Renovation of the Gethsemane Church: Bells are silent, celebration helps!

Renovation of the Gethsemane Church: Bells are silent, celebration helps!

It currently remains quiet in Munich's Sendling district because the bells of the Gethsemane Church are silent. This is due to the extensive renovation work on the church tower, which has been planned for some time. Pastor Ralf Honig reported on the little worshipers who enthusiastically imitated the ringing of the bell while the real bell remained silent in the distance. According to Honig, this is a particular challenge for both the children and the community.

The renovation of the church tower was considered ten years ago. But the work was repeatedly delayed, not least because of the corona pandemic. In addition, there were regular falling chunks that Pastor Honig often had to pick up personally. Renewing the joints and replacing missing or damaged bricks are currently on the agenda. Also new is the decision to replace the clapper for the bells in order to reduce the ringing angle by 15 degrees and thus relieve the load on the tower. An electronic bell control, which was recently installed, is also intended to make maintenance of the bells easier. Completion of the renovation work is targeted for late autumn 2025. A total of 500,000 euros is due for the work, of which 165,000 euros have already been collected through donations. The trend is increasing, but donations are still urgently needed to cover the open positions. ( tz.de, gethsemanekirche-muenchen.de )

Community festival under the motto “Church Construction Site”

The Gethsemane Church is planning a large community festival under the motto “Church Construction Site” on July 20, 2025, which will take place at Ettalstrasse 3. The festival begins at 11 a.m. with a family service, accompanied by music from a German-Korean project choir. Afterwards, visitors can look forward to a varied program. There will be food, drink, games and numerous activities. Participation is free, but donations are warmly welcomed. The Korean Evangelical Community meets every Sunday afternoon in the Gethsemane Church and the sermons are translated simultaneously.

Further renovation measures necessary

But it's not just the church tower that needs renovation. Nationally, it is becoming clear that many churches in Munich, such as the Gethsemane Church, are increasingly dependent on donations and funding due to declining church tax revenue. An example of this is the church in Leo, which is in need of renovation and is also planning major measures since its last renovation 42 years ago. These should include, among other things, barrier-free access and a refurbishment of the interior spaces. As with the Gethsemane Church, the majority of the renovation work here will only be carried out with the help of donations and funding. ( kirche-leo.de )

The current situation highlights how important community and support within the city is. Only together can such important projects be successfully realized and the charm of Munich's churches be preserved.