“Many people are sad”. These were the words of Pastor Rainer Engbert during the service. He spoke at the Friedenskirche Ardey. He also admitted his own sadness. The church and community center had simply become too large. This was too much for the shrinking community.
The Ev. Friedenskirche Ardey in Dortmund-Nordost has a rich history. In 2010, several congregations joined together. These were the congregations of Derne, Scharnhorst-Schalom, Husen-Kurl, and Lanstrop. The Ev. Friedenskirche Ardey also cooperates closely with the Ev. Kirchengemeinde Scharnhorst.
The various districts make the community life vibrant. It is diverse in Dortmund’s northeast. You can learn more about the Ev. Friedenskirche Ardey. Discover its services and current news. Find out about regular events in the community. Also explore the daycare centers for children. Learn about youth work and the choirs. The cemeteries are also part of the community. Above all, meet the people who shape the community life. They actively create this vibrant and colorful life.
But a new chapter is coming for the Friedenskirche Ardey. In late summer, the church and community center will be torn down. A new kindergarten will be built in its place.
The community will also find its place in the new kindergarten. “Everything will be different”. These are the words of the pastor. “We will have to reinvent our community life”. But he assures everyone that life will go on. It will continue right here.
Until the kindergarten is completed at the end of 2020, services will be held in the Catholic church. After the summer vacations, community groups will also find a temporary home here.
So, while the Friedenskirche Ardey may physically disappear, its spirit will live on. It will live on in the new kindergarten. The community will continue. It will adapt and reinvent itself. It will keep its traditions alive in a new setting. Remember this as you pass the site. Think of the cycles of change and renewal. The Friedenskirche Ardey may be gone, but its story continues.