Five bells ring out from the tower of Sankt Aposteln. Their harmonious peal echoes through the Sachsenhausen district. This isn’t just any church. It’s a symbol of resilience. A testament to faith in the heart of Frankfurt am Main.
Sankt Aposteln stands as a beacon of post-war modernity. Built in the 1950s it serves as a focal point for the Fritz-Kissel-Siedlung. This housing estate welcomed many displaced people from Central and Eastern Europe after the war. Their arrival spurred the need for a new church. In 1957 a simple barn was transformed into a temporary church. An apostle altar from the Frankfurt Cathedral was installed. This makeshift sanctuary gave the church its name. The first mass was held there on Ascension Day.
The construction of the permanent building began in 1961. It was completed and consecrated by Bishop Wilhelm Kempf in 1963. The church’s design is striking. Its white bell tower points towards the Protestant Osterkirche. The church’s exterior is made of quarzite. This gives it its distinctive look. The sloping roof is painted white. It is set apart from the walls by a continuous band of windows. The building’s organic form is impressive. It is framed by lower rectangular structures that enhance its impact. Inside two portals open to a circular nave. The ceiling curves upwards. Two rows of pews flank a central aisle. These lead to the altar. The altar sits against a plain wall without windows or pictures. The stained-glass windows are a feast for the eyes. They were designed by Frankfurt artist Joachim Pick. The windows depict various biblical scenes. A blue band links the individual motifs.
Sankt Aposteln boasts a Klais organ with 24 registers. It contains 1650 pipes. The church’s five bells harmonize with the four bells of the Osterkirche. Their names tell a story. They honor Christ the apostles Mary and the local saints. The bells’ inscriptions add a layer of meaning. They speak of peace witness and faith. They are a reminder of the community’s history and spiritual values.
More than just a place of worship Sankt Aposteln serves as a social pastoral center. It embodies the spirit of post-war Frankfurt. It serves as a reminder of the resilience of its community. It is a testament to faith in the face of adversity. It stands as a symbol of hope and renewal. Today Sankt Aposteln continues to serve its community. It remains a vital hub in Sachsenhausen. It’s a place where history faith and community come together. It is a place to reflect and remember the past. It’s also a place to celebrate the present and look forward to the future. Take a moment to appreciate this special place. Let the bells’ melodies resonate within you.