Bloc Party: Mission to Germany's PoorestRebecca Swarbrick - 18 Feb 2013
The Datzeberg used to be a model Communist development where Stasi (secret police) families lived and were trained. It is now one of the poorest, most depressed and deprived parts of Germany with a high proportion of the local residents being atheist; and it’s the location of one of this summer’s short-term mission teams.
Ralf Neumann, one of the community leaders, writes: “Datzeberg is an area of the city which has grown to become very important to us. The district looks very typically Eastern European with plain concrete blocks dominating the skyline. In other words, it's not one of the most beautiful places. It's also one of the poorest and toughest parts of town to live in.
It's a comforting thought, however, that it's not up to us to start bigger and better projects, but that God can do what he wants, even in small things. So we agree with Mother Teresa...
"It's not how much we give but how much love we put into giving."
We met one guy who we have been building a friendship with for the last year. He was really interested in getting to know God. He came with us on a camp this summer, and afterwards decided to become a Christian. That was really exciting for us!
Also, we've had, for example, a prayer time every day at 12:00 for half an hour, and we've had people joining that who are not Christians and who then start praying. They also experience good things happen in their lives as a result.
Following several years of praying and helping with community projects, Polylux has been given a space to develop a prayer room. The children have had no concept of prayer, church and faith but are opening to the love of God.
Though the community is based in neigbouring Neubrandenburg, several community members, including Ralf and Katerina Neumann now live on the Datzeburg to demonstrate their long term commitment to the local people, who often feel left and overlooked. It is hard and lonely work but God is changing the estate.
Polylux, means 'much light', and to the youth and community of Datzeberg, that they are called to shine that light; 24-7 prayer is being expressed through sacrificial living and loving. Do you want to join them?
What will short-term mission there involve? Prayer, outreach through creativity and sports (Neubrandenburg, the surrounding area), plus camping with and for some friends from the Datzeberg, both adults and children.
Who? If you have a love for prayer and people, an interest in community life and at least a basic understanding of the German language. Do join us!
Dates: June 23rd - 30th /1stJuly
Cost: £250 plus flights and personal travel insurance.
www.24-7prayer.com/mission
To apply: Download the application form and email to the missions team.