Exhibition Opening at St. Nicholas Church: Remembrance, Responsibility, and Humanity
Leipzig
An impressive event on March 23 marked the opening of an exhibition at St. Nicholas Church, dedicated to a deeply moving chapter of German-Armenian history. Titled “The History of German Missions for Armenians in the Ottoman Empire, 1896–1919,” the exhibition highlights the work of German missions in the Ottoman Empire during a period marked by violence, persecution, and the Armenian Genocide—but also by courageous humanitarian efforts.
The pastor of St. Nicholas Church, Rev. Stief, welcomed the guests and spoke about the church’s special role as a place of remembrance. For over 20 years, the victims of the genocide have been commemorated there annually on April 24 as part of the peace prayers. “The prayer marks an open wound,” he said, emphasizing that healing and reconciliation begin where mourning is possible and trust can grow.
In a greeting message from the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Armenia in the Free State of Saxony, read by Dr. Sirarpi Movsisyan, head of the consular office, it was stated:
“We are opening an exhibition today that sheds light on a deeply moving chapter of German-Armenian history. The exhibition takes place within the framework of the Leipzig–Yerevan Year of Culture. This special year of cooperation highlights the deep cultural and friendly ties that connect our two cities and regions. It is a sign of a vibrant partnership that extends far beyond geographical borders.”
Dr. Sven Trautmann, from the Department of International Cooperation, also emphasized Germany’s historical responsibility in his speech:
“The title of the exhibition refers to a special connection between Germany, Armenia, and the Ottoman Empire. While the exhibition comprehensively honors the charitable achievements of German missions, it is important to point out that the genocide against Armenians would not have been possible without—at the very least—the tacit acceptance of the German Empire. This creates a responsibility that also shapes Leipzig’s relationship with Armenia. I hope the exhibition not only contributes to the living connections between Leipzig and Armenia but also raises awareness of the background of the genocide among the German public.”
Dr. Hayk Martirosyan, a research associate at the Lepsius House and curator of the exhibition, provided a historical overview of the origins and development of the German missions. He explained that their work changed fundamentally over time: initially active in the Ottoman Empire with a religious mission, they increasingly focused on humanitarian aid for the Christian population, especially Armenians. A turning point came with the Hamidian massacres of 1894 to 1896, which drew widespread attention in Germany and sparked a broad relief movement. As a result, organizations such as the German Aid Association for Armenia were founded, focusing particularly on orphans and widows.
Over the years, numerous institutions were established—orphans’ homes, schools, hospitals, and workshops. Thousands of children found protection and a chance for an independent life. However, with the beginning of the genocide in 1915, missionaries faced a severe moral dilemma: as citizens of a country allied with the Ottoman Empire, they were subject to political constraints, yet at the same time witnesses to systematic extermination. Most chose humanity. At great personal risk, they saved thousands of Armenians. Many mission stations became “islands of hope”—places where survival was still possible.
The event was accompanied by Armenian music: the powerful performance by Arpi Grigoryan gave the opening a special emotional depth. Among the guests were numerous representatives from academia, church, and diplomacy, including Prof. Dr. Armenuhi Drost-Abgaryan; Rev. Hakobyan of the Armenian Apostolic Church; the Honorary Consul of Poland, Markus Kopp; Christof Lenzen, chairman of the Christian Aid Association—the only organization that has been helping Armenians in Armenia, Iraq, and Lebanon continuously since 1896—as well as Dr. Anahit Babayan, head of the Armenian Cultural Association in Leipzig.
The exhibition makes clear how important it is to keep memory alive, to name responsibility, and at the same time to honor the courage of those who provided help in times of profound inhumanity.
The exhibition was organized by the Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Armenia in Saxony and the Lepsius House in Potsdam.
