Konradkirche

Amidst the bustling streets of Münster, the Konradkirche stands as a quiet testament to faith and resilience. This Catholic church, nestled in the St. Mauritz district, holds a unique story within its brick walls. The Konradkirche was built in 1937, a time when church construction was rare under the National Socialist regime. Its existence is largely thanks to the persistent efforts of local farming associations. The architect, Hans Ostermann, designed the church with a sturdy, almost defensive character. Its low crossing tower adds to this impression. This wasn’t an aesthetic choice, however. The height restriction was imposed due to the nearby Handorf military airfield. Even the tower of Handorf’s St. Petronilla church had to be shortened for the same reason. The church’s dedication to Saint Konrad of Parzham was a bold statement by the then Bishop of Münster, Clemens August Graf von Galen. Konrad, a humble Capuchin lay brother, didn’t fit the Nazi ideal. He worked as a porter at the Altötting monastery and was canonized in 1934. Bishop Graf von Galen consecrated the Konradkirche on October 23, 1938. Inside, you’ll find the crucifix, baptismal font, and Stations of the Cross. These were created by the sculptor Aloys Röhr. In 2007, the Konradkirche became the parish church of the new St. Benedikt community. Later, in 2013, it became part of the larger St. Mauritz parish. The Konradkirche also houses a unique organ, built in 1938 by Franz Breil. Originally planned with 35 registers, three manuals, and a pedal, the organ’s final form is smaller. It now boasts 18 registers on two manuals and a pedal. The church bells, cast in bronze, were added later in 1965. They ring out from the tower, a constant reminder of the Konradkirche’s enduring presence in Münster.