Dispute Arises Over Prohibition of Crucifix Symbol on Public Buildings
Dormagen, Germany - Since 2020, a significant addition has graced Dormagen station: a historical wayside cross. The idea for this symbolic structure dates back to 2013 when the then mayor, Reinhard Hauschild, envisioned it. A support association was founded, and its purpose was to bring the vision to life.
Now, the cross is being transferred to the city of Dormagen following approval from the city council. Hauschild, the first chairman of the "Support Association Wayside Cross for the Dormagen Station", and Adolf Thöne, the second chairman, recently handed over the cross to the current Mayor, Erik Lierenfeld.
While the wayside cross is a Christian symbol, it also resonates as a unifying symbol for the residents of Dormagen, as Lierenfeld stated: "The wayside cross at the station is a testament to unity, tolerance, and cohesion in Dormagen, making it an ideal location for such a symbol."
Two years after its installation, the cross was officially inaugurated and blessed by pastors Peter Stelten of the Catholic Church and Martin Fröhlich of the Protestant Church. The support association has now achieved its goal with the installation of the wayside cross, including lighting and an information board. As a result, the association has chosen to dissolve at its annual meeting on May 21. Along with the wayside cross, the remaining assets of the association will also be transferred to the city of Dormagen for the purpose of maintaining the wayside cross.
Hauschild highlighted the importance of designing the wayside cross to blend seamlessly with Dormagen’s vibrant cultural landscape. "The wayside cross at Dormagen station, with its open arms of the crucified, faces people indiscriminately, making it a symbol of Dormagen's culture of welcome and openness,” he said.
Lierenfeld and Hauschild took the opportunity to thank everyone who contributed to the success of the project, including Paula Beitnere, who authored the initial draft, Dr. Norbert Brauer, structural engineer, metal and civil engineering specialists, the city council and administration of Dormagen, all donors, members, and the board of the support association.
By placing the wayside cross at the heart of the bustling station, Dormagen continues to celebrate its religious history and vibrant diversity. The cross now stands as a symbol of welcome, unity, and the enduring spirit of this historic town in North Rhine-Westphalia.
In the spirit of maintaining the wayside cross as a symbol of unity and cohesion, the remaining assets from the "Support Association Wayside Cross for the Dormagen Station" will be used for its upkeep, blending finance with the cross's placement within the city's business and cultural landscape. By embodying diversity-and-inclusion through its welcoming appearance, the wayside cross at Dormagen station sustains the town's rich history and encourages an inviting business environment.
