St.-Anna-Kirche

St.-Anna-Kirche in Rheinberg, a fascinating example of postmodern architecture, stands as a beacon of faith and community in the heart of Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany. This unique pentagonal brick structure with its distinctive round tower is not just a place of worship but a testament to the resilient spirit of its parishioners and the innovative vision of its architect, Heinz Dohmen.

The History of St.-Anna-Kirche

The story of St.-Anna-Kirche begins in the 1950s, during the development of the Annaberg district in Rheinberg. The burgeoning population necessitated the establishment of a new parish, leading to the formation of the Pfarrverein St. Anna in 1967. A temporary church, affectionately dubbed St. Bonanza due to its location in the open fields, was erected in 1968 and consecrated by Bishop Joseph Höffner of Münster.

Despite its provisional nature, this humble structure served the community for over a decade. By 1970, the parish had grown significantly, and plans for a permanent church were set in motion. However, it wasn't until 1981 that the church council finally decided to build a new, more suitable house of worship. After a competitive selection process, Heinz Dohmen, a renowned diocesan architect and glass artist, was chosen to design the new church.

Construction began in August 1982, with the foundation stone laid in September of the same year. The new St.-Anna-Kirche was completed remarkably quickly, with the topping-out ceremony held in April 1983 and the consecration by Bishop Reinhard Lettmann taking place in September 1983.

In 1999, the church received a beautiful addition in the form of new altar windows featuring stylized plant motifs, created by artist Jürgen Strater. However, in 2007, St.-Anna-Kirche lost its status as a parish church due to a merger with the nearby parishes of St. Peter and St. Nikolaus in Orsoy. It now serves as a filial church within the larger St. Peter parish in Rheinberg.

Architectural Marvel

St.-Anna-Kirche is a striking example of postmodern church architecture, reflecting the liturgical reforms of the Second Vatican Council. Dohmen’s design aimed to create a space that was neither a flexible multipurpose room nor a self-contained sculpture, but rather a refuge of tranquility and contemplation. The pentagonal layout symbolizes humanity and the five wounds of Christ, while the embedded square represents the world defined by the four elements and cardinal directions.

The interior is dominated by circular forms, symbolizing perfection and eternity. Eight columns surround the altar island, representing the eighth day of creation – a symbol of Christ’s resurrection and the new creation of humanity. The industrial charm of the church is enhanced by exposed structural elements and a ceiling clad in wooden slats, creating a serene yet modern atmosphere.

The wooden pews are arranged in a semicircle around the