St.-Matthäi-Kirche

In 1896, a seed of faith was planted. The St.-Matthäi-Kirche community began its journey in the bustling city of Lübeck. They didn’t have a church yet. So, they held their first service in a school gymnasium. Can you imagine? The echoes of hymns bouncing off basketball hoops and climbing ropes. St.-Matthäi-Kirche’s spirit thrived even in that unconventional setting. The community quickly outgrew the gymnasium. By 1899, plans were underway for a proper church building. Designed by architect H. Groothoff, St.-Matthäi-Kirche was to be a testament to the growing congregation’s devotion. The cornerstone was laid on February 12, 1899, marking the beginning of a new chapter. The church was consecrated on March 25, 1900. It became the first new church built in Lübeck in over 250 years. St.-Matthäi-Kirche was built in the Neo-Gothic style, following the “Eisenacher Regulativ.” This detailed guide ensured the church adhered to specific architectural principles. The result is a stunning example of the Neo-Gothic revival. St.-Matthäi-Kirche boasts a broad main nave, a slender aisle, and a polygonal choir. The original stained-glass windows, sadly, were destroyed during a bombing raid in 1942. The church also originally housed a three-bell chime cast in 1899. Two were lost during the World Wars, leaving only the smallest bell. A borrowed bell now joins the original, keeping the spirit of the chime alive. The church has seen remarkable pastors. Alfred Haensel, the first pastor, served for 25 years. He confirmed over 4,200 children. He also established the children’s service, a hallmark of St.-Matthäi-Kirche. Later, Pastor Hans Brandenburg continued this tradition, overseeing a children’s service that attracted nearly 1,000 children every Sunday. St.-Matthäi-Kirche stands not just as a place of worship. It stands as a testament to the unwavering faith and dedication of the Lübeck community. From a school gymnasium to a magnificent Neo-Gothic structure, St.-Matthäi-Kirche’s journey reflects the enduring power of faith.