Founded by Mary Baker Eddy Christian Science took root in Germany in 1896. Today we explore the Erste Kirche Christi, Wissenschaftler. This church stands as a testament to faith and resilience in Berlin.
The Erste Kirche Christi, Wissenschaftler at Wilhelmsaue 112 is more than a building. It is the heart of Berlin’s Christian Science community. Otto Bartning designed this complex in 1936 and 1937. Now it is a protected historical landmark.
Imagine Berlin in the early 20th century. The first Berlin branch of Christian Science formed on September 20 1900. Early services took place in homes and schools. Later they moved to the old Berlin Philharmonic then to the Bach Hall.
In 1929 the congregation acquired this land on Wilhelmsaue. But the cornerstone was not laid until September 17 1936. Services began here near the close of 1937. The original church could hold around 1000 people. Today it accommodates about 800.
The dark shadow of National Socialism fell in 1941. Christian Scientists faced a ban. Their property was seized. During World War II the building suffered destruction in 1943.
After the war Christian Scientists gathered again. They held services in various Berlin halls. The church property with its ruins was returned. Otto Bartning oversaw the securing of the remains by 1950. Actual rebuilding started in May 1956. Architect Kurt Bornemann collaborated on the project.
The first service post-reconstruction took place on July 7 1957. The congregation funded the rebuilding through donations. They celebrated the church’s full dedication on December 28 1969. This followed the final mortgage payment.
The rebuilt Erste Kirche Christi, Wissenschaftler was simpler. The facade sets back from the street. An open arcade marks the entrance. Fully glazed stairwells flank the sides.
Inside the building houses a reading room. It has a large Sunday school space. Administrative offices are located here too. A parabolic hall church stands on the rear property.
A wooden ceiling is visible inside. It sits beneath the saddle roof and dome. The nave feels like a basilica. This is due to the gallery and clerestory. Light streams through window bands above wood-paneled walls.
In the apse a platform holds a pulpit. Two readers deliver sermons from here. The seating ascends slightly towards the rear. An organ with wooden pipes sits above the apse. The console is near the platform. Additional seating is on a gallery above the entrance.
The Christian Scientists are a public entity. They belong to Christian Science organizations. They participate in Berlin’s ecumenical groups.
Each Sunday services take place here. The words and works of Jesus Christ are remembered. This returns early Christian healing.
Now consider Mary Baker Eddy’s words Love heals. This principle guides the Erste Kirche Christi, Wissenschaftler. It shapes their community. It inspires their service. The Erste Kirche Christi, Wissenschaftler stands as a place of worship. It is a symbol of community. It embodies faith renewed.