In 1931 a humble wooden church opened its doors. This was the humble beginning of Kath Pfarrgemeinde St Augustinus. It served a growing community in Munich’s Trudering-Riem district. This small church was soon bursting at the seams. A larger church was needed.
The original church was a simple structure. It held just 120 seated and 280 standing parishioners. Demand far outstripped capacity. World War II delayed plans for a grander structure. The wait was long. However a new church finally took shape.
In 1955 the present Kath Pfarrgemeinde St Augustinus opened its doors. It is a modern hall-style building. This design reflects the architectural trends of the 1950s. The church’s square tower originally lacked a cross. This was due to airport safety regulations nearby. The tower only recently received a cross.
The interior is spacious. Its design reflects extensive renovations completed in 2001. The renovations emphasized liturgical elements. These included the baptismal font the ambo and the altar. The altar holds relics of Blessed Kaspar Stanggassinger. A towering 42-meter-high crucifix dominates the altar space. Surrounding it are scenes from the life of St Augustine. These are done in sgraffito a decorative style. The church also features artistic works by Siegfried Moroder. This includes sculptures of Mary and St Joseph.
The church’s impressive organ is a significant addition. It was built in 1965 by the Munich firm Carl Schuster. It boasts 41 registers and is perfect for romantic-era music. The organ was fully restored during the church’s recent renovation.
The church’s seven bells also have a story. They are made of a special bronze alloy. They were cast by Karl Czudnochowsky in Erding. One bell the Monikaglocke was transferred from the original church. Another the former Michaelsglocke was melted down to help create the Josefsglocke.
Kath Pfarrgemeinde St Augustinus is more than just a church. It is a community hub. It includes a parish hall and a kindergarten. The kindergarten underwent extensive renovations in 2012. It now includes a nursery. The parish hall had to be rebuilt after a fire in 1978.
Today Kath Pfarrgemeinde St Augustinus continues to serve its community. It’s a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of its people. It’s also a beautiful example of modern church architecture in Munich. This modern masterpiece stands as a proud part of the Munich skyline.