Michaelkirche

Built in a style all its own, the Michaelkirche in Bremen stands as a testament to a unique spiritual community. This isn’t your typical church with soaring arches and pointed spires. The Michaelkirche embraces the curves of anthroposophical architecture. Its walls eschew right angles, creating an almost elliptical sanctuary. The ceiling gracefully arches to its highest point above the altar. The Michaelkirche was dedicated in 1994. It offers seating for approximately 200 visitors. The architects paid special attention to acoustics. They chose a sealed natural stone floor and kept textiles to a minimum, using them only for the seat cushions. The pulpit is slightly elevated, and three steps lead up to the altar. This altar is crafted from Norwegian granite. The organ resides on a platform at the back wall. The Michaelkirche also houses several smaller rooms for children’s services and other community events. The cornerstone of the Michaelkirche holds a hidden secret. Laid in 1992, this cornerstone isn’t just any stone. It’s a copper pentagondodecahedron. Embedded within its twelve sides are gemstones, mostly crystals, reflecting the esoteric beliefs of the Christengemeinschaft. The story of the Michaelkirche is intertwined with the history of the Christengemeinschaft in Bremen. In the early 1920s, the community began holding services and lectures in the Protestant St. Martin’s Church. They even established youth programs. As the community grew, they moved to a painter’s studio and later to a basement space. In 1936, an inheritance allowed them to purchase a house at Am Dobben 111. However, in 1939, the Gestapo banned the community, first in Bremen and then nationwide in 1941. After the war, the community resumed its activities at Am Dobben. Finally, in 1986, they were offered land at Rembertiring. Architect Jens Ebert designed the Michaelkirche and the adjoining rectory. The Michaelkirche stands today as a modern embodiment of their spiritual journey.