which concerned us was the Northern Region (embracing Finland, Sweden and Norway, with the new burgeoning initiatives in Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia).
One clear intention was formulated by all at the Council, that regardless of local initiatives: there is a wish and will to also have an international conference around the centenary of The Christian Community.
When in Berlin, the meetings are always in the rooms of the Circle of Seven and the Foundation, spread over two floors. There is a large ‘boardroom’ and a beautiful little chapel, plus all the necessary administrative office spaces, smaller meeting rooms, kitchen and eating space, plus rooms for the members of the Circle of Seven, who spend a lot of time there during the course of the year. This year we began with the international Council meeting, where the Lenkers, country coordinators and Foundation executive members come together to essentially hold the AGM. This is a unique configuration of people, all committed and engaged with The Christian Community as something close to the heart, bearing the awareness of how this spiritual impulse is grounded and sustained. I don’t think there is another place where from around the world every aspect of Christian Community is gathered in one place with such diversity and intensity for just a few hours. Much like our Southern African Regional Council, it is a festive occasion, but intense hard work and focus.
From the Lenker conference which proceeded thereafter, I can say the same. Coming together creates a world-wide focus and realistic assessment of where we are and what we are dealing with. Three new Lenkers were welcomed this year, as some had handed over responsibilities, mostly due to age. The northern German Region was split, so that it now has two Lenkers, instead of one. Each area has between 20 and 30 priests and many filial situations, so that to work together effectively there needed to be more definition and consolidation. A ‘Middle Europe’ Region has formed, connecting Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary and Romania, with support given to Slovakia, Slovenia and Croatia as areas of outreach with budding initiatives. For the next two years the former Lenker of Switzerland will accompany this region. Another topic which concerned us was the Northern Region (embracing Finland, Sweden and Norway, with the new burgeoning initiatives in Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia).
One clear intention was formulated by all at the Council, that regardless of local initiatives: there is a wish and will to also have an international conference around the centenary of The Christian Community.
by Rev. Reingard Knausenberger
On Sunday, 14th October the founding of the Community in Moscow is being celebrated with a first Russian born and raised resident priest, Anna Geyer. With this big festival a preparation which began in 1976 when a Russian lady invited Friedrich Benesch to visit a group of young anthroposophists, will find its fulfilment.
From then on, Dieter Hornemann (who was a priest in Stuttgart and spoke Russian) was asked to accompany the people interested in anthroposophy and religious renewal. (There have also been others working with different groups from 1979). During this time he met the art student Sergej Prokofieff, who joined the circle of friends in 1978. After 1979 it became difficult for Dieter to travel in the ‘East Block’ through the political situation and their surveillance regarding anti-communist activities. Thanks to the changes brought about through Glasnost and Perestroika he could obtain a visa again in 1987 and work began on translating the rituals into Russian, also with the help of Sergej Prokofieff, who in the meantime was married and living in England. With the change in political ‘temperature’ bringing hope, youth in west and east Germany began preparing for a big youth conference in Moscow, not knowing if it would actually be possible to realise it. So when in 1989 the borders opened to the west, they were prepared. In July 1990 ninety youth and three priests and a Waldorf teacher boarded a train in Stuttgart for Moscow, to be joined along the way by another priest and youth from Dresden, bringing the group to ca. 120. The week started in a small public school with a handful of Russians, and by the third day the numbers had doubled by way of bush-telegraph and angel interventions as people appeared from across the whole Soviet Union. Truly an unforgettable week which set much in motion. The Act of Consecration was celebrated every day in Russian and German. The chalice remained as a gift for the budding Moscow Christian Community.
On Sunday, 14th October the founding of the Community in Moscow is being celebrated with a first Russian born and raised resident priest, Anna Geyer. With this big festival a preparation which began in 1976 when a Russian lady invited Friedrich Benesch to visit a group of young anthroposophists, will find its fulfilment.
