Solemn blessing: 150-year-old cross and 20-year-old parish hall in Gleissenberg

Solemn blessing: 150-year-old cross and 20-year-old parish hall in Gleissenberg

The parish festival in Gleissenberg was a very special event that brought the community together to celebrate several occasions. The festive service in the parish church of St. Bartholomew, led by Pastor Franz Merl and community representative Silvia Fuchs, marked the start. In his welcome, Pastor Merl spoke about the importance of the parish hall, which was inaugurated 20 years ago. He recalled the commitment of the then pastor Franz Baumgartner and the church administration, who brought this meeting place into being. “Come, let us worship,” he called on the congregation that had gathered to honor God.

The presence of the petitioners from the neighboring parish of Geigant was particularly pleasing, as they continued the tradition of petitions between the two parishes. This tradition was revived as part of the 750th anniversary celebrations of the Gleißenberg parish in 2012 and strengthens the community between the St. Bartholomew parishes. The service that Silvia Fuchs had prepared focused on the community. “God is not just for some, but for all who believe in the Word,” emphasized Merl.

Solemn blessing and musical accompaniment

As part of the service, footprints were laid on a path to the altar, symbolizing various aspects of parish life. An altar boy spoke for the many meetings in the parish hall, a communion child for the preparation time, and a choir member for the choir rehearsals. A child also represented the activities of the Children's Bible Day, while a representative of the parish council acknowledged the numerous events in the parish hall. Musically, the service was provided by the children's and youth choir under the direction of Regina Blaschko, supported by soloists who created a festive atmosphere with the flute, guitar and organ.

After the final blessing, church caretaker Josef Mayer gave a look back at the construction of the parish hall. The vision of building a new parish hall in the parish garden was already brought to life by Pastor Josef Bräu, but it was only under Pastor Franz Baumgartner that the project could be realized. Financing of around 675,000 euros, of which 300,000 euros were own funds, made the inauguration of the parish and youth home possible on August 1, 2004.

Following the service, visitors gathered in front of the church to bless the newly restored large cross at the entrance. This cross, which was donated 150 years ago by a family from Waldmünchen, was musically accompanied by the Ränkam fire department band. The festive service ended with the song “Great God, we praise you” and led to a convivial lunch in the festively decorated parish garden.

The festival visitors were treated to a variety of food and drinks by the parish council and the church administration. A colorful children's program as well as coffee and cake rounded off the day and ensured a happy atmosphere among those present.