Hidden within Augsburg’s bustling streets lies the Gemeindehaus St. Matthäus. It’s more than just a building. It’s a living testament to faith perseverance and community. The Gemeindehaus St Matthäus in Augsburg stands as a vital part of the St Matthäus church community. Originally services were held in a schoolroom. Then in 1898 a chapel was consecrated in the Friedbergerau. It was renamed St Matthäus in 1923. The church building underwent significant expansion in 1955. It became an asymmetrical two-aisled hall church. This style reflects the Heimatschutz movement. This movement emphasized regional building traditions. The Gemeindehaus St Matthäus is a central hub for the church. It houses the parish office a community center and a three-group kindergarten.
The church itself boasts impressive features. A wooden crucifix created by Heinrich Untergantschnig replaced an older plaster one. Two bells hang in the church tower one cast in 1950 the other in 1956. The larger bell bears a dedication. It was donated by Friedrich and Sofie Deffner and Friedrich and Margarete Sohnle. A new organ replaced the older Steinmeyer organ. The new organ by Link has 21 registers and 1314 pipes. Its sound blends South German French and Italian influences. The Gemeindehaus St Matthäus is more than just bricks and mortar.
The Gemeindehaus St Matthäus is also a place of art. Ruth Borisch’s textile wall hangings grace the interior. They depict parables from the Gospel of Matthew. Images include house building the city on a hill the lost sheep and the mustard seed. These are surrounded by Christian symbols like grapes and fish. The Gemeindehaus St Matthäus is clearly a place of worship. It’s also a community center and a place of art. A bronze fountain depicting the baptism of Jesus stands outside. It serves as a meeting place after Sunday services. The Gemeindehaus St Matthäus is a vibrant center of Augsburg life. It’s a place where faith community and art intertwine. It has served the community for over a century. The plans for a new Gemeindehaus near the church show its continued importance. The current Gemeindehaus will be demolished to make way for social housing and a new kindergarten. This shows the community’s commitment to growth and service. The Gemeindehaus St. Matthäus is a reminder that faith is not static. It’s a living and evolving force that shapes communities. The Gemeindehaus St. Matthäus serves as an important reminder of this dynamic faith.