On Sunday, November 2, 2025, District Apostle Michael Ehrich conducted the third special divine service for the departed at the Freiburg Congregation, joined by Apostles and church leaders from South Germany. The service was transmitted live via the NAK Süddeutschland YouTube channel, reaching congregations across Southern Germany, Ukraine, Serbia, and West African countries including Ghana.
Text Word: John 11:43 "Now when He had said these things, He cried with a loud voice, ‘Lazarus, come forth!’"

A Message of Intercession and Renewal
Opening the sermon, District Apostle Ehrich welcomed all members and online participants, emphasizing the sacred opportunity for the living to intercede in love for the departed. He explained that through the sacraments instituted by Jesus Christ, the departed can partake in grace and renewal. Reflecting on the resurrection of Lazarus, the District Apostle highlighted the power and authority of Jesus Christ. He noted that Christ did not use elaborate means—He simply spoke: “Lazarus, come forth!” This divine command revealed not only His godly nature but also His desire to lead humanity into eternal fellowship. God’s word alone is sufficient to save, offering eternal life to all who accept it in faith—both the living and the dead.

Biblical Examples of “Come Forth”
The sermon explored several scriptural moments where God’s call required courage, sacrifice, and trust:

• Abraham was called to leave his homeland, symbolizing the spiritual journey toward eternal life.
• Lot’s family was urged to flee Sodom and Gomorrah. Lot’s wife, who looked back, became a pillar of salt—an enduring reminder to fully abandon evil.
• The Israelites left Egypt, facing trials after being called forth, yet guided by God’s promise.
• Elijah, pursued by Queen Jezebel, hid in caves. God called him out with a whisper, offering grace and a renewed mission.
• The rich young man was invited by Jesus to renounce his possessions and follow Him. His refusal illustrated the cost of discipleship and the challenge of letting go.

A Call to Light and Life
Concluding the sermon, District Apostle Ehrich shared key spiritual insights:

• When God calls us to a new path, He blesses abundantly—often a hundredfold.
• Participation in the sacraments marks the beginning of spiritual renewal, preparing both the living and the dead for eternal fellowship with Christ.
• Just as Lazarus was called out of the tomb, we too are called to leave behind sorrow, sin, and spiritual stagnation. The Lord’s power is active today, enabling us to rise through grace and walk in the light of life.

District Apostle Ehrich was supported in the service by Bishop Urs Heiniger and District Apostle Helper Martin Rheinberger.

Sacraments and Retirement
During the service, sacraments for the departed were administered, received on their behalf by Apostle Anatolij Budnik and Bishop Urs Heiniger. A heartfelt moment followed as Bishop Urs Heiniger was placed into retirement after 23 years of service as Bishop and District Rector for the district Lörrach. First ordained as a deacon in 1982, he received the Bishop ministry from Chief Apostle Richard Fehr in 2002. Bishop Heiniger also served as the first head of seminars in West Africa and as regional chief editor for the Church’s website.

Ordinations
Four ministers received new appointments:

• District Evangelist Jochen Hübner was assigned into the Bishop ministry.
• District Elder Florian Kopp was appointed District Rector for Lörrach.
• District Elder Holger Knop was appointed District Rector for Tuttlingen.
• Priest Steffen Kölln was assigned Deputy District Rector for Freiburg/Offenburg.

This divine service served as a powerful reminder of God’s call to transformation, grace, and eternal fellowship. Whether living or departed, all are invited to “come forth” into the light of Christ.