St. Maria Angelica

Have you ever heard of a church named after a French Cistercian nun? Here at St. Maria Angelica in Hanover, that’s exactly who we celebrate. St. Maria Angelica, known in life as Angélique Arnauld, lends her name to this modern, yet traditionally inspired sanctuary. The Old Catholic Parish of Hanover/Southern Lower Saxony built St. Maria Angelica between 2009 and 2011. Before this, they worshipped in other churches, even a hospital chapel. Imagine holding services in borrowed spaces, yearning for a place of your own. Then, in 2010, on Easter Vigil, the first service echoed through the newly completed St. Maria Angelica. The church reflects a blend of old and new. Its tent-like shape harkens back to western European church architecture. Inside, a stunning feature awaits: a full-immersion baptismal pool. This was the first of its kind in any Old Catholic church in Germany. St. Maria Angelica also holds another unique distinction. The church faces east, towards the rising sun. However, since the east side faces the street, you enter through the parish hall. This unique layout adds to the church’s charm. Light floods the sanctuary from the sides, illuminating the altar area with a warm glow. Above, skylights in the roof draw the eye heavenward. Look up at the ceiling of St. Maria Angelica. It resembles a starry night sky, adorned with gold-leaf crosses. This artistic choice has roots in the story of Abraham, whose descendants were promised to be as numerous as the stars. Two bells call the faithful to worship at St. Maria Angelica. One was a generous gift from the neighboring Lutheran parish of St. James. The other was specially cast for St. Maria Angelica in Passau. These bells first rang out on Christmas Eve 2011, filling the air with their joyful sound. The altar at St. Maria Angelica is a masterpiece of symbolism. Its five legs, arranged like a Greek cross, represent Christ’s wounds. The altar’s design incorporates the numbers three and four. Three symbolizes the Trinity, while four represents the earth. The combination of these numbers holds further meaning, pointing to the twelve apostles and the twelve gates of the New Jerusalem. St. Maria Angelica is more than just a building. It represents the culmination of years of planning, fundraising, and dedication. It stands as a testament to the Old Catholic community’s faith and resilience.