St. Augustinus

Nestled in the heart of Cloppenburg, Lower Saxony, St. Augustinus Church stands as a beacon of faith, history, and architectural simplicity. This Catholic church, part of the St. Andreas parish, was constructed between 1958 and 1959, and continues to serve as a spiritual haven for the local community and a fascinating destination for visitors.

The History and Architecture of St. Augustinus

The need for St. Augustinus Church arose in the post-World War II era, driven by the rapid population growth due to the displacement of people from the east. The third Catholic church in Cloppenburg, following St. Andreas and St. Josef, St. Augustinus was designed by Ludger Sunder-Plassmann, a local architect from Cloppenburg. The foundation stone was laid on October 28, 1958, and despite delays due to harsh winter conditions, the church was completed in just one year. The official topping-out ceremony was celebrated on March 5, 1959. The church was envisioned to resemble a Heavenly Castle from the outside, a testament to its spiritual aspirations.

The building itself is a straightforward yet majestic brick structure, characterized by a short nave, equally long transept arms, and a broad semicircular apse to the south. The most striking feature is the imposing square bell tower located at the northwest corner, which houses four of the five intended bells.

Dedication to St. Augustine

The church is named after St. Augustine, the revered bishop and theologian, chosen as the patron saint during the planning stages. St. Augustine symbolizes the unity of faith and education, a fitting choice given the church's proximity to the Clemens-August-Gymnasium, which also honors him as a patron. This connection underscores the church's role not only as a place of worship but also as a center for learning and community engagement.

Interior Art and Design

Stepping inside St. Augustinus, one is greeted by an interior that balances simplicity with profound artistic expression. The renowned sculptor Paul Dierkes played a significant role in shaping the church's interior. Among his notable contributions are the wooden relief of Mary with Child, the 14-station mahogany Way of the Cross, the wooden statue of St. Joseph, and the stone sculpture of St. Augustine, which now graces the church's forecourt. Additionally, the church is adorned with bronze sculptures of the twelve apostles and a wooden angel, added in 1991.

The artistic legacy of Paul Dierkes is complemented by other artisans. Herbert Feldkamp, a master goldsmith from Cloppenburg, crafted the ambo in 1983 and the apostle candleholders. The bronze Easter candleholder was created in the workshop of sculptor Joseph Krautwald from Rheine. In 2000, artist Leonhard Klosa from Varrelbusch contributed a life-sized bronze sculpture of St. Augustine, and in 2004, a depiction of Mary with the young Jesus. The church's stained glass windows, designed by Manfred Espeter from Münster, add a touch of vibrant color and spiritual depth to the serene interior.

The Bells of St. Augustinus

The bell tower of St. Augustinus is home to four bronze bells, each with its unique history and significance. The first bell, named Augustine, was consecrated on June 2, 1960, weighing approximately 860 kg and tuned to the note F#. The second bell, Elisabeth, was blessed on August 15, 1961, weighing 600 kg and tuned to G#. The same day, the third bell, Monika, was also consecrated, weighing 400 kg and tuned to A#. The fourth bell, Bernhard, was blessed on April 15, 1962, just in time for Easter, weighing 1,500 kg and tuned to D#.

The fifth bell, which was intended to complete the set, has yet to be installed. It was planned to weigh around 2,150 kg, tuned to C#, and would have been the largest bell in the church. Despite its absence, the existing bells continue to ring out, marking the passage of time and calling the faithful to worship.

The Parish Community

Since its establishment, the St. Augustinus parish has been a cornerstone of the local community. Initially a parish rectorate in 1959, it became an independent parish in 1964. In 2010, the parish was incorporated into the newly formed St. Andreas city parish, which also includes the parishes of St. Bernhard and St. Josef. This reorganization reflects the church's ongoing commitment to serving the spiritual and communal needs of Cloppenburg's residents.

In conclusion, St. Augustinus Church is more than just a place of worship; it is a symbol of resilience, community, and artistic heritage. Its understated exterior belies a rich tapestry of history and artistry within, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Cloppenburg. Whether you are drawn by its spiritual significance, its architectural charm, or its artistic treasures, St. Augustinus offers a unique and enriching experience for all who enter its doors.