St. Georg (Rathenow)

St. Georg Church in Rathenow, Brandenburg, Germany, is a captivating piece of architectural history and a beacon of the local Catholic community. Consecrated in 1893, this Roman Catholic church stands as a testament to the city's rich heritage and the resilience of its parishioners. Despite financial constraints that prevented the completion of its original grand design, St. Georg remains an impressive and spiritually significant landmark.

A Glimpse into History

The story of St. Georg Church begins in the late 19th century, a period marked by religious fervor and architectural ambition. The church was intended to be a grand structure with a main nave, side aisles, an apse, and a bell tower. However, due to financial limitations, only the main nave was completed. This partial realization of the original plan gives St. Georg a unique charm, reflecting both the aspirations and the practical realities of its time.

Architectural Features

St. Georg Church is constructed from red brick, a material that lends it a warm, inviting appearance. The facade is adorned with intricate brickwork and Gothic-style windows, including a striking rose window that catches the light beautifully. The entrance is marked by a pointed arch, welcoming visitors into the sacred space.

Inside, the church's interior has undergone several transformations. The altar area, initially designed with a high altar, was remodeled following the Second Vatican Council. The high altar was replaced by a simpler, more accessible people's altar. Notably, a round stained-glass window was installed where the high altar once stood, adding a vibrant splash of color to the sanctuary.

Artistic Highlights

One of the most intriguing features of St. Georg is its unique Stations of the Cross, created in the 1990s by local artist J. Bode. These artworks depict the Passion of Christ set against the backdrop of Rathenow, integrating local landmarks such as the old town hall on Jahnstraße, the St. Marien-Andreas Church, and the Bismarck Tower. This creative approach not only brings the story of Christ's suffering closer to the community but also celebrates the local heritage.

Another artistic highlight is the church's organ, located on the west side of the building. The organ, along with the original side windows and the large western rose window, has been carefully restored, preserving the church's historical and aesthetic integrity.

Modern Renovations

In recent years, St. Georg has seen further renovations to enhance its liturgical space. Between 2014 and 2015, the altar area was redesigned based on the plans of sculptor Robert M. Weber. The new design features a backdrop with a picture wall, and the tabernacle, altar, and ambo were crafted from Anröchter dolomite. The floor was also redone with red bricks, creating a cohesive and harmonious environment. The altar was consecrated by Auxiliary Bishop Matthias Heinrich from Berlin on July 12, 2015.

The Parish Community

The parish of St. Georg is an active and vibrant community. It includes the congregations of St. Marien in Premnitz and St. Georg in Rathenow, and it falls under the jurisdiction of the Archdiocese of Berlin. Since November 1, 2016, the parish has been part of the Holy Trinity Catholic community in Brandenburg an der Havel, with the local priest overseeing both Rathenow and Premnitz.

The parish offers a variety of groups and activities, catering to different age groups and interests. These include a senior citizens' group, a family circle, youth groups, and altar servers. The community is home to around 2,000 members, and Sunday services are held in both churches. Annual events such as the Corpus Christi procession and St. Martin's Day, celebrated jointly with local Protestant congregations, highlight the parish's commitment to fostering a sense of unity and tradition.

Additional Buildings and Memorials

The parish grounds in Rathenow house several important buildings, including the parish house, which, like the church, is built from red brick. On the street-facing side of the parish house, a memorial plaque honors Father August Froehlich, who was martyred by the Nazis for his efforts to support forced laborers in Rathenow.

Behind the parish house is the Marien Kindergarten, operated by Caritas. This site was previously home to Rathenow's Catholic school before it was converted into a kindergarten. The former kindergarten building now serves as the parish center, where much of the community's social and religious life takes place.

In conclusion, St. Georg Church is not just a place of worship; it is a cornerstone of the Rathenow community. Its rich history, unique architecture, and active parish life make it a must-visit for anyone interested in the cultural and spiritual heritage of Brandenburg. Whether you are drawn by its historical significance, artistic treasures, or the warmth of its community, St. Georg Church offers a welcoming and enriching experience for all who visit.