Berlin

Two weeks ago I was able to spend a few days in Berlin, Germany during my Europe trip, which constituted part of my sabbatical. My interest in Berlin, specifically, is because of XZ Berlin, a unique missions project co-sponsored by Global Missions and the Church of God in Germany. XZ Berlin is highly significant as it represents a new frontier in our mission efforts. Berlin has become one of the most dynamic cities in Europe and is marked by a very diverse and robust culture that reflects the influences of post-modernism and a rapidly growing detachment from its Christian roots. In the midst of this a team of Germans and Americans have immersed themselves for the purpose of bringing Christ. This includes U.S. missionaries Kelly and Rhonda Phillips, and Aaron and Nicole Varner. Regional Coordinators for Europe, Patrick and Jamie Nachtigall are also centered in Berlin.

This is no typical missions project. Instead of starting a typical church service and inviting people to it, the group is setting out to network within central Berlin, building relationships and extending their witness wherever they can. Their methodology is simple, but what is really needed in this context. In some ways, the manner in which they live and function is reminiscent of the Church of God mission homes of a bygone era.

There is much we can learn from XZ Berlin as they continue this important outreach and experiment with various forms of ministry. Culturally, Europe tends to be a trend-setter, and there is good evidence that North America is also moving down this path of post-modernism, where the current approaches of the church are becoming largely ineffective. Some of our cites (such as Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Vancouver and Toronto) may already be suitable locations for similar efforts. Unfortunately, however, most U.S. Christians are not aware of the cultural shifts happening around them, and in denial about the need for new models and approaches.

This is a definite bright-spot in our movement that we need to be learning from; and watching, supporting and praying for.