New Apostolic Church delegation holds talks with Vatican officials on ecumenical dialogue and church relations

Apostle Arne Herrmann of the New Apostolic Church (NAC) recently visited Rome and engaged in discussions at the Vatican. The NAC, which has approximately 300,000 members in Germany and is the fourth-largest Christian denomination there, has been actively involved in ecumenical dialogue for nearly three years. The church has maintained contact with the Vatican since 2020, with regular visits to the Dicastery for the Unity of Christians.

During the visit, Herrmann emphasized the NAC’s global presence, noting that the church has nine million members worldwide, with 85 percent located in Africa. The NAC traces its origins to the Catholic Apostolic movement of the 19th century, specifically emerging in 1863 in Hamburg. From there, the church expanded internationally, maintaining active presence in almost all countries.

The NAC’s structure includes apostles who serve as church-conducting ministers. The Chief Apostle, regarded as the highest among the apostles, holds a position comparable to that of the Pope in the Catholic Church. The church recognizes three sacraments: baptism, the Holy Supper, and the Holy Sealing, where the gift of the Holy Spirit is conferred by an apostle.

Herrmann highlighted the importance of maintaining relationships with the Roman Catholic Church, stating that these connections are vital for ecumenical dialogue. The NAC has consistently shared developments within its own church and the Catholic Church, aiming to foster mutual understanding and cooperation. The ongoing conversations reflect a commitment to unity and shared spiritual goals.

The visit to the Vatican underscores the NAC’s dedication to interfaith and interdenominational dialogue. By engaging with the Catholic Church and other Christian communities, the NAC seeks to strengthen bonds of fellowship and mutual respect. This effort aligns with the biblical call to seek peace and unity among believers, as seen in Micah 6:8, which emphasizes doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.

Source: Read the original report (translated from German)