Ever wondered how a church could be both modern and deeply rooted in its community? That’s the Epiphaniaskirche. Inaugurated in June 1963, the Epiphaniaskirche of Münster stands as a testament to innovative church architecture and community spirit.
Let’s step back to the late 1950s. The area around here transformed from vast pastures into a lively residential district. The existing Erlöserkirche was too far away for the new families. The community needed a new spiritual home that was closer and more accessible. In May 1959, the Erlöser-Gemeinde bought a 4550 square meter plot for ten DM per square meter. A church building association was founded. It diligently collected donations. These funds later helped finance the bells, interior, and the organ.
An architectural competition was launched. The goal was to design a church with 450 seats, a bell tower for three bells, a community center, and a kindergarten. Imagine the discussions. The jury decided none of the five designs were perfect without changes. The third prize winner was chosen. However, it still had a tower in the middle of the courtyard. The Epiphaniaskirche’s construction cost 1,050,184.31 DM. A significant portion came from the Protestant churches of Münster. The German government contributed 150,000 DM for the soldiers and their families living nearby.
In April 1961, the name Epiphaniaskirche was unanimously chosen. The cornerstone was laid on Epiphany, January 6, 1962. Even during construction, a wooden cross stood tall. It symbolized the church’s purpose.
The Epiphaniaskirche finally opened on June 9, 1963. So many people came. The service was moved outside.
The Epiphaniaskirche isn’t built like a traditional church. It’s a central church with a shifted center. The altar, pulpit, and baptismal font form a semicircle. The light comes in through colored glass. This creates a special atmosphere. The simple gabled roof seems to float above the dark red brick walls.
The Epiphaniaskirche’s 34-meter-high tower stands apart from the church. Its octagonal shape is visible from afar. Construction began in August 1962. The tower has vertical bands at each corner. These give it a delicate look.
Inside the Epiphaniaskirche, you’ll find an organ built in 1968. It has 19 registers on two manuals and a pedal. The pipes create beautiful music. The Kirchbauverein financed the organ.
The Epiphaniaskirche boasts five bells. These were cast in 1963. They have different tones. The bells’ inscriptions include biblical verses.
Look for the wooden sculpture of an angel. It stands at the edge of the Epiphaniaskirche. The artist, Rika Unger, gifted it to the church. She said the angel is always there.
Also, find the terracotta nativity scene. It shows Mary, Joseph, shepherds, kings, and even Judas written on the cave’s inner wall. The floor where the child lies is formed by an angel.
Today, the Epiphaniaskirche is more than just a building. It’s a community hub. It embodies a welcoming atmosphere. The Epiphaniaskirche exemplifies a church deeply intertwined with its surroundings. The church continues to be a place of faith. It is a testament to the power of community and innovative design.