Have you ever wondered what a Jesus figure with breasts might look like? At the Haus Völker und Kulturen in Sankt Augustin, such a unique artifact exists. This ethnological museum, curated by the passionate Steyler Missionar, Georg Skrabania, houses a treasure trove of religious and cultural artifacts from around the world. The Haus Völker und Kulturen is more than just a museum; it’s a testament to the rich and diverse history of the Catholic Church’s missionary work. Skrabania, a professor of church history, has poured his heart and soul into this museum. He considers it his mission to share these incredible stories.
The Haus Völker und Kulturen boasts a collection of thousands of pieces. These pieces include indigenous sacred objects, Christian art, and artifacts reflecting ancestor worship from Papua New Guinea. You can see intricate carvings from the Yoruba people of Nigeria, serene Buddha figures from China, and even Peruvian nativity figures with unusually long necks, each carrying a symbolic message. Skrabania’s infectious enthusiasm brings the collection to life. He shares fascinating anecdotes, like the meaning behind the long-necked nativity figures: a reminder to stand tall and proud as a Christian.
Sadly, the Haus Völker und Kulturen has faced financial difficulties. It has been largely closed to the public since 2005, except for guided tours on the first Sunday of each month. Skrabania laments this fact, believing the church has neglected its missionary tradition. He sees the museum not only as a repository of cultural artifacts but as a crucial piece of German church history. The collection was amassed in the 1960s, acquired legally, largely after the end of the colonial era. It showcases the impact of non-European cultures on Christianity. The artifacts underscore the church’s global reach and openness to diverse cultures.
The future of the Haus Völker und Kulturen remains uncertain. The Steyler Missionaries struggle financially. Even the renowned Sankt Augustin University of Philosophy and Theology, situated nearby, once faced closure. While the Archdiocese of Cologne recently assumed responsibility for the university, it has expressed no interest in the museum’s fate. The city of Sankt Augustin, recognizing the museum’s value, lacks the resources to support it. Skrabania, however, perseveres, curating small exhibitions for Christmas and Easter. He remains dedicated to sharing the beauty and wisdom contained within the walls of the Haus Völker und Kulturen.