Consider the towering presence before us. It is St. Magdalena church in Dortmund-Lütgendortmund. This Catholic parish church stands proudly between Limbecker Straße and Bleichstraße. Its red brick and neo-Romanesque style make it a landmark.
St. Magdalena’s story begins long after the Reformation. It marks a rebirth for the Catholic community here. The late 19th century was a time of great change. Industrialization was transforming the Ruhrgebiet. St. Magdalena rose as a symbol of this era.
The church’s design reflects a return to medieval forms. Yet, it was completed remarkably quickly in just one year. St. Magdalena was finished in 1892 during the German Empire. Baurat Prof. Friedrich Adler from Berlin was the architect. Joseph Hardenacke served as the dedicated priest during those early days.
Step inside St. Magdalena. You will discover a church that seats 340. On October 10, 1892, the church was consecrated. Augustinus Gockel, the Paderborn auxiliary bishop, presided over the ceremony.
The church boasts significant art historical importance. The extensive interior paintings in the chancel are especially noteworthy. This artwork is protected as a historical monument.
Between 1984 and 1987, St. Magdalena underwent a renovation. The restoration work revived the chancel’s vibrant interior paintings. These had been painted over during Pfarrer Adolf Stakemeier’s time. Pfarrer Berthold Wagener played a vital role in redesigning the chancel and altar area. This redesign aligned with the Second Vatican Council’s liturgical understanding.
In 2015, another renovation brought a modern fresco. Artist Thomas Jessen from Eslohe created an image of the Resurrection. The fresco features St. Maria Magdalena, the church’s patron saint.
Listen closely to the sounds of St. Magdalena. Its west tower holds a special treasure. It has one of Dortmund’s deepest-toned peals. Four cast steel bells ring out in the sequence b°-des’-es’-f’.
The parish of St. Maria Magdalena includes Lütgendortmund and Somborn. It serves around 6,300 Catholics. Together with other parishes, it forms the Pastoralverbund Dortmunder Westen. Pfarrer Guido Hoernchen has led this association since September 1, 2014.
The high tower is the highest point of the suburb with its 53 meters. The large transept immediately catches the eye. St. Magdalena stands as a testament to faith. It shows art and community spirit in Dortmund.