Whispers from the past echo around us here at Sint Odulphuskerk. This is more than just a building. It is a testament to faith. It is also a landmark on sacred ground.
The Sint Odulphuskerk stands proudly. It marks the very place where Saint Odulphus was born around the year 775. He was the first homegrown Dutch saint. Imagine a humble farm in the hamlet of Verrenbest. This is broadly speaking the present-day old center of Best. That farm was transformed into a wooden chapel. This marked the beginning of a sacred journey.
The story of Sint Odulphus is quite remarkable. Odulphus received his priestly education in Oirschot. After his ordination, he dedicated himself to converting the Frisians under Bishop Frederik in Utrecht. Worship of Odulphus began around the tenth century. His feast day is celebrated on June 12th.
Let’s journey through the Sint Odulphuskerk’s evolution. The original wooden chapel was replaced by a small stone building in 1437. This became the parish church in 1553. This was when Best became an independent parish with Odulphus as its patron saint.
Over the centuries, the church fell into disrepair. It became too small for the growing parish. Parish priest Dean Zomers initiated plans for a new church at the age of 80. The present Sint Odulphuskerk was consecrated on October 23, 1882. Bishop A. Godschalk of ‘s-Hertogenbosch officiated.
Karl Weber, a student of Viollet-le-Duc, designed the Sint Odulphuskerk. He was also a rival of Pierre Cuypers. The Sint Odulphuskerk represents a transition in Weber’s architectural style. He moved from Neo-Gothic to Romano-Gothic. The church features clean brickwork with colored bricks. These accentuate key architectural elements. Monseigneur H. van Helvoort called the church a crowning achievement of Weber’s work.
Notice the church’s design. The Odulphus church is a cross-basilica in Neo-Gothic style. It stretches 55 meters long. Twenty-four columns support the mid-nave. Aisles run alongside the nave. They extend past the transept to side chapels with side altars. The right aisle leads to St. Mary’s Chapel. The church is 20 meters wide in the transept. The roof ridge reaches a height of 23 meters. The basilica design means the mid-nave is higher than the aisles. It has windows to let in light.
Take a moment to admire the statue of Saint Odulphus. It has graced the church square since 1901. A striking feature is the gold apple. Legend says an angel gave Odulphus the apple as a reward for his zeal. Another story suggests it symbolizes his obedience as a monk.
The Sint Odulphuskerk, presbytery, and statue are protected National Monuments. They were designated in 1999. As you stand here, remember the layers of history within these walls. It is a place of worship. It is a symbol of faith. It is a tribute to Saint Odulphus.