Did you know that the Temple de Saint-Jean is one of the few places of worship built in Geneva in the 1930s? It stands out with its sleek design. Its monumental size is also remarkable.
The Temple de Saint-Jean is located at Rue de Saint-Jean 24 in Petit-Saconnex. It was listed in the cantonal inventory of buildings worthy of protection on October 7, 2024. This ensures the preservation of this historical landmark.
Jean-Louis Cayla and Henri Gampert designed the Temple de Saint-Jean. They were associated architects. Construction took place between 1931 and 1933. The temple’s location is set back from the street. A garden surrounds it, offering a visual break from the dense neighborhood.
The building features a monumental portico. This rectangular structure is tall and striking. It has three arched openings. The monogram of Christ is displayed in golden Greek letters. IHΣ is surrounded by flames.
Behind the portico, the main building houses the worship area. There are also annex rooms. A bell tower stands to the southeast. The nave has a simple design. A chancel features an arch. A large cross made of gilded glass paste is placed there. A pulpit is on the side and a tribune faces it.
Éric Hermès created the stained glass windows. Charles Wasem, a master glassmaker, crafted them. The windows depict scenes from the Bible. Seven reliefs adorn the tribune. Hermès also designed these.
Pastor Ernest Christen collaborated on the project. He had previously worked in Carouge. The Temple de Saint-Jean is filled with Christian symbols. Three granite steps lead to the building. Three arches form the portico. Three steps are in front of the chancel. These represent faith, hope, and love. They lead to the majestic Cross of Christ. The reliefs show symbolic motifs. An eagle is there. It is the attribute of Saint John the Evangelist.
The Église Protestante de Genève plans to restore the Temple de Saint-Jean. They intend to create a space for children and families. This intergenerational area will focus on spiritual development. Work is scheduled to begin in 2025. This depends on securing the necessary funding. Some original furniture will be preserved during the renovations.
The Department of Territory and the Église Protestante de Genève support this project. It will preserve a piece of Geneva’s history. It will also adapt the space for the Church’s mission. This includes serving the spiritual needs of the youngest members.
In 1940, Saint-Jean became a parish. Organs from the Auditoire were installed there in 1944. The monumental portico is reminiscent of early Nazi Germany architecture. It is coated in Geneva’s typical gray plaster from the 1920s and 1930s.
The Temple de Saint-Jean stands as a testament to Geneva’s architectural and religious history. Its planned renovations promise to keep it a vital space for future generations.