Franz Stock: Messer of Peace and Held the Hell in War

Franz Stock: Messer of Peace and Held the Hell in War

In recent years, the memorial has received considerable support for the Catholic priest Franz Stock in Arnsberg-Neheim. The NRW Foundation is currently promoting the modernization and expansion of this important meeting place with a grant of up to 50,000 euros. This happens after an earlier funding of up to 90,000 euros in 2020, which has already contributed to improving the memorial, such as Blickpunkt-arnsberg-meschede.de reported.

The memorial is reminiscent of the life and work of Franz Stock, which worked as a pastor during the Second World War in the prisons of Paris. Pope John XXIII. referred to him as "program, not just a name". Stock looked after over 2,000 French inmates and stood by them in the last moments. He became known as the "pastor of hell", which illustrates the mercy and courage that he showed in a brutal time. His beliefs and love for humanity make him an outstanding symbol for Franco-German friendship, as is highlighted on derdom.de

expanded memorial offers

The Franz Stock Committee plans a number of activities to appreciate and make the legacy of Stock. This includes the opening of a new Arte documentary via Stock, which will be broadcast on April 1, 2025. In addition, a new, bilingual book about Franz Stock's life has been published, which is available at a price of 12.50 euros. In a school competition, a children's book was created about his career, which can be purchased for 7 euros.

Another excellent medium to capture Stock's thinking is a graphic novel published by Bonifatius-Verlag Paderborn and is available for 14 euros. These different publications should help to illustrate Stock's importance for future generations.

commemoration and events

The memorial in Stock's parents' house is open every Wednesday from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and by appointment. An exception is August 17, 2025, where a peace path to the Borberg will take place in memory of Franz Stock.

In addition to the ongoing activities, Archbishop Dr. Udo Markus Bentz visits Franz Stock's parents' home. There were talks with representatives of the Franz Stock Committee to discuss the further cooperation and the future orientation of the memorial.

monument and appreciation

The monument of Franz Stock in Neheim, which was created by the sculptor Josef Rikus, is a central part of the culture of remembrance. It shows an angel that extends his saving hand and is set up in front of the St. Johannes Church. The inscription recognizes Stock's commitment and describes him as "messenger of peace" and "witnesses of divine love in a world full of hatred". The design of the high slate panels illustrates the cold of the material and the depth of human humiliation.