Pfarrkirche Großschönau

Information about the church

Großschönau was founded in the middle of the 12th century. The place name is derived from the Middle High German scone ("beautiful") and ouwe (meadow). In order to avoid confusion with other villages of the same name, the village was given the prefix "Groß" at the beginning of the 17th century. It was first mentioned around 1168/70 as villa quae dicitur Sconowe juxta Hadmarsteine ("village called Schönau near Harmanstein"). The document is signed in the seat of the Kuenring bailiff, which at the time was located on the site of today's vicarage.

The church stands in the center of Großschönau, slightly elevated in the south of the Längsanger and is surrounded by the wall of the former cemetery. It was originally built as the vicarage of the original Kuenring parish of Schweiggers. Vicars are mentioned in documents in 1289 and 1305. It is part of a Kuenring castle church complex dedicated to St. Laurentius.

In 1319 the patronage goes to Zwettl Abbey. In 1332, the church is elevated to parish church status. In the middle of the 15th century, the church is incorporated into Zwettl Abbey. The initial patron saint's name of St. Laurentius was changed to St. Leonhard in 1478.

The European watershed runs through the village.

Treat yourself

St. Leonhard of Limoges, patron saint of the parish church of Großschönau, also known as Leonhard of Noblat, is particularly known as the patron saint of prisoners and farmers.

The life of St. Leonhard

Leonhard was born in France in the 6th century and belonged to a noble family. However, he renounced a life of wealth in order to lead a life of humility and service to God. He was a disciple of St. Remigius, who taught him the Christian faith. Leonhard withdrew into solitude and lived as a hermit, where he became known for his kindness and miracles. In particular, he was known for freeing prisoners and giving them a new life of freedom. Many of these freed prisoners stayed with him and founded a community around his hermitage.

"Treat yourself to yourself"

St. Leonhard is regarded as a role model for deep inner reflection and for the decision to consciously shape one's own life in the service of others. His retreat into solitude to lead a life of meditation and prayer is a clear example of the principle "Treat yourself." Leonhard withdrew from the world to focus on what was essential - his relationship with God and his service to those in need.

This decision to indulge himself can be understood as the act of leaving external expectations and worldly success behind in order to find his true calling and inner fulfillment. In this self-giving and in his solitude, Leonhard found the strength to help others and free them from their need.

Conclusion

"Treat yourself" in connection with St. Leonhard could mean consciously taking time for your own inner contemplation in order to develop the spiritual strength to serve others. It reminds us that true care and devotion to others comes from a deep, inner peace and connection with the divine. Leonard's life teaches us that in silence and solitude, in focusing on what is essential, there is a power that not only enriches ourselves, but can also bring comfort and help to others.

"Be still and know that I am God." (Psalm 46:10)

This biblical passage reflects St. Leonard's role as a hermit and shows that true strength and help for others often come from a place of silence and self-care