Evangelische Pfarrkirche Wasserhorst

Gazing at the Evangelische Pfarrkirche Wasserhorst, have you ever wondered about its deep-rooted connection to Bremen’s watery landscape? The name itself, “Wasserhorst,” meaning “water roost,” hints at its unique history. The church stands proudly on a six-meter hill, a safe haven amidst the confluence of the Hamme and Wümme rivers. This elevated position offered protection from the sometimes-threatening waters, providing a secure sanctuary for the community. The Evangelische Pfarrkirche Wasserhorst has served as a spiritual anchor for the Blockland community since before 1187. The current brick structure, with its high saddle roof and ancient tower, stands as a testament to centuries of faith and resilience. Take a moment to appreciate the rooster weather vane atop the tower, a symbol of vigilance. A hen perched on the roof ridge keeps it company, embodying a sense of security and belonging. Until the late 1970s, the bell, cast by Gert Klinghe in 1475, was rung manually by the “Bell Ringer of Wasserhorst.” Its inscription, “Katharina eck heete,” adds a personal touch to this historic artifact. The tower clock, with its wrought-iron face, serves as a poignant reminder of time’s passage, displaying the inscription, “One is your last.” Stepping inside, you’ll find an interior largely unchanged since its renovation in 1743. The restoration has preserved the church’s historic charm. Admire the square heraldic windows, donated by Bremen councilors and other dignitaries as “donation receipts” for their contributions to the community. These windows stand alongside the pulpit and altar on the southern transverse wall. Look up to see the rustic tendrils adorning the flat beamed ceiling. The house marks of long-established farming families have been transferred from the old pews to the new, preserving the memory of the proud “chair rights” they once held. In the center of the gallery sits the third Wasserhorst organ, reworked by Alfred Führer. The church’s history is not without its share of tragedy. In 1627, as war troops approached Wasserhorst, Pastor Barring attempted to save the church records. He and his daughter boarded a boat, hoping to reach safety. However, the pastor was unfamiliar with navigating a boat, especially in stormy conditions. The boat capsized, and both the pastor and his daughter drowned. The church records were lost forever. His wife, who was about to give birth, witnessed the tragic event from the shore. Adding to the misfortunes, the original church books were destroyed in a fire at the parsonage in 1901. Only copies of the church ancillary books from 1746-1875 remain, with several years missing. Despite these setbacks, the Evangelische Pfarrkirche Wasserhorst continues to serve as a spiritual and cultural center for the Blockland community, its history etched in every brick and beam.