A life for faith: Gottfried Möller dies at the age of 91

A life for faith: Gottfried Möller dies at the age of 91

On October 18, 2025, the region will say goodbye to a remarkable man: Gottfried Möller, an influential churchman and local politician, died at the age of 91. Born in April 1934, he shaped spiritual and social life in Western Pomerania for years. His role as pastor in Kartlow between 1978 and 1990 was an important point of contact for many people in turbulent times.

Möller was not only a pastor, but also an active spokesman in local politics. He worked in the background during the GDR era, before later becoming known as a member of parliament and mayor of Kruckow. His commitment to building a church in Tutow is particularly noteworthy - a project that could not be realized in the region until 1990. The foundation stone for the Tutower Twelve Apostles Church was laid on August 5, 1990, and the church was ceremoniously inaugurated on February 17, 1991. Möller's persuasive work, including discussions with the SED district leadership and support from West Germany, were crucial to the success of this project, which many saw as a ray of hope during the reunification period.

A life for the church and the community

As pastor in Kartlow, Möller was responsible for the region's oldest church, St. Johannis. He managed to start with a trailer as a temporary place of worship, which is a display of ingenuity and determination. The founding of the “Association of Protestant Churches in the GDR” in 1969 was a response to the political circumstances in which Möller experienced the challenges of a changing society and church. The paths taken there were not always characterized by unity, but Möller's commitment was characterized by tolerance and respect for those around him. These are key factors that helped him navigate within the complex Marxist-Leninist state structure - an environment that was not always friendly to church work, however MDR describes.

Möller's work ended in 1996 when he retired and moved into the Sexton House with his wife. His wife, Margarete Möller, died in 2017, which had a major impact on his life. From 2018, for reasons of age and health, the Möllers moved to Schleswig-Holstein, where Gottfried lived until his death. His family describes him as a loving anchor and reliable companion who was always there for others in difficult times.

A lasting legacy

The mayor of Kruckow, who worked with Gottfried Möller, remembered him as a wise and down-to-earth person. At his funeral in Schleswig-Holstein, a delegation from Kruckow showed how much he was valued and how strong his roots were in the region. Even after his death, his legacy remains a commitment to a more open and welcoming church at a time when many were struggling to balance faith with political realities.

Möller's life's work shows that in times of change it is necessary to hold on to the community and be actively there for people's needs. The Tutower Twelve Apostle Church remains a living testimony to his tireless commitment and the hope that he gave to so many people.