ARJES supports renovation work at Merkers church

With a golden shine, the tower cross of Merkers Church now gleams in new splendor – thanks to a generous donation from ARJES GmbH. As part of the extensive renovation work, the regionally based company made a significant contribution to the re-gilding of the prominent cross, which was ceremoniously reinstalled in its original place.

A particularly special moment was the insertion of a time capsule into the tower orb directly beneath the cross. As a sign of its strong connection to the region, ARJES GmbH contributed two silver coins to the capsule – a symbolic gesture to preserve both history and future. In addition to the coins, the capsule also contains a USB stick with the village chronicle by Gerhard Hill, words from the local pastor, photos of the church and parish council, as well as a drawing of the Krayenberg hill by 10-year-old Frieda from Dorndorf.

Pastor Franziska Freiberg expressed her gratitude: “Merkers Church was built in 1928/29 as a classic ‘potash church’ – financed by the local potash company. Since 2016, we have been committed to its renovation. The first construction phase, focusing on the nave, was completed in 2022. This year, the slate covering of the tower was renewed, as well as the mechanics and gilding of the clock faces and the re-gilding of the tower orb.”

In total, around €450,000 has been invested in the restoration – funded through donations, the parish’s own resources, and support from the regional church. Some minor exterior repairs are still pending, including the framing of the choir room windows. Despite the joy over these structural achievements, the congregation is also facing the challenges of the future. A declining number of church members raises questions about the future use of the building. “An evening under the motto ‘The Last One Turns Off the Lights’ showed how much there is to discuss. Ideas and supporters are still missing – but we are grateful the building is preserved and can continue to serve as a place of worship,” says Pastor Freiberg.

Those involved and supporting the project gathered on-site to celebrate the successful completion: Helmut Lampert (volunteer responsible for the maintenance of the tower clock), Peter Neumann (Mayor of Krayenberggemeinde), Pastor Franziska Freiberg, Karin Bachmann (parish council), Heide Lochner (architect and project supervisor), Kristina Grunewald and Bianca Brodrecht (ARJES GmbH), the roofers from Oeser company, and Ms. Jünger (restorer) – both atop the scaffolding at the newly gilded cross and below with a glass of sparkling wine in front of the church. ARJES GmbH is proud to have contributed to the preservation of this historic site – a visible symbol of values such as responsibility, community, and sustainability.