St. Maria-St. Vicelin

In the heart of Neumünster, Schleswig-Holstein, stands the magnificent St. Maria-St. Vicelin Church, a beacon of history, spirituality, and architectural splendor. This neo-Romanesque gem, completed in 1893, has been an integral part of the city's cultural and religious landscape, drawing visitors with its storied past and striking design.

The Genesis of St. Maria-St. Vicelin

The journey of St. Maria-St. Vicelin began in the late 19th century, when the influx of Catholic textile workers from Thuringia and Eichsfeld necessitated the establishment of a dedicated place of worship. By 1888, the Catholic community in Neumünster had grown significantly, prompting the then-pastor Lohmeyer to spearhead the construction of a new church. With the combined efforts of the parish and the architectural vision of Emil Brettschneider, the church was swiftly brought to life. Construction commenced in February 1893, and by Christmas Eve of the same year, the church was consecrated, marking the fourth Sunday of Advent with a grand celebration.

Architectural Marvels and Interior Design

St. Maria-St. Vicelin is a testament to the neo-Romanesque architectural style, characterized by its robust structure and intricate design elements. The church's exterior, built by the Neumünster-based construction company Rud. Pries, exudes a timeless elegance with its red brick façade and towering spire. The initial construction costs amounted to approximately 60,000 Marks, with an additional 53,000 Marks allocated for the interior, showcasing the community's dedication and generosity.

The church's interior, initially adorned with lavish decorations under the guidance of Pastor Gustav Maria Münster, featured a richly painted ceiling and an array of sacred art. These embellishments, however, underwent significant changes in 1966, following the Second Vatican Council's directives. Under Pastor Wilhelm Tebbel, the church's interior was renovated to reflect the new liturgical norms. This included the installation of a new altar and ambo, designed by Dutch artist Frans Griesenbrock, depicting scenes of Christ's birth, resurrection, and the descent of the Holy Spirit.

Restoration and Renewal

The 1990s brought another wave of transformation for St. Maria-St. Vicelin. From 1993 to 1995, under the leadership of Pastor Hermann Haneklaus, the church underwent extensive restoration. This renovation aimed to restore many of the original design elements that had been altered in 1966. The church's columns were repainted, the coffered ceiling's original motifs were uncovered and restored, and the central aisle was reinstated with new pews. The restoration also saw the return of significant religious artifacts, including the Sacred Heart altar and six statues of saints, which had been removed during the previous renovation.

Exploring the Sacred Spaces

Visitors to St. Maria-St. Vicelin are greeted by a series of remarkable features that highlight the church's rich history and spiritual significance. The altar, crafted from yellow sandstone by sculptors Christoph and Michael Winkelmann, is adorned with scenes from the Old Testament, symbolizing the foundation upon which the Christian faith is built. Each side of the altar tells a different story, from the Israelites' exodus and the Paschal meal to Melchizedek's offering and the land of milk and honey.

Suspended above the altar is the Triumph Cross, a Renaissance-inspired crucifix whose origins remain shrouded in mystery. This cross, once a mission cross at the church's entrance, was restored during the 1990s renovation. The ambo, also designed by the Winkelmann brothers, features a depiction of the prophet Ezekiel consuming a scroll, symbolizing the nourishment of God's word. The baptismal font, centrally located to signify the integration of the baptized into the community, is another masterpiece by the Winkelmanns, topped with a wooden lid adorned with a zircon crystal and a scene of Moses striking water from a rock.

A Journey Through Art and Faith

St. Maria-St. Vicelin's interior is a gallery of religious art, with the Stations of the Cross painted by Augustin Kolb in 1933. Influenced by the Beuron Art School, Kolb's work features clear colors and forms, providing a unique visual narrative of Christ's passion. The church's coffered ceiling, painted by church artist Chruscz in 1911, is particularly noteworthy. Its rediscovery and restoration in the 1990s revealed intricate floral and vine motifs, Christ symbols, and representations of the four evangelists, making it a visual feast for visitors.

In conclusion, St. Maria-St. Vicelin is not just a place of worship; it is a living museum of faith, art, and history. Its walls echo the devotion of generations, its art tells stories of spiritual journeys, and its architecture stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Catholic community in Neumünster. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to St. Maria-St. Vicelin promises a profound and enriching experience.