Saint Stephen’s Church in ‘s Herenelderen

Reliquary

Jan Bellen

Sint-Stefanusstraat, Tongeren

At one time relics were kept in the reliquary of Sint-Stefanuskerk in ’s Herenelderen. The casket can still be viewed in the church chancel. Perhaps it still retains a remnant of that divine power.

Jan Bellen

Saint Stephen’s Church

The parish was founded in 1291 by the Lords of Elderen and the Sint-Stefanuskerk with its Meuse Gothic architecture was built in the 15th century. In 1899 the architect Fernand Lohest enlarged the church and updated the interior in neo-Gothic style. The church takes its name from Saint Stephen, a martyr who was stoned to death. A relic of the Saint can still be found in the sacristy, where the reliquary was also discovered. In 1935 Sint-Stefanuskerk in 's Herenelderen was declared a protected monument, further confirming its heritage value.

Reliquary

This 15th century reliquary probably originates from Germany rather than the Haspengouw region. It should not be surprising to find such a unique shrine in this location, just looking at the opulent interior of this village church. Its presence obviously relates to the de Renesse family of nobility, which made special donations over the centuries and provided lavish furnishings and interiors for the building. It is also thought that the shrine was purchased by the family. The most striking feature of the shrine is the painting. It depicts the kneeling patron, Saint Jerome, Saint Agnes, Saint Catherine and John The Baptist.