Cracked red bricks speak volumes. The Pauluskirche stands before you. This isn’t just a church. It is a testament to resilience. It is a symbol of faith.
The Pauluskirche’s story began in 1905. Lehe was growing fast. The evangelical-Lutheran community needed a new place of worship. Eduard Wendebourg designed the Pauluskirche in the style of North German brick Gothic. On March 19, 1905, the Pauluskirche was consecrated.
For years, the Pauluskirche served its community. It even served as a garrison church for the local marine garrison until 1945. But tragedy struck during World War II. In 1944, air raids devastated Wesermünde. The Pauluskirche was almost completely destroyed. Only ruins remained.
Yet, the community’s spirit remained unbroken. They rebuilt the Pauluskirche. It was a simpler design. The rich ornamental details were gone. On March 8, 1953, Bishop Hanns Lilje reopened the Pauluskirche.
Look closely at the altar windows. Heinz Lilienthal, a glass painter from Bremen, created them. The central windows depict the Easter story. The outer windows show Jesus asleep during the storm. Also it shows Paul’s experience in Damascus. The crucifix is hand-hammered brass. Stuhlmüller, an artist from Hamburg, created it.
In 2000, the Pauluskirche merged with the Michaeliskirche. They became the Michaelis-Pauluskirchengemeinde. The Michaeliskirche became a community center.
Since 2003, the Pauluskirche has housed a café. But there is something special. You can climb the church tower. 196 steps lead to an observation platform. The Pauluskirche offers unique views of Bremerhaven.
The Pauluskirche’s organ has its own story. Paul Ott built it in 1955. Bartelt Immer restored it in 2007. It has 37 registers.
Take a moment to listen. The Pauluskirche has three bells. They were cast in 1955 by Gebrüder Rincker.
The Pauluskirche is more than bricks and mortar. It embodies the spirit of Bremerhaven-Lehe. It is a place of worship. It is a cultural landmark. It is a symbol of hope. The Pauluskirche continues to serve the community.