A forgotten cornerstone. That’s what this church seemed to be. The Église Saint-François-Xavier stands before you a testament to time. Its neo-Gothic style is undeniable yet softened by Romanesque elements. This blend creates an eclectic charm. This is more than just a building.
The Église Saint-François-Xavier in Anderlecht is a story in stone. Built at the start of the 20th century. It served a Cureghem neighborhood booming with activity. The church’s construction finished in 1915. It was dedicated to Saint Francis Xavier. He was a 16th-century Jesuit missionary known as the Apostle of Asia.
This wasn’t Anderlecht’s only church. The Immaculate Conception and the Collegiate Church of Saint Peter and Saint Guidon already existed. But Anderlecht was expanding rapidly. A third place of worship was needed. Thus the parish under Saint Francis Xavier’s protection was established in 1906. Early services took place in a warehouse. Later a temporary chapel opened on Rue Eloy.
The church occupies a whole urban block. It’s bordered by three streets: Joseph Dujardin Rue de l’École Moderne and Rue Eloy. Its imposing presence is undeniable. Notice the square bell tower. It’s on the side. It’s positioned at the corner of the left transept and the nave. Two octagonal Romanesque turrets adorn the facade. One is on the right side. The other is attached to the bell tower. The church housed beautiful stained glass windows depicting the twelve apostles. Sadly they’re in poor condition.
Restoration attempts happened in 1985. However the decline continued. In 1986 a smaller chapel was created inside. It aimed to serve the dwindling congregation. The surroundings were neglected too. Closed for worship since 2015 secularization is underway. A plan exists. The building could become a sports center after renovation. The Église Saint-François-Xavier is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a chapter in Brussels’ history a place of hope and change. A future awaits.