International Churches in Berlin

It’s a comfortable option if we have our local church overseas, but from my own experience, joining an international church shouldn’t be that scary because there are many things we can experience in an international church. I have lived abroad before settling in Berlin. Like most foreigners, we tend to find a way to blend in with the multicultural environment as a workaround because we know that we are usually not the majority of people, getting to church is no different. There are usually some adjustments if we join an international church, especially in our local home country.

Personally for me, some of the more positive experiences have been the following.

1. Language
One thing that I have found to be positive is that English is a language that people use with ease in both formal and informal contexts. I have also discovered that international churches use English, which makes me feel more at ease and confident when speaking English in other contexts, including public offices and services.

2. Cultural diversity
Having a wide range of cultural diversity is a good place to learn and embrace. There are many aspects of culture that we can easily share or be exposed to in international churches, from food to jokes to even some manners.

3. Community building
Building a feeling of community among foreigners increases their desire to come together as they develop a sense of belonging.

However, there are challenges associated with being a part of a multinational church, at least for myself or others I know:

1. Language barrier
For some people I know, attending an international church has been difficult because of their limited English proficiency. They can still follow the service or regular events, but it may not be a comfortable or enjoyable experience. This is likely the main reason why some foreigners continue to attend local churches abroad.

2. Cultural differences
Cultural differences can also be a double-edged sword since some people find it difficult to embrace them; they are not necessarily introverted or likely to despise certain cultures; rather, some people just lack the social skills necessary to manage the potential of cultural differences.

Three Big International Churches in Berlin

If you’re interested in joining an international church, there are some that are well-known to the broader public.

1. Berlin International Community Church (BICC)
   Founded in 2003, BICC is well-known for its vibrant and welcoming multicultural congregation. Its strategic location in Berlin draws a diverse range of visitors, including international students, expats, diplomats, and locals. BICC places a strong emphasis on community outreach, offering ministries such as youth programs, Bible study groups, and regular social events that strengthen neighborhood relationships. The church also actively participates in philanthropic work, assisting refugees and underprivileged individuals in Berlin.

2. American Church in Berlin (ACB)
   The American Church in Berlin, founded in 1865, has a rich history as one of the city’s oldest international churches. Originally serving primarily American expats and diplomatic staff, it now welcomes people of all nationalities and cultures. ACB provides various services, including children’s ministries, educational programs, choirs, and regular community gatherings, maintaining its role as an important cultural and social hub for Berlin’s multinational community.

3. International Reformed Evangelical Church Berlin (IREC Berlin)
   Originally established to serve the Indonesian diaspora, IREC Berlin has since grown into a large multicultural congregation. While grounded in Reformed Evangelical doctrine, the church now welcomes a broad spectrum of ethnicities, particularly those from Asian and German backgrounds. IREC Berlin actively supports international students and young professionals. It also frequently hosts cultural events such as music concerts and public seminars. The congregation is active in digital ministries too, particularly on Instagram: @irec.berlin.

Selecting a local or international church can have a significant impact on your life in ways other than spiritual ones. However, if you live in Berlin, I can personally recommend IREC Berlin as a great option because it not only adheres to a strong theology but also provides a secure atmosphere for both individual and group growth.