During the 19th century’s industrial boom many Catholic workers came to Dortmund-Hombruch. This influx spurred the creation of St Clemens. The church’s story begins in 1864 with the founding of a mission community. A generous Protestant industrialist Clemens Freiherr von Romberg donated land in 1866. He stipulated the construction of a mission house and later a church.
St Clemens stands as a testament to this generosity and the community’s faith. Its foundation stone was laid on June 22 1870. The design is by Paderborn’s master builder Arnold Guldenpfennig. The neo-Gothic style reflects the era’s architectural trends. Bishop Konrad Martin consecrated the church on September 14 1871. Interestingly though the annual church festival is held on the last Sunday of September.
The rapidly growing congregation soon outgrew the initial building. Expansions were undertaken in 1896. The portal was moved ten meters westward. Two more sections were added to the five-bay church. The forecourt was reduced by four meters. The church also saw numerous improvements during the 1920s including new murals electrical lighting and the replacement of World War I confiscated bells.
St Clemens suffered partial destruction during a 1945 Allied bombing raid. Reconstruction began quickly with a new vault completed in 1947. The final restoration including new choir windows concluded in 1948. A new four-voice cast-steel bell set was consecrated that same year. Subsequent renovations adapted the church to the changes brought about by the Second Vatican Council. The altar was redesigned in the 1980s and a new wood ceiling replaced the post-war industrial one.
Today St Clemens boasts the largest bell set in Dortmund. The ten bronze bells cast by Rincker were installed in 2016. One of these a St Clara bell dates back to 1827. The church also houses an impressive collection of stained glass windows. Thirteen windows designed by Egon Stratmann depict scenes from Christian history social justice and the lives of important figures. These are a visual masterpiece telling stories within stories.
St Clemens continues to be a vibrant part of the community. It stands as a symbol of faith resilience and the enduring spirit of Dortmund-Hombruch. Its history from humble beginnings to its current grandeur is a compelling narrative of growth and adaptation. The church invites you to step inside for a closer look.