Fire in beautiful German church: police suspect arson
Police suspect arson after a fire in the Catholic church in Wissen on Friday morning. Pews in the sanctuary were deliberately pushed together to start the fire.
The Betzdorf police have therefore set up an investigation team. Witnesses could contact the police. According to the pastor of the Catholic parish, Martin Kürten, the damage is probably in the seven-digit range.
The baroque high altar from the 17th century was completely destroyed. In addition, frescoes by the artist Peter Hecker, whose works can also be seen in Cologne Cathedral, among other places. According to the priest, these are irreplaceable cultural assets. Experts from the Archdiocese of Cologne had already been on site to inspect the damage. Fortunately, no people were injured by the fire.
Spontaneous silent prayer after fire
On Friday evening, about 200 people had gathered for a devotion on the church square. They brought candles and remained silent. Association mayor Berno Neuhoff wrote: "People are stunned, sad and shocked, but knowledge stands together. An impressive spontaneous sign of solidarity, prayer as well as with gesture of forgiveness in front of our church for the perpetrator(s)."
Church services to be postponed
Due to the fire in the Catholic church in Wissen, no services can be held there until further notice, according to Pastor Martin Kürten. The services will therefore be held in the parish hall in Wissen, among other places.
Silent vigil
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