Große Kirche

The Große Kirche in Emden, Lower Saxony, Germany, stands as a testament to the region's rich history and architectural evolution. This grand structure, officially known as the Evangelisch-Reformierte Große Kirche, is not only a significant religious site but also a beacon of cultural and historical heritage in East Frisia.

The Historical Significance of Große Kirche

The origins of the Große Kirche trace back to the 9th century, coinciding with the establishment of a Frisian trading settlement on the right bank of the Ems River. Initially, a small wooden church served the community, but as the settlement expanded, so did the need for a more substantial place of worship. By the year 966, a newer wooden church had been constructed, indicating the growing importance of this nascent community.

Around 1200, the residents of Emden embarked on building a Romanesque single-nave brick church with a west tower, dedicated to Saints Cosmas and Damian. This construction phase marked the beginning of a series of expansions and modifications that would continue for centuries. By the 13th century, the church had evolved into a cruciform structure, and in the 14th century, two side aisles were added. The transformation into a three-nave hall church was completed before 1403.

The church faced significant challenges, including a devastating storm surge on November 25, 1403, which caused extensive damage. Reconstruction efforts spanned several decades, with notable additions such as the Ulrich Choir in 1454 and various extensions in the 16th century. The church's architectural journey culminated in the late Gothic period, with the construction of the side choirs and the sacristy.

The Role in the Reformation

The Große Kirche played a pivotal role during the Reformation, a period marked by religious upheaval and transformation. Emden, known for its religious liberalism, became a focal point for reformist activities. The church was a central venue for significant events in both religious and regional history.

In the early 16th century, Georg Aportanus, under the patronage of Count Edzard I, began advocating for evangelical reforms. Despite facing opposition from the traditional clergy, Aportanus persisted, eventually gaining the support of Emden's citizens. His efforts laid the groundwork for the Reformation's success in the region.

One of the most notable figures associated with the Große Kirche was Johannes a Lasco, who served as superintendent from 1542 to 1549. A Lasco's tenure was marked by his efforts to eliminate religious images from churches and his confrontations with both monks and Anabaptists. His influence extended beyond Emden, shaping the broader Reformed tradition in Northern Germany and the Netherlands.

The church also witnessed the rise of Calvinism under Menso Alting, who succeeded Albert Hardenberg as the first preacher. Alting's leadership solidified Calvinism as the dominant faith in Emden, contributing to the city's unique status within the County of East Frisia.

Architectural Marvels

The Große Kirche, with its impressive capacity of nearly 3,000 seats, was one of the largest churches in East Frisia. Its 65-meter-high tower remains a prominent feature of Emden's skyline, symbolizing the city's historical and architectural heritage. The main entrance, once located on the east side, now serves as a side entrance, welcoming visitors to explore its storied past.

In the aftermath of World War II, the church suffered significant damage during a bombing raid on December 11, 1943. The destruction left much of the structure in ruins, with only parts of the original masonry surviving. However, the spirit of resilience prevailed, and from 1948 to 1949, a new church, known as the Swiss Church, was constructed on a portion of the original foundations. The tower, rebuilt between 1965 and 1966, features a slender copper spire that surpasses the height of the original.

The Johannes a Lasco Library

Today, the Große Kirche houses the Johannes a Lasco Library, one of Germany's most important theological libraries. The library's origins date back to 1559 when Gerhard tom Camp established a collection of books for the Reformed community in Emden. Over the centuries, the library's holdings expanded through donations and acquisitions, including the collections of Albert Ritzaeus Hardenberg and Petrus Medmann.

During World War II, the library's contents were safely relocated, sparing them from destruction. In 1992, efforts to construct a new library building within the church ruins began, culminating in the library's inauguration on November 22, 1995. With a collection of approximately 150,000 titles, the Johannes a Lasco Library stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Reformed tradition and the scholarly pursuits it inspires.

Notable Features and Memorials

The Große Kirche is home to several significant memorials, including the Schepken Christi relief, donated by descendants of Dutch refugees in 1660. This relief, located at the church's east portal, survived the 1943 bombings and remains a symbol of gratitude and resilience. The inscription, Godts kerck, vervolgt, verdreven, heft Godt hyr trost gegeven, translates to The Church of God, persecuted, driven away, has found comfort here by God's grace.

Another notable feature is the tomb of Enno II, a prominent figure in East Frisian history. The elaborate Renaissance-style tomb, commissioned by his widow, Countess Anna, between 1540 and 1548, showcases the artistry of the period and serves as a poignant reminder of the region's noble heritage.

In conclusion, the Große Kirche in Emden is not just a historical monument; it is a living testament to the region's rich cultural and religious heritage. Its walls echo the stories of centuries past, from its humble beginnings as a wooden church to its role in the Reformation and its rebirth as a center of theological scholarship. A visit to the Große Kirche offers a profound journey through history, faith, and resilience, making it an essential destination for anyone exploring the heart of East Frisia.