The unusual pale yellow of Tingbjerg Kirke catches your eye. It’s not your typical church. This is Tingbjerg Kirke a church designed to blend into its surroundings yet stand out.
Tingbjerg Kirke wasn’t always here. The Tingbjerg housing project started in 1957. Initially people felt the distance to the nearest church Husumvold Kirke was too great. Shops and buses arrived in the area. Why not a church? A desire for something new even within the church led to the choice of architect Kaj Lyngfeldt Larsen’s design. It was preferred over Steen Eiler Rasmussen’s more traditional proposal. Rasmussen was reportedly unhappy about this.
Built in 1983 and consecrated by Bishop Ole Bertelsen Tingbjerg Kirke initially lacked an organ and a bell tower. There was even debate about building a windmill instead of a tower. Two votes were needed before a tower was decided. Early on the church bells were rung manually. You could hear who was leading the service. Now they are automated.
The church’s distinctive color is described as ‘new-bodegul’ or ‘saxogadegul’. This unique shade immediately signals the church’s presence. It showcases that a church can be bold and innovative. It doesn’t always have to blend seamlessly. It can swim against the current.
The main entrance features beautiful glass doors. They symbolize the journey of life. Growth towards God eternity and understanding is central. The original doors were unfortunately destroyed on New Year’s Eve. The current ones are slightly smaller. The church aims to bring a bit of heaven into everyday life. The doors were designed by the internationally renowned artist Peter Brandes.
Inside you’ll find a simple yet elegant space. For many years the organ dominated the room. It’s a beautiful instrument built by Jensen and Thomsen. A PH piano is also present. Music plays a vital role in services.
A renovation in 2004 added several elements. A large free-standing brass cross designed by Lars Jensen was added. It was a response to frequent questions about the lack of a cross in a Christian church. This cross is striking against a dark blue tapestry. The tapestry woven by Elisabeth Hofman symbolizes Jacob’s Ladder. The cross features the same lines as the church’s brass candlesticks. These are lit during every service.
Tingbjerg Kirke’s history is filled with unique stories. One anecdote involves a member of the congregation asking the bishop during the presentation of a priest candidate “Who are you really?” Another involves a visiting priest picking up dropped knitting yarn during a service. It’s the people that truly shape the church. The building in turn influences them. The unique architecture and vibrant history of Tingbjerg Kirke create a space for spiritual exploration and community connection. It’s a place where the ordinary and extraordinary intertwine.