Sts. Simon and Jude
Reken

Nestled in the charming village of Groß Reken in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, Sts. Simon and Jude Church (locally known as St. Simon und Judas) stands as a testament to medieval architecture and religious history. This former Catholic parish church, now a blend of sacred museum and active worship space, invites visitors to explore its unique dual-nave structure and timeless beauty.

The Historical Journey of Sts. Simon and Jude

The origins of Sts. Simon and Jude trace back to the late 12th century when it was established as a proprietary church of the Münster Cathedral Chapter. Over the centuries, it has witnessed the evolution of the surrounding communities, with noteworthy developments like the independence of Klein-Reken under the patronage of St. Antonius Abbot in the 15th century. The 20th century saw further expansions with the formation of new parishes in Maria Veen, which eventually merged back into a unified parish in 2006.

Architectural Marvels

The church's architectural narrative begins with the Romanesque tower base from around 1200, which was later complemented by a Gothic upper floor circa 1300. The 15th-century Gothic nave and the north aisle, dated to 1529 and attributed to the Coesfeld master builder Henric de Suer, add layers of historical intrigue. Unlike many churches of its time, Sts. Simon and Jude was spared from neo-Gothic alterations, preserving its medieval essence.

A significant renovation in the 20th century saw the removal of certain elements, such as grave slabs and wooden altar cladding, whose whereabouts remain a mystery. The church's interior, however, retains a north aisle gallery and a newly added sacristy as of 2019, following a period without one. The installation of an electric bell-ringing system during the 2019/20 renovations marked a modern touch to this historical site.

Artistic Treasures and Sacred Relics

Inside, the church boasts an array of artistic and religious artifacts. A Romanesque baptismal font, transformed with Baroque elements in 1732, and a Gothic choir stall offer glimpses into its rich past. The Baroque altars and communion rail, alongside a Baroque pulpit likely from the collegiate church of Vreden, enrich the church's visual and spiritual experience. Notably, the pulpit features a new access and a neo-Gothic cross, though its original sounding board is absent.

Visitors can admire various statues, including a Baroque depiction of St. John Nepomuk and South German figures representing St. George. These artworks, some of which were crafted specifically for Sts. Simon and Jude, enhance the church's historical ambiance.

The Sacred Museum

The church's north aisle houses a sacred museum, born from a temporary exhibition, now a permanent display of religious artifacts. Visitors can explore vitrines filled with Vasa Sacra, biblical tiles, and a Dutch-inscribed depiction of the Virgin Mary on a wall tile. The gallery also features showcase boxes with devotional literature, missals, and a piece of a Baroque altar from St. Gudula Church in Rhede.

A highlight of the museum is a collection of intricately carved nativity figures from the early 18th century, including three kings, a dark-skinned figure possibly representing a camel driver, two shepherds, and a kneeling female figure. These pieces are believed to have been crafted for Sts. Simon and Jude.

Visiting Sts. Simon and Jude

For those eager to explore this historical gem, the museum is open during the summer months on Sundays from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Visitors can immerse themselves in the church's storied past, marvel at its architectural beauty, and reflect on its spiritual significance.

Sts. Simon and Jude Church in Reken is not just a relic of the past; it is a living monument to the enduring spirit of faith and community. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a spiritual seeker, this church offers a captivating glimpse into the rich tapestry of Germany's religious and cultural heritage.