A helicopter once placed a massive cross atop the Evangeliumskirche. Now, let’s delve into the story of this unique Lutheran church in Munich. The Evangeliumskirche stands as a testament to faith and community in the Hasenbergl district. Consecrated on December 2 1962, it has been a focal point for spiritual life.
Designed by architects Helmut von Werz and Johann-Christoph Ottow, the Evangeliumskirche was constructed in just eight months. Its red brick exterior and reinforced concrete frame make it a distinctive landmark. The church’s interior can accommodate 500 people within its 35-meter-long and 15-meter-wide nave.
Look up at the tower. The original cross was mounted on August 30 1962 with the help of the German army. The spectacle was even broadcast on television. In December 2006, it was replaced with a lighter, illuminated cross that is visible from afar.
Step inside the Evangeliumskirche. Notice how the interior design revolves around the number seven. The altar features a seven-armed candelabrum. A depiction of Christ includes seven flames and seven stars. Tapestries illustrate the seven acts of mercy. The seven days of creation are shown on the gallery. The tower cross itself is seven meters high and weighs seven centners.
Originally intended for a congregation of 7500, the Evangeliumskirche adapted to changing times. By 2022, the congregation had decreased to 1600 members. Between 2021 and 2022, the Evangeliumskirche underwent a significant transformation. It became Bavaria’s first “Diakoniekirche” integrating church and diaconal services. This renovation reduced the church space. Community rooms were added on three floors at the back.
The Evangeliumskirche also oversees the Simeonskapelle in the nearby Augustinum-Wohnstift. Since 1969, the Evangeliumskirche has housed the administration of the Prodekanat Munich North. The complex includes the parish office, apartments, and the Grüß-Gott-Haus with youth facilities.
Listen closely to the bells. The Evangeliumskirche boasts a five-part bronze peal. These bells resonate with a sequence of f1 – g1 – b1 – c2 – d2.
The Evangeliumskirche also features an organ. Gerhard Schmid built it in 1968. It had 20 registers. In 1972, Schmid expanded the instrument. It now includes a Rückpositiv with six registers.
Consider the pastors who have led this church. Otto Steiner was the first in 1963. He was followed by Heimo Liebl, Helmut Ruhwandl, Roderich Diez, Uli Seegenschmiedt, and Felix Reuter. Since 1969, they have also served as Prodekane.
Today, the Evangeliumskirche stands not just as a building. It is a living testament to faith, adaptation, and community service in Munich’s Hasenbergl district. It is now united with Kapernaum-Bethanienkirche to form one parish.