Ever wondered why a church in Vienna bears the name of a Swiss reformer? That’s the story of the Ref. Zwinglikirche. This church stands as a testament to faith and resilience. The Ref. Zwinglikirche is located in Vienna’s 15th district. More precisely, it is in Rudolfsheim-Fünfhaus.
Let’s delve into the history of the Ref. Zwinglikirche. The church’s story began in 1901. At that time, a preaching station was established thanks to a donation. The benefactor was Philipp Wilhelm von Schoeller. The location was initially in a folk café. This was in Ottakring.
In 1924, the parish became independent. The first pastor was Johann Karl Egli. Later, he became a superintendent. A surge in membership necessitated a dedicated church building. The rise of the community was due to an influx of Social Democrats. This happened after the Austrian Civil War in 1934.
The land for the Ref. Zwinglikirche had an interesting past. It once served as a children’s playground. The city of Vienna later owned it. Construction began in 1936. The Ref. Zwinglikirche was consecrated on June 20, 1937. The church is named after Ulrich Zwingli. He was a Swiss reformer who also studied in Vienna.
Siegfried Theiss and Hans Jaksch designed the Ref. Zwinglikirche. The project occurred during a difficult time for them. The architects faced financial and artistic uncertainties. This is reflected in the church’s design. It appears traditional and modest.
The Ref. Zwinglikirche suffered damage during World War II. A bomb hit the roof in 1945. Restoration work was completed quickly. By March 1946, the church was repaired.
The Ref. Zwinglikirche’s architecture is unique. It does not border other buildings. Streets surround it. Behind the church is Zwingligasse. It was named in 1937. The U-shaped complex includes the church. It also includes a two-story parish house. A single-story caretaker’s apartment is there too. These elements surround a square courtyard. A wall with a gate encloses the courtyard. A bell hangs in the small church tower. It is visible from the outside.
Inside the parish house are the office. There is also the sacristy and a hall for the community. It can accommodate 130 people. The church forecourt is distinct from the sidewalk. Its design uses different shapes and colors.
The interior of the Ref. Zwinglikirche has a simple design. A red wall dominates the front. A golden Bible quote is displayed on it. It reads: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Below this is the Lord’s Table. It stands on a raised platform. Colorful windows adorn the north side. One window honors Ulrich Zwingli. The current windows date back to 1955.
Since 1946, a wooden pulpit features a relief. It depicts Zwingli’s head. Karl Jedlicka created it. The organ gallery above the main portal is partly covered with wood.
The Ref. Zwinglikirche represents a shift in church architecture. It emphasizes functionality over traditional designs. It stands as a prominent example from the First Republic.
The Ref. Zwinglikirche stands as a testament to faith. It also shows resilience and community. It overcame war damages and financial hardship. The building embodies the values of its namesake.