 From 1975 to 1979 he studied at the theological seminary of the United Methodist Church in Reutlingen (Germany) and from 1979 to 1983 at the University of Bern (Switzerland).1979 he married Heidi Albrecht, with whom he has four children, Rahel, Corinne, Manuel and Myriam.1984 he was ordained elder (pastor) of the United Methodist Church.