Garrison Church Potsdam: Lack of visitors despite attractive offers!

Garrison Church Potsdam: Lack of visitors despite attractive offers!

In the heart of Potsdam, the rebuilt tower of the Garrison Church is attracting fewer visitors than those responsible had expected. According to the Borkener Zeitung, 2025 is a crucial trial year for the Garrison Church Foundation. The administrative director, Peter Leinemann, admits that the original estimate of 80,000 to 90,000 annual visitors was probably too optimistic. Despite a huge permanent exhibition entitled “Faith, Power and Military”, which critically examines the history of the place, visitor numbers remain below expectations.

The tower's observation deck, which is 57 meters high and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, should have attracted many guests. But the foundation is struggling with financial difficulties and had to ask for a postponement in the repayment of a loan worth millions. Discussions with church lenders about the loan issue are expected to be completed by the end of September. In addition, there is currently no institutional funding available from the city or state, which doesn't make things any easier.

Positive feedback and future plans

Despite all the challenges, Leinemann reports a positive response to the permanent exhibition. However, there is also criticism of the amount of material presented. In order to increase visitor numbers, the foundation is planning an increased advertising offensive, for example through posters in Berlin and Brandenburg. Every euro counts because the Garrison Church sees itself as having a responsibility to be a place of democracy and remembrance. At the inauguration on August 22, 2024, Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier emphasized the importance of this historic place, which not only awakens memories but also has a current connection to society.

It is interesting to see that other religious communities, such as St. Lucy Catholic Church in Long Beach, California, are also dealing with challenges. The Catholic church attracts people from all different backgrounds with its cozy, old-fashioned architecture and friendly staff. From English and Spanish-speaking parishioners to Filipinos, the church serves an important role in the community and offers numerous ceremonies in addition to masses.

A look into the future

Despite flourishing activities and a lively community life, both institutions are facing the challenges of the present, albeit to different degrees. Peters Leinemann hopes that the discussions with church lenders will bring positive developments so that the Garrison Church can consolidate its place as an important monument of history and democracy. How long it will take to reach the target number of visitors remains to be seen.

St. Lucy Catholic Church will offer an extra early service at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 16, 2025, offering a diverse array of Masses and ceremonies that strengthen faith and community. It remains exciting to see how both institutions will develop in their efforts to serve the community and preserve their respective traditions.