Is it possible for a church to be hidden in plain sight? Here at Biedermanngasse 11-13, stands the Kirche am Wege. It is an evangelical church with a unique story. Many pass by without realizing a place of worship resides here.
Originally, the area of Altmannsdorf and Hetzendorf belonged to the parish of Gumpendorf. The Gumpendorf parish was located in the Gustav-Adolf-Kirche. In 1925, a group of evangelicals from these areas united. They wanted to establish their own preaching station. From 1925 to 1937, they used the festival hall in Schloss Hetzendorf. Later, from 1938 to 1951, a converted horse stable served as their space. By 1951, they moved into a converted garage within the palace grounds.
The preaching station evolved over time. In 1964, it became a subsidiary of the Gumpendorf parish. Two years later, in 1966, it gained independence. It became its own parish. Generous donations allowed the construction of a dedicated church and community center. This happened between 1970 and 1972. Neighboring areas in the 23rd district were incorporated into the parish. A preaching station was set up in the Alterlaa residential park.
The Kirche am Wege blends into its surroundings. The church integrates seamlessly into a residential building. From the street, a cross near the gate hints at its presence. The Holz Kreuz and glass windows above the entrance further indicate the church.
Rudolf Angelides designed the church. He followed the theological ideas of Pastor Michael Meyer and the presbytery. The result is a simple space with a square layout. A roof pyramid with a glass window at its peak covers the room. The altar is in the center. Church benches surround it on three sides.
The Hetzendorfer Genesis is a highlight. It is a series of eight aluminum reliefs by Horst Aschermann. These depict scenes from creation. They add a unique artistic element to the Kirche am Wege.
The Kirche am Wege continues to evolve. In 2025, the parish will get a new bank account. The church is a vibrant part of the Evangelisch Wien West-Süd-West region. The Johanneskirche Liesing and other churches also belong to this region.
The Kirche am Wege is more than just a building. It is a community. It offers a welcoming space for people of all ages. It engages with society. The church embraces an open-door policy. Everyone is welcome. Here, at Kirche am Wege, you will find a place to move, accompany, and inspire.