- The Garrison Church's Lead Minister lacks any tie-ins to neo-Nazis.
Before the grand unveiling of the debated Garrison Church tower in Potsdam, Pastor Jan Kingreen guarantees no connections to neo-Nazis. "There's no footing for far-right extremists within the church itself," Kingreen stated to RBB Inforadio on the 22nd of August. "In fact, it's the antithesis of our actions. We're relentlessly delving into history." This approach doesn't sit well with any radical right-wing individuals, Kingreen noted.
Strict rules outlaw specific activities in and around the church, Kingreen highlighted. "History is a part of this, and it needs to be addressed." They are engaging in discussions about this with young people and others.
On March 21, 1933, Reich President Paul von Hindenburg and the new Reich Chancellor Adolf Hitler of the National Socialists shared a handshake in front of the church, marking "Day of Potsdam". Various campaigns protest against the reconstruction, considering it a manifestation of militarism and a potential gathering spot for neo-Nazis.
The tower will be inaugurated this Thursday with a ceremony, with Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier in attendance. He serves as the patron of the reconstruction. The original military church from 1735 was destroyed during World War II, and the ruins were demolished in 1968 during the GDR era. Many politicians view the reconstruction as an opportunity for introspective reflection on history.
From the 23rd, visitors would have the chance to marvel at a panoramic view from the 57-meter-high observation platform. The Garrison Church Foundation estimates that they might attract 80,000 to 90,000 visitors annually to the tower. The reconstruction cost around 42 million euros, with the federal government contributing approximately 25 million euros, according to their statements.
The Potsdam Garrison Church, a subject of debate due to its potential connection to neo-Nazis, is a focus of history lessons for the church's youth group, as pastor Jan Kingreen emphasizes. Kingreen firmly stated, "We're not just preserving the church, but engaging with the past, including its darker episodes, to ensure such events never recur."
Despite the concerns of radical right-wing individuals, The Potsdam Garrison Church remains committed to educating its community about the historical significance of the site, distinguishing itself from any far-right ideologies.
