“What denn, we have a church in Lichtenhagen?” That’s a question some might ask about Gemeindezentrum St. Thomas Gemeinde. This isn’t just any church. It’s a place with a unique story nestled in the heart of Rostock.
Gemeindezentrum St. Thomas Gemeinde has been a vital part of the community since 2000. The Ev. Luth. Kirchengemeinde St. Thomas Rostock-Lichtenhagen belongs to it. But its roots go back further. The community formed in 1975 alongside the development of the Lichtenhagen district.
For decades, they gathered in homes and celebrated services at the Dorfkirche Lichtenhagen. Imagine worshiping in living rooms before having a dedicated space. Then the community found an unusual home. Gemeindezentrum St. Thomas Gemeinde took over a former Getränkemarkt. It was called an “Ecklösung”. It translates to corner solution.
Today, Gemeindezentrum St. Thomas Gemeinde may lack a traditional Kirchturm and bells. Yet it offers something more intimate. Since March 2016, the Kirchraum has been modern and welcoming. It has a Gemeinderaum. The Gemeinderaum is a meeting point for all Gemeindegruppen. A kitchen is available. The Gemeindezentrum has disabled access.
In summer 2018, the Gemeindezentrum St. Thomas Gemeinde celebrated its 40th anniversary. Since Erntedank 2018, a Kreuz created by artist Svenarmin Domann hangs visibly. It hangs on the Giebel of the Gemeindezentrum. Since the end of November 2022, the name “St. Thomas” adorns the Giebelwand. The name invites all who are questioning to seek answers.
Notably, Gemeindezentrum St. Thomas Gemeinde played a role in the European Youth Meeting Taizé Rostock. In the new year 2022/23, the Gemeindezentrum welcomed about 50 young people from across Europe. They offered a glimpse into Lichtenhagen and the church.
Are you planning a baptism? Gemeindezentrum St. Thomas Gemeinde offers support via a Taufbegleiter app. The app guides you through planning and celebrating this special occasion. The app provides helpful content step by step.
Services are held every first and third Sunday of the month at 11:00 AM. Gemeindezentrum St. Thomas Gemeinde is more than just a building. It is a vibrant community. Gemeindezentrum St. Thomas Gemeinde continues to evolve. It welcomes everyone seeking connection and meaning.