St. Elisabethkirche

St. Elisabethkirche in Königs Wusterhausen, Brandenburg, is a charming Catholic parish church that stands as a testament to the faith and perseverance of its community. Known locally as St. Elisabeth, this church has a rich history that reflects the social and cultural shifts in the region over more than a century. Nestled in a serene part of Königs Wusterhausen, the church is not just a place of worship but also a historical landmark that has witnessed the growth and transformation of the town.

The Early Beginnings

The story of St. Elisabethkirche begins in the late 19th century when a significant number of Polish and Silesian Catholics migrated to Königs Wusterhausen and its surrounding villages. These new residents, primarily seeking work in agriculture, brickworks, and the Schenkendorf lignite mine, brought with them a strong desire for a place to practice their faith. By 1898, the Catholic population had grown to 82, prompting calls for a dedicated church and school. Initially, the government resisted these demands, fearing that the school might adopt a predominantly Polish character. However, assurances from ecclesiastical authorities that no Polish sermons would be held eventually led to the approval of the project in August 1899.

First Steps Towards Establishment

The first Catholic service in Königs Wusterhausen took place on October 8, 1899, in a local inn. The same year saw the beginning of construction for a community house that would also serve as a school. By April 1900, the building was inaugurated, although it never functioned as a school due to a decline in the number of Catholic children. Instead, the classrooms were converted into a chapel. In 1902, the Catholic community received its first resident pastor, Wilhelm Tunkel, marking the start of a more structured religious life in the town.

Growth and Challenges

By 1910, the Catholic community had grown sufficiently to be recognized as an independent parish. The St. Elisabeth Chapel, as it was known then, became the focal point of Catholic worship in the area. However, the community faced ongoing scrutiny from the government, which was wary of the Polish influence. Despite these challenges, the parish continued to thrive, and by the 1930s, the need for a larger, more permanent church building became evident.

The Construction of St. Elisabethkirche

The current St. Elisabethkirche was constructed in the late 1930s, following a passionate appeal for funds by Bishop Christian Schreiber of Berlin. The design, created by the diocesan architect Carl Kühn, was executed by builder Carl Dirk from Berlin-Heiligensee. The foundation stone was laid on February 28, 1937, and the church was consecrated on August 1, 1937, by Bishop Conrad Preysing. The church was dedicated to St. Elisabeth of Thuringia, whose statue can be seen above the entrance portal.

Architectural Features and Interior

St. Elisabethkirche is a modest yet elegant structure, measuring 28 meters in length, 13 meters in width, and 19 meters in height. The church features a simple interior with a vaulted wooden ceiling, originally painted in two colors. The initial furnishings included benches from the old chapel and three iron-cast bells named Michael, Paulus, and Bonifatius, each with inscriptions reflecting their namesakes. These bells, cast by the Schilling and Lattermann foundry, were blessed in a ceremony on April 11, 1937.

Post-War Developments

Remarkably, St. Elisabethkirche survived World War II without significant damage. In 1948, the church acquired an organ from the house chapel of a local blind home, which was installed and consecrated the following year. The 1950s saw the addition of three large wooden statues representing the Virgin Mary with the Child Jesus, the Crucified Christ, and the Good Shepherd, crafted by a woodcarver from Cottbus.

Renovations and Modernization

Over the years, St. Elisabethkirche has undergone several renovations to maintain its structure and meet the needs of its congregation. The first major renovation took place in 1952, followed by significant interior modifications in 1975 after the Second Vatican Council. These changes included replacing the old high altar with a simpler altar table and updating the church's color scheme. In 1985, the church towers received new roofing, and in 1995, the interior was repainted, a new heating system installed, and the floor tiled. A major roof renovation was completed in 2005, ensuring the church's preservation for future generations.

Visiting St. Elisabethkirche

Today, St. Elisabethkirche stands as a beacon of faith and community in Königs Wusterhausen. Visitors to the church can appreciate its historical significance, architectural simplicity, and the serene atmosphere that invites reflection and prayer. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an admirer of ecclesiastical architecture, or a pilgrim seeking spiritual solace, St. Elisabethkirche offers a unique and enriching experience.