Berlin Faith Church becomes Coptic center
The former Protestant church in Lichtenberg receives support from the German Foundation for Monument Protection for its interior restoration
The former Faith Church in Berlin's Lichtenberg district is currently undergoing extensive renovation and is intended to serve as the episcopal seat for the Coptic Orthodox community of St. Antonius and St. Schenouda. In the GDR, the community life was under surveillance by the State Security. Today, this historic building is transforming into a significant spiritual center for Copts in Berlin. This was reported by the Tagesspiegel. In recent years, comprehensive renovation measures have already taken place, during which roofs were repaired and damaged windows were replaced. For the current restoration phase, the German Foundation for Monument Protection is supporting the work with 75,000 euros. The focus is now on restoring the interior to give the house of worship back its original character.
The German Foundation for Monument Protection announced that the work has now reached a stage where the church and its surroundings would be appropriate for an episcopal seat in the future. Upon completion of the restoration, the growing Coptic Orthodox community in eastern Berlin will receive a permanent spiritual and organizational center.
Previously, UOJ reported that Bishop Meier warned against return demands for Syrian refugees.
