A majestic structure stands before you. This is the Franziskus-Xaverius-Kirche in Dortmund. Its history stretches back centuries.
The Franziskus-Xaverius-Kirche isn’t the first church on this site. A Franciscan monastery existed here from the 13th century until 1805. The original church was even destroyed by fire in 1297. It was rebuilt. Then in 1805 the entire monastery was demolished during secularization. The current building is a testament to resilience.
The industrial revolution brought many Catholic workers to Dortmund. The existing Catholic church couldn’t accommodate them. Franciscan friars from Saxony arrived in 1895. They initially held services in a small house chapel. The need for a larger space was evident.
Construction of the Franziskus-Xaverius-Kirche began in 1898. The foundation stone was laid on October 4 1898. The church’s dedication was June 13 1902. The architect was Johannes Franziskus Klomp. He designed a beautiful neo-Gothic basilica. Sadly the church suffered bomb damage in World War II. It was damaged on multiple occasions. Yet the community rebuilt it. Repairs were needed after the war. Services resumed at Christmas 1949.
The Franziskus-Xaverius-Kirche holds significant cultural importance. Its stained-glass windows are works of art. Some were created by Nikolaus Bette. Others by Hans Theo Richter and Wilhelm Buschulte. The church underwent a major interior renovation in 2006. An old altar retable found a new home here. The church’s two new bronze bells were cast in 2002. These add to its beauty and character.
Brother Jordan Mai a beloved Franciscan friar lived here from 1907 to 1922. His remains are interred in the church. His life inspired devotion among the faithful. A beatification process is underway. The Franziskus-Xaverius-Kirche remains a vibrant part of Dortmund’s religious and cultural heritage. It stands as a beacon of faith and community. The church continues to serve the people of Dortmund.