Friedensau means a lot to me …

Friedensau is a "temporary place to live" for many - for students, employees, senior citizens and those seeking relaxation - and yet it is much more than that for the German Adventist churches. Many have met their life partners here, studied here, deepened their faith, spent vacations here and met like-minded people. People come to the Adventist University to learn how to serve God and people. Two of them look back on formative experiences at the end of their studies.

Fantahun Sisay, who comes from Ethiopia, completed two Master's courses in parallel until 2025, one in Friedensau (English-language Master of Theological Studies) and one at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Biblical and Ancient Near Eastern Studies: "What particularly shaped me in Friedensau was the attitude of serving others as Jesus did. This understanding of discipleship has had a lasting impact on my life of faith. I am especially grateful to my professors, the university management and everyone who supported me during my studies. The first German winter was a great challenge for me - cold and dark. Anyone who encounters German weather from warmer regions, as I did, knows what I mean ... I am currently looking for opportunities to write a dissertation in Old Testament Studies."
Lina Bammann began studying theology with her husband David in Friedensau in 2022. Both are now working as a pastor couple in the Essen/Duisburg area: "The courses taught by Rolf Pöhler (Professor of Systematic Theology) and Goran Zivković (lecturer in Old Testament Studies) were particularly formative for me. Unexpectedly, I discovered an enthusiasm for the Old Testament and Biblical Hebrew. I am particularly grateful for the support of my tutor Gilles Sitz (Master's student of theology). I experienced many valuable impulses in homiletics lessons with Roland Fischer (Professor of Practical Theology) as well as during joint excursions and events. The biggest challenge was balancing my studies, family, church life and financial responsibilities. I drew strength from my faith, my marriage and the support of friends like Chaplain Dittmar Dost, as well as from the warm fellowship with residents and senior citizens in the village."
We wish you, Fantahun and Lina, God's blessing, wisdom and strength for your next steps to be able to cope with everything that lies ahead. Thank you for helping to shape Friedensau - see you again!
Theresa Peters, 3rd year theology student