Didn’t Ernst Moritz Arndt pen hymns that found their way into the Protestant hymnal? The Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-Gemeindeheim stands before us. It is a testament to history and faith in Berlin. This Gemeindeheim, also known locally as the Zwiebelturmkirche or Onion Tower Church, holds stories within its walls.
Let’s step back to the early 20th century. Altglienicke was expanding toward Falkenberg. Residents desired a closer place of worship. Before this Gemeindeheim, services occurred in the Altglienicke water tower every two weeks.
Fast forward to the mid-1930s. A plot of land was secured for a new church. Otto Risse, the architect, designed this building. He also designed the Paul-Gerhardt-Gemeindeheim in neighboring Bohnsdorf. Construction moved quickly. On December 19, 1937, the Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-Gemeindeheim was inaugurated. It was the fourth Sunday of Advent. The church was named after Ernst Moritz Arndt. He was a poet, a revolutionary, and a member of the Frankfurt National Assembly.
Interestingly, the naming sparked some debate. The “German Christians” within the community admired Arndt. They saw him as a patriot and champion of nationalistic ideals. Others viewed him as a devout Christian. They knew him as the writer of beloved hymns.
The Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-Gemeindeheim features a large hall for services. It has a smaller room for gatherings. Above the entrance, a tower rises with its distinctive onion-shaped dome. A side wing extends from the main building. This wing originally served as the residence for the parish priest.
After World War II, the Soviet occupying forces briefly used the building. In 1951, after renovations, the Protestant community regained possession. Since that year, a bell has rung again. The original bells were melted down during the war.
In 1964, a small organ from the Potsdam organ builder Schuke was installed. The Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-Gemeindeheim played a significant role during the political changes of 1989/1990. Under the leadership of Klaus-Dieter Lydike, it became a meeting place for the Round Table. This led to monthly discussions covering culture, politics, and history. Many prominent figures participated, including Ignatz Bubis and Joachim Gauck.
The Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-Gemeindeheim continues to serve the community. It hosts various events and worship services. The sanctuary can accommodate between 120 and 150 people.
So, as we stand here, remember the layers of history within these walls. The Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-Gemeindeheim has been a place of worship. It has been a gathering place for community dialogue. It stands as a testament to faith and history. It has been a witness of a changing world.