New Apostolic Church                        United Kingdom and Ireland .  C. Ap. Leber, Birmingham, 2006 Service Overview Chief Apostle Wilhelm Leber held a divine service in Birmingham, on Sunday 18th June, for the entire UK and Republic of Ireland district. In addition, the service was transmitted to many locations throughout the United States. Accompanying the chief apostle were District Apostles Freund (USA), Barnes (SA), Ndandula (Zambia), and Schneider (France), as well as District Apostle Helper Karl Hoffman, and Apostles Hecht, Fendt, Schmidt, W. Hoffman and Kolb (USA). Before the service the Sunday school children gathered outside to give our special guests a warm welcome and a traditional African choir provided a joyful atmosphere. Chief Apostle Leber used a text from Matthew 24: 40-41 and highlighted the need for everyone to reflect upon their inner self. Referring to the text, he illustrated that there were no outward differences between those who are deemed worthy and those who will be left behind on the day of the Lord. The congregation were asked to consider five points of 'worthiness'; do we have a living faith or just a traditional faith? The chief apostle mentioned Apostle Peter and his willingness to cast his net for fish one more time on the word of the Lord Jesus, as an example of someone with a living faith. Also, do we love our Heavenly Father and His work? Can we follow, or is it only to a certain point that suits us? Can we remain in oneness with our bearers of blessing, or only as far as it pleases us? Ultimately, being faithful throughout everything will make us worthy. The chief apostle called upon Apostle Karl Hoffman to serve for the very last time before he was put into retirement and Apostle Hoffman reminded everyone that we have a personal responsibility to ensure we are spotless for our completion. District Apostles Barnes, Schneider and Ndandula assisted, with each expressing their thankfulness at being able to be present with our chief apostle. The chief apostle celebrated Holy Communion on behalf of those in eternity and as it was also Father's Day, fathers were especially thought of along with many loved ones and the early pioneers who began the Lord's work in the UK. Apostle Hoffman was then thanked for all his love and care he provided over the years and the chief apostle placed him into retirement. A total of 1562 attended the service in Birmingham with many other congregations taking part in the service via satellite.