New Apostolic Church Southern Germany Donates to Child Protection Program

The New Apostolic Church has taken steps to address issues of sexual misconduct and violence, emphasizing prevention, education, and processing. These efforts are part of a broader commitment to safeguarding children and young people within its congregations and beyond. The District Church Southern Germany recently supported a campaign called “Strong-Kids-Box” (Starke-Kinder-Kiste), designed to help preschoolers learn about their bodies, feelings, and personal boundaries in a playful manner. The initiative is led by Jérôme Braun, managing director of Hänsele + Gretel, a German child welfare foundation in Karlsruhe. The program aims to strengthen children’s ability to protect themselves.

The foundation’s “Really Great” (Echt Klasse) program extends this educational approach to primary schools, teaching children to recognize sexual misconduct and take protective measures. Hänsele + Gretel has reached 25,000 children through the “Strong-Kids-Box” and approximately 60,000 through the “Really Great” initiative. The New Apostolic Church Southern Germany’s aid organization, human aktiv, has contributed 20,000 euros to support these efforts, reflecting a long-standing collaboration. Over the years, more than 150,000 euros have been donated to these initiatives.

District Apostle Michael Ehrich emphasized the importance of raising awareness about personal boundaries and prevention across all age groups. The New Apostolic Church Southern Germany has implemented a policy known as the “Mindfulness Concept” (Konzeption Achtsamkeit), which includes preventive measures such as a written voluntary agreement and an extended certificate of good conduct for ministers, teachers, and others who work with children. An external lawyer reviews criminal records under the Child and Youth Welfare Act, and if an entry related to sexual assault is found, the District Apostle is informed. This ensures that individuals with such records are removed from roles involving children.

The New Apostolic Church Southern Africa has also introduced similar policies, which were presented at the International District Apostles’ Meeting. These policies, effective since May, outline responsibilities, preventive measures, procedures for suspected cases, and guidelines for addressing sexual misconduct by ministers or church functionaries. The church continues to refine its approach, ensuring that all levels of leadership are sensitized to the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals.

The church’s efforts reflect a commitment to creating safe environments and fostering accountability. By combining educational programs with internal policies, the New Apostolic Church seeks to address the root causes of sexual misconduct and promote a culture of care and responsibility. These initiatives align with the biblical call to love one’s neighbor and uphold justice, as seen in Micah 6:8, which emphasizes doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God.

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