On the initiative of Swiss Adventist pastors, the Religious Education Institute (RPI) of the Adventist Church was founded on March 24, 1999, in Darmstadt, Germany. It is a joint institution of the two German Unions and the German-Swiss Conference.
“We look back, gratefully, on 25 years of ‘accompanying faith’,” shared Jochen Härdter, director of the Institute. This motto characterizes both the work and the convictions of the RPI. “Accompanying faith” is our passion!
Materials for children's church services and religious education
Anyone who is involved in children's services, or with teenagers in their community, knows the contemporary and attractive materials that the RPI develops on behalf of the Adventist Church. The materials are loved by the children and teenagers as well as the employees and have become an integral part of Adventist communities.
Through its materials, the RPI also offers suggestions for Bible discussions among teenagers and young adults.
Motivating and high-quality training
In addition to the materials, the RPI primarily stands for motivating and high-quality training. Employees who are involved in children's church services or religious education are qualified and empowered. Since 2015, there has also been training for family diakonia in Germany. To date, well over 1,200 people have taken part in RPI training.
The training includes theology, pedagogy, developmental psychology, methodology, and didactics. The thematically diverse units give the participants an idea of what “accompanying faith” can look like in the local community. Practical impulses are conveyed, ideas are passed on, and questions are answered, which creates visions. The RPI weekends are characterized by a relaxed, appreciative, and family-friendly atmosphere.
“Despite all the professional training, the development of personal attitudes and beliefs is particularly important to us,” continues Härdter. “We believe that the most important curriculum is yourself. Reflecting on your own personality and your own actions is, therefore, very important.”
After six weekend modules, the graduates receive their certificate. “Fortunately, the work in the local communities continues,” concludes Härdter. “There, we need committed and enthusiastic ‘children’s happiness makers’.”
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