Efeu. That’s the German word for ivy. It thickly covers the tower of the Osterkirche. The church stands before you in Frankfurt’s Sachsenhausen district. It is a testament to faith and community.
The Osterkirche’s story starts in 1958. The church was designed by architect Rudolf Schanty. It was consecrated on November 15, 1959. This was a period of rebuilding and renewal in Germany. The Osterkirche became a beacon of hope.
Note the rectangular shape of the church. It is oriented to the southeast. The exterior walls are covered with anthracite-colored rubble stone. This gives the Osterkirche a distinctive look. Light streams into the church. Vertical window bands separate the walls. The southeast wall features a horizontal window band. Colored glass creates a vibrant display.
Originally, the Osterkirche had its main entrance on the northwest side. A community center was attached. This provided space for meetings and activities. The hall could be opened to expand the church during large festivals. This created a flexible space.
Over time, the Ostergemeinde faced challenges. Membership declined because of demographic changes. The church buildings needed renovation. The space became too large for the shrinking congregation. A fusion with the Lukasgemeinde was recommended.
In 1998, the two congregations merged. They became the Maria-Magdalena-Gemeinde. There was a threat to demolish the Osterkirche. But determined members fought to save it. They valued its architectural significance.
A compromise was reached. Part of the property was sold to a developer. A residential complex with a supermarket was built. The original church and tower were spared. A new daycare center was built in the residential complex’s base. The church leases the space.
Between 2007 and 2012, the Osterkirche underwent renovations. The church was modernized to meet current needs. The architectural firm Gottstein + Blumenstein was hired. The renovation focused on essential improvements. The goal was to create a more functional space.
Inside, the organ gallery was retained. A new staircase was installed. This freed up space below. The space now houses a sacristy, toilets, and a small kitchen. A group room was created for smaller services. The altar area was expanded. Flexible seating replaced the traditional pews.
The Osterkirche now has modern amenities. The heating system was upgraded. New lighting was installed. The copper pendant lights from the 50s were preserved. The church is now accessible. A ramp leads to the entrance. A small church square was added.
The Osterkirche re-opened on Easter morning in 2012. The first service celebrated the resurrection. The renewed Osterkirche continues to serve the community. It hosts regular services. The Korean Young Rock Church also uses the space.
Take a moment to appreciate the ivy-covered tower. Hear the bells. The Osterkirche’s bells ring out. They invite all to worship. They also remind us of the church’s enduring presence.