Contemplate how this serene churchyard has been a spiritual anchor for centuries. Here stands the Evangelische Kirche Urdenbach. It is one of Düsseldorfs oldest Protestant churches. Imagine Urdenbach in the late 17th century. A determined community sought religious freedom.
The Evangelische Kirche Urdenbach was inaugurated in 1695. But its story began long before that. A reformed congregation emerged in Urdenbach and nearby Benrath in the late 16th century. They initially used St. Cäcilia Church in Benrath from 1609.
However, religious tides turned. When Duke Wolfgang Wilhelm converted to Catholicism, the church was returned to Catholics in 1616. The Urdenbach congregation persevered. Led by preacher Thomas Kohlhagen, they continued as a secret community. They even built a preaching house. It proved too small.
In 1684, the decision to build a proper church was made. The foundation stone for the Evangelische Kirche Urdenbach was laid on July 16, 1688. Paul Reiner, known for building the Neanderkirche, was the master builder. The first service took place on May 6, 1693.
Notice the churchs architecture. It is a rectangular hall with a hipped roof and a large roof turret. Twelve large arched windows flood the interior with light. This design creates a bright and airy space. Two opposing entrances feature double wooden doors. The roof turret acts as the church tower. It houses two bells and a clock. Atop the turret is a baroque spire with a weather vane. This hall design was common in the Netherlands. It reflects the congregations historical ties to the Netherlands.
Step inside the Evangelische Kirche Urdenbach. You’ll find U-shaped benches facing the altar area, pulpit, and baptismal font. This arrangement fosters a sense of community. A gallery opposite the organ loft provides space for visitors or a choir. The wooden elements display beautiful baroque craftsmanship.
The organ has a fascinating history too. Johann Wilhelm Schöler built the original organ in 1754. By 1885, it no longer existed in its original form. Only the historical facade with the King David sculpture remained. In 1958, a neo-baroque organ was installed. Then in 2013, the Schöler organ was reconstructed using historical drawings. The reconstructed organ was inaugurated on December 1, 2013.
Until 1838, Monheim am Rhein belonged to the parish. Benrath and Holthausen were part of it until 1947. The Evangelische Kirche Urdenbach or village church, as it is affectionately known, is a focal point in Urdenbach. It is a place for worship, festivals, concerts, and community events. It provides a special setting for baptisms, confirmations, weddings, and other life events.
Today, the Evangelische Kirche Urdenbach stands as a testament to faith and perseverance. Its story echoes through the centuries. It binds the community together. Take a moment to appreciate the simple beauty. Remember the people who built and sustained this spiritual haven.