Emmauskirche

Let’s step back into the 20th century. It is the 1950s. Mannheim is recovering from the destruction of the war. The city needs not only new buildings, but also symbols of hope and community. This is the story of the Emmauskirche. The Emmauskirche is not only a beautiful place of worship, but also a testament to the resilience of the people of Sch\u00f6nau. Originally, Sch\u00f6nau was just a collection of makeshift housing that sprang up after World War I, but by the 1930s, a more planned approach was taken. As the community grew, the need for a proper church became more apparent. Even though the church served the Sandh\u00f6fer community at first, it became an independent parish in 1951. The first brick was laid just a year later, on the 8th of June. It was a monumental task, but the community put their hearts and souls into it. The architects, Max Schmechel, had a vision for a church that would celebrate the traditional architectural style, a tribute to the past. The Emmauskirche became a true symbol of hope for the community, opening its doors in 1953. The church was named after the biblical town of Emmaus, a place where Jesus appeared to his disciples after his resurrection. It was a very fitting name, as the church was also a place of hope and new beginnings for the people of Sch\u00f6nau. The Emmauskirche’s community grew and grew. 1959 saw the addition of another parish that served other neighboring communities like Blumenau, then a new church dedicated to St Stephanus was built close by. The two churches would later merge into one parish in 2007, with the Stephanuskirche ceasing to be a church building in 2011. The Emmauskirche still stands today, a reminder of the strength and resilience of the people of Sch\u00f6nau. As you take in its beauty and majesty, think of the people who built it, those who lived, and those who still live here. The Emmauskirche is a testament to the unwavering spirit of the people of Sch\u00f6nau and of Mannheim.