St. Cyriakus Welcomes New Roller Coaster: Lars Meyer Takes the Reins
In the heart of a small town, Lars Meyer, a man of diverse professional background, now finds himself in a role he never imagined he would occupy - that of a sexton at St. Cyriakus Church.
For over three decades, Meyer was a forwarding and logistics merchant, but his life took an unexpected turn in 2016 when he became an oblate of the Abbey of Königsmünster in Meschede. The specific order he belongs to, however, remains unspecified in available search results. This spiritual community has since shaped his life and family, guiding him on a journey that led him to St. Cyriakus.
Meyer's work as a sexton aligns perfectly with his spiritual journey. His daily routine involves walking between 16,000 and 19,000 steps, a result of his dedication to maintaining the church. This physical labour, he finds, has a calming effect on him.
As a sexton, Meyer is responsible for preparing for and following up on services, training altar servers, ordering candles or hosts, maintaining altar equipment and vestments, and performing manual and cleaning tasks. His commitment extends beyond the practical aspects, as he is also involved in various church activities, including leading word services, the Saturday midday prayer, serving as a communion assistant and lector, being part of the parish's social media team, participating in the St. Elisabeth's pageant, and dressing up as St. Nicholas during the Advent season.
Meyer succeeded Ludger Pawlak, who retired after almost 31 years of service. The transition period between the two was a month, during which Meyer learned a great deal from his predecessor. The unique atmosphere cultivated by Pawlak remains in Meyer's hands, as he strives to create an inviting space where others can find comfort.
St. Cyriakus is open most days in the morning and afternoon. Meyer often encounters people seeking silence or lighting a candle, including those of other religions. He finds a sense of awe in his work, knowing that he is contributing to a space that offers solace and spiritual refuge to many.
On his right arm, Christian symbols are tattooed, each holding deep meaning for Meyer, symbolising his spiritual journey. These tattoos serve as a constant reminder of his commitment to his faith and his role in the church.
Despite his newfound vocation, Meyer's journey did not begin in the church. His life was shaped by the Benedictine community, to which he bound himself through a promise, and his spirituality and family life are guided by its rule and spirituality.
In his role as a sexton, Lars Meyer continues to walk his spiritual path, finding peace and purpose in the daily rituals of the church, and striving to create a welcoming space for all who seek solace within its walls.
