Ever wondered what happened to a church after its last sermon? Welcome to the LutherLAB in Bochum. This remarkable building wasn’t simply abandoned. It’s been reborn. Once the Lutherkirche a vibrant hub of faith for Langendreer’s growing population it now pulses with a different kind of energy.
Built between 1903 and 1905 the Lutherkirche was a testament to the burgeoning community. Yellowish-gray Ruhr sandstone formed its sturdy walls. Heilbronner sandstone accents added elegance to the portal and intricate stonework. The roof was clad in slate. Designed as a preaching church its almost-square nave was cleverly expanded to form a cross. It could accommodate up to 800 people or even 1000 with extra seating. Two large rose windows bathed the interior in light.
Sadly World War II left its mark. The church was severely damaged. Reconstruction lasted until 1950. Only the altar and pulpit survived relatively intact. The original interior decoration exists only in faded photographs. The war-damaged crucifixion scene on the choir wall was replaced with a resurrection scene by the same Dusseldorf painter Ruter.
In 2012 the Lutherkirche was deconsecrated. Years of searching for a new purpose followed. Then came a turning point. The UrbaneProduktion.Ruhr festival briefly reopened the church in 2017. It sparked renewed interest.
A group of local citizens formed LutherLAB e V in 2018. Their vision? Transform the church into a center for history education community innovation and sustainability. They secured a use agreement with the church. Now the former sacristy houses a kitchen for events. The former chapel became an office and meeting space.
The LutherLAB isn’t just a building. It’s a testament to community resilience. It’s a place where the past and present intertwine creating a vibrant future. It’s a place for everyone. It’s a place where history breathes. Come inside and explore.