Martin-Luther-King-Kirche

In the heart of Hürth, a town in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, stands a unique and architecturally intriguing structure—the Martin-Luther-King-Kirche. This church, dedicated to the memory of the renowned civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., is not just a place of worship but a symbol of unity, peace, and community spirit. Its modern design and historical significance make it a must-visit for anyone interested in contemporary ecclesiastical architecture and the rich tapestry of local history.

The Evolution of the Community

The story of the Martin-Luther-King-Kirche is deeply intertwined with the history of the Protestant community in Hürth. Initially, the Protestant population in the area was a small minority, significantly outnumbered even by the Jewish community up until the late 19th century. However, with the advent of industrialization, particularly the growth of the lignite mining industry, the Protestant population began to increase. By 1939, their numbers had risen to approximately 2,781, accounting for about 9.4% of the total population.

The Protestant community initially relied on neighboring towns such as Brühl, Frechen, and Cologne-Lindenthal for spiritual guidance. It wasn't until 1921 that the community in Knapsack, a part of Hürth, received its first church—a modest wooden structure. This church was unfortunately destroyed during World War II. Post-war, the community rebuilt and continued to grow, eventually leading to the establishment of the independent Evangelical Church Community of Hürth in 1957.

Building the New Church

The 1960s and 1970s saw significant changes in Hürth, including the planning and development of a new town center. This new center was designed to include areas for both Protestant and Catholic churches. With the demolition of the Dankeskirche in 1976, the Protestant community, in collaboration with the Cologne architectural firm Wolfgang Lincke & Karl-Heinz Urmetzer, began planning a new church. The first groundbreaking took place on October 2, 1977, and construction officially began on April 6, 1978. Just a year later, on October 1, 1978, the new church was inaugurated.

Architectural Marvel

The Martin-Luther-King-Kirche is a testament to modern ecclesiastical architecture. Its hexagonal design and tent-like roof symbolize the Tent of God among the People, drawing inspiration from the biblical Exodus. The church's northwest wall is completely solid, adorned with patterned bricks, while the other walls feature large windows that allow natural light to flood the interior. These windows are framed by sturdy concrete pillars and give the church a sense of openness and connection with the surrounding environment.

The roof, covered with artificial slate, is crowned with a steel cross atop a globe, symbolizing the church's mission to spread peace and unity around the world. The interior of the church is equally impressive, with a hexagonal altar designed by the architects and seating arranged in a semi-circle around it, accommodating up to 300 people. The wooden pulpit, crafted by the Bielefeld sculptor Arnold Rickert in 1952, adds a touch of historical continuity to the modern setting.

The Carillon and Bells

One of the most distinctive features of the Martin-Luther-King-Kirche is its carillon. Originally installed in 1992, this open carillon, made by the Eduard Korfhage and Sons company, was replaced in 2022 by a new 34-bell instrument crafted by the André Voegelé foundry in Strasbourg. The bells are arranged in a spiral within a six-sided steel frame, creating a visually striking and acoustically rich experience. Two additional bells, the Creation Bell and the Our Father Bell, complement the carillon and are harmonized with the bells of the nearby St. Joseph Catholic Church, allowing for a beautiful symphony of sound during joint celebrations.

Interior Features and Art

The interior of the Martin-Luther-King-Kirche is designed to inspire and uplift. The ceiling, lined with light-colored wooden planks supported by dark-stained beams, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The altar area is slightly elevated, emphasizing its significance during services. Behind the altar, a wooden cross adorned with gold-plated panels crafted by children of the community serves as a focal point, symbolizing the church's dedication to nurturing faith and creativity among its youngest members.

The church's windows, designed by E. O. Köpke, feature shades of blue and red that allow light to enter while maintaining a sense of privacy and contemplation. Artificial lighting is provided by a hexagonal chandelier and discreet lamps that illuminate the wooden ceiling, creating a serene and contemplative environment.

Organ and Music

Music plays a vital role in the life of the Martin-Luther-King-Kirche. In 1983, the church acquired a two-manual organ with 14 registers from the Klaus Becker organ workshop. This instrument, located at the rear of the church, enhances the worship experience with its rich and harmonious tones, supporting congregational singing and providing beautiful music for special occasions.

Honoring Martin Luther King

The church was named in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. in 1989, reflecting its commitment to justice, peace, and the preservation of creation. A mosaic in the church's foyer, depicting a black and a white hand, serves as a reminder of King's legacy and the church's dedication to fostering unity and understanding among all people.

Environmental Initiatives

The Martin-Luther-King-Kirche is also a leader in environmental stewardship. In 2002, with support from the German Federal Environmental Foundation and local sponsors, the church installed a photovoltaic system on its flat roof. The electricity generated is fed into the public grid, with the proceeds displayed in the church foyer. This initiative not only supports the church's mission of creation care but also sets an example for sustainable practices within the community.

In conclusion, the Martin-Luther-King-Kirche in Hürth is more than just a place of worship. It is a beacon of modern architecture, a testament to community resilience and growth, and a symbol of peace and unity. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or someone seeking spiritual solace, this church offers a rich and rewarding experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.