Hl. Engel

In the charming town of Peine, nestled in the heart of Lower Saxony, stands a remarkable testament to both faith and architectural prowess: the Church of the Holy Angels, known locally as Hl. Engel. This magnificent Catholic parish church, located at Von-Ketteler-Platz 1, is not just a place of worship but a beacon of the town’s rich historical tapestry and a symbol of enduring community spirit.

The Historical Journey of Hl. Engel

The history of Hl. Engel is a fascinating tale that mirrors the religious and social transformations Peine has undergone over the centuries. During the Reformation, Peine became predominantly Lutheran, but the Catholic faith retained a foothold through the establishment of a Capuchin monastery near Peine Castle in 1669. This monastery served the spiritual needs of the town’s Catholic inhabitants until 1829. Despite the monastery's closure, the Catholic community persisted, with the last superior of the monastery continuing pastoral duties until 1832. By 1833, diocesan priests took over, marking the establishment of a new parish in Peine.

The mid-19th century brought significant changes as industrialization attracted a larger Catholic population to Peine. This demographic shift necessitated the construction of a new, more prominent church. The foundation stone of the current Hl. Engel church was laid on May 15, 1866, and the church was consecrated on March 25, 1868, by Bishop Eduard Jakob Wedekin. This event marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Catholic community in Peine.

Architectural Splendor

The architectural design of Hl. Engel is a tribute to the ingenuity of Conrad Wilhelm Hase, who crafted the church in the style of North German Brick Gothic. The church, perched at approximately 66 meters above sea level, features a majestic tower and an octagonal choir, reminiscent of medieval ecclesiastical structures. Over the main portal, adorned with the inscription Ecce tabernaculum Dei cum hominibus (Behold, the tabernacle of God with men), stands a relief of the Archangel Michael, a post-war addition in the style of the 1950s.

A Glimpse Inside

Stepping inside Hl. Engel, visitors are greeted by an interior that exudes both historical charm and spiritual tranquility. The church, which seats over 280 people, is adorned with colorful and figurative stained glass windows that cast a serene glow across the nave. The original neo-Gothic furnishings, including benches and confessionals, add to the church's historical ambiance.

Between 2009 and 2010, the interior of Hl. Engel underwent extensive renovations to ensure stylistic unity. This restoration included the rethinking of the altar area in the apse, the removal of the high altar, and the installation of a new celebratory altar, consecrated by Bishop Norbert Trelle on September 25, 2010. Above this new altar hangs a valuable triumphal cross from the 13th century, previously positioned over the high altar. The church also features statues of St. Anthony of Padua and St. Francis of Assisi under the organ loft, alongside smaller statues of St. Bernward and St. Godehard.

The Unique Organ

One of the highlights of Hl. Engel is its English Romantic organ, crafted by the renowned organ builder Albert Keates of Sheffield. Installed during the 2009/2010 renovations, this organ replaced a mid-20th-century Hillebrand organ and has become a distinctive feature in the region's organ landscape. The instrument, dating back to 1908, boasts 32 registers across three manuals and a pedal, with predominantly pneumatic manual and register actions. The organ's restoration included repairs to the wind chests and pipes, as well as the addition of a 16-foot trombone in the pedal to accommodate the church's acoustics. Plans for an additional manual register, the Tuba 8', are in the works, although the timeline remains uncertain.

The Heart of the Community

Hl. Engel is more than just a church; it is a cornerstone of the Peine community. The parish encompasses several other churches in the region, including those in Dungelbeck, Edemissen, Hämelerwald, Telgte, and Vöhrum, reflecting its broad reach and significance. The church also supports various social initiatives, such as the St. Elisabeth kindergarten, the Burgschule primary and secondary school, and the LABORA furniture shop, among others.

A Visit to Remember

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a place of reflection, a visit to Hl. Engel in Peine promises a memorable experience. The church stands as a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of its community, offering a serene and inspiring retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

In conclusion, the Church of the Holy Angels is not just an architectural marvel but a living, breathing entity that continues to play a vital role in the lives of Peine’s residents. Its rich history, stunning design, and vibrant community life make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this picturesque corner of Lower Saxony.