This Sunday, the Bishop of Berlin-Brandenburg, Dr Markus Dröge, preached at St Paul’s Cathedral as part of a sermon exchange with the Bishop of London, the Rt Revd and Rt Hon Sarah Mullally DBE. Preaching at Berlin Cathedral last week, Bishop Sarah called for solidarity in turbulent times, a sentiment which was built upon by Bishop Markus’ own sermon.
Opening the sermon, the Bishop of Berlin-Brandenburg, Dr Markus Dröge, said:
“By making these two visits at a time when we are profoundly moved by the discussions and decisions regarding Brexit, we as Christians in Berlin and London wish to make clear: We are connected with one another, regardless of the political decisions of our governments. And we remain connected with one another. We are baptised in the name of our God. That is the reason for our solidarity. Therefore, I am here today.”
Bishop Markus also reflected on the messages from Bishop Sarah’s sermon, noting that he was particularly moved by her depiction of the story of Cain and Abel. These brothers, the first two sons of Adam and Eve, came into conflict with each other without any objective reason.
The Bishop of London, the Rt Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullally DBE, said last Sunday:
“The story of Cain and Abel gives us no-one else to blame. There was no peer pressure, no-one else to impress, no money or land to claim.
“Simply, one person was jealous of the other. He thought he was being overlooked by God. ‘What about me?’ might have been his thought, as envy ate him up, and he killed his brother. Scripture tells us that, from the very outset, this has been our struggle.
“We are called to follow God’s example, as dearly loved children to walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”
The 20-year partnership between the London and Berlin Dioceses continues to be strengthened by clergy exchanges, which help to build friendships and foster understanding of our many similarities and differences. Bishop Markus’ full sermon is available to view in English and German here.
