I'm leaving, but where to?
Figures of Liudger and Paulus from the former rood screen of St. Paul's Cathedral
Johann Brabender
1536–1542
Sandstein
Domschatz Münster, Inv.-Nrn. E.59, E.49
The veneration of Liudger in Münster was varied.
In connection with the Anabaptist unrest (1534/1535), there was a revival of his popularity. Thus he found his place on the new rood screen in a row with Paulus and the apostles.
While Paulus stands at the beginning of the Christian mission, Liudger continued it in the Diocese of Münster.
Liudger’s tomb has been located in Essen-Werden since 805. Münster possesses neither the tomb nor any significant skeletal relics. This is one reason why no major cult (centered on relics) dedicated to Liudger developed in Münster.
Although the Ludgeri Church was consecrated in his honor during the 12th century, he always remained in the shadow of Saint Paul at the cathedral. This changed only after the Anabaptist movement was suppressed. During their rule in Münster, the Anabaptists destroyed or damaged the furnishings of numerous churches; however, according to tradition, they failed to destroy an altar dedicated to Liudger in the Überwasser Church. From then on, Liudger came to symbolize steadfast faith.
When the rood screen was rebuilt between 1536 and 1542, Liudger—like Paul—was naturally included in the iconographic program. The association between Paul and Liudger continued in the cathedral chapter calendars produced shortly thereafter.