From then on, Dieter Hornemann (who was a priest in Stuttgart and spoke Russian) was asked to accompany the people interested in anthroposophy and religious renewal. (There have also been others working with different groups from 1979). During this time he met the art student Sergej Prokofieff, who joined the circle of friends in 1978. After 1979 it became difficult for Dieter to travel in the ‘East Block’ through the political situation and their surveillance regarding anti-communist activities. Thanks to the changes brought about through Glasnost and Perestroika he could obtain a visa again in 1987 and work began on translating the rituals into Russian, also with the help of Sergej Prokofieff, who in the meantime was married and living in England. With the change in political ‘temperature’ bringing hope, youth in west and east Germany began preparing for a big youth conference in Moscow, not knowing if it would actually be possible to realise it. So when in 1989 the borders opened to the west, they were prepared. In July 1990 ninety youth and three priests and a Waldorf teacher boarded a train in Stuttgart for Moscow, to be joined along the way by another priest and youth from Dresden, bringing the group to ca. 120. The week started in a small public school with a handful of Russians, and by the third day the numbers had doubled by way of bush-telegraph and angel interventions as people appeared from across the whole Soviet Union. Truly an unforgettable week which set much in motion. The Act of Consecration was celebrated every day in Russian and German. The chalice remained as a gift for the budding Moscow Christian Community.
From the 14th October 1990 the first public service (not in the protected space of a conference) was celebrated and from then on had regular visits from priests, sometimes staying for many months. It is a very special destiny to note that in this year the founding Act of Consecration for the Community in Moscow will take place to the day 28 years later. In 1990 and in 2018 this date falls on a Sunday.
Since 2005 the community has their own consecrated chapel space, in a building jointly owned with the Wala.
Regular conferences have been held to which people from other towns came, asking for visits as well. In 1998 a group in St. Petersburg bought a small one-room holiday cottage at the edge of the city, and so there are two owned spaces in Russia where the Act of Consecration is celebrated. There are three other filial situations in Russia which are visited regularly.
Since 2005 the community has their own consecrated chapel space, in a building jointly owned with the Wala.
Regular conferences have been held to which people from other towns came, asking for visits as well. In 1998 a group in St. Petersburg bought a small one-room holiday cottage at the edge of the city, and so there are two owned spaces in Russia where the Act of Consecration is celebrated. There are three other filial situations in Russia which are visited regularly.
After the Lenker Conference in Berlin this year Reingard had the opportunity to accompany Dieter Hornemann to St. Petersburg where on September 16th the birthday of The Christian Community was worthily celebrated with this community in the quaint log cabin, which has no electricity or water.
Not to forget:
In the Ukraine the communities developed quicker and more energetically after 1994. Odessa has had their own chapel and grounds and resident priest for over a decade, and in April 2018 this year the founding of the community in Kiew was celebrated also with a resident priest. They hope to have concluded a sale for their own premises before Christmas.
May the further unfolding and growth of our Movement for Religious Renewal be blessed and accompanied by our prayers.
Not to forget:
In the Ukraine the communities developed quicker and more energetically after 1994. Odessa has had their own chapel and grounds and resident priest for over a decade, and in April 2018 this year the founding of the community in Kiew was celebrated also with a resident priest. They hope to have concluded a sale for their own premises before Christmas.
May the further unfolding and growth of our Movement for Religious Renewal be blessed and accompanied by our prayers.
by Rev. Reingard Knausenberger
For many years already, Rev. Johannes Lenz (retired Oberlenker) has built up and monitors a GOLD FUND. He collects 'old gold', i.e. rings, bracelets, necklaces, dentistry gold fillings, etc. complete or broken. Valuable pieces are sold, other gold is re-smelted. The proceeds go towards supporting the 'worthy celebration' of the sacraments. Chalices have been crafted of this, and censors, altar candle sticks, chasubles, vestments have been paid for out of this fund; never completely, but supplementing what a community can provide. As these things are always very expensive and usually beyond the means of a small or pioneering community, this has been a blessing for many communities around the world. In our Southern African Region we have benefited from this many times, recently through an Easter and a Michealmas chasuble and a trinity mantle. If you have anything to donate to this fund, please bring it to a priest, who will ensure it reaches Rev. Lenz in Berlin.
