In the heart of Herford, North Rhine-Westphalia, stands the majestic Petrikirche, a beacon of spiritual and architectural heritage. As the only evangelical-reformed church in the city, it holds a unique place in the tapestry of Herford's religious history. Constructed between 1901 and 1902, this church was the first in the city to be built explicitly for Protestant worship, reflecting the burgeoning reformed community's needs and aspirations at the turn of the 20th century.
The roots of the Petrikirche stretch back to 1692 when a reformed congregation was first established in Herford. Influenced by the teachings of Swiss reformers Ulrich Zwingli and Johannes Calvin, the community initially worshipped in private homes and later in the Augustinian church on Brüderstraße. The congregation's growth, particularly due to the influx of refugees from France and neighboring Lippe, necessitated the construction of a dedicated church, culminating in the creation of the Petrikirche.
Designed by Hugo Schneider, a distinguished architect and professor at the Royal Academy of Arts in Kassel, the Petrikirche is a striking example of early 20th-century ecclesiastical architecture. Its design is inspired by the styles of the 14th century, featuring a cross-shaped central structure with a 13 by 13-meter crossing and a vaulted ceiling reaching 12 meters high. The church's simplicity, in line with reformed beliefs, is punctuated by a singular ornate window in the chancel, adorned with motifs of wheat and vine leaves, symbolizing bread and wine.
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The interior of the Petrikirche underwent significant renovations in 2007 to accommodate the changing needs of its congregation. The church now combines worship and community spaces under one roof. The right side of the nave houses the original pews, while the rest of the area is equipped with chairs to facilitate larger gatherings. The church can now accommodate approximately 450 people, making it a vibrant hub for both religious and community events.
One of the most striking features of the Petrikirche is its 46-meter-high tower, offering a panoramic view of Herford from its accessible gallery. The tower houses three bronze bells, which together create a harmonious major triad. The middle bell, a gift from the city of Herford, dates back to 1690 and bears an inscription that reflects its historical significance as a civic and fire alarm bell.
The church's musical heritage is embodied in its organ, a smaller instrument acquired in 2007 from the demolished St. John's Church in Dortmund. Crafted by the Kleuker company and later modified by Orgelbau Kreienbrink, the organ features 16 registers distributed across two manuals and a pedal, with mechanical action. This organ, along with the pulpit and communion table made of oak, forms a cohesive aesthetic and functional unit within the church.
The Petrikirche is not just a historical monument; it is a living, breathing community space. The church's commitment to social welfare is evident in initiatives like the Herford Lunch Table, which provided meals for the needy for over a decade. More recently, the church hosted a week-long Vesperkirche event, highlighting its ongoing dedication to community service and support.
Since 1993, the Petrikirche has been a protected monument, recognized for its architectural and historical significance. Its walls echo the stories of a community that has weathered centuries of change and challenge. Today, the Petrikirche stands not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of resilience and hope, inviting visitors to explore its rich history and vibrant present.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Petrikirche offers a profound glimpse into the spiritual and cultural heart of Herford. A visit here is not just a journey through time but an invitation to be part of a community that continues to thrive and inspire.
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