Sacramentskerk

The Sacramentskerk in Gouda, a striking example of traditionalist architecture, stands proudly in the Korte Akkeren district. Originally built in the early 1930s, this former church is a testament to the rich history and evolving landscape of Gouda. Designed by the Catholic architect J.P. Dessing, the building was constructed with the support of the local community, who contributed weekly donations to fund its creation. The church and the adjacent monastery were completed in June 1932 and were initially home to the Franciscan order.

The History of Sacramentskerk

The story of the Sacramentskerk begins with the laying of its first stone on September 9, 1931, by Pastor Eduard de Graaf. The church was built in the style of the Delftse School, characterized by its symmetrical design, brick construction, and natural stone decorations. The building's traditional window openings and sloping tiled roofs add to its charm. Inside, the church boasted 600 seats and was designed without pillars, ensuring unobstructed views of the altar from all angles.

The church was consecrated on July 3, 1932, by the Bishop of Haarlem, Monsignor J.D.J. Aengenent. Initially, it operated under the jurisdiction of the Sint Jozefkerk but became an independent parish church in 1940. Over the years, donations allowed for various enhancements, including new windows, a communion bench, and a pulpit. In the mid-1980s, as church attendance declined, part of the church was repurposed for community activities, allowing for a flexible use of space.

Exploring Sacramentskerk

Today, the Sacramentskerk has been transformed into a vibrant health center, serving the local community's needs. This transformation was driven by the secularization trend and the subsequent closure of the parish around 2005. The building was sold to housing corporation Mozaïek Wonen, which undertook a significant renovation to repurpose the space.

The renovation preserved many of the church's original features, including the beautiful stained glass windows, the organ balcony, and several church benches. The bronze bells remain in place and are rung regularly, maintaining a connection to the building's past. A small chapel has been retained as a prayer space, along with a room for evening vigils.

The Transformation into a Health Center

The transition from church to health center was not without its challenges. Initially, the church board was hesitant to part with the religious heritage, even considering demolishing the building. However, the community's desire to preserve this landmark led to its new purpose as a health center, addressing a shortage of primary healthcare facilities in the area.

The renovation, led by architect Gerrit Bikker, involved significant maintenance on the exterior and the addition of large windows in the roof to enhance natural lighting. The main entrance of the health center was relocated to the side of the building to better integrate it with the neighborhood, while the original church entrance was maintained but deemed unsuitable for the center's new role.

The Mengelbergaltaar and Other Features

One of the significant interior elements was the Mengelbergaltaar, crafted by the Mengelberg firm in 1932. This altar was removed in 2005 and stored until it found a new home in the Eendrachtskapel in Rotterdam, where it was rededicated in December 2016. Despite these changes, the Sacramentskerk retains many of its original decorative elements, including tile tableaux, holy water fonts, and door crosses.

A Community Landmark

The Sacramentskerk's journey from a place of worship to a community health center is a reflection of the dynamic history of Gouda and its ability to adapt to changing times. The building, now a municipal monument, continues to serve the community, blending its historical significance with modern functionality. Its story is one of preservation, adaptation, and community spirit, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the rich cultural tapestry of Gouda.