The St. Salvatoris Parish in Geesthacht (Schleswig-Holstein) had to cancel the annual Christmas market after receiving a threatening letter. Police are investigating the threats.
In Geesthacht, Schleswig-Holstein, the Protestant parish of St. Salvatoris Church cancelled its Christmas market and related services after receiving a written threat that police classified as potentially politically motivated. The church, built in 1685 and serving a community of about 33,000 residents, had previously faced similar threats in 2023 (OIDAC reported), which led to partial cancellations.
State Security in Lübeck opened investigations, with a police spokesperson confirming: “There is an initial suspicion of a politically motivated crime.” The parish council explained its decision in a public statement: “Based on the available information, the church council has with great regret decided to cancel the upcoming weekend's service, the Christmas market, and all related events.” The council said it saw no other way to fulfil its responsibility to the community.
A patrol car was stationed outside the church to provide protection, and investigators noted that earlier threats may have carried antisemitic undertones due to a congregant's ties to Israel, though no charges were substantiated.