Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche

The Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche in Dülmen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a remarkable example of modern ecclesiastical architecture and a place of profound spiritual significance. This Roman Catholic parish church, dedicated to the Holy Cross, not only serves its local congregation but also stands as a pilgrimage site due to its association with the blessed mystic Anna Katharina Emmerick.

The History of Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche

Constructed between 1936 and 1938, the Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche was designed by the renowned church architect Dominikus Böhm. Its creation was met with considerable resistance within the city, but it was ultimately consecrated on November 16, 1938, by Clemens August Graf von Galen, then the Bishop of Münster. Notably, it was the last new church built in Germany before the outbreak of World War II.

The church’s history is marked by resilience and renewal. On March 22, 1945, a bombing raid during World War II severely damaged the structure, leaving only the chancel and the tower intact. The painstaking reconstruction of the church was completed by 1953, albeit with some modifications. The original five entrance doors were reduced to three, and the baptismal chapel was not rebuilt.

Further renovations took place from 1971 to 1974 and again from 2004 to 2005, the latter led by architects Feja and Kemper. This renovation included a significant redesign of the interior, relocating the altar to the center of the church. The church’s exterior is clad in Ibbenbüren sandstone, giving it a distinctive and robust appearance.

Anna Katharina Emmerick and the Crypt

The Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche holds particular importance due to its connection with Anna Katharina Emmerick, a blessed mystic whose remains were transferred to the church’s crypt in 1975. Emmerick, who was initially buried in the nearby cemetery in 1824, became the focus of renewed interest following the reopening of her beatification process. Her beatification in 2004 led to the transformation of her resting place into a memorial site. Visitors can explore the crypt and view Emmerick’s preserved sickroom, which was meticulously reconstructed from the original furnishings of the Limberg inn, where she spent her final years.

Architectural Highlights

One of the most striking features of the Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche is the large rose window on its west side. This intricate window comprises 11,800 colored glass panes set in lead, forming a stunning nine-meter diameter rosette. Crafted from Mayen basalt lava, it is a masterpiece of ecclesiastical art and a visual highlight of the church.

The altar, now centrally located, stands on a wooden platform and is supported by sixteen oak posts, symbolizing the twelve apostles through the twelve visible posts. This unique design element reflects Böhm’s innovative approach to church architecture.

Another notable feature is the high chancel, which houses a starkly designed standing cross. This cross, devoid of a corpus, symbolizes both death and resurrection, providing a poignant focal point for reflection. The high chancel also serves as an exhibition space, hosting contemporary art installations such as the Cast Whale Project in 2022.

The church’s light design is another element of interest. Modeled after a Roman basilica, the lighting guides visitors from the semi-darkness of the nave to the bright, ascending steps leading to the cross. In 2005, this pathway was augmented with the Holy Circle model, enhancing the spiritual journey within the church.

The Organ and Bells

The church’s organ, built by Franz Breil of Dorsten, is an impressive instrument with 35 registers across two manuals and a pedal. The organ’s mechanical action and electric register action allow for a diverse range of musical expressions, enriching the church’s liturgical and musical life.

Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche also boasts a set of four cast steel bells, created in 1948 by the Bochum Association. These bells, tuned to the notes h°, d', e', and g', add a resonant dimension to the church’s soundscape, with the largest bell reserved for high feasts.

Visiting Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche

A visit to Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche offers not only an opportunity to appreciate its architectural beauty but also to engage with its rich history and spiritual heritage. Whether you are drawn by the story of Anna Katharina Emmerick, the innovative design by Dominikus Böhm, or the serene atmosphere, the Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche is a place of contemplation and inspiration. The church continues to serve as a beacon of faith and a testament to the enduring spirit of its community.