St. Barbara

St. Barbara in Hückelhoven, nestled in the North Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany, is a remarkable testament to the town's rich history and cultural heritage. This former Roman Catholic filial church, dedicated to St. Barbara, has witnessed the ebb and flow of the community's spiritual and social life for several decades. Though it was deconsecrated on September 25, 2016, St. Barbara remains a significant landmark, reflecting the architectural and historical narratives of Hückelhoven.

The Historical Significance of St. Barbara

St. Barbara's story is intertwined with the industrial growth of Hückelhoven, particularly the development of the Sophia-Jacoba coal mine in 1914. As the town's population surged due to the burgeoning coal industry, the existing St. Lambertus Church could no longer accommodate the growing number of worshippers. This prompted the Cologne General Vicariate to commission the construction of a second church to serve the expanding community.

Construction of St. Barbara began in 1932, amidst the economic challenges of the time. Despite these difficulties, the church was completed within a year, and its first service was held on Christmas 1933. The church was officially consecrated on July 10, 1934, marking the beginning of its role as a spiritual haven for the residents of Hückelhoven. St. Barbara became an independent parish on January 21, 1960, a status it maintained until its merger with St. Lambertus Parish in 2010.

Architectural Marvels

St. Barbara is a modern, two-aisled basilica-style structure characterized by its simplicity and elegance. The building's white plastered exterior and round-arched windows create a serene and inviting facade. The church's six-bay nave leads to a rectangular chancel, reflecting the straightforward yet profound architectural style of the mid-20th century.

The interior of St. Barbara is equally captivating, featuring several original pieces from its early years. Among these are the 1933 bluestone baptismal font and the minimalist high altar. The crucifixion group above the altar, a 1934 oil-on-linen work by Maria Katzgrau, adds a touch of artistic grace to the sanctuary. Additionally, the church houses a Maria-Hilf altar created by the Cohnen Art Institute of Düsseldorf in 1935 and eleven stained-glass windows designed by Katzgrau between 1935 and 1936.

The Bells of St. Barbara

One of the unique features of St. Barbara is its five-bell chime, each bell hailing from different periods. Together, they create a harmonious melody that has echoed through the streets of Hückelhoven for years. The bells are tuned to the motif Ad te levavi animam meam, adding a musical dimension to the church's spiritual ambiance.

Modern Additions

Over the years, St. Barbara has seen several modern additions that complement its historical elements. The tabernacle on the high altar, crafted by Peter Bücken in 1961, is a notable example, as are the various saint statues by Wilhelm Hanebal from the 1960s. The church's organ, built by Heinz Wilbrand's organ workshop in 1970, features 15 registers and a mechanical action, enhancing the auditory experience of the church's services.

The Final Chapter

In the face of financial constraints and the broader process of ecclesiastical property management, the decision was made to deconsecrate St. Barbara. The final Holy Mass was celebrated on September 25, 2016, marking the end of an era for this beloved church. While its future remains uncertain, the legacy of St. Barbara continues to resonate with the people of Hückelhoven.

Visiting St. Barbara

Although St. Barbara is no longer an active place of worship, it remains an intriguing destination for those interested in the history and architecture of Hückelhoven. The church stands as a silent witness to the town's industrial past and its community's enduring faith. Visitors can explore the exterior of the building and appreciate the architectural nuances that make St. Barbara a noteworthy landmark.

In conclusion, St. Barbara in Hückelhoven is more than just a former church; it is a symbol of the town's historical and cultural journey. Its walls tell stories of a community's growth, challenges, and triumphs, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand the rich tapestry of Hückelhoven's heritage.