Evangelische Kirche Bensberg

Why was the Evangelische Kirche Bensberg built during such a tumultuous time? Let’s explore this fascinating story together, right here in front of this unique building. The Evangelische Kirche Bensberg stands as a silent witness to a period of immense upheaval, constructed during the Nazi era in Bensberg, a district of Bergisch Gladbach. Its very existence speaks volumes about the complex relationship between the church and the state during that time. Before the rise of National Socialism, religious life in Bensberg revolved around the chapel at Bensberg Castle. The castle served as a Prussian cadet school, and the chapel provided spiritual guidance for the cadets and local Protestants alike. However, this changed drastically in 1933. Bensberg Castle was transformed into a National Political Educational Institution, leaving no room for religious practice. The last service in the castle chapel was held in 1935. Two years later, in 1937, the foundation stone for the Evangelische Kirche Bensberg was laid. The inscription on the foundation stone hints at the underlying tension of the times, speaking of both “national resurgence” and the “struggle for Jesus Christ and his church.” The church’s simple design, echoing the Baroque style of Bensberg Castle, was a direct result of regulations imposed by the state building authority. Architect Otto Schönhagen from Koblenz even modeled the church tower after those of the castle. The Evangelische Kirche Bensberg was officially consecrated in 1938. The interior of the Evangelische Kirche Bensberg has undergone two major transformations. In 1973, the layout was completely flipped, changing the main entrance and creating more space. A second renovation in 2003, led by architects Jürgen Kreft and Marianne Vogt-Werling, restored the original orientation and added galleries for additional seating. A striking feature of the renovated church is the cross installation on the east wall. Two large, uneven wooden panels create the impression of two halves of a cross, with a large window behind amplifying the light shining through. The altar, pulpit, and baptismal font, crafted from a single block of stone, are positioned to emphasize their interconnectedness. Even the church windows tell a story. The lower windows depict the creation story, based on designs by the 2013 confirmation class, including Bible verses in German and Hebrew, brought to life by artist Maria Schätzmüller-Lukas. The upper windows are her own unique creation. The Evangelische Kirche Bensberg isn’t just a building. It’s a testament to resilience, a symbol of faith persevering in the face of adversity. As you stand here, consider the stories whispered within these walls. Remember the cadets who once worshipped in the castle chapel and the community that built this church during a time of great uncertainty.