Christuskirche (Bochum)

Tucked away in the heart of Bochum, Nordrhein-Westfalen, the Christuskirche stands as a striking testament to history, resilience, and architectural splendor. This Evangelical church, more than just a place of worship, serves as a poignant war memorial, echoing the tales of a tumultuous past and the hope for a peaceful future.

The Early Years: 1877–1932

Christuskirche’s journey began in the late 19th century when the Krefeld-based architectural firm Hartel and Quester designed this neo-Gothic masterpiece. The construction was overseen by Bochum’s own master builder, Heinrich Schwenger. The foundation stone was laid on May 15, 1877, and by October 24, 1878, the church's 72-meter-high tower was completed, crafted from the durable Obernkirchener sandstone.

Initially adorned with imperial eagles, which were removed in 1929, the church’s tower hall was transformed in 1931 into a Hall of Heroes. This memorial, designed by Bochum architect Heinrich Schmiedeknecht, features a golden mosaic inscribed with the names of soldiers who fell in the Franco-Prussian War and World War I, as well as the 25 nations against which Germany waged war. The artistic vision of church painter Heinrich Rüter and the craftsmanship of glass artist Wilhelm Hallermann brought this somber yet beautiful memorial to life.

The Dark Days: 1933–1945

The Christuskirche bore witness to the rise of National Socialism in Germany. One of its most notable pastors, Hans Ehrenberg, a converted Jew and co-founder of the Confessing Church, stood bravely against the Nazi regime. His sermons, which included the powerful declarations “We say No” and “The nationalistic man wants heroism and camaraderie, we want mission and brotherhood,” resonated deeply within the community.

During the November Pogrom of 1938, Ehrenberg’s home was vandalized, and he was arrested and sent to the Sachsenhausen concentration camp. Thanks to the intervention of influential figures like Bishop George Kennedy Allen Bell, Ehrenberg was able to escape to Britain in 1939. His colleague, Albert Schmidt, who also spoke out against the Nazis, was arrested in the church’s sacristy and later exiled to Werther. In 2019, Stolpersteine (stumbling stones) were laid in Bochum to honor Ehrenberg and Schmidt, commemorating their courageous stand against tyranny.

The ravages of World War II did not spare the Christuskirche. On May 14, 1943, the church was heavily damaged during the bombing raids that devastated much of Bochum. The destruction was extensive, leaving the city center in ruins and countless residents homeless or worse.

Rebirth and Renewal: 1945–2008

Post-war, the Christuskirche rose from the ashes. Between 1956 and 1959, architect Dieter Oesterlen, with guidance from Schmiedeknecht, undertook the reconstruction of the church. The new design featured a contemporary layout with brick walls and towering concrete glass windows created by Darmstadt sculptor Helmut Lander. This blend of old and new garnered international acclaim.

In the early 1990s, the church’s iconic tower faced the threat of demolition due to its deteriorated state and the high costs of restoration. However, the community rallied to save this historical landmark. The “Monument Against Violence” initiative was launched, raising funds through innovative means, including “Kuxe” – donation certificates named after shares in the local mining tradition. A benefit concert by Jewish Klezmer musician Giora Feidman in 2002 further bolstered the restoration efforts.

By 1999, the Hall of Heroes, which had been used for storage, was reopened to the public, thanks to the efforts of local historians and preservationists. An exhibition curated by art historian Hans H. Hanke in 2003 brought renewed attention to the church’s historical significance. The restoration was eventually completed, and in 2010, the plaza in front of the tower was transformed into the “Square of European Promise” by artist Jochen Gerz, as part of the Ruhr area’s Cultural Capital project.

The Modern Era

Today, the Christuskirche is celebrated as the “Church of Cultures.” It continues to serve as a place of worship and a cultural venue, hosting concerts and events that draw visitors from near and far. The church’s organ, built in 1964 by the Karl Schuke Berlin Organ Workshop, features 38 registers and is a marvel of mechanical craftsmanship. The five cast steel bells, added in 1958, ring out on special occasions, their tones a reminder of the church’s enduring presence.

As you explore the Christuskirche, you’ll find yourself immersed in a rich tapestry of history, art, and resilience. From the golden mosaics of the Hall of Heroes to the contemporary design of the post-war reconstruction, every corner of this church tells a story. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Christuskirche in Bochum is a must-visit destination that promises to leave a lasting impression.