St. Katharina (Bad Soden)

St. Katharina in Bad Soden am Taunus, nestled at the edge of the new Kurpark in the picturesque region of Hessen, Germany, is a beacon of faith, history, and architectural charm. This Catholic church, with its serene surroundings and storied past, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the spiritual and cultural heritage of the area.

The Early Beginnings

The roots of St. Katharina trace back to the 15th century, when the first church in Bad Soden was constructed. However, the Reformation brought significant changes, and the original church became Protestant, leaving the Catholic community without a place of worship. For years, Catholics had to journey to the higher grounds of Neuenhain to attend services.

By the mid-19th century, the influx of spa guests, predominantly of the Catholic faith, underscored the need for a local Catholic church. Despite initial resistance from the local authorities, a dedicated committee was formed in 1861 to advocate for the construction of a new chapel. Their efforts bore fruit, and in 1862, the Nassauische Landesregierung, the city of Soden, and the Bischöfliche Ordinariat Limburg granted permission to build the chapel. The foundation stone was laid on September 29, 1862, and by November of the same year, the structure was complete. On July 17, 1864, the chapel was consecrated to St. Katharina of Alexandria.

Challenges and Growth

The early years were fraught with challenges. Structural issues required the interior gallery to be supported, and financial constraints delayed the construction of the sacristy and the acquisition of a bell. Frequent service interruptions, including a six-week closure due to the illness of the Neuenhain pastor, further tested the fledgling congregation. Despite these hurdles, the community's perseverance paid off, and on December 24, 1872, Bad Soden was established as its own parish, with Father Bigot as its first pastor.

Under the leadership of subsequent pastors, the church saw significant developments. Father Johannes Butz, who took over in 1885, oversaw the construction of a new altar in 1893, crafted in the Neo-Gothic style with a central image of St. Katharina. The early 20th century brought further enhancements, including a new organ in 1909 and the addition of three side altars.

Wartime Trials and Post-War Rebuilding

The tumultuous years of the World Wars left their mark on St. Katharina. During World War I, the church's bells were requisitioned for the war effort and never recovered. New bells were cast in 1925, only for three of them to be confiscated again during World War II. The church itself suffered significant damage, particularly to its interior, from wartime explosions.

Post-war efforts focused on restoration and expansion. In 1950, new windows were installed, and the entrance was redesigned. However, as the congregation grew, it became clear that the church was too small. In a generous act, Geheimrat Max Baginski announced in 1954 his intention to fund the construction of a new church. The original church was subsequently demolished in the 1950s, making way for a new, more spacious St. Katharina.

The New St. Katharina

The new church, financed entirely by Max Baginski and designed by architect Paul Johannbroer from Wiesbaden, began construction on August 15, 1955. The foundation stone was laid on November 6, 1955, and on September 1, 1957, the new St. Katharina was consecrated by Bishop Wilhelm Kempf of Limburg. The adjacent rectory was completed by the end of 1956, and in 1964, the Max-Baginski-Kindergarten opened its doors, further cementing the church's role as a community hub.

Over the years, St. Katharina has undergone several renovations to adapt to the changing needs of its congregation. The first major renovation, prompted by the Second Vatican Council, saw the altar lowered and the tabernacle relocated. In 1983, another renovation preserved the church's historical elements, including the figures from the high altar and the painting of St. Katharina, which were displayed at Max Baginski's crypt. The most recent preparations for the church's 50th anniversary in 2006 included the repositioning of the baptismal font to the center, the restoration of the natural stone wall in the choir, and changes to the seating and ambo in the choir area.

A Community Cornerstone

St. Katharina is more than just a church; it is a cornerstone of the community. The church's long-standing connection with the Thuiner Franciscan Sister Paula, who served as sacristan and caretaker, exemplifies its commitment to service. Sister Paula's dedication to helping the homeless and those in need left a lasting legacy upon her passing in 2006.

Today, St. Katharina continues to thrive, hosting a kindergarten and serving as a spiritual and social center for the residents of Bad Soden. The church's rich history, from its humble beginnings to its modern-day prominence, is a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of its community.

Visitors to St. Katharina can not only admire its architectural beauty but also immerse themselves in the stories of perseverance, faith, and community that have shaped this remarkable church over the centuries. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a spiritual seeker, or simply a curious traveler, St. Katharina offers a warm welcome and a glimpse into the heart of Bad Soden am Taunus.