Perhaps Saint Patroclus himself once stood where we are now. This is the Evangelische Patrokluskirche. It’s a testament to faith and history in Dortmund’s Kirchhörde district.
The Evangelische Patrokluskirche has a long history. A church may have existed here as early as the 10th century. A chapel dedicated to Saint Patroclus stood here between 964 and 1189. His relics were moved from Troyes to Soest in 964. It is believed they stopped in Kirchhörde during this relocation.
The current Evangelische Patrokluskirche was built between 1789 and 1807. It was modelled after the Reinoldikirche. For a long time the Evangelische Patrokluskirche was a branch of Reinoldikirche. Locals even call it “Klein-Reinoldi” or Little Reinoldi because of this similarity.
The Evangelische Patrokluskirche gained its own baptismal and burial rights in 1189. This was granted by the Archbishop of Cologne. It finally separated from St. Reinoldi in 1655.
Inside the Evangelische Patrokluskirche, you can find treasures. The oldest is a baptismal font from 1540. The pulpit dates back to 1807.
Look around the Evangelische Patrokluskirche. You’ll see a small churchyard with old gravestones. Most are from the 18th century. Some newer graves are also present. The church, churchyard, gravestones and walls are protected as a historical monument. They are listed in Dortmund’s register of historical monuments.
Listen carefully. The Evangelische Patrokluskirche has two cast steel bells. They were cast in 1922 and are tuned to G flat and B flat.
In October and November 2020, the Evangelische Patrokluskirche received a fresh look. It was repainted and redesigned.
Today, the Evangelische Patrokluskirche is part of the Ev. Philippus-Kirchengemeinde Dortmund since 2007. Regular services take place here every Sunday at 10:00 AM. Family services with coffee are also held occasionally. Special services for youth and confirmation students are also offered. The “Kirchhörder Serenades” offer a series of concerts throughout the year.
The Evangelische Patrokluskirche stands as a beacon. It has witnessed centuries of change. It is a place of worship and community. Take a moment to appreciate its history and beauty. It connects us to Dortmund’s past.