For many years already, Rev. Johannes Lenz (retired Oberlenker) has built up and monitors a GOLD FUND. He collects 'old gold', i.e. rings, bracelets, necklaces, dentistry gold fillings, etc. complete or broken. Valuable pieces are sold, other gold is re-smelted. The proceeds go towards supporting the 'worthy celebration' of the sacraments. Chalices have been crafted of this, and censors, altar candle sticks, chasubles, vestments have been paid for out of this fund; never completely, but supplementing what a community can provide. As these things are always very expensive and usually beyond the means of a small or pioneering community, this has been a blessing for many communities around the world. In our Southern African Region we have benefited from this many times, recently through an Easter and a Michealmas chasuble and a trinity mantle. If you have anything to donate to this fund, please bring it to a priest, who will ensure it reaches Rev. Lenz in Berlin.
by Rev. Reingard Knausenberger
On Sunday, 1st September the new church was consecrated in Hammersmith, West London. Before the first Act of Consecration of Man was celebrated the consecration ritual was carried out by the Rev. Tom Ravetz, Lenker of Great Britain, in front of the altar. Music was specially composed for this occasion by Prof. Elmar Lampson from Hamburg, Germany. In preparation for the consecrating Rev. Ravetz spoke the evening before about 'creating a holy space'. Some of the thoughts expressed were as follows:
Every living organism creates a membrane around the life that forms and sustains it. The church building is such a 'container' for life unfolding inside it. We are normally the centre of our world and the nucleus of our life activity. The altar shifts the centre from me to somewhere else, to a shared greater centre. There are movements around this altar – north, west, east, south – around this new centre in the world. The hierarchies created the world. Did they create a finished world and then place the human being into it, whose only purpose is to develop a connection to God? This world-view is over. We, human beings, created this 'container'! We can create. The world is not finished. This container can become a place where hierarchies can work into: Spirits of Form, of Movement, of Wisdom.
On Sunday, 1st September the new church was consecrated in Hammersmith, West London. Before the first Act of Consecration of Man was celebrated the consecration ritual was carried out by the Rev. Tom Ravetz, Lenker of Great Britain, in front of the altar. Music was specially composed for this occasion by Prof. Elmar Lampson from Hamburg, Germany. In preparation for the consecrating Rev. Ravetz spoke the evening before about 'creating a holy space'. Some of the thoughts expressed were as follows:
Every living organism creates a membrane around the life that forms and sustains it. The church building is such a 'container' for life unfolding inside it. We are normally the centre of our world and the nucleus of our life activity. The altar shifts the centre from me to somewhere else, to a shared greater centre. There are movements around this altar – north, west, east, south – around this new centre in the world. The hierarchies created the world. Did they create a finished world and then place the human being into it, whose only purpose is to develop a connection to God? This world-view is over. We, human beings, created this 'container'! We can create. The world is not finished. This container can become a place where hierarchies can work into: Spirits of Form, of Movement, of Wisdom.
To consecrate is to dedicate, to extract from the profane, to open up. From now on this space has a sole purpose and focus, because we decide it. But, what is being dedicated when a SPACE is consecrated? We could say: the mesocosm, meaning the space in-between, between macrocosm and microcosm, between the hierarchies and the human being; that, which is CREATED in-between is consecrated. A space is firmly defined, formed, ensouled, warmed, so that qualities are created in it, in us, between us in community. So, 'brick by brick' we build new spaces of life, new temples of Spirit community, which in the heavenly realm build spaces for future unfolding, a New Jerusalem.
I felt it was a privilege to have experienced this festive occasion, as if, after having laid a physical foundation stone previously, now a spiritual foundation stone was laid into the heart of the community. I also could add the warm greetings from our southern African region to the goodness that manifested.
I felt it was a privilege to have experienced this festive occasion, as if, after having laid a physical foundation stone previously, now a spiritual foundation stone was laid into the heart of the community. I also could add the warm greetings from our southern African region to the goodness that manifested.
