The network’s long-standing tradition of commemorating the anniversary of the Apostles’ separation in England on July 14 was continued this year with a number of activities at the association’s headquarters in Brockhagen.
First, an in-person board meeting of the network took place in the afternoon, which was also a first. Since the Network’s board has operated almost entirely virtually since 2010, its members typically meet in person only during general membership meetings. According to all board members, the meeting on July 14, 2026, was the first since the association’s founding in which the entire board gathered for an in-person meeting.
Since it was particularly warm that day, the meeting took place in the archive’s large basement room, which had been renovated some time ago. The discussion focused primarily on organizational matters, such as planning this year’s annual meeting of the network, an invitation to an external lecture, and ideas for future exhibits at the Brockhagen Archive.
Around 7:00 p.m., the archive choir gathered in the archive’s hall—which had cooled down somewhat by then—for a brief rehearsal in preparation for the commemorative ceremony that followed. Together, they put together a small repertoire of songs, from which conductor Gabi Weinert was then able to spontaneously select two pieces for the ceremony.
During the memorial service, board members Hans Kuritz and Volker Wissen—who had traveled from farther away—each delivered a few remarks. The board had spontaneously decided, as a one-time exception, to conduct this memorial service in black robes resembling those of the Catholic Apostolic lay assistants. Rebecca and Mathias Eberle performed a soprano solo with organ accompaniment, and Sara Eberle read a passage from the Bible. The Archivchor sang, and the entire assembled congregation of about 20 people also sang two songs, accompanied by Hans Kuritz on the organ.
After the service, which is still available on YouTube, there was an opportunity to socialize on-site over sandwiches, coffee, and cookies—an opportunity that was widely enjoyed; the last participants did not leave until late in the evening.
We are grateful for a day rich in both content and fellowship and hope that some of that richness was able to shine through.