How about this: Imagine raisin bread. Now, envision a church building. That’s the initial image conjured by the Reformed Church Windhoek, affectionately nicknamed the “raisin bread church”.
The Reformed Church Windhoek stands as the oldest of Windhoek’s three Dutch Reformed churches. It holds a significant place in Namibian religious history. Founded in 1937, this congregation marked the sixth-oldest of the Reformed Churches in South Africa within then South West Africa. An earlier Reformed Church, Bitterwater, started near Dordabis in 1935. However, it closed in 1964. Thus, the Reformed Church Windhoek became the fifth-oldest continuously active GK congregation in Namibia.
Initially, the congregation gathered in various homes and halls. Finally, in 1952, they erected their own church building. This structure had an angular design and a flat roof. The upper wall tiles featured contrasting colors, hence the nickname “raisin bread church”.
A significant moment arrived on September 10, 1977. The Reformed Church Windhoek relocated to its current, more spacious building. This brown brick church overlooks the capital from the corner of Luther and Liliencron Streets in Eros. Tinus du Plessis served as the architect. Michiel Prinsloo, a Dorsland Trek survivor, unlocked the front door at the opening ceremony.
Inside, a marble “treasure chest” was placed in the foyer for tithes. Due to cost overruns, the church acquired a smaller organ than originally planned. Construction concluded on November 2, 2002, with the installation of the corbel.
Over the years, numerous ministers have served the Reformed Church Windhoek. These include Dr. Demps van der Merwe, who served from 1950 to 1957, and Henning Vorster Venter, who began his service on July 24, 2016. Their leadership has guided the congregation through decades of spiritual growth.
The Reformed Church Windhoek has a rich architectural heritage. Its story reflects the evolving religious landscape of Windhoek. This church stands as a testament to the enduring faith of its members.