Perhaps a hidden gem is what you seek today? St. Bonifaz isn’t just a church. It is a testament to community spirit and architectural ingenuity.
St. Bonifaz stands in Breitenfurt-Ost. This Roman Catholic parish church carries a unique story. It is dedicated to Saint Boniface. The parish celebrates its patron saint’s feast day every June 5th.
Originally, in 1942, Cardinal Theodor Innitzer established a parish named St. Josef. Msgr. Josef Engelbert Enzmann became the pastor. He also remained the spiritual leader at Kloster St. Josef.
The seeds of St. Bonifaz were sown in 1963. Architect Clemens Holzmeister envisioned a grander church. It was initially conceived as an “Unterkirche” or lower church. Construction took place between 1968 and 1970. Holzmeister’s design featured a cross-shaped structure. A windowed gable roof sits atop it. Pillars and walls accentuate the gable fields. The bell tower caps the altar wall. Light and shadow play through slits.
In 1972, the Unterkirche transformed. The parish of St. Josef was renamed St. Bonifaz. It was elevated to a parish church.
The church’s interior is striking. It forms a unified space. The tent-like roof evokes the biblical “tent of God among men”. Light guides the eye. The altar wall stands freely. It is divided into three sections. Its surfaces are simple.
The ceramic wall panels were crafted by Gudrun Baudisch-Wittke.
By 1990, Breitenfurt’s population grew. A need for expansion arose. Wolfgang Ullrich designed an enlargement. This reoriented the church eastward. Parish priest Anton Guber oversaw the project. Generous donations and community efforts made it possible. The parish hall was enlarged. A new rectory was built. On September 23, 1990, the expanded St. Bonifaz was consecrated.
Today, St. Bonifaz continues to serve. It is more than bricks and mortar. It embodies the spirit of Breitenfurt. Its doors are open daily. Visit the church from 9 AM to 5 PM. Come and experience the serenity. Regular services include masses. You can attend services Sundays and holidays at 10:30 AM.
As you leave St. Bonifaz, remember its story. It is a story of faith and community. A place where art and architecture blend seamlessly.