How about a journey back to 1900? That’s when the Kőbányai Református Egyházközség, the Reformed Church of Kőbánya, first opened its doors. This church stands as a testament to faith and resilience. It serves the religious needs of the Reformed community.
Let’s delve into the story of this remarkable building. The Kőbányai Református Egyházközség is located on Ihász Street 15. You can reach it easily by buses 217 and 95. The church’s history began in a humble way. The first Reformed service in Kőbánya occurred in 1885. It took place in a house on Füzér Street. József Kovách, a master carpenter, opened his home for worship.
The congregation quickly outgrew this space. They moved to the half-finished house of police captain Albin Almási Balogh on Állomás Street. By this time, they had already started a church-building committee. The Kőbányai Református Egyházközség finally had its own building by Christmas 1900.
The neo-Gothic design is by Lajos Schodits. The Kőbányai Református Egyházközség suffered damage during both World War II and the 1956 revolution. Soviet tanks caused severe damage. Repairs were made hastily, with limited resources. This led to further damage over time. A full renovation wasn’t completed until 2004. It took fifteen years of dedicated work. For example, the facade ornaments had to be recreated.
The Kőbányai Református Egyházközség also reflects cultural and patriotic missions. The community undertook sacrifices to build a church. They wanted it to be worthy of the millennium celebrations. The City Council supported them with 30,000 forints.
The Kőbányai Református Egyházközség is a three-nave building. It features a transept. A slender tower rises 54 meters high. It has a star at its peak. A smaller tower on the main facade reaches 35 meters. It is topped with a rooster. The bare brick cladding adds to the church’s unique appearance. Inside, wooden pews line all four sides. Arched vaults cover the space.
The organ is opposite the entrance. Below it are the pulpit, the Moses chair, and the Lord’s table. Several plaques commemorate historical events. They honor those who served. These include Don region soldiers and galley preachers. The Kőbányai Református Egyházközség has 600 seats.
The furniture was crafted in 1905. It was made by the same company that furnished the Parliament. Originally, the Kőbányai Református Egyházközség had three bells. Two were requisitioned during World War I. Today, the church has three bells again. The largest weighs 1450 kg. It is the biggest Reformed bell in Budapest. The other two bells were recast in 2000. They replaced those lost in the war.
The Kőbányai Református Egyházközség stands not only as a place of worship. It symbolizes community. It embodies perseverance. Its walls have witnessed both tragedy and triumph. As we conclude our visit, remember the dedication. Remember the spirit that built and restored this cherished landmark.