Holy Cross Church, known locally as Kreuzkirche, stands proudly in the charming town of Nordhorn, Lower Saxony, Germany. As the oldest of the four Evangelical Lutheran churches in this border town near the Netherlands, Holy Cross Church is a beacon of history and spirituality, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's rich cultural tapestry.
Holy Cross Church is an architectural gem, showcasing a unique blend of historical and modern influences. Designed by Regierungsbaurat Weinmann from Lingen, the church was constructed at the cost of 13,500 Marks. Its foundation stone was laid on May 26, 1929, and the church was consecrated on April 6, 1930, by the Hanoverian State Bishop and Abbot of Loccum, D. August Marahrens.
The church's design is characterized by its striking stepped gables on both the front and rear facades. These nine-step gables are a distinctive feature, drawing the eye upward to the copper-clad roof turret. This turret, with its slender spire crowned by a cross, serves as the bell tower, adding an element of vertical elegance to the structure.
Originally known simply as the City Church, Holy Cross Church has undergone several transformations throughout its history. In 1956, as Nordhorn expanded, the church was renamed to distinguish it from the newly built Martin Luther Church in the Blanke district. By 1964, with the construction of the Christ Church in the Blumensiedlung district, it received its current name, Kreuzkirche or Holy Cross Church.
The interior of the church has seen significant renovations, notably in 1962. During this renovation, the wooden altar and angel paintings on the chancel wall were removed, making way for a stunning cross-shaped mosaic. Created by Siegfried Steege from Schwarmstedt, this mosaic depicts the Lamb of God surrounded by twelve gates and angels of the heavenly Jerusalem, adding a layer of spiritual symbolism to the church's interior.
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The church's history is also echoed in its bells. During World War II, one of its two bronze bells was requisitioned for war purposes. However, in 1952, the church received a replacement bell. This bell, cast in Königsberg, Prussia, in 1710, had a storied past, having been saved from being melted down during the war and preserved in the bell cemetery in Hamburg. Its rich tones now resonate through Nordhorn, connecting past and present.
Holy Cross Church is not just a place of worship but also a hub of musical excellence. The church's dedication to music is evident in its vibrant musical programs. The church is home to a brass choir of about 16 members and the Lutheran Cantorei, boasting approximately 40 active members. These groups regularly perform concerts and oratorios, enriching the spiritual and cultural life of the community.
The church's organ, built by the renowned Alfred Führer workshop in Wilhelmshaven, was inaugurated on May 15, 1955. With 20 registers on two manuals and a pedal, its mechanical play and register actions have been meticulously maintained and updated over the years. Recent renovations have ensured that the organ's sound complements the church's acoustics, offering an auditory feast for visitors.
Holy Cross Church is deeply rooted in the community it serves. Since the early 20th century, the church has been a spiritual home for the Lutheran Christians in Nordhorn and the surrounding Bentheim County. The church's congregation has grown significantly, particularly after World War II, when many refugees from the eastern regions of Germany settled in the area.
Today, the church is part of the Emsland-Bentheim church district within the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover. With over 5,200 members, it continues to be a vital part of Nordhorn's religious landscape, fostering connections with partner congregations in Olbernhau, Saxony, and Masawi, Tanzania, promoting a spirit of global fellowship.
Visitors to Holy Cross Church are welcomed into a space that is as much about community as it is about contemplation. The church's serene atmosphere, enriched by its historical and artistic elements, invites reflection and appreciation. Whether attending a service, enjoying a concert, or simply exploring the architectural beauty, a visit to Holy Cross Church offers a meaningful experience.
In conclusion, Holy Cross Church in Nordhorn is more than just a building; it is a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of its community. Its walls tell stories of change and continuity, of music and silence, of history and hope. As you explore this sacred space, you become part of its ongoing narrative, a narrative that continues to inspire and uplift all who enter its doors.
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