Located in the serene district of Kirchhoven-Lieck in Heinsberg, North Rhine-Westphalia, the Kapelle St. Elisabeth stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of faith and community. Nestled at Elisabethstraße 84, this charming chapel is an integral part of the St. Elisabeth Nursing Home, serving both as a place of worship and a historical monument.
The roots of Kapelle St. Elisabeth trace back to the early 19th century when the region was organized under the mayoralty of Kirchhoven. The area comprised several villages, including Kirchhoven, Entebruch, Heuchden, Leick, Lumbach, Schutdorf, and Finne, each with its unique community spirit. In these villages, small chapels, crucifixes, and wayside shrines were erected as symbols of deep faith and unity. It was in this context that the chapel in Lieck was originally established.
In 1928, the Krings siblings generously donated the old manor house, dating back to 1663, along with its surrounding land to the parish of Kirchhoven. This donation was made with the intention of creating a nursing home, which led to the transformation of the manor into a monastery with a chapel and an elderly care facility. The newly renovated building was inaugurated on October 12, 1930, and was managed by five nuns from the Order of Divine Providence in Mainz. Additionally, a kindergarten and a sewing school were established within the premises.
In 1932, the St. Martini Marksmen Brotherhood of Lieck donated a bell to the monastery. Unfortunately, this bell was melted down during World War II. Despite the turmoil of the war, which included evacuation to Thuringia, the community remained resilient. Upon their return to Lieck, the nuns dedicated themselves to providing ambulatory nursing care.
On October 4, 1958, the St. Martin Brotherhood of Lieck once again donated a bell to the monastery, this time costing 424 Deutsche Marks. However, in 1987, due to a shortage of sisters, the nuns returned to their motherhouse, leaving the facility in the hands of the private nursing service Kuijpers in 1988. The nursing home underwent extensive renovations over time, leading to the construction of a new building that included a modern chapel on the ground floor. The 1958 bell now stands as a memorial at the site of the former chapel. The current two-story building, completed in 2005, accommodates 80 residents in need of care.
The chapel within the St. Elisabeth Nursing Home is a serene and adaptable space designed to meet the needs of its community. It features an altar, a tabernacle, a crucifix, Stations of the Cross, candles, and a statue of the Virgin Mary with the Child. The interior exudes a sense of peace and reverence, providing a sanctuary for reflection and prayer.
Outside, a small memorial with a bell, cross, and information plaque commemorates the original monastery. This memorial serves as a poignant reminder of the chapel's rich history and the enduring faith of the community it serves.
Kapelle St. Elisabeth is more than just a chapel; it is a symbol of the community's resilience and devotion. The chapel has witnessed the passage of time, the ravages of war, and the evolution of care for the elderly, all while remaining a steadfast beacon of faith. Visitors to the chapel can feel the weight of history and the strength of the community's spirit in every corner.
The chapel's role in the St. Elisabeth Nursing Home is vital, offering residents and visitors alike a place to find solace and spiritual comfort. The adaptable design of the chapel allows it to accommodate various services and gatherings, ensuring that it meets the diverse needs of its community.
Kapelle St. Elisabeth in Heinsberg is a hidden gem that encapsulates the essence of faith, history, and community. Its journey from a humble village chapel to a modern place of worship within a nursing home is a testament to the enduring spirit of the people it serves. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply a visitor looking to explore the rich cultural tapestry of North Rhine-Westphalia, Kapelle St. Elisabeth offers a unique and enriching experience. The chapel stands as a reminder of the power of faith and community, inviting all who enter to reflect on the past and find inspiration for the future.
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