Auferstehungskirche

Did you ever hear of a church that survived not one, not two, but multiple devastating floods? Right here, nestled along the Inn River, stands the Auferstehungskirche, a testament to resilience and faith. The Auferstehungskirche is the spiritual home of Passau’s Old Catholic community. Its story began in 1873, long before this beautiful structure graced the riverbank. The first Old Catholic services took place in the city hall’s meeting room, led by Professor Friedrich. Later, they moved to the Heilig-Geist-Spitalkirche, granted to them by the city. However, in 1890, they lost the right to use this church. This was due to a ministerial decision declaring Old Catholics in Bavaria were no longer considered Catholics. The community then found temporary refuge in the Lutheran St. Matthew’s Church. They worshipped there until they could build their own sanctuary. In 1892, the congregation voted to construct the Auferstehungskirche. They purchased land on Innstrasse and began construction in 1894. The church was designed by city architect Johann Seidl, who was also a member of the congregation. The Auferstehungskirche first opened its doors in July 1895. The official consecration followed in October of the same year. The church has witnessed its share of challenges. In 1954, floodwaters reached an astonishing height of 1.72 meters within the church. The Auferstehungskirche was renovated in 1931, 1946, and again after the 1954 flood. More recently, extensive renovations took place between 1978 and 2004. Then came the devastating flood of 2013, causing severe damage. After almost two years of repairs and restoration, the community returned to their beloved Auferstehungskirche in May 2015. A new altar and ambo, consecrated by Bishop Dr. Matthias Ring, marked their return. The Auferstehungskirche stands as a symbol of the community’s unwavering spirit. It has weathered storms both literal and figurative. It continues to offer a place of peace and worship along the banks of the Inn.