Ecumenical Pentecost Service on Klezmerplatz

Pentecost Outdoors

Pentecost is the festival of the sending of the Holy Spirit – a festival associated in the Bible with wind, fire, and the diversity of languages of the early church. The Catholic and Protestant communities of Salzgitter use Whit Monday to celebrate this biblical movement in public: not within their own church spaces, but in a central, public square.

Klezmerplatz as a Venue

Klezmerplatz in Salzgitter-Bad is named after the Festival of Klesmer and World Music, founded in 1999 – a festival that cultivates the Jewish, Christian, and interreligious musical tradition of Klezmer and has been a symbol of Salzgitter's openness for over two decades. Choosing this square for the joint Pentecost service is a deliberate statement: faith takes place publicly, in proximity to music, markets, and everyday city life.

Liturgy and Music

The service will be jointly led by pastors from the Catholic parish of Salzgitter and the Protestant church communities of Salzgitter-Bad. Liturgical elements will be spoken alternately, prayers and the sermon will relate the Pentecost theme to the city and its communities. Musically, a brass band and an ecumenical choir will accompany with Pentecost hymns from both traditions.

What Visitors Can Expect

• Start at 11 AM – punctual procession
• Duration – approximately 60 minutes
• Seating – chairs will be provided; bring your own folding chairs if you wish
• In case of rain – relocation to one of the churches (announced at short notice via the parish communities)
• After the service – opportunity for fellowship, conversation, and Pentecost coffee at the square

All Christians and interested individuals – regardless of denomination or religious affiliation – are warmly invited.