Holzminden district: Churches in the financial bottleneck - categorization is imminent!

Holzminden district: Churches in the financial bottleneck - categorization is imminent!

In the Holzminden region, the church world is turmoil. Dear readers, the Protestant communities face an existential challenge! The number of members decreases rapidly - from 60,000 in 1972 there are only 30,000 left. Sad forecast: the number could halve by 2045. The consequences? A massive pressure on the finances of the parishes, which are more dependent on the allocations of the regional church, which are primarily based on the number of members.

Superintendent Christiane Nadjé-Wirth faces a difficult task: The churches and chapels in the Holzminden-Bodenwerder church district must be categorized in order to distribute the financial means efficiently. "A sad and difficult task," said Nadjé-Wirth. Buildings are classified in categories A, B, C or D, with 16 churches in A, 16 in B, 11 in C and 10 in D. Here the future of cultural witnesses and home states is put to the test!

No immediate risk for worships

The first steps towards categorization are clear, but closings or sales are not yet on the agenda! The 53 churches and chapels are re -evaluated and the first decision will be made in December. But the judgment only becomes tragic if financial means are required for major construction work. Then the category counts, and it remains to be seen which church is promoted for urgent measures.

Shocking measures for D-Kirchen!

Churches in category D face drastic cuts: there are hardly any means left, and heating are only repaired in emergencies. Municipalities have to find rethinking and creative solutions to preserve the spiritual identity and the historical value of their buildings. This means donation campaigns, new usage concepts and advertising sponsors! A race against time begins!