A silent sentinel stands before us. This is the Kirche zu den heiligen Märtyrern von Afrika. Its story is one of faith hope and ultimately silence.
Built between 1975 and 1977 this church in Lichtenrade is a unique example of post-war modern architecture. Architects Hans Schädel and Hermann Jünemann designed it. Its unusual design a cone-shaped aluminum-clad dome resembles an upside-down Melitta coffee filter. This distinctive feature led Berliners to affectionately nickname it “St Melitta”. Two other similar churches exist in Berlin. They are St Markus in Spandau and St Dominicus in Buckow.
The church’s unusual design is not limited to its exterior. The seating arrangement is circular. The pews surround the altar which sits directly under the dome’s opening. This creates an intimate and contemplative atmosphere. It was intended to provide a sense of community and closeness. The altar itself rests on a raised platform further emphasizing its central importance.
The interior was the work of sculptor Hans Wachter. He created the altar the ambo and the Stations of the Cross. The artwork depicts the suffering of the African martyrs who were killed in Uganda in 1886 for their faith. This harrowing event inspired the church’s name. The church’s entrance features a special metal alloy. It incorporates a coat of arms and a relief dedicated to Cardinal Alfred Bengsch who died in 1979.
A covered walkway connects the church to its community center. A bell tower stands tall next to the center. It houses a 135 kg bronze bell cast in 1934 by the Märkische Gießerei in Hennickendorf near Berlin. A tranquil courtyard features a fountain. It is decorated with a statue of Saint Therese of Lisieux the patron saint of missions.
Sadly the Kirche zu den heiligen Märtyrern von Afrika fell silent in 2008. Facing financial difficulties the parish abandoned the entire complex. The church now stands empty a poignant reminder of a community’s faith. It stands as a testament to a time when this church was a vibrant center of worship. It’s now a quiet space a hidden gem whispering stories of devotion and architectural innovation. It awaits a new chapter in its story.