"There is no fear in love, when God's perfect love fills us, it even drives away fear because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in God's love." (1 John 4: 18)
The Friedensau Theological College is sad over the loss of Prof. Johann Gerhardt, M.Div., D.Min.
We were grieved by the sad news that our brother, colleague and friend Johann Gerhardt passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at the age of 73 on Monday, October 2, 2017.
Prof. Johann Gerhardt taught at the ThHF since 1993 as a lecturer in Practical Theology. From 1994 to 2007 was Dean of the Theology Department and from 2007 until his retirement in 2011 and with the responsible position as principal, he led the university with a strategic vision of humanitarianism. His mission was a message of fearless faith.
"So do not be afraid! I have faith in God. It will happen just as he told me." (Acts 27:25) These are Luke's words by which also Johann Gerhardt lived and believed. We also believe with him about the promise of reunion at the second coming of Jesus.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Christa, his children and family", so Prof. Dr. Roland E. Fischer (Principal) and Tobias H. Koch (Registrar).
Mario Brito, President of the Inter-European Division, issued the following statement:
"The EUD family was caught by surprise and shock by the sudden and unexpected departure of Elder Johann Gehardt.
He was a man of relationships, open and friendly, who served the Church in various positions – pastor, professor of theology and counselor, among others.
He has molded and influenced several generations of church members and leaders who will greatly miss him.
We would like to encourage the EUD family to pray that our Heavenly Father may comfort and encourage Elder Johann Gehardt’s family who are certainly going through the pain of the abrupt separation from their beloved husband, father and brother.
Let not the departure of our beloved ones discourage us, but be a reminder that our stay in this earth is brief and transient. Let us focus our attention in Jesus and His ministry for us. He overcame death and gives eternal life to all those, who accept Him as their Savior and Friend!"
Norbert Zens, EUD Treasurer, added: "Johann Gerhardt has not only shaped many pastors in Germany and in our Division, but has been a great advocate of higher education and he had a great passion especially for young people to experience a loving and caring God. He had a special love for the people that had gone through very difficult experiences."
Barna Magyarosi, talking to the family, said: "We have been left baffled at the news of Hans’ untimely departure and words fail us to offer comfort in such difficult moments. But we pray that the hope that Hans preached and taught will strengthen your heart and bring peace."
Corrado Cozzi, EUD Communications Director, concluded: "I had the privilege to have Hans as a teacher during my Master and it was an unforgettable experience. He was capable to transmit his knowledge respecting your position. He was able to speak to the young generation, and he was an example for me when we worked together for the youth department. You could feel his friendship for the youth because he spoke with openly and honestly. Thank you Hans for your passion and for transmitting the truth in a way that was difficult to do not accept."
