"Yes, I'm up for it."
New Director of the ELM: Holger Siebert talks about vocation, challenges and the future of global partnerships...
After Holger Siebert was unanimously elected as the new Director by the ELM's Mission Committee on 8 October 2025, he will be inaugurated by the Bishop of Hanover, Ralf Meister, on Whit Monday. In this interview, the theologian and finance graduate talks about his path to office, personal motivations and the challenges facing the ELM.
Editorial team: Mr Siebert, you originally wanted to work in the area of "Global Church". How did it come about that you are now Director of the ELM?
Holger Siebert: I have the impression that the biblical saying is confirmed here: "A man's heart devises his own way, but the Lord alone directs his steps." My original intention was to work in the "Global Community" department and to further develop the programmes and projects there. Then things changed. After intensive discussions and careful consideration, I said: Yes, I'll go for it.
"A man's heart devises his own way, but the LORD alone directs his steps."
Editorial team: How does this step feel for you today?
Holger Siebert: It feels good. International ecumenism and ecumenical work have accompanied me throughout my professional life - but mostly on a voluntary basis up to now. Now I can do this full-time and take on responsibility. I am particularly looking forward to meeting people around the world who are travelling with us on God's mission.
Editorial team: Your induction will take place on the heath - a special place for Hermannsburg and the mission organisation. What does that mean to you?
Holger Siebert: It has a special meaning for me. Over 175 years ago, something was started here on the heath that is still having an impact today. Not being introduced in the Tiefental, but in the Heide, is humbling - especially in view of the long history of the missionary organisation and the many good developments within it. At the same time, it is a beautiful sign to be able to celebrate this service in the middle of nature.
Editorial team: What challenges do you see for the ELM today?
Holger Siebert: A major challenge for me is to make the message of the Bible audible and visible as a message of diversity, internationality, peace and justice. I believe we have something to say here as a ministry. At the same time, this also includes taking a critical look at our own history. This includes dealing with colonial structures and the question of what decolonisation means for us today. It remains just as important to come to terms with sexualised and spiritual violence. This is challenging, but necessary in order to be able to shape the future responsibly.
Editorial team: Is there already a concrete roadmap for this?
Holger Siebert: Yes. We have developed a new concept, which has now been adopted and is being implemented. For me, it contains a clear roadmap. It's about further developing our goals, our understanding of our mission and our direction together and bringing them to life in everyday life.
Editorial team: What would you like to focus on in particular?
Holger Siebert: On the one hand, on the strategic development of the ELM together with the Executive Board. On the other hand, on focussing more on the outside again. Over the past year and a half, we have focussed a lot on ourselves. Now it's all about getting back into dialogue with our partners worldwide and strengthening relationships.
Editorial team: Does that also mean travelling to the partner churches?
Holger Siebert: Yes, finally! A trip to Brazil is planned for the end of August, beginning of September. I'm really looking forward to it - to the country, the people, the church and the encounters. I've never been to Latin America before.
Editorial team: What significance do the partner churches have for the ELM?
Holger Siebert: They are our greatest treasure. Without these partnerships, we wouldn't really be needed any more. For me, the ELM is a global network of churches and relationships. That's what our work is all about.
Editorial team: What final message would you like to give people?
Holger Siebert: If you look at history, you can see that 175 years ago, people set out with courage, hope and confidence. Despite all the challenges, I hope that we will always remember this - the hope and strength that can arise from this message.
