Author Archives: Manfred Schädler
Protestant church service in the former synagogue
For the first time in more than 80 years, a church service was held in the former synagogue in Heinsheim on February 9. The Heinsheim Protestant parish with Pastor Daniel Fritsch celebrated the service with musical accompaniment by Elisabeth Klemm. The piano, which is on permanent loan to our synagogue from the town of Bad Rappenau on the initiative of Pastor Fritsch, was beautifully played by Ms. Klemm, although it had not yet been tuned. Bernd Göller expressed his thanks on behalf of the circle of friends and said that we would be delighted if our former synagogue could continue to be used as a place of worship during the renovation work on our beautiful Heinsheim mountain church.
Words of thanks from Bernd Göller
Dear Heinsheim community!
On November 8, 1937, the Jewish community of Heinsheim disbanded because there were no longer ten men of religious age living in Heinsheim,
necessary for the celebration of religious services.
On January 17, 1938, the Jews still living here sold their synagogue to the farmer August Kühner.
This farmer was friendly to them.
They knew they were in good hands with him.
The synagogue went into exile and hired itself out
as a maid to various masters,
who did not spoil her,
but did not mistreat her either.
After 75 years, she returned from exile.
The newly founded circle of friends saved her from
from demolition and, over the course of ten years, gave her
restored its former dignity in the middle of the village.
You also actively supported this path.
The Princess Synagogue was crowned today.
For the first time since November 8, 1937
she was allowed to host a church service again.
She thanks you very much for that and has has taken you into her heart!