Nestled in the charming city of Cottbus in Brandenburg, Germany, Christ Church Cottbus, locally known as Christuskirche Cottbus, stands as a beacon of history and architectural elegance. This Roman Catholic church, officially named the Church of the Good Shepherd, is a significant landmark, not only for its spiritual role but also as a testament to the region's rich history.
The story of Christ Church Cottbus begins in the mid-17th century, a time when the Catholic community in Cottbus was small and without a dedicated place of worship. For many years, they utilized the Gottesackerkirche Ad sanctam portam for biannual services. However, with the arrival of a Prussian army battalion in the early 19th century, the Catholic population surged, necessitating a permanent church.
In 1848, under the guidance of Father Florian Birnbach from Neuzelle, construction began on what would become the first Catholic church in Lower Lusatia since the Reformation. The design was crafted by Kreisbaumeister Fritsch and master mason E.G. Stoske, and after Stoske's death, the project was completed by F.W. Kahle. The church was consecrated on October 27, 1850, marking a new chapter for the Catholic community in Cottbus.
Christ Church Cottbus is a masterpiece of simplicity and elegance, featuring a hall-style design with exposed brickwork and a gabled roof. The rectangular nave is devoid of a tower, yet its grandeur is amplified by large arched windows that allow light to flood the interior. The apse is adorned with semicircular blind windows and decorative friezes beneath the eaves, adding a touch of sophistication.
The church's façade is striking, with three portals topped by a rose window from the original construction. Above this, a roof turret restored in 1996 houses the original 19th-century bell, a symbol of continuity and tradition. Inside, visitors are greeted by a 15th-century wooden sculpture of the Madonna and Child, which was installed in 1975 and restored in 1986. The altar painting depicting Jesus as the Good Shepherd is one of the few original pieces that remain, connecting the present to the church's storied past.
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As the Catholic community continued to grow, the church underwent significant changes. In 1934, a new parish church, St. Maria Friedenskönigin, was consecrated, and much of the original church's furnishings were transferred there. However, the end of World War II brought destruction to parts of Christ Church Cottbus, particularly the choir and sacristy.
Despite these challenges, the church saw a revival in the mid-1960s, thanks to the dedication of its parishioners. From 1965 to 1967, members of the community worked tirelessly to restore the building, even creating a basement to accommodate community rooms. The interior was redesigned by Gottfried Zawadzki, with metalwork crafted by NEUE FORM workshops. This labor of love culminated in the church's reconsecration on November 11, 1967, by Bishop Gerhard Schaffran, and it has since been known simply as Christuskirche.
Adjacent to the church is the former rectory, whose foundation was laid in 1850. Like the church, it was constructed under the supervision of master mason Kahle. This two-story plaster building rests on a fieldstone foundation and features arched windows, a testament to the architectural style of the era. Originally housing the Catholic school from 1851, the building now serves as a regional office for Caritas, continuing its legacy of community service.
Christ Church Cottbus is more than just a place of worship; it is a symbol of resilience and faith. As the first Catholic church built in Lower Lusatia after the Reformation, it represents a revival of Catholic tradition in the region. Its history is intertwined with the stories of those who have walked its halls, prayed within its walls, and contributed to its preservation.
For visitors to Cottbus, Christ Church Cottbus offers a glimpse into the past, a reminder of the enduring spirit of a community that has weathered the storms of history. Whether you are drawn by its architectural beauty, historical significance, or spiritual ambiance, a visit to this remarkable church is sure to be a memorable experience.
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