Podcast: Download (Duration: 5:09 — 3.5MB)
The district association of CDH-Stephanus in Venne celebrated its 20th anniversary on February 11th and 12th, 2023. The theme of the meeting was "Recognize – Understand – Act!" What began over 30 years ago as a private initiative of seven people, initially organized primarily through private donations and financial support from the FECG Venne church, has since developed into a wonderful work of God.
In 2002, this community-based humanitarian aid work was registered as an independent association under the name "CDH-Stephanus Bezirksverband Venne". The desire to centralize the BFECG groups was fulfilled with the founding of the association and its naming.
Brother Alexander Konradi was the initiator and driving force behind this pursuit of goals. This led to the creation of the Venne district association, one of a total of three district associations that continue to cooperate and collaborate with the national central association CDH-Stephanus Speyer to this day.
During the anniversary weekend, the Venne District Association achieved another change. Thanks to God's help and the wisdom of the church leaders, the circle of participating churches was expanded to include the entire Hanover region of the BFECG (Federation of Evangelical Free Churches). Therefore, not only mission supporters and those involved in the work of the District Association had the opportunity to participate in the anniversary celebration, but church members from the entire Hanover region were also able to gain an overview of the work of the District Association.
On Saturday afternoon, in addition to a presentation of the district association's overall work, numerous speakers from Germany and abroad gave reports. These included accounts of the work in children's homes. There were also reports of how God brings children from difficult circumstances back to a normal, orderly life, enabling these children to come to know and serve Him. Missionaries shared stories of conversions, church plantings, and God's miracles. Project leaders provided information about their respective projects and demonstrated the greatness of our Lord.
The organizers repeatedly made connections to the day's theme and drew a parallel to the Good Samaritan. They presented his character and actions to the audience as an example and inspiration.
Just as selflessness, charity, and compassion are central to the story of the Good Samaritan, they were also the focus of the anniversary weekend of the CDH-Stephanus Venne district association. The speakers emphasized the importance of living by and emulating these virtues in order to lead a fulfilling and good life.
During breaks and after the event on Saturday, visitors had the opportunity to explore the various aspects of the work in more detail and view the exhibits. Project leaders were available at the respective exhibitions to answer questions.
On Sunday, a church service was held that focused on spiritual aspects, concentrating on recognizing, understanding, and acting. Those attending were encouraged to examine themselves and seize God's opportunities. The personal testimony of one participant glorified God's name and greatness. Following musical selections, the sermon revisited the parable of the Good Samaritan. The preacher emphasized that the Good Samaritan is an example of how to help and love one's fellow human beings without regard for their origin or status. The Samaritan selflessly and unconditionally cared for the injured stranger, tending to him without expecting anything in return.
The two days were a time richly blessed by God, filled with inspiring testimonies and the work of the Holy Spirit. Everyone present was invited to examine themselves, to be corrected by God's Word, and to strengthen their relationship with Him. The association's staff look back with gratitude on the past 20 years and look forward to many more years of accomplishing God's work together.
Anatoli Wagenleitner
Venne District Association
Further information about the projects of the Venne district association can be found at: diakonisches-hilfswerk.de