“See there the dwelling place of God among men” That inscription greets you at the entrance of the Evangeliumskirche. This church in Berlin-Reinickendorf is more than just a building. It’s a testament to faith resilience and community.
The Evangeliumskirche’s story begins long before its construction. In 1897 services were held in a local schoolhouse. A community was forming. A need for a permanent place of worship grew. Then in 1905 a community house was built. This was the start of the Evangeliumsgemeinde.
The current Evangeliumskirche was a post-war project. Architects Karl Streckebach and Carl Brodführer designed this beautiful structure. Construction began in 1955. The church was dedicated on December 9 1956. The design reflects the architectural trends of the 1950s. The rectangular shape follows the traditional layout of a church. The asymmetrical placement of the gallery is a unique touch.
The Evangeliumskirche’s interior is equally compelling. The iron cross above the altar is a gift from a local company. It was originally intended for the steeple but proved too heavy. The altar itself displays six relief images. These depict key moments in the Christian faith from Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem to the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
The church’s bells are another point of interest. Originally three cast steel bells were installed. These were later replaced in 1965. The new bronze bells each bear biblical inscriptions. They were cast by the Petit & Gebr. Edelbrock foundry. This replacement reflects the church’s ongoing commitment to its community.
The Evangeliumskirche has seen renovations. In the 1970s there were significant upgrades. These included improvements to the organ and lighting. More recent renovations in the 21st century included a new entrance and community center. These renovations show the congregation’s dedication to preserving and enhancing this significant place of worship. The artistic features from the original design remain intact. The church’s original artistic integrity is preserved. The Evangeliumskirche continues to serve its community. It continues to be a vibrant center of faith. The Evangeliumskirche stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith. It’s a place where stories of faith and community continue to unfold.