Maria Königin, known locally as Maria Königin in Lüdenscheid, stands as a beacon of faith and history in the heart of Lüdenscheid, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany. This church, with its striking white façade and towering campanile, is not just a place of worship but a testament to the rich history and vibrant community spirit of the area.
Maria Königin was consecrated on December 7, 1957, by the Paderborn Auxiliary Bishop Franz Hengsbach, who later became the first diocesan bishop of the Diocese of Essen. This significant event marked the church as a pivotal religious site, initially falling under the Archdiocese of Paderborn for a brief period before becoming part of the Diocese of Essen. The church holds the distinction of being the last one consecrated by Hengsbach, making it a site of considerable historical importance.
Over the years, Maria Königin has seen various changes, including the closure of three of its four filial churches during a structural reform in 2005. Despite these changes, the church has remained a cornerstone of the community, with only the filial church of St. Hedwig continuing to operate. The parish was initially overseen by the Claretian Fathers until 2005, and since 2006, Pastor Hans-Helmut Ferkinghoff has been at the helm, guiding the congregation through its spiritual journey.
Maria Königin's architectural design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The church, built in 1957, is a single-nave structure with a dedicated Marian chapel. The exterior, with its white plastered walls, gives it a serene and inviting appearance. Inside, the church boasts 20 rows of pews, each accommodating approximately 10 people, making it a cozy yet spacious venue for worship.
The church's windows, designed by Herbert Bienhaus, add a touch of artistic elegance to the structure. The intricate design of the tabernacle and the ambo, along with the eternal light fixture, are particularly noteworthy, reflecting the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into the church's construction.
At the southwestern end of the church lies the Marian Chapel, a small, circular space of about 10 square meters. This intimate chapel houses a statue of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus, providing a tranquil space for prayer and reflection. Additionally, the chapel features a prayer bench and a votive candle stand, enhancing its serene ambiance. In the past, this chapel also served as the baptismal chapel, adding to its significance within the church.
One of the most striking features of Maria Königin is its campanile, a cubical bell tower that stands approximately 50 meters tall. This towering structure is a prominent landmark in Lüdenscheid, visible from various parts of the city. Interestingly, while the architect designed the tower to support the weight of bells, the dynamic forces generated by the ringing of the bells were not considered, resulting in the tower remaining bell-less. Despite this, the campanile adds a majestic touch to the church's silhouette against the sky.
The community center adjacent to Maria Königin underwent extensive renovations and remodeling between 2010 and 2011. The newly refurbished center was inaugurated and blessed on October 9, 2011. This four-story building now serves as a hub for various community activities. The ground floor houses the St. Rita Catholic Kindergarten, offering 65 places for children aged two and above. The upper floors accommodate the priest's residence, a community library, multipurpose rooms, the parish office, a kitchen, and accessible restrooms. The basement is utilized by the Catholic Youth Community (KjG) for their group activities. An elevator, funded by local sponsors, ensures accessibility to all floors, except the attic, which is used for storage.
Maria Königin is renowned for its lively and engaging family masses, attracting visitors from beyond the city limits. The church's dedication to fostering a sense of community is evident in its active participation in various religious and social activities. The church has a dedicated group of approximately 50 altar servers, who assist in weekend masses, ensuring that the services run smoothly and reverently.
The Catholic Youth Community (KjG) at Maria Königin is a vibrant and active group, meeting regularly in different age groups. This organization plays a crucial role in engaging the youth of the parish, providing them with a sense of belonging and purpose. The KjG's activities are diverse, ranging from religious education to social events, fostering a strong community spirit among the younger members of the parish.
Since its inception, Maria Königin has been under the spiritual guidance of various priests and deacons. The Claretian Fathers, who initially managed the parish, have left a lasting legacy of devotion and service. The parish maintains a strong connection with a sister parish in Honnali, Karnataka, India, reflecting its commitment to global fellowship and support. Pastor Hans-Helmut Ferkinghoff, who has been leading the parish since 2006, continues to inspire and guide the congregation with his spiritual leadership.
In conclusion, Maria Königin in Lüdenscheid is more than just a church; it is a symbol of faith, history, and community. Its architectural beauty, rich history, and vibrant congregation make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the region. Whether you are drawn by its serene ambiance, its historical significance, or its active community life, Maria Königin offers a unique and enriching experience for all who visit.
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