Buchenbuschkirche

The Buchenbuschkirche, an Evangelical Reformed church located in Neu-Isenburg, Hessen, Germany, is an architectural gem that stands as a testament to modernist design and post-war resilience. Nestled in the serene neighborhood of Buchenbusch, this church is not just a place of worship, but a beacon of community spirit and historical significance.

The Historical Roots of Buchenbuschkirche

The story of Buchenbuschkirche begins in the early 20th century with the establishment of the Buchenbusch settlement in 1932. The settlement saw significant growth after World War II, as many new residents moved into the area. Initially, the Evangelical community held services in the home of the Hessenbruch family on Tannenweg and later in a community house on the same street. The need for a dedicated place of worship became increasingly apparent as the community grew.

From 1958 to 1960, under the architectural guidance of Friedrich Soeder from Darmstadt, the Buchenbuschkirche was constructed. The church was officially inaugurated in October 1961, with Martin Niemöller, then president of the Evangelical Church in Hesse and Nassau (EKHN), in attendance. By January 1, 1962, the Evangelical Reformed community in Neu-Isenburg was divided, giving rise to the Evangelical Reformed Buchenbusch community.

Architectural Marvel

The Buchenbuschkirche is a prime example of modernist architecture, characterized by its simplicity and functionality. The church is situated at the intersection of Forstweg and Pappelweg, in the southern part of Neu-Isenburg's old town. The building itself is a longitudinal rectangular structure, featuring a gabled roof and a bell tower integrated into the southwest corner of the church.

Upon entering the church from the south, visitors find themselves in a two-story church hall. The ground floor houses various community rooms, while the upper floor is dedicated to the main worship area. This worship space is divided into two blocks of pews by a central aisle that leads directly to the slightly elevated altar area at the southern end. The altar area is flanked by a pulpit on the left and a baptismal font on the right, with a simple altar table at its center.

The Altar Window: A Masterpiece of Art

One of the most striking features of the Buchenbuschkirche is its altar window, designed by painter and sculptor Helmuth Uhrig. This trapezoidal window, which narrows towards the bottom, is a protected monument and serves as the focal point of the altar area. The window is divided by lead strips into three horizontal sections, each depicting different groups of figures in stylized, antique-like garments against a blue background.

The upper section shows four praying figures with their hands and faces lifted towards the heavens, symbolizing a devout family in prayer. The middle section depicts seven individuals gathered around a table for the Last Supper, with Jesus seated at the center, holding a red wine chalice. This scene represents the communal aspect of the Eucharist, emphasizing the unity of the Christian community. The lower section portrays Jesus as a teacher, seated and imparting wisdom to four individuals, echoing the theme of preaching and spiritual guidance in the church.

The altar window's design cleverly incorporates biblical symbolism, with the total number of figures adding up to twelve when either the upper or lower group is combined with the middle group, thus completing the traditional number of Jesus' disciples. This thoughtful arrangement highlights the interconnectedness of prayer, communion, and preaching, with Jesus as the central figure in all three scenes.

The Bell Tower and Chimes

The church's bell tower houses a set of two bells, cast by the Rincker bell foundry in Sinn, Hesse. The bells produce a harmonious two-tone chime (es′′ – c′′′), which resonates through the neighborhood, calling the faithful to worship and marking significant moments in the church's calendar.

Community and Cultural Significance

The Buchenbuschkirche is more than just an architectural landmark; it is a vibrant hub of community life. The church's various rooms and facilities host a range of activities, from worship services and religious education to social gatherings and cultural events. The church's design, with its emphasis on simplicity and functionality, reflects the values of the Evangelical Reformed tradition, fostering a sense of inclusivity and community spirit.

Visitors to the Buchenbuschkirche are often struck by the serene beauty of its surroundings and the warmth of its community. The church's modernist architecture, combined with its rich history and cultural significance, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and heritage of Neu-Isenburg.

In conclusion, the Buchenbuschkirche stands as a symbol of faith, resilience, and community. Its modernist design, historical roots, and artistic features make it a unique and captivating landmark in Neu-Isenburg. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply looking to experience the tranquility of a beautiful place of worship, the Buchenbuschkirche is sure to leave a lasting impression.