Christ König

Christ König, the Catholic parish church in Springe, Niedersachsen, Germany, stands as a beacon of faith and community spirit. Nestled in the charming town of Springe, this church is dedicated to Jesus Christ as King (Rex Christus) and is a part of the Diocese of Hildesheim. The church is located at Erzbischof-Joseph-Godehard-Platz, a name that pays homage to one of its significant historical figures.

The History of Christ König

The history of Christ König is deeply intertwined with the broader history of Catholicism in the region. After the Reformation, the first Catholic establishment between Hannover and Hameln was the chapel at Schloss Hasperde, set up in 1896. Leopold Scharla, the chaplain of Schloss Hasperde, extended his pastoral care to the few Catholics in Springe starting from 1896. His successor, Joseph Godehard Machens, who served at Schloss Hasperde from 1911 to 1920, later consecrated the church in Springe as the Bishop of Hildesheim.

The first Holy Mass in Springe was celebrated on February 9, 1910, in the small hall of the Bahnhofshotel by the Missionsvikarie Hasperde. By December 1, 1910, a census revealed that there were 81 Catholics living in Springe. The post-World War II period saw a significant increase in the Catholic population due to the influx of refugees and displaced persons from Central and Eastern Europe. Catholic church records in Springe date back to 1948, reflecting this growth.

In 1951, the first church dedicated to Christ the King was built and consecrated on May 3 by Bishop Joseph Godehard Machens. The establishment of the Kuratiegemeinde Springe on July 1, 1956, marked an important milestone, as Springe was previously part of the Kuratiegemeinde Bad Münder, which originated from the Missionsvikarie Hasperde.

As the congregation continued to grow, the need for a larger space became apparent. In 1980, a new church building was constructed adjacent to the original one. This modern structure was consecrated on December 20, 1980, by Bishop Heinrich Maria Janssen. The church's significance within the community was further solidified when, on November 1, 2006, the churches Maria von der Immerwährenden Hilfe in Bennigsen, Allerheiligen in Eldagsen, and St. Hedwig in Völksen were incorporated into the Christ König parish. The former parishes of Maria von der Immerwährenden Hilfe and Allerheiligen were dissolved in this process. Since May 1, 2007, the parish has been part of the newly established Deanery of Hannover.

Architecture and Interior

The architectural design of Christ König is the brainchild of Werner Alder from Springe. The church is a towerless central building, a design choice that sets it apart from traditional church structures. The stained glass windows, crafted by Wilhelm Rengshausen from Warstein, depict scenes from the Preface of the Feast of Christ the King, adding a vibrant and spiritual touch to the interior.

The church's interior is adorned with bronze and stone objects created by Paul Brandenburg, contributing to the solemn and reflective atmosphere. One of the highlights of the church is its organ, built in 2002 by the company Orgelbau Simon. This organ, the first of its kind in the Diocese of Hildesheim, boasts 20 registers across two manuals and a pedal, providing a rich and resonant sound that enhances the liturgical experience.

The Community and Activities

Christ König is more than just a place of worship; it is a vibrant community hub. The parish engages in various activities and programs that cater to different age groups and interests. From youth groups and catechism classes to social outreach programs and cultural events, there is always something happening at Christ König. The church's commitment to fostering a sense of community and belonging is evident in its active participation in local events and its support for charitable causes.

The parish also places a strong emphasis on music and the arts. The choir, composed of dedicated parishioners, regularly performs during Mass and special occasions, enriching the spiritual experience with their harmonious melodies. The church also hosts concerts and recitals, inviting musicians from near and far to share their talents with the community.

Visiting Christ König

A visit to Christ König offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich history and vibrant community life of this remarkable parish. Whether you are attending a service, participating in a community event, or simply exploring the architectural beauty of the church, you will find a warm and welcoming atmosphere that reflects the spirit of the parish.

As you step into Christ König, take a moment to admire the intricate stained glass windows and the thoughtfully designed interior. Listen to the majestic sounds of the organ, and perhaps even join in the singing of the choir. Engage with the parishioners and learn about the various activities and programs that make this church a cornerstone of the Springe community.

In conclusion, Christ König is not just a place of worship but a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of the Catholic community in Springe. Its rich history, striking architecture, and vibrant community life make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the region. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a place of peace and reflection, Christ König welcomes you with open arms.