A Tradition Rooted in Faith and Fellowship
For many years, theological institutions across the German-speaking region have nurtured a cherished tradition of inter-institutional collaboration. Students and faculty from Friedensau Adventist University and Schloss Bogenhofen Seminary regularly organize reciprocal gatherings to foster mutual dialogue, shared academic learning, and spiritual fellowship. Alternating annually between the two campuses, this spring’s conference saw delegation members from Schloss Bogenhofen travel to Friedensau for an intensive multi-day program.
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” — John 13:35
Symbolizing this ongoing partnership is a custom-crafted ceremonial relay baton inscribed with Christ’s words from John 13:35. Passed between institutions during each gathering, the baton serves as a continuous reminder of the shared mission and fraternal spirit uniting both academic centers. The 2026 iteration of the event, organized by theological students Theresa Peters and Gloria Hermann, opened on Wednesday, April 8, with the arrival and official reception of the Bogenhofen delegation in Friedensau.
Historical Exploration: Wittenberg Field Trip
The formal itinerary began on Thursday with an educational excursion to Wittenberg, the historic cradle of the Protestant Reformation. A combined delegation of students and faculty from both campuses explored key historical sites associated with Martin Luther’s ministry, teaching, and preaching. The visit offered participants an opportunity to reflect on theological heritage and historical context, highlighting the enduring relevance of Reformation principles in contemporary pastoral education.
Academic Integration and Campus Life
On Friday, visiting students were integrated directly into academic life at Friedensau Adventist University. Attendees participated in regular lectures alongside their peers for a firsthand experience of the instructional environment and curriculum of the host institution. In the afternoon, a guided campus tour provided deeper insight into the history, development, and architectural growth of Friedensau. The academic week concluded on Friday evening as both communities gathered in the main auditorium for Shabbat Shalom, marking the commencement of the Sabbath.
Spiritual Reflection and Sabbath Dialogue
The divine worship service on Sabbath featured a sermon delivered by Martin Pröbstle, Ph.D., dean of the Theological Seminary at Schloss Bogenhofen. Entitled “How Much Longer?”, the message addressed eschatological hope, reinforcing the foundational Adventist expectation of Christ’s return and providing spiritual encouragement to future church leaders.
The Sabbath program continued in the afternoon and evening with structured fellowship, including communal walks, musical programs, and interactive sessions at the Student Center (StuZ). These activities provided a supportive setting for both informal camaraderie and substantive conversations regarding ministry and academic life.
Constructive Dialogue and Shared Mission
A central highlight of the gathering occurred on Sunday morning during a structured discussion panel titled the “Prejudice and Perception Dialogue.” Designed to address institutional stereotypes and promote mutual understanding, the open forum underscored a foundational ethos that resonated throughout the weekend: despite institutional differences, students share a unified commitment in Christ and a common trajectory as future colleagues serving the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Core Takeaway: Regardless of the specific institution at which students prepare for ministry, a unified purpose in Christ binds the future leadership of the Church. Participants look forward with optimism to continued collaboration, joint academic initiatives, and future service together in gospel ministry.
The convening concluded with a joint prayer assembly and formal words of blessing, reaffirming the enduring value of inter-institutional fellowship and spiritual solidarity.
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