St. Sixtus

St. Sixtus, known locally as St.-Sixtus-Kirche, stands proudly in the heart of Haltern am See, a picturesque town in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. This Catholic parish church is a splendid example of neo-Gothic architecture and is steeped in a rich history that dates back to the early days of the Münster diocese. Its towering spire and intricate brickwork make it a prominent landmark in the town, drawing visitors from near and far.

The Historical Tapestry of St. Sixtus

The origins of St. Sixtus are deeply intertwined with the history of Haltern am See. The church's dedication to St. Sixtus is unique within the Münster diocese, reflecting its ancient roots. The first church on this site was likely a stone structure, strategically placed at the Lippe crossing and the intersection of two trade routes. This early church served as one of the foundational parishes of the diocese established in 804.

In the 11th century, a Romanesque church replaced the original structure. By the second half of the 14th century, this building was largely replaced by a Gothic hall church, save for the tower. The medieval church became a significant pilgrimage site, particularly for those venerating the Halterner Cross. However, by 1830, the church was too small to accommodate the growing congregation and the influx of pilgrims. Various expansion plans were considered, but ultimately, a complete rebuild was chosen.

Architect August Hanemann from Münster was commissioned to design the new church. Construction began in the late 19th century, and on September 16, 1885, the new St. Sixtus church was consecrated. Due to the layout of the site, the new church was oriented southward rather than the traditional eastward direction.

Architectural Grandeur

St. Sixtus is a striking example of neo-Gothic architecture, constructed from red brick. The church features a large hall with four three-aisled bays leading to a transept with a square crossing. The choir, with its 5/8 apse, extends from a shorter bay that aligns with the nave. Each bay of the nave is accentuated by transverse hipped roofs, adding to the church's distinctive silhouette.

The most prominent feature of St. Sixtus is its 80-meter-high square tower, crowned with a central spire and four smaller corner spires. Inside, the high, exposed brick columns with their services and ribbed vaults create a spacious and elegantly structured interior. The contrast between the brick columns and the white plastered walls enhances the sense of openness and clarity.

Artistic Treasures

St. Sixtus is home to several significant works of art. The most renowned is the Halterner Cross, a forked cross made of oak with an expressive figure of Christ, dating back to around 1330/40. This cross has been a focal point of pilgrimages since the mid-18th century, with the legend stating it was found floating against the current in the Lippe River. The highlight of the pilgrimage is the Cross Procession held on the Sunday following the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross.

Other notable artworks include a richly detailed Antwerp retable from the early 16th century and the epitaph of Wilhelm Goswin Anton von Galen, created by Johann Wilhelm Gröninger in 1710. The church also boasts several statues of saints from the time of its construction, as well as exquisite neo-Gothic carvings, including the pulpit and the organ case. The organ itself, built by the Euler company in Hofgeismar in 1971, is a remarkable instrument.

The original stained glass windows were destroyed during World War II. In the mid-1950s, Ludwig Baur created new ornamental windows for the chancel, and in 1989, Hubert Spierling designed windows for the transept depicting the Outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the Glorification of the Cross.

A Living Heritage

St. Sixtus is not just a historical monument but a vibrant center of spiritual life in Haltern am See. It serves as the parish church for the St. Sixtus parish within the Recklinghausen district deanery of the Münster diocese. The church's active congregation continues to celebrate its rich heritage through regular worship, community events, and the annual Cross Procession, which remains a significant religious and cultural event.

Visitors to St. Sixtus can immerse themselves in the church's serene atmosphere, admire its architectural beauty, and explore its artistic treasures. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a spiritual seeker, St. Sixtus offers a profound and enriching experience. As you walk through its hallowed halls and gaze upon its majestic tower, you can't help but feel a deep connection to the centuries of faith and devotion that have shaped this remarkable church.

In conclusion, St. Sixtus stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Haltern am See. Its walls echo with the prayers of generations, its art speaks of a rich cultural heritage, and its architecture stands as a beacon of beauty and faith. A visit to St. Sixtus is not just a journey through history but a step into the living heart of this charming town.