How about a church that blends seamlessly into its suburban surroundings? That is exactly what the Ängbykyrkan does. Ängbykyrkan is located in Blackeberg near Södra Ängby in Stockholm. It is a vital part of the Bromma parish. Let’s delve into the story of this unique church.
Ängbykyrkan was designed by Björn Hedvall. It was inaugurated in 1959. The church’s exterior is notable. It features brick covered with white-gray plaster. The steep roof is covered with gray slate. This gives it a clean modern look.
Inside Ängbykyrkan, the main space is one large room. It follows the traditional east-west orientation. The high-fired stained glass windows catch the eye. They are crafted by Randi Fisher. She was Björn Hedvall’s niece. The windows in the choir area feature various shades of blue. These colors mix with vibrant red sections. They symbolize the wounds of Christ.
The copper doors of Ängbykyrkan are adorned with unique handles. These handles are shaped like fish. They were sculpted by C-O Avén. North of the church stands a bell tower. It has an open concrete design. A weathercock tops the tower. Two church bells hang within.
In 1999, Ängbykyrkan underwent a complete renovation. During this renovation, a small square of the old wall color was left. It is visible in the ceiling above the organ loft. A glazed corridor was added. It connects the church room and the parish hall. Bishop Caroline Krook rededicated Ängbykyrkan on October 3, 1999.
From 2002 to 2005, architect Magnus Silfverhielm worked to adapt the church space. The goal was to accommodate both large and small groups. The seating was rearranged. Two rows of benches near the chancel steps were removed. The remaining benches were shortened. New, separate communion tables were introduced. An ambo, sedilia, and baptismal font were added. A specially designed chair was also created. A fifth consecration cross was carved into the main altar. Bishop Caroline Krook rededicated the church again on October 2, 2005.
Ängbykyrkan serves as the parish’s church for children, youth, and families. There is also an open preschool linked to the church. The Bromma parish manages the preschool. It offers general preschool education based on Christian values. Services are held every Sunday at Ängbykyrkan during the school term.
The altar is made of red granite. It features carved consecration crosses on its surface. Bertil Berggren Askenström created the altar crucifix. He also designed the six altar candlesticks and the communion silver. The crucifix shows Christ as a triumphant king. The cross itself has gold mosaic within a silver frame. The pointed ends are delicate openwork silver. They represent the four evangelist symbols.
The baptismal font has a square base that tapers upward. It features a wide bowl-shaped cup. The font is made of yellow-gray granite. The pulpit is made of pine. It is three-sided and stands on a low limestone base. The sound cover is flat and hexagonal. It has a meter-high stand at the top.
Ängbykyrkan stands as a testament to thoughtful design. Its art blends with functional space. The church offers a welcoming space for worship and community.