St. Bernward

St. Bernward Church in Gifhorn, Lower Saxony, Germany, stands as a testament to the enduring faith and architectural ingenuity of its community. Nestled at Kirchweg 7, this Catholic church is not only a place of worship but also a beacon of history and culture in the region. Named after Saint Bernward of Hildesheim, the church is part of the St. Altfrid Gifhorn/Meine parish within the Wolfsburg-Helmstedt deanery of the Diocese of Hildesheim. The church's historical significance and architectural charm make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Gifhorn.

A Journey Through History

The story of St. Bernward Church begins in the early 20th century. Before World War I, the Catholic population in the predominantly Protestant town of Gifhorn began to grow. This increase in numbers necessitated the construction of a new church. In 1914, the foundation stone was laid, and by August 29, 1915, the church was consecrated by Domkapitular Busse. This event marked the establishment of the first Catholic church in the Gifhorn district since the Reformation. Initially, St. Bernward was a part of the St. Ludwig parish in Celle.

The church's growth continued with the construction of a rectory in 1926/27. By 1929, St. Bernward had expanded its reach by establishing the St. Michael chapel in Fallersleben and the Maria im Moor chapel in Neudorf-Platendorf. The church gained independence as a parish on August 1, 1956, and was officially elevated to parish status on June 1, 1960. The same year, the St. Maria Goretti chapel was built in Meinersen, later replaced by a new church in 1977.

In 1996, the pastoral unit Gifhorn-Meine was formed, encompassing St. Altfrid and St. Bernward in Gifhorn, St. Andreas in Meine, and St. Maria Goretti in Meinersen. This unit eventually became the current St. Altfrid Gifhorn/Meine parish on August 1, 2004. The church joined the newly established Wolfsburg-Helmstedt deanery on November 1, 2006. In 2014, the St. Maria Goretti church in Meinersen was deconsecrated. St. Bernward celebrated its centenary with a grand high mass and a vibrant community festival on August 29, 2015.

Architectural Marvels

Designed by architect Heinrich Stübbe from Hildesheim and revised by diocesan architect Richard Herzig, St. Bernward Church is a striking example of early 20th-century ecclesiastical architecture. The church is a single-nave, east-facing hall church with a cruciform layout and a side tower. Situated approximately 65 meters above sea level, it stands about 12 meters above Gifhorn's town center, offering a commanding presence. The church can accommodate around 220 worshippers.

The west gable features a depiction of the Bernward Cross, adding a touch of historical reverence to the church's façade. The stained glass windows, designed by Claus Kilian in 1967 and crafted by the Oidtmann glassworks, add a vibrant splash of color and light to the interior. The altar area is adorned with a crucifixion group, beneath which lies the tabernacle. A statue of the Virgin Mary graces the side of the altar, while the side chapels house the baptismal font and a statue of Saint Bernward. Under the organ loft, visitors can find a statue of the Archangel Michael.

The Historic Organ

The church's organ, a masterpiece in its own right, was originally built in 1887 by Friedrich Ladegast for the Freemason Lodge in Braunschweig. Following the dissolution of the lodge, the organ found a new home in Gifhorn in 1937, replacing a previously used harmonium. In 1975, the organ underwent modifications by Günter Graun from Burgdorf, which unfortunately led to the loss of some of its historical elements. However, in 1998, the organ was meticulously restored to its original condition by the Gebrüder Stockmann organ builders. This mechanical action instrument with slider chests now boasts 14 stops on two manuals and a pedal, complete with couplers II-I and I-P.

A Symbol of Community and Faith

St. Bernward Church is more than just a place of worship; it is a symbol of the Catholic community's resilience and dedication in Gifhorn. The church's history is intertwined with the growth and development of the town's Catholic population, reflecting their unwavering faith and commitment. From its early days as part of the St. Ludwig parish to its current status within the St. Altfrid Gifhorn/Meine parish, St. Bernward has played a pivotal role in the spiritual life of the community.

Visitors to St. Bernward Church can not only admire its architectural beauty and historical significance but also experience the warmth and hospitality of its congregation. Whether you are attending a service, exploring its rich history, or simply enjoying the serene surroundings, St. Bernward offers a unique and enriching experience. So, when you find yourself in Gifhorn, make sure to visit this remarkable church and immerse yourself in its timeless charm and spiritual legacy.