St. Josef

St. Josef Church in Verden, Lower Saxony, is a stunning example of neo-Romanesque architecture, standing proudly within the historic Altstadt-Wallring. This Roman Catholic parish church, elevated to the status of a Provost Church, holds a special place in the hearts of the local community and visitors alike. Its rich history, architectural beauty, and vibrant community life make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the region.

The Historical Journey of St. Josef

The history of St. Josef Church is deeply intertwined with the broader historical narrative of Verden. In the Middle Ages, Verden was the seat of the Catholic Diocese of Verden, which was dissolved during the Reformation. However, the Catholic presence in the city experienced a resurgence in the 19th century, driven by the local garrison and new residents from other parts of the German Empire.

The establishment of a new Catholic church in Verden became increasingly urgent. On October 1, 1856, a mission community was founded, with Chaplain Krawinkel serving as its first pastor. Initially, a residential building was acquired and used as a mission house, with a small church added to it. However, the dream of building a larger church was delayed due to the Bismarckian Kulturkampf, and it wasn't until 1892 that the construction of St. Josef Church began in earnest.

The foundation stone was laid on July 9, 1893, by Dean Bernhard Bram, and the topping-out ceremony was celebrated on October 17, 1893. The church was consecrated by Bishop Wilhelm Sommerwerck on August 5, 1894. The design of the church was created by the architect Richard Herzig, and it remains a testament to his vision and craftsmanship.

During the Nazi era, the Catholic school associated with the church was dissolved in 1939. The church suffered war-related damage on April 14, 1945, but was rebuilt by 1949, initially with a lower tower spire. The current tower spire, constructed in the mid-1950s, does not reach the height of the original tower helmet.

After World War II, the local Catholic community grew significantly due to the influx of displaced persons from Central and Eastern Europe. This period saw the establishment of various community facilities, including a kindergarten and a nursing home, under the auspices of Caritas. Provost Clemens Burchhardt, who served from 1970 to 1994, played a pivotal role in shaping the community during this time. The church was elevated to the status of a Provost Church in 1964, and the current altar was consecrated by Bishop Heinrich Maria Janssen on March 19, 1973, following the liturgical reforms of the Second Vatican Council.

Today, the parish community of St. Josef is a vibrant and diverse group, comprising descendants of former displaced persons, late repatriates from Poland and the former Soviet Union, members of Italian descent, and new residents from southern and western Germany.

Architectural Marvel

St. Josef Church is a striking example of neo-Romanesque architecture, characterized by its eastward orientation and three-aisled basilica design constructed from brick masonry. The tower facade, facing the city, is expanded into a west transept with polygonal flank closures. Above the west portal, three statues depict St. Suitbert, the first bishop of the Diocese of Verden, St. Joseph, the patron saint of the church, and John Arnoldi, who was martyred near Verden.

One of the most remarkable features of the church is its elaborate interior decoration. The original artwork, created by Franz Müller and Eduard Goldkuhle from the Düsseldorf School of Painting in the Nazarene style, was overpainted in 1959 but later restored in 1987, bringing back its original splendor.

The Magnificent Organ

The church's organ, built by the organ-building company Lothar Simon from Borgentreich, was inaugurated on December 5, 2004. This instrument, with its mechanical action and electric stop action, boasts 22 stops on two manuals and a pedal. The organ's sound is a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry of its builders, providing a rich auditory experience for worshippers and visitors alike.

The Resonant Bells

The bell tower of St. Josef Church houses a set of bronze bells cast by the renowned Otto bell foundry from Hemelingen/Bremen in 1894. The original bells, with the tones f' and g', were replaced during World War I and again in 1928. After World War II, new bronze bells with the tones es' and b' were cast by Otto. These bells, with their intricate decorations designed by artist Clara Kress, continue to call the faithful to worship and mark significant moments in the life of the community.

A Thriving Community

The parish community of St. Josef encompasses the city of Verden (Aller), the municipality of Kirchlinteln, the eastern part of the municipality of Langwedel, Rethem (Aller), Dörverden, and Blender. This diverse and dynamic community is a testament to the enduring legacy of the church and its role in the spiritual and social life of the region.

In conclusion, St. Josef Church in Verden is not only a place of worship but also a beacon of history, architecture, and community spirit. Its walls tell the story of a resilient and vibrant community that has weathered the storms of history and emerged stronger. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a moment of reflection, a visit to St. Josef Church is sure to leave a lasting impression.