A vibrant tapestry of faith. That’s the Auferstehungsgemeinde Mainz. Picture this Sunday morning. Sunlight streams through the glass entrance. People of all ages gather. Their laughter and chatter fill the air.
The Auferstehungsgemeinde isn’t just a church. It’s a community hub. Built in the 1960s it stands as a testament to the post-war rebuilding of Mainz. All three of Mainz’s evangelical churches had been destroyed in World War II. This church became vital to the spiritual lives of many. The name itself a powerful symbol. Seventy percent of the congregation chose it reflecting their faith.
Architect Hans-Joachim Lenz designed this striking structure. A simple yet imposing concrete cube. It rises majestically from the hillside. The surrounding buildings are similar. Flat-roofed concrete structures. A nearby campanile stands tall. A unique feature is the exterior concrete frieze. Created by Heinz Hemrich in 1961. It depicts forty biblical scenes. This beautiful detail tells stories across its surface.
More than just a building the Auferstehungsgemeinde embraces diversity. Around 2600 members attend. Many come from different parts of Mainz. Generations come together. Services include traditional liturgy and contemporary worship. Organ music and a band. Even communion is celebrated with children. For ten years they’ve seen a growing number of Iranian members. Their faith journey is a testament to the church’s inclusivity.
The church is surrounded by the SWR broadcasting house. The old Judensand is also nearby. This church is more than bricks and mortar. It is a place of worship. It reflects a community’s resilience and its vibrant faith. A place where generations gather sharing a belief in the resurrection. It’s a place of hope. A beacon in the city. The Auferstehungsgemeinde. A place to feel God’s presence in Mainz.