St. Gabriel

Gazing upon St. Gabriel, did you ever imagine its humble beginnings? Before the imposing brick structure we see today, the faithful of Eidelstedt gathered in a simple overnight lodging provided by the Reichsbahn. St. Gabriel’s story began after 1918, amidst the burgeoning railway settlement in Eidelstedt. The Catholic community, yearning for a dedicated space, held mass in this makeshift sanctuary. Then, on November 20, 1927, a small chapel, dedicated to St. Gabriel, was blessed. St. Gabriel was a modest chapel, serving as a beacon of faith. Priests from St. Josef in Altona travelled to Eidelstedt to conduct services. This continued until 1948, when Eidelstedt finally received its own dedicated clergy. The original chapel, after the new church was built, was intended to serve the community as a meeting hall. Sadly, a fire in 1964 destroyed this piece of St. Gabriel’s history. The growth of the community continued, leading to Eidelstedt becoming a curacy on December 1, 1961, and finally a parish on April 1, 1968. On April 1, 1971, parts of the St. Gabriel community were transferred to the parish of St. Bruder Konrad in Lurup. The current St. Gabriel Church, a striking red brick and concrete structure, was designed by architect K. H. Bargholz. Its construction took place between 1959 and 1960. The church was blessed on Christmas Day, 1960, and consecrated on August 19, 1961. Notice its unique pentagonal design and the distinct concrete tower on the north side, housing the bells. Inside, the wooden ceiling and gallery create a warm and inviting atmosphere. St. Gabriel can accommodate 350 worshippers, a testament to the growth of the community from its humble beginnings in a railway lodging.