Church of the Resurrection

In the charming town of Bad Salzuflen, nestled in the heart of Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany, stands the Church of the Resurrection (locally known as Auferstehungskirche). This modern architectural marvel is not just a place of worship but a beacon of community spirit and artistic expression. The Church of the Resurrection is the youngest evangelical church in the town and serves as a testament to the enduring faith and cultural richness of the area.

The Birth of a Modern Sanctuary

The idea for the Church of the Resurrection emerged in response to the increasing number of worshippers, particularly spa guests flocking to Bad Salzuflen during the summer months. To accommodate this growing congregation, a plot of land was acquired at Gröchteweg in the western part of the town. The construction journey began with the laying of the foundation stone on July 13, 1964. This stone bears the inscription, I live, and you shall live also (John 14:19), encapsulating the church's mission of hope and renewal.

The church was designed by the local architect Heinrich Loos, with significant contributions from the artist couple Hans-Helmuth von Rath and Margarete von Rath, as well as the community pastor Eberhard Schendel. Their collaborative efforts culminated in the church's consecration on May 1, 1966, a day marked by a festive service led by regional superintendents Smidt and Klose.

Architectural Brilliance

The Church of the Resurrection's design is a modern interpretation of traditional ecclesiastical architecture. Its parabolic shape symbolizes the resurrection of Jesus Christ, descending into death and rising again to life. The main sanctuary can accommodate 310 worshippers, with an additional 110 seats in the gallery. The space can be further expanded by opening partition walls to include the adjoining community room, adding 80 more seats.

The church complex was expanded in 1995 to include a modern community center and a youth cellar, designed by architect Maria Winkler and the Loos office. This extension has become a hub for various community activities, including regular art exhibitions. Notably, a photovoltaic system is discreetly installed on the eastern roof, contributing to the church's sustainability efforts.

The 29-meter-high tower is a striking feature, capped with a vertical concrete slab adorned with a cross. This cross is illuminated at night, creating a dual visual effect: a dark cross against a light background and a light cross against a dark background, symbolizing the church's message of light in the darkness.

The Heart of Worship

The church's interior is as thoughtfully designed as its exterior. The altar, pulpit, and baptismal font are crafted from light Obernkirchen sandstone. The altar's parabolic shape, combined with a black marble slab, evokes the empty tomb of Christ. The pulpit, bearing the Christogram ☧, is positioned to engage the congregation more directly.

The baptismal font is particularly noteworthy, featuring a copper lid with a fish-shaped handle. Embedded within is a stone from the Jordan River, believed to be the site of Jesus' baptism. The Christian baptismal formula, In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, is inscribed around the font.

Behind the altar hangs a cross adorned with rock crystals and glass elements, serving as the focal point of the sanctuary. Flanking the altar are two towering stained-glass windows. The Resurrection Window on the left, near the pulpit, features vibrant, dark colors with lighter shades descending from above. On the right, the Ascension Window transitions from blue at the bottom to yellow and white at the top, incorporating a circular motif with a triangle and the eye of God, symbolizing the Holy Trinity and divine omniscience.

Artistic Treasures

The Church of the Resurrection is a treasure trove of religious art. Along the west wall, a series of large, colorful stained-glass windows depict the Stations of the Cross, reflecting on the suffering of Christ and humanity. Each window tells a story, from the triumphant entry into Jerusalem to the somber Garden of Gethsemane and the crucifixion.

Under the staircase leading to the organ gallery, a sculpture by Hans Dinnendahl portrays the infant Jesus in a manger, blessing the gathered congregation. Above, a stained-glass window depicts the Star of Bethlehem.

At the church exit, a relief by Hans-Helmuth von Rath titled Christ the Vine illustrates a vine in the shape of a cross, bearing a cluster of twelve grapes, representing the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles. The vine's three root strands symbolize the Holy Trinity, encompassing seven chambers with stones from significant biblical and historical sites, including Sinai, the Sea of Lot, the Mount of Beatitudes, Gethsemane, Rome, and Auschwitz.

The church foyer, designed as a space for contemplation, features a sculpture by Josef Rikus, Christ the Judge of the World, depicting a crowned Christ with outstretched hands displaying the stigmata. Originally placed in the altar area, this sculpture now resides in the foyer, accompanied by three small stained-glass windows illustrating biblical themes.

Musical Heritage

The Church of the Resurrection is also home to remarkable musical instruments. The 1966 Führer organ, located on the gallery, boasts 18 registers across two manuals and a pedal, with a manually operated bellows. In 2014, a chest organ by Henk Klop from the Netherlands was added, featuring four registers and a divided chest.

The Bells

The church's four steel bells, donated by the Güth family, were consecrated on September 20, 1965, and installed in the tower shortly thereafter. The unique quartet includes a Duroktav bell and a Sext bell, creating a harmonious soundscape. The bells ring to mark the start of Sunday services, the Lord's Prayer during services, and the passing of a community member.

A Living Community

Today, the Church of the Resurrection continues to serve as a vibrant center for worship and community activities. The adjoining community center hosts various events, including exhibitions and counseling services, making it a cornerstone of the local evangelical community. The church's open-door policy invites visitors to explore its serene spaces and rich history, offering a place of solace and inspiration for all who enter.

In conclusion, the Church of the Resurrection in Bad Salzuflen is more than just a place of worship. It is a symbol of faith, community, and artistic expression, inviting all who visit to experience its unique blend of modern architecture, historical significance, and spiritual depth.