Maximilian-Kolbe-Kapelle

Has anyone ever noticed how a place can hold so much history, yet appear so unassuming? The Maximilian-Kolbe-Kapelle, right here before us, is such a place. From the outside, it’s a modern, brick structure. But within these walls resides a story of faith, resilience, and a unique connection to a saint who gave his life for another. The Maximilian-Kolbe-Kapelle, completed in 1977, stands as a testament to a community’s dedication. The very cornerstone, laid on May 8th, 1977, is a piece of the Cologne Cathedral itself, a gift from the Cathedral’s master builder. The church, dedicated to the martyred Saint Maximilian Kolbe, wasn’t always a standalone parish. It began as part of St. Michael’s in Porz-Eil. In 1971, a dedicated team began serving the growing Finkenberg community. They held services in a makeshift “church shop” until the Maximilian-Kolbe-Kapelle was built. It finally gained independence in February 1978. The design of the Maximilian-Kolbe-Kapelle is unique. Church and community spaces are combined in one building. It sits on a hill, connected by a footbridge to the residences across the street. Its polygonal shape and octagonal tower rise steeply on one side, while the roof slopes gently down on the other towards the hilltop. The interior is bathed in natural light from narrow windows along the roof slope and a strip of windows in the choir area. The altar area is on ground level, allowing for seating on all sides. This accessible design fosters a sense of community. Now, let’s talk about the interior, which is where some truly special details lie. The altar table itself has a history. It was brought from the original “church shop,” a tangible link to the community’s early days. This table, designed by Egino Weinert in 1972-1973, features four scenes from the New Testament. Above the altar is a large niche. During the summer months, a magnificent silk wall hanging adorns this space. This hanging, depicting the seventh day of creation, was designed by Monika Möller and Monika Jilke and painstakingly crafted by the women of the parish over two years. Another striking feature is a cross designed by Dieter Valk and Alfred Kupper in 1981. It spans the altar wall, reaching towards the left window. Even the floor holds a story here at Maximilian-Kolbe-Kapelle. The tile floor, extending beyond the church and into the community rooms, is a unique piece of art. It combines leaf and flower motifs with geometric shapes and, surprisingly, bicycles. However, at the spot where the image of Saint Maximilian Kolbe hangs, the tile is interrupted by a rectangular concrete section. This concrete symbolizes the floor of the starvation bunker in Auschwitz, where Kolbe sacrificed his life. Upon this concrete lies a black wooden cross from Zduńska Wola, Kolbe’s birthplace, a gift from former concentration camp prisoners. Finally, let’s talk about the bell. Cast in 1521 by Jochim Ingermann, it originally belonged to the local Protestant community. When they laid the cornerstone for their Hope Church, they loaned the bell to the Maximilian-Kolbe-Kapelle. So, every time the bell rings, it serves as a beautiful reminder of interfaith harmony. As you leave Maximilian-Kolbe-Kapelle, take a moment to appreciate not only the architecture but also the stories etched within. It’s a place where history, faith, and art intertwine to create something truly special.