“Did you know that this very building the Neuapostolische Kirche Höchst has witnessed history unfold?” I ask. The Neuapostolische Kirche Höchst in Frankfurt am Main isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a living testament to faith resilience and community. Built in 1925 it served as a central hub for the New Apostolic Church in Frankfurt’s western districts. Imagine the scene on September 22 1925. Hundreds gathered for the church’s grand opening. The community numbered around 670 members a significant portion of the city’s New Apostolic population.
The Neuapostolische Kirche Höchst is not without its scars. World War II left its mark. In early 1944 the church was requisitioned. It was used as a furniture storage facility. A short time later in March 1944 a devastating fire swept through it. The church was completely destroyed by a bomb. Services were temporarily held in a neighboring building. This shows the strength of the community. The congregation persevered.
The reconstruction was a labor of love. The church reopened its doors in December 1950. But the story doesn’t end there. In 1984 a large-scale renovation took place. Modern additions were made including translation booths. A special room was created for mothers with young children. It was separated from the main sanctuary by just a glass wall. This allowed these mothers to actively participate in services. The renovated church was rededicated on May 16 1985. The Neuapostolische Kirche Höchst is a testament to the endurance of faith.
In 2000 the church celebrated its 75th anniversary. An open house event was held. This allowed the community to share its rich history with the wider public. At the end of 2004 the congregation comprised 294 members. This included one shepherd seven priests and eleven deacons. A truly remarkable community. The church served not only as a spiritual home but also as a place for important meetings. The church played host to various gatherings. Members and apostolic assemblies were held here. Significant decisions were made within its walls. These included the 1955 exclusion of Apostle Peter Kuhlen.
The Neuapostolische Kirche Höchst’s history is deeply entwined with that of Chief Apostle Friedrich Bischoff. He lived in an apartment above the church from 1925 to 1937. His residence was right above the church itself! Bishop Vorherr lived on the first floor. His stepdaughter Gretel and her husband Otto Jacob lived on the third. Otto Jacob was the son of church elder Peter Jacob. These connections add a special layer to the building’s story. They highlight its importance in the life of the New Apostolic Church. This church is more than bricks and mortar. It breathes with stories of faith resilience and community. The Neuapostolische Kirche Höchst stands proudly. It stands as a symbol of unwavering devotion.