Sankt Nikolaus von Flüe

Did Brother Klaus, a humble Swiss hermit, truly foresee the future of a church dedicated to him, far beyond his Swiss homeland? Here, before Sankt Nikolaus von Flüe in Westheim, Germany, that very question hangs in the air. Sankt Nikolaus von Flüe, a relatively modern church, stands as a testament to a man revered for his piety and wisdom. Brother Klaus, as he was affectionately known, was born Nicholas of Flüe in 1417 in Switzerland. He lived a remarkable life, serving as a soldier, judge, and councillor, before embarking on a life of hermitage at 50. He famously subsisted on nothing but Holy Communion for the last 19 years of his life, an act of devotion that astounded his contemporaries. Sankt Nikolaus von Flüe in Westheim holds a unique distinction. It was the first parish outside of Switzerland to choose the newly canonized (in 1947) Nicholas of Flüe as its patron saint. The church itself was consecrated in 1962. Inside, you’ll find a cycle of artwork depicting scenes from the life of this remarkable man. His wisdom played a pivotal role in preventing a war between the Swiss cantons in 1481, cementing his legacy as a peacemaker. Though he sought solitude, his counsel was sought by emperors and dukes, a testament to his profound understanding of human nature. So, as you stand before Sankt Nikolaus von Flüe, remember the humble hermit who, centuries ago, helped shape the destiny of a nation and continues to inspire devotion, even in this quiet corner of Germany.