Benefit concert saves Schelfkirche: 3.8 million euros urgently needed!

Benefit concert saves Schelfkirche: 3.8 million euros urgently needed!

In the city of Schwerin, blessed with historical beauties, a benefit concert took place in the Schelfkirche on October 13, 2025. Organized by the Mecklenburg State Orchestra, the event was an important step towards the renovation of this magnificent church, which represents a crucial part of the UNESCO World Heritage residential ensemble. Over 5,000 euros were raised through ticket proceeds and donations, which strengthens hopes for further funds and support to tackle the urgently needed roof renovation.

As Pastor Silke Draeger from the Schelfgemeinde emphasized, the renovation costs are extremely high at around 3.8 million euros. An expert has found that almost all 80 wooden rafters in the roof structure have rotted, which significantly endangers the stability of the roof. A scaffolding is currently supporting the future renovation measures, which are intended to preserve not only the church itself, but also the cultural identity of the community. “We hope for support from the federal and state governments,” says Draeger, who also underlines the importance of the church for the local community.

The benefit concert: A musical delight

The musical framework of the evening was provided by works by regional composers, including the “Sinfonia in D major” by Benedict Friedrich Zinck as well as humorous and profound pieces by Thomas Mancinus and Hermann Zumpe. Under the patronage of Donata Duchess of Mecklenburg, the concert was presented by the Mecklenburgische Staatskapelle with soprano Anna Cavaliero and organist Friedemann Braun. The musical direction was taken over by concertmaster Volker Reinhold, who thrilled the audience with razor-sharp sounds.

But the concert should be more than just a cultural performance. It also serves to draw attention to the urgent need for renovation and to attract possible financial support from foundations and private trades. “We hope that such events help to position our cause in the public eye,” said the organizers.

The focus is on preserving the Schelfkirche

The challenges in renovating the Schelfkirche are not just financial. Historical buildings like the Schelfkirche often require extensive restoration work, which not only shapes the cityscape, but also creates a connection to the history and culture of the region. There are funding programs, such as the federal states' monument protection funding, which can offer support with financing. In many federal states, up to 50 percent of the eligible costs are possible, with the aim of ensuring the preservation and restoration of these impressive buildings for future generations. In addition, programs such as the German Foundation for Monument Protection offer financial help to preserve the cultural wealth of the region.

The Schelfkirche is not just a place of worship, but a central part of the architectural ensemble of the World Heritage city of Schwerin. Mayor Rico Badenschier (SPD) is confident that the cultural heritage will be preserved with appropriate support because: “We need healthy growth in Schwerin.”

The road to renovation is long and fraught with numerous hurdles. However, the city of Schwerin and its citizens are determined to preserve their cultural treasures. The successful implementation of the benefit concert is only the first step on this path.