The cornerstone of the Lukaskirche was laid in 1962. This unassuming church in Kassel tells a story of postwar growth and community. It stands as a testament to the expansion of Niederzwehren after World War II. New housing developments sprung up particularly between Leuschnerstrasse and Am Donarbrunnen. The journey to the Matthauskirche became too far for many residents. This need prompted the construction of the Lukaskirche. Its simple square design is made of warm clinker bricks. It’s a building designed for modern worship. The Lukaskirche offers diverse services. Play and theatre are significant parts of its expression of faith.
The name Lukaskirche honours the Gospel writer Luke. Tradition holds that Luke was an educated Greek physician. He not only wrote the third Gospel but also the Acts of the Apostles. The church’s interior underwent a significant transformation by the end of 2011. A new pulpit and lectern designed by artist Werner Krömeke were added. These pieces are mobile. This allows for versatile use of the space beyond services.
Three bronze bells were cast at the Rincker company in Sinn. Many parishioners witnessed their creation on April 14 1964. They were installed on May 19 of that year. The largest bell weighs 1041 kg. Its inscription reads “My soul magnifies the Lord” (Luke 1:46). The middle bell weighs 525 kg. Its inscription says “Heaven and earth will pass away but my words will not pass away” (Luke 21:33). The smallest bell weighs 384 kg. Its inscription is “But rejoice because your names are written in heaven” (Luke 10:20).
The church was officially dedicated on October 4 1964. The interior walls are of the same unfinished masonry as the exterior walls tower and other buildings. The gallery is made of exposed concrete. The window design is striking. A wide band of antique glass in harmonious bluish and brownish tones runs above the gallery. This band extends to the floor at the west end forming the altar window. Five windows beneath the gallery depict Christ and the four Evangelists. A window with a dove is in the baptismal niche. Kassel artist Dieter Freiherr von Andrian-Werburg created these windows.
The altar is on the north side also made of exposed concrete. The floor is black asphalt. The pews were originally dark grey wood. They were replaced in 2014 with light individual chairs. The organ designed by Dieter Noeske was built by the Rotenburg a d Fulda organ workshop. It was dedicated in a festive service on January 21 1973.
The Lukaskirche is more than just a building. It reflects the evolving community of Niederzwehren. It’s a space where faith is expressed creatively. It is a place of worship and community gathering. The Lukaskirche’s story is one of adaptation and growth mirroring the journey of its congregation.