Dreaming of Leipzig’s skyline? The Paul-Gerhardt-Kirche pierces the sky with its 60-meter tower. This is Paul-Gerhardt-Kirche in Connewitz. We are standing before a testament to faith, art, and community.
Let’s dive into the Paul-Gerhardt-Kirche’s past. Connewitz grew rapidly in the late 19th century. The old church became too small for the growing population. A new building was needed. In 1898, they broke ground for this magnificent structure. Julius Zeißig designed it. He drew inspiration from the German Renaissance.
Notice the reddish Rochlitzer Porphyr contrasting with the light walls. This design makes the Paul-Gerhardt-Kirche stand out. The church faces east to west. Surprisingly, the altar is at the west end.
Above the main portal are mosaics. They were crafted by the Puhl & Wagner firm in Berlin. One mosaic shows Christ inviting people in. The other depicts “Ecce Homo”. This translates to “Behold the Man.” It is based on Guido Reni’s painting.
For years, the church lacked a name. Finally, in 1934, it became the Paul-Gerhardt-Kirche. It was named after the famous hymn writer Paul Gerhardt.
Inside the Paul-Gerhardt-Kirche, admire the wooden barrel ceiling. Paul Edlich of Leipzig painted it with Jugendstil designs. The church can hold over 500 people in the main area. Over 150 more can sit in the galleries.
Sadly, World War II took its toll. Bombs destroyed the original stained-glass windows. In 1954, Alfred Brumme created new windows. These windows depict symbols linked to Paul Gerhardt’s hymns. You’ll find windows for Christmas, Good Friday, Easter, and Pentecost.
The altar features a carved image of the Last Supper. Heinrich Behr created it. He also made the altar and pulpit. Behr drew inspiration from Byzantine art. He incorporated a moderate Jugendstil. The Last Supper relief won an award at the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893.
Before 1941, the Paul-Gerhardt-Kirche had bronze bells. They rang in a pure C-major chord. The war led to their removal. The current bronze bells were installed in 1956. They were made in Apolda.
The inscriptions are meaningful. The largest bell says, “Be reconciled to God.” Another bell urges, “Seek what is above, where Christ is.” A third bell proclaims, “Rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” The smallest bell advises, “Be persistent in prayer.”
Since 1976, the Paul-Gerhardt-Kirche has been a recording studio. Its acoustics are exceptional. Over 360 records and CDs have been recorded here.
The Paul-Gerhardt-Kirche is more than bricks and mortar. It is a living, breathing part of Connewitz. Its art, music, and message continue to inspire. Take a moment to appreciate its beauty and history. Remember the stories it holds within its walls.