Hidden among the villas on Flottbrovägen on Stora Essingen stands Sankt Mikaels och Alla Änglars kyrka. A small wooden structure it’s easy to miss. But this unassuming church holds a fascinating history.
Sankt Mikaels och Alla Änglars kyrka began its life in the early 1920s. It served as the first church for the residents of Essingen. For decades it functioned as an outpost of Kungsholms baptistkyrka. During this time it was known as Essingekapellet or Allianskapellet. It hosted Sunday school and activities for children and youth. Even the Swedish Church used it until Essinge kyrka opened in 1959.
But the story doesn’t end there. In 1970 the Liberala katolska kyrkan in Sweden took over. After renovations and some alterations the chapel was consecrated as a Liberal Catholic church on Michaelmas Day. This is when it received its current name Sankt Mikaels och Alla Änglars kyrka.
Today Sankt Mikaels och Alla Änglars kyrka is more than just a place of worship. It’s the seat of the regional bishop for the Liberal Catholic Church in Sweden. This makes it possibly Sweden’s smallest cathedral. Sunday services are held regularly along with other church activities.
Imagine the quiet strength this small wooden church has shown. It’s witnessed decades of change and adaptation. It’s served diverse communities. From its humble beginnings as a chapel to its current status as a cathedral it continues to serve as a place of faith and community. This small unassuming church on Stora Essingen represents a remarkable history. A history you can only truly appreciate by standing in its presence.