This contribution appreciates the achievement of Hans-Martin Schenke (1929-2002) in teaching and research, especially with regard to his work in the New Testament at the Faculty of Theology in Berlin. It also refers to his research in Gnosticism and Nag Hammadi texts and to his role as a founder and leader of the Berlin Working Group for Coptic-Gnostic Writings. These text shows as well the personal dimension of his long-term work.