Consider how many stories these walls of the Petruskirche could tell, if only they could speak. This is the Petruskirche in Bremerhaven-Grünhöfe. It is more than just a church. It is a testament to community spirit and architectural vision.
In 1954, the city planner Ernst May designed the large housing estate of Bremerhaven-Grünhöfe for nearly 10000 people. Soon after, the Lutheran parish decided to build a community center in this new district. In 1957, the parish built the community and parish hall. Gerd Krüger made the designs.
But the community needed a church. Carsten Schröck from Bremen designed the Petruskirche. Construction took place from 1965 to 1967. The State Office for Monument Preservation says that Schröck created an artistically outstanding church. He also created a harmonious overall picture with the existing buildings.
Notice the large gabled roof. It rises from the ground and fills the church with light. The light streams through the straight altar wall made of concrete and the lower sides. Heinz Lilienthal from Bremen designed the glass windows in the community hall in 1957. Gerhart Schreiter, also from Bremen, designed the cycle of concrete reliefs on the altar wall in the church in 1967.
Take a moment to view the organ. It was installed in 1971. Alfred Führer built it. The organ has 17 registers. These are spread over two manuals and a pedal.
The Petruskirche is a protected monument since 1984. It stands as an important example of modern church architecture in Bremen. It is located at Haberstraße 12–18 and Braunstraße 10. It is a focal point in the Grünhöfe district.
As you leave the Petruskirche, consider its enduring presence. It is a place of worship and a symbol of architectural harmony. The Petruskirche connects history, art and community. It enriches Bremerhaven.