Berlin is one of the great urban centers of the world. Since German reunification in 1990, Berlin is re-establishing itself as one of the most influential cities in Europe, shaping the landscape of politics, arts and media, culture, and academics throughout the continent. Yet the controversial history of Berlin continues to affect the vibe of the city. It forms a society of vast diversity, open tolerance, alternate lifestyles, and an edginess that is uniquely Berlin. Most importantly though, Berlin is a city that is far from Christ! Consider this:
- Population 3,900,000
- Berlin is a lonely city – about 1/3 of its residents live alone.
- It is a city with high rates of poverty. 1 in 3 children in Berlin are on public assistance verses 1 in 9 for the rest of the country.
- A 2012 University of Chicago study confirmed that the former East Germany is one of the least religious places on the entire planet
- Only about 1.5% of Berliners are followers of Jesus
- 60% of Christians in Berlin are over 50 years old.
- It is a city of great diversity with approximately 25% of the people of non-German origin.
- There are more than 25 non-indigenous communities with a population of at least 10,000 people, including Turkish, Polish, Russian, Lebanese, Palestinian, Serbian, Italian, Bosnian, Vietnamese, American, Romanian, Bulgarian, Chinese, Austrian, Ghanaian, Ukrainian, French, British, Spanish, Israeli, Thai, Iranian, Egyptian and Syrian communities.
- The city has approximately 190 people groups represented.
- The largest is an Islamic Turkish population. Berlin is a city with the largest Turkish population outside of Turkey.
- Upwards of 150,000 people move into the city each year while a similar amount move out, making it possible for a Gospel centered movement to spread globally.
