“Mission:Reflection” – A story told from different perspectives

What motivated Protestant Christians in the 19th century to spread their faith? What ideas, expectations and hopes did they carry out into the world? What impact did their mission have on the regions concerned, and how did the former mission fields develop into the Berlin Mission’s partner churches of today? What paths will the Mission take in the future?

The exhibition facilitates a multi-perspective reflection and addresses historical and colonial entanglements, presented through the work of academics, historians and the perspectives of contemporary witnesses, descendants and partner churches. It also engages with current debates surrounding the presentation of artefacts and the handling of photographs. Numerous audio recordings invite visitors to explore history in this way.

In 2022, an international group of academics and curators oversaw the redesign of the exhibition, chaired by Dr Friederike Krippner, Director of the Evangelical Academy in Berlin and a member of the Mission Council. Curator Dr Sonja Grulke was entrusted with the redesign, supported by historian Mirja Memmen.

The cultural studies scholar Tamara Dauenhauer and the historian Gordian Best were responsible for its implementation. Thus, made possible by funding from the Berlin Senate Department for Culture and the German Class Lottery Foundation Berlin, a new exhibition emerged that combines critical and open (self-)reflection with a sensitive approach to language and objects.

Further information

Like the Berliner Missionswerk, the exhibition is located in Building 1 of the Evangelical Centre, on the first floor, right next to the library.

The Berlin Mission Society offers guided tours for groups, both for adults and specifically for young people.

These can also be arranged in English on request.

• The exhibition can also be viewed online here

Opening hours

• Tuesday to Thursday from 9.30 am to 4 pm
• Fridays from 9.30 am to 12 noon
• and by appointment