Coesfeld Cross

The Coesfeld Cross, or Coesfelder Kreuz as it is known locally, is a remarkable and historically significant artifact nestled within the St. Lambert's Church in Coesfeld, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany. This monumental crucifix, standing at an impressive height of 3.24 meters and a width of 1.94 meters, is the largest of its kind in Germany. The cross is particularly notable for its vivid depiction of suffering, making it a profound symbol of faith and devotion.

The History of the Coesfeld Cross

Dating back to the 14th century, the Coesfeld Cross was crafted by an unknown artist. The corpus of Christ is intricately carved from walnut wood, sourced from a single trunk with a minimum diameter of 48 centimeters. The arms, crossbeam, and vertical beam are made from oak wood. Originally, the surface of the cross was more textured, with veins and wounds formed from a primer to enhance the realism, and it was also painted. Over time, the hair, which was once modeled with tow and glue, has been lost, giving the head a slightly smaller proportion in appearance today.

Embedded within the left chest and head of the crucifix are cavities that were used to house various relics, including a relic of the True Cross. This feature contributed to the early veneration of the Coesfeld Cross as a miraculous object, drawing numerous pilgrims to it over the centuries. Even today, a relic of the True Cross remains a focal point of veneration, continuing the tradition of pilgrimage.

The Cult and Pilgrimage Tradition

The veneration of the Coesfeld Cross can be traced back to at least 1312, when an indulgence letter granted special indulgences to participants in the cross procession. This bolstered the pilgrimage significantly, leading to numerous donations and offerings in honor of the Holy Cross. By 1359, a yearly rent was established to finance votive candles, and by 1425, the Brotherhood of the Holy Cross was documented.

Despite the religious upheavals of the 16th century, the common folk’s devotion to the Coesfeld Cross remained steadfast. However, the cult faced challenges during the Eighty Years' War, with Spanish and Dutch mercenaries plundering the region, leading to the population's impoverishment. A significant downturn occurred when Coesfeld was occupied by Protestant Hessians in 1633, halting the pilgrimage. In 1634, Hessian soldiers seized the Coesfeld Cross, mocking it until it was recovered by Coesfeld citizens a year later and hidden in a house attic.

With the end of the Thirty Years' War and the departure of Hessian troops in 1652, Prince-Bishop Christoph Bernhard von Galen revitalized the pilgrimage. He personally participated in the processions, established a new altar for the cross in St. Lambert's Church, and created the Great Cross Way. Despite subsequent setbacks, including fires and economic difficulties, the pilgrimage saw a resurgence during the cross jubilees of 1756, 1806, and 1850. The 1902 jubilee, following the Kulturkampf, saw a significant increase in pilgrims.

The Modern Pilgrimage

Today, the Coesfeld Cross remains a vital part of local religious life, although it no longer attracts as many pilgrims from afar. Since 1982, the original cross has been kept within St. Lambert's Church for preservation, with a replica used for processions. The most recent jubilee in 2000 reflected modern social changes and ecumenical contacts.

The Small Cross Procession

Initiated by Christoph Bernhard von Galen, the Small Cross Procession commemorates the Hessians' departure and takes place on Pentecost Monday. Unlike the grand processions of the past, this event is more modest, with the cross carried lying down rather than upright. The route has also been shortened, with fewer altars along the way. Despite these changes, the procession remains a cherished tradition, with minor adjustments made each year to maintain its relevance.

The Great Cross Procession

The Great Cross Procession originally followed the boundaries of Coesfeld’s rural parishes, covering a distance of about twenty kilometers over two days. Established by Prince-Bishop von Galen, the route was later shortened to utilize the Great Cross Way. Although the procession date has shifted over time, it now takes place on the Sunday following the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. Occasionally, the Coesfeld Cross is adorned with silver votive offerings for special occasions, such as jubilees and significant anniversaries.

The Great Cross Way

In 1659, Prince-Bishop von Galen established the Great Cross Way as a processional route for the Great Cross Procession and a traditional Stations of the Cross path. This ten-kilometer route forms a rectangle, starting and ending at St. Lambert's Church. Along the way, it passes the White Cross, the Little Chapel in Sirksfeld, and the Great Chapel, with stations marked by sandstone sculptures from the 17th century. This historic path continues to be a significant part of the pilgrimage tradition.

The Coesfeld Cross is not just a religious artifact; it is a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of the people of Coesfeld. Its rich history and continued veneration make it a must-visit for those seeking to understand the deep spiritual heritage of this region.