Hermannswerder Island Church

In 1908, Clara Hoffbauer resolved to build a church to complete her foundation's work. By then, Hermannswerder, the Hoffbauer Foundation's grounds, already boasted an administration building, a modern hospital, six orphanages, a school building with a gymnasium, and much more. Clara Hoffbauer pursued a crucial goal with the foundation's establishment: first and foremost, she wanted to create a high-quality, Christian-based educational institution for young women. With the island church, she made it clear that she understood her own strength as a gift from God, one with which she could empower and help others. She herself did not live to see the church's consecration. In 2011, the Hoffbauer Foundation celebrated the island church's 100th anniversary. Built in the neo-Gothic brick style typical of the time, the church survived destruction and turbulent times. However, the fact that the richly ornamented interior shines almost like new today is due to an event from a more peaceful era. In 1992, a smoldering fire blackened the interior, necessitating renovations. The Schuke organ was completely overhauled in 2012 and now sounds even more beautiful. Along with the water tower, the church tower dominates the island's silhouette and makes it clear from afar that Hermannswerder is a Christian place of life, learning, and work.