Did you notice the towering spire? That’s the Elisabethenkirche, a beacon of faith and history in Frankfurt’s Bockenheim district. The Elisabethenkirche has been a part of this community for over 150 years. Today, we will uncover some of the stories held within these walls.
Let’s step back in time to the 19th century. Bockenheim was a small town outside Frankfurt. Most residents were traditionally evangelisch. But the Industrial Revolution changed everything. Workers flocked to Bockenheim, including many Catholics. The small community needed a place to worship.
Before the Elisabethenkirche existed, Catholics gathered in small chapels. One was even located in the Bockenheim Castle. It was far from ideal. A dedicated priest named Fidelis Müler arrived. He championed the construction of a proper church.
In 1868, the foundation stone was laid. Architect Georg Gottlob Ungewitter designed the Elisabethenkirche in the popular neo-Gothic style. Imagine the excitement as the Elisabethenkirche slowly rose from the ground. Finally, on December 16, 1870, the Elisabethenkirche was consecrated. The patron saint became Saint Elisabeth of Thuringia. The Elisabethenkirche became the first Catholic church in Bockenheim since the Reformation.
But building a church costs money. The construction ran into problems because of the ground conditions. Costs soared but gifts helped to complete the construction. Even Kaiser Wilhelm I donated two cannons which were melted down and recast as bells. The Elisabethenkirche acquired a high altar around 1420 and the Maria-Schlaf-Altar around 1385 thanks to Dom- und Stadtpfarrer Muenzenberger.
Tragedy struck during World War II. The Elisabethenkirche suffered severe damage from air raids. The interior burned. Only the tower remained standing. After the war, the community rallied. They rebuilt the Elisabethenkirche. It reopened in 1950.
Take a look around. The interior is bright and modern. However, some original artwork survived. The Maria-Schlaf-Altar which translates to Mary’s death altar, miraculously survived the war. Today, it stands in the right side aisle.
The Elisabethenkirche is more than just a historical building. It’s a vibrant center for the community. It is a place where people come together. The Elisabethenkirche is a symbol of hope. The Elisabethenkirche is also a testament to the enduring power of faith.
Before we move on, notice the solar panels on the roof. In the spirit of good works, the Elisabethenkirche also cares for the environment. The Elisabethenkirche has a solar power system since 2002. Now you know some of the many stories of the Elisabethenkirche.