×
4.5/5 out of 121,472 reviews

St. Marien

St. Marien Korschenbroich

St. Marien

St. Marien, located in the quaint district of Pesch in Korschenbroich, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany, is a Roman Catholic parish church with a rich history and a vibrant community. This charming church is part of the Gemeinschaft der Gemeinden (GDG) Korschenbroich, joining hands with other parishes like St. Andreas Korschenbroich, St. Dionysius Kleinenbroich, St. Georg Liedberg, and Herz Jesu Herrenshoff, under the Diocese of Aachen. St. Marien stands as a testament to the dedication and unity of the local community, having been built and maintained largely by the hands of devoted parishioners.

The Origins and Construction of St. Marien

The story of St. Marien begins in the early 1950s, a time when the residents of Pesch were part of the St. Andreas parish in Korschenbroich. In May 1951, a group of enthusiastic citizens formed a church construction association, evolving from an earlier chapel-building society. Their collective dream took a significant step forward in January 1955 when the groundbreaking ceremony for a new church was held on land generously donated by the Deuss family, local innkeepers, and farmers.

What makes the construction of St. Marien particularly remarkable is that it was almost entirely carried out by volunteers. Over a hundred men and youths from the community came together, armed with picks, shovels, and spades, to dig the foundations and basement. Without the guidance of professional contractors or technical experts, they relied on the architectural plans and material lists provided by architect Göddertz from Mönchengladbach. This communal effort culminated in the laying of the cornerstone on June 19, 1955, carried in a solemn procession by scouts from the mother parish of Korschenbroich.

By June 24, 1956, the new church was ready for its dedication, celebrated with great joy by Dean Pfaffenholz. The following year, the bell tower was added, completing the initial construction phase. Initially serving as a parish vicariate, St. Marien gained independence as a parish on December 8, 1995. In 2015 and 2016, the church underwent extensive renovations, funded by the Diocese of Aachen, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Interior and Artistic Highlights

In its early years, St. Marien’s interior was modest, with the altar positioned in an elevated chancel and a pulpit located adjacent to the sacristy. However, the Second Vatican Council in the mid-1970s brought significant changes. Under the artistic direction of Will Horsten from Kevelaer, the church’s interior was transformed, giving it a unique character. The altar was moved forward to become the central focus of the church, and the pulpit and communion rail were removed. Horsten also repurposed leftover altar stones to create a baptismal font, adding a touch of continuity and creativity to the space.

The church’s windows, designed by Horsten, are another standout feature. Made from thick colored glass, they depict various biblical themes. The windows on the right side illustrate scenes from creation and the New Testament, while those on the left side feature visions of the heavenly Jerusalem with its twelve angel-guarded gates and the tree of life. The windows above the entrance portray a rainbow with an altar of sacrifice. When sunlight streams through these vibrant windows, it bathes the church in a kaleidoscope of colors, creating a serene and spiritual atmosphere.

The tabernacle, also designed by Horsten and cast in bronze, is another artistic highlight. Although Horsten passed away before completing his work, Johannes Herten stepped in to finish the project, ensuring that the church’s artistic vision was realized by the end of 1979.

Scavenger hunts in Korschenbroich

Discover Korschenbroich with the digital Scavenger Hunt from myCityHunt! Solve puzzles, master team tasks and explore Korschenbroich with your team!

Tours

The Organ and Bells

Music plays a vital role in the life of St. Marien. Since 1959, the church was home to an electro-pneumatic organ by Stahlhuth, which became increasingly difficult to maintain over the years. In response, the parish established an organ construction association on March 31, 2000, with the goal of acquiring a new organ. Thanks to generous donations, the new organ, built by Orgelbau Romanus Seifert & Sohn in Kevelaer, was inaugurated on November 8, 2003. This modern instrument, crafted from solid wood and designed in the style of 17th and 18th-century baroque organs, features 14 registers and 51 pipes per register, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.

The church’s bell tower houses four bells, cast by the Bochum Association for Cast Steel Fabrication in 1968. These bells ring daily at 7 AM, noon, and 7 PM, calling the faithful to prayer with the Angelus. They also announce services, baptisms, weddings, funerals, and other significant events, serving as a sonic reminder of the church’s presence in the community.

Community and Clergy

St. Marien’s history is also marked by the dedicated service of its clergy. From Father Johannes Dahmen, a Steyler Missionary who served from 1957 to 1975, to Father Koos van Lent of the Oblates of the Immaculate Virgin Mary, who led the parish from 1975 to 1996, each priest has contributed to the spiritual and communal life of the parish. More recent leaders include Father Dr. Albert Damblon, who served from 1996 to 2003, and the current leading GDG pastors, Frank-Josef van der Rieth and Thomas Wieners, who have been guiding the parish since 2003.

Beyond its religious services, St. Marien is a hub of community activity. It hosts various organizations and associations, including the church choir, the Catholic Women’s Community, and the St. Donatus Brotherhood. These groups foster a sense of belonging and provide opportunities for parishioners to engage in social, cultural, and charitable activities.

In conclusion, St. Marien in Pesch is more than just a church; it is a symbol of community spirit, artistic expression, and enduring faith. Its history, from its volunteer-driven construction to its vibrant present-day activities, reflects the dedication and resilience of its parishioners. Whether you are drawn by its historical significance, its artistic beauty, or its welcoming community, a visit to St. Marien offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of Pesch.

Scavenger hunts in Korschenbroich

2 years
redeemable 365 days/year
4,967
in over 4,967 cities

Give an exciting experience to your loved ones

myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.

Buy Gift Vouchers

What our customers say