“H. Dominiek Savio: 1978 Architect. V.M. Broos Aannemer. G. Praet en zoon”. This inscription marks the cornerstone of the H. Dominiek Saviokerk. Today, we stand before this modern church in the Saviowijk of Dilbeek. It stands as a testament to faith and architectural vision.
The H. Dominiek Saviokerk’s story began long before its physical construction. The Savioparochie gradually formed from 1900 onwards. In 1903 a chapel was built across the border in Groot-Bijgaarden. This served residents too far from the main churches. The area saw rapid population growth in the 1950s. This was due to the development of the Nieuwenbos and Renbaanwijk districts. Finally in 1959 the Dominiek Savioparochie was officially established. Approval was granted to build a new church. It was named after Saint Dominic Savio a student of Don Bosco.
However, construction took another two decades. The site held the early 20th-century grandstand of Dilbeek’s horse-racing track. In 1965 the grounds were sold to vzw Werk van Don Bosco. They later erected the church and parish center.
Victor M. Broos designed the H. Dominiek Saviokerk in 1978. It was one of his final projects before his death in 1980. The building plans faced several rejections. Broos later used modified plans for the Sint-Jozefkerk in Leuven. Construction finished and the church was registered in 1980. It was inaugurated on December 7, 1980.
Notice the church’s simple brick exterior. Two interlocking volumes form the structure. Artificial slate covers the pitched roofs. The roof ridges are perpendicular to the street. The east and west gable ends feature wall weaving. Large windows punctuate the concrete structure. These windows flood the interior with light. Entrances are located on the northwest and northeast corners.
To the north stands a separate bell tower. Two brick walls support a single bell. A small slate roof covers the tower. Concrete supports add to its structural integrity. An iron cross stands proudly on the west side facing the street.
Inside, the H. Dominiek Saviokerk has a sober and unplastered interior. Wooden planks line the ceiling. The altar is placed against the southern long side. Above the altar a concrete cylinder extends from the roof. This acts as a skylight. It illuminates the space below. The interior contains minimal furnishings.
The H. Dominiek Saviokerk continues to be a place for the Don Bosco Experience. Every Thursday evening, people gather for a sacral moment. They engage in prayer, song, meditation, and Biblical study. Silence and music add to the atmosphere. Afterward, attendees socialize in a relaxed setting. They share refreshments and conversation. Every two weeks, a cultural or recreational program is offered. This includes films, speakers, and musical evenings. The H. Dominiek Saviokerk is more than just a building. It is a living community. It offers solace, connection, and spiritual enrichment.
As we conclude our visit to the H. Dominiek Saviokerk, consider its journey. From a vision born in a growing parish. To a physical structure completed after many challenges. It stands today as a testament to faith, community, and architectural vision.