International Council of The Christian Community and Coordinators meeting of all Regions worldwide:
by Rev. Reingard Knausenberger
This is a meeting once a year of ca. 40 delegates (including the Lenkers). Apart from dealing with 'normal' issues as at an AGM pertaining to the whole movement, there is always a theme. This year the focus was: acting responsibly at the end of life. It covered everything from Living Will, being an organ donor, positives and negatives of having a Will, whom does one trust to make decisions on one's behalf, the spiritual impact of a legacy, ageing as a spiritual opportunity… In other words, what possibilities are there to order (legally, emotionally, spiritually) the time before, during and after death. Some questions discussed were: is it possible to make decisions now, when I am in a state of legal capacity, for a time of my life in which I might not have this capacity, but could then have completely different feelings and experiences which would lead to other decisions? Can I decide today what my intention, my will, is at a later stage in life and what does it take to order my assets fearlessly and selflessly, so that I can contribute meaningfully to the future of the world? What is 'right' – how to act now, so that after death one experiences these actions as 'right'? …Even with professionals present, who could speak about legalities and modalities in different countries, it was very clear that there is an illusion prevalent about being able to 'regulate it all beforehand' or 'leaving it all to Karma'. The most important thing is communicating with those surrounding one, and family, no matter what the feelings are, to be sure one's wishes are known. We ended the two days with: What is the meaning of life? – maybe a completely different meaning than I can see.
It was with deep gratitude and awe that the circle gathered acknowledged the flow of life (which expresses itself in the figures) which the gifts, donations, legacies and voluntary offerings of time and expertise of members around the world make possible, enabling the spiritual life substance of the Sacraments to flow. At these gatherings, which always begin and end at the altar every day, Christian Community is tangibly present in its essence.
This is a meeting once a year of ca. 40 delegates (including the Lenkers). Apart from dealing with 'normal' issues as at an AGM pertaining to the whole movement, there is always a theme. This year the focus was: acting responsibly at the end of life. It covered everything from Living Will, being an organ donor, positives and negatives of having a Will, whom does one trust to make decisions on one's behalf, the spiritual impact of a legacy, ageing as a spiritual opportunity… In other words, what possibilities are there to order (legally, emotionally, spiritually) the time before, during and after death. Some questions discussed were: is it possible to make decisions now, when I am in a state of legal capacity, for a time of my life in which I might not have this capacity, but could then have completely different feelings and experiences which would lead to other decisions? Can I decide today what my intention, my will, is at a later stage in life and what does it take to order my assets fearlessly and selflessly, so that I can contribute meaningfully to the future of the world? What is 'right' – how to act now, so that after death one experiences these actions as 'right'? …Even with professionals present, who could speak about legalities and modalities in different countries, it was very clear that there is an illusion prevalent about being able to 'regulate it all beforehand' or 'leaving it all to Karma'. The most important thing is communicating with those surrounding one, and family, no matter what the feelings are, to be sure one's wishes are known. We ended the two days with: What is the meaning of life? – maybe a completely different meaning than I can see.
It was with deep gratitude and awe that the circle gathered acknowledged the flow of life (which expresses itself in the figures) which the gifts, donations, legacies and voluntary offerings of time and expertise of members around the world make possible, enabling the spiritual life substance of the Sacraments to flow. At these gatherings, which always begin and end at the altar every day, Christian Community is tangibly present in its essence.
From the Lenker's Meeting:
by Rev. Reingard Knausenberger
The North American Region presented a stimulating report of the 3 year work of a Future Initiatives Group, a group of lay members and priests with volunteers. It was formed in order to focus on supporting the growth and development of the Movement for Religious Renewal. Viewing itself as an organ of perception of North American regional needs, ideas and initiatives. and also as an action group that can take on and facilitate projects, a brochure – which can be viewed in our library – speaks of the results of all of these endeavours. Some of the projects they tackled were: visibility (signage, website, Facebook, introductory brochures and flyers, advertising), creating an online music archive, going on lectures tours in areas where no congregations are… The group uncovered the strengths and weaknesses of The Christian Community, collected questions and suggestions from the communities they visited, and is set to continue to do all it can to actively support the expansion and deepening of the work of Renewal.
In Poland the 'Wspólnota Chrzecijan' (Christian Community) was officially registered on 6th May. The document was signed by 15 people declaring their intention to actively support the goal of religious renewal and to encourage initiatives striving for diverse spiritual unfolding individually and spiritually. It has taken years to achieve this step. The Act of Consecration of Man has already been celebrated in Polish at annual conferences by Rev. Jaroslaw Rolka, who is also a member of the Circle of Seven. Their most recent conference was at Ascension with the theme: The Healing Medicine, the Sacrament. A small, but very serious and determined group carries this intent.
Romania has embarked on a probation year from 1st September to test their strength for a founding of The Christian Community in the country. For more than a decade sacraments have been celebrated, conferences held, with visiting priests. Their hopes have gathered momentum with the arrival of Rev. M Culda, who is from Romania, who will be working full-time in Bukarest and Cluj to help prepare a founding.
A first East-European Conference was held at Michaelmas 2012 at the Black Sea, bringing together members from Georgia, Romania, Poland, Ukraine, Russia and Hungary. Armenia emerged as a new seedling and the Act of Consecration is currently being translated.
The North American Region presented a stimulating report of the 3 year work of a Future Initiatives Group, a group of lay members and priests with volunteers. It was formed in order to focus on supporting the growth and development of the Movement for Religious Renewal. Viewing itself as an organ of perception of North American regional needs, ideas and initiatives. and also as an action group that can take on and facilitate projects, a brochure – which can be viewed in our library – speaks of the results of all of these endeavours. Some of the projects they tackled were: visibility (signage, website, Facebook, introductory brochures and flyers, advertising), creating an online music archive, going on lectures tours in areas where no congregations are… The group uncovered the strengths and weaknesses of The Christian Community, collected questions and suggestions from the communities they visited, and is set to continue to do all it can to actively support the expansion and deepening of the work of Renewal.
In Poland the 'Wspólnota Chrzecijan' (Christian Community) was officially registered on 6th May. The document was signed by 15 people declaring their intention to actively support the goal of religious renewal and to encourage initiatives striving for diverse spiritual unfolding individually and spiritually. It has taken years to achieve this step. The Act of Consecration of Man has already been celebrated in Polish at annual conferences by Rev. Jaroslaw Rolka, who is also a member of the Circle of Seven. Their most recent conference was at Ascension with the theme: The Healing Medicine, the Sacrament. A small, but very serious and determined group carries this intent.
Romania has embarked on a probation year from 1st September to test their strength for a founding of The Christian Community in the country. For more than a decade sacraments have been celebrated, conferences held, with visiting priests. Their hopes have gathered momentum with the arrival of Rev. M Culda, who is from Romania, who will be working full-time in Bukarest and Cluj to help prepare a founding.
A first East-European Conference was held at Michaelmas 2012 at the Black Sea, bringing together members from Georgia, Romania, Poland, Ukraine, Russia and Hungary. Armenia emerged as a new seedling and the Act of Consecration is currently being translated.
Golden Reflections
Community Helper, Lisa Yiadom, attended the Living Gold Conference in Vancouver, Canada in July 2012. She shares her experiences with photos. Click here.
News from France and Rev. Ulrich Becker
An international synod is also a place to meet friends again. Rev. Ulrich Becker, who worked in Windhoek for 5 years and is now in Strasbourg, France, gave a short insight into the work and region he is now working in.
'A congregation of The Christian Community is never only community unto itself, it is always part of the city community. The city of Strasbourg is marked by the fact that it is a city of the border in the most positive sense. Both German and French culture live here together in a good way. Taking up its difficult destiny throughout the last centuries in a positive way has made Strasbourg a place of great openness. It is not by chance that Strassburg has become a city of Europe. Since the middle ages it has been an important place for the spiritual development of Europe, one only has to think of the mystics like Hildegard von Bingen, Meister Eckart, Johannes Tauler. Today it is the home of the European Parlament where important decisions for Europe are debated and prepared. Like every big city Strasbourg is also a focal point of the social challenges of our time.
Into this city community, a congregation of The Christian Community has been 'gifted'. In regularity, twice a week, it offers Christ the opportunity to send, through the medium of the sacraments, blessing, life-renewing and peace-bearing powers into this city. Weekly gospel study, Community evenings, religion lessons, make an offering of enlivening the thought-sphere of the city with Christ-penetrated thoughts. After all a city which is the very real arena for decision making of wider and smaller scope. When in the most personal sphere of pastoral care and consultation destiny is witnessed and accompanied, the life-permeating Christ power of Love might become manifest in representation for the whole city community. 'Crossing borders' is experienced in our work with a neighboring community in Germany, with the inter-confessional meetings with members of the protestant and catholic church, and again differently in our monthly readings for those who have died.
All this happens in Strasbourg in an outwardly small congregation, but in the spirit and experience of steady inner and outer growth. Our chapel received a name two years ago: Chapelle Saint-Michel, and this year a new altar picture by Ninetta Sombart. Our children and youth work is also taking on life.' Come visit! La Communaute des chretiens, 8 rue de Rosheim, F-67000 Strasbourg.
'Today we have about 200 members and 200 friends connected to our work in the region of France and French-Belgium. We have seven chapels, with only the one in Chatou (near Paris) built specifically for the Christian Community in 1992. At three other places, Brussels, Pau and Lyon, the altar is set up and taken down again for every service. There are three places where services are held regularly: Colmar, Paris and Strassburg. In other places it is once a month or between three and six times a year. There are five full-time priests and two retired priests working in France, among them is Rev. Marie-Pierrette Robert, who is also part of the Circle of Seven. The priests celebrate in ten different cities. The priests share among them the regional tasks, like the publishing house IONA, the Christian Community magazine, running a youth centre Oberlin Haus, the children's camps, youth work, meetings with other churches and the anthroposophical society. There are groups in the country which cannot be visited by a priest, then they gather on Sundays to read the gospel, sing, speak the creed and the Lord's Prayer. Christine Krueger, member in Colmar
'A congregation of The Christian Community is never only community unto itself, it is always part of the city community. The city of Strasbourg is marked by the fact that it is a city of the border in the most positive sense. Both German and French culture live here together in a good way. Taking up its difficult destiny throughout the last centuries in a positive way has made Strasbourg a place of great openness. It is not by chance that Strassburg has become a city of Europe. Since the middle ages it has been an important place for the spiritual development of Europe, one only has to think of the mystics like Hildegard von Bingen, Meister Eckart, Johannes Tauler. Today it is the home of the European Parlament where important decisions for Europe are debated and prepared. Like every big city Strasbourg is also a focal point of the social challenges of our time.
Into this city community, a congregation of The Christian Community has been 'gifted'. In regularity, twice a week, it offers Christ the opportunity to send, through the medium of the sacraments, blessing, life-renewing and peace-bearing powers into this city. Weekly gospel study, Community evenings, religion lessons, make an offering of enlivening the thought-sphere of the city with Christ-penetrated thoughts. After all a city which is the very real arena for decision making of wider and smaller scope. When in the most personal sphere of pastoral care and consultation destiny is witnessed and accompanied, the life-permeating Christ power of Love might become manifest in representation for the whole city community. 'Crossing borders' is experienced in our work with a neighboring community in Germany, with the inter-confessional meetings with members of the protestant and catholic church, and again differently in our monthly readings for those who have died.
All this happens in Strasbourg in an outwardly small congregation, but in the spirit and experience of steady inner and outer growth. Our chapel received a name two years ago: Chapelle Saint-Michel, and this year a new altar picture by Ninetta Sombart. Our children and youth work is also taking on life.' Come visit! La Communaute des chretiens, 8 rue de Rosheim, F-67000 Strasbourg.
'Today we have about 200 members and 200 friends connected to our work in the region of France and French-Belgium. We have seven chapels, with only the one in Chatou (near Paris) built specifically for the Christian Community in 1992. At three other places, Brussels, Pau and Lyon, the altar is set up and taken down again for every service. There are three places where services are held regularly: Colmar, Paris and Strassburg. In other places it is once a month or between three and six times a year. There are five full-time priests and two retired priests working in France, among them is Rev. Marie-Pierrette Robert, who is also part of the Circle of Seven. The priests celebrate in ten different cities. The priests share among them the regional tasks, like the publishing house IONA, the Christian Community magazine, running a youth centre Oberlin Haus, the children's camps, youth work, meetings with other churches and the anthroposophical society. There are groups in the country which cannot be visited by a priest, then they gather on Sundays to read the gospel, sing, speak the creed and the Lord's Prayer. Christine Krueger, member in Colmar
Priest Ordinations in USA
A lot of preparation, thought and organization goes into creating a festival. When the festive moment finally arrives there is a vessel ready which frees souls to lift themselves up to receive what is 'not of this world', but much needed in this world. These are times when we experience that we are not only who we are by what has been given to us passively by the world, but that we can grow beyond our limited selves when we engage actively to participate with others.
Such an uplifting, rejuvenating experience embraced the more than 300 people who were able to attend the priest ordinations held over three days on 16th, 17th and 18th March. This was only the second time ordinations were celebrated in the USA. Therefore an effort was made to make them available to as many people as possible. Between 22 and 28 priests gathered around these as well, coming from across the US with representatives from England, Australia, South Africa and Germany. Darryl James Coonan from Australia was ordained in Hillsdale, upstate New York. A beautiful chapel in the middle of forest and meadow, recently built by the widespread community as its centre. We then all trooped further south to Spring Valley, a true anthroposophical centre with training centers, Waldorf School, farm and a unique 'fellowship' for senior citizens. Here a chapel has also been built not so long ago. Our Erzoberlenker Vicke von Behr held two more ordinations here for Paul Newton, who speaks of himself as a 'British American', and for Ann Burfeind from the USA. There was quite a program around these festivals, talks and a lively presentation by the six priest seminarists with skits and the best raps you will ever hear. They drew attention to the most recent addition to the greater Spring Valley community: the priest seminary. Most impressive was the music during the ceremonies, not only the special choirs and instrumentalists who were first-class, but especially the singing of the community themselves. Something to strive for hereabouts in Joburg. If they can do it, we can do it! And not to forget, all the conversations and meeting up with friends, one didn't know one had. A festival like this tangibly strengthens us all! Rev. Reingard Knausenberger
Such an uplifting, rejuvenating experience embraced the more than 300 people who were able to attend the priest ordinations held over three days on 16th, 17th and 18th March. This was only the second time ordinations were celebrated in the USA. Therefore an effort was made to make them available to as many people as possible. Between 22 and 28 priests gathered around these as well, coming from across the US with representatives from England, Australia, South Africa and Germany. Darryl James Coonan from Australia was ordained in Hillsdale, upstate New York. A beautiful chapel in the middle of forest and meadow, recently built by the widespread community as its centre. We then all trooped further south to Spring Valley, a true anthroposophical centre with training centers, Waldorf School, farm and a unique 'fellowship' for senior citizens. Here a chapel has also been built not so long ago. Our Erzoberlenker Vicke von Behr held two more ordinations here for Paul Newton, who speaks of himself as a 'British American', and for Ann Burfeind from the USA. There was quite a program around these festivals, talks and a lively presentation by the six priest seminarists with skits and the best raps you will ever hear. They drew attention to the most recent addition to the greater Spring Valley community: the priest seminary. Most impressive was the music during the ceremonies, not only the special choirs and instrumentalists who were first-class, but especially the singing of the community themselves. Something to strive for hereabouts in Joburg. If they can do it, we can do it! And not to forget, all the conversations and meeting up with friends, one didn't know one had. A festival like this tangibly strengthens us all! Rev. Reingard Knausenberger