Wondering how a building can symbolize a stable? Christ König Church in Cologne does just that. This unique church has a fascinating story. It stands in the Longerich district.
Christ König, built in 1951, was designed by Cologne architect Fritz Schaller. It cost 130,000 DM. The church sits in Gartenstadt-Nord. This residential area was newly developed in 1957.
The foundation stone was laid on May 24, 1951. City Dean Robert Grosche performed the ceremony. On May 1, 1952, Auxiliary Bishop Josef Ferche consecrated Christ König.
Inside Christ König, an open roof structure spans the space. This design is typical of Fritz Schaller’s churches. Four V-shaped wooden trusses support the roof. They divide the interior into three naves. Locals often call it the “Christmas Church”. This is because the design evokes the stable in Bethlehem.
The outwardly curved apse in the east reflects early Christian basilicas. In the southwest, the baptistery protrudes from the wall. Cologne sculptor Elmar Hillebrand created the altar. He also designed the tabernacle base and pulpit. These designs followed Fritz Schaller’s plans. Hillebrand also crafted the oval baptismal font. It features shell limestone and a carved oak lid.
The hanging altar cross from 1951 is by German sculptor Hildegard Domizlaff. The Stations of the Cross are particularly important. They are hand-stitched with colored wool threads on linen. After fire damage in 1977, they were carefully restored. A purple Passion cloth displays the instruments of Jesus’ suffering.
Later, an organ loft was added near the main entrance. This addition followed Schaller’s designs. The loft holds an organ with 29 registers. The organ was built by the Seifert organ building company in Kevelaer.
Almost all stained glass windows were created by Ludwig Schaffrath in 1952. Only the altar window is different. The nave windows display ornamental patterns. The rear wall window shows Christ König above the four Evangelist symbols. The altar window has an ornament. It features laurel wreath and shell symbols. An unknown artist created this around 1980.
The Christ König and St. Bernhard parishes cooperated for a long time. In autumn 2002, both church boards decided to unite. On January 1, 2004, they became one parish. Christ König then became the main parish church. This merger was a first step in restructuring the Archdiocese of Cologne.
On January 1, 2010, Christ König merged with St. Dionysius parish. St. Dionysius is located in the old Longerich town center. Since then, St. Dionysius is the parish church. Christ König, St. Bernhard, and Marienkirche are branch churches of the larger parish.
Christ König was listed as a historic monument on February 18, 1999. It is number 8387 in Longerich.
So, the next time you see Christ König, remember its stable-like design. Think of the community. Consider its art and history. It is a testament to faith.