St. Anthony's Church Merfeld

A spiritual care was provided since the 15th century by the vicar of the chapel of the House of Merfeld. In 1912, Merfeld was elevated to a rectory parish, while pastoral care was previously conducted by the pastor of the Dülmen St. Victor Church. A growing population had already increased the desire for a new church building before World War I. However, this could not be realized due to the war and inflation, which led to the loss of accumulated donations. In October 1933, a new church building association was established, which, with the support of Vice Chancellor Franz von Papen, attempted to obtain favorable loans as part of employment creation programs. The construction plans were drawn up by the Dülmen architect Hagemeier, who designed the Merfeld church based on the models of the church buildings in Dalum/Emsland and the neighboring Maria Veen. The bishop was involved through Franz von Galen, who, however, preferred a different church building plan than the majority of the rectory parish.

The foundation stone was laid on July 7, 1935.

The consecration of the rectory church of St. Anton took place on August 15, 1939, by Bishop Clemens August von Galen.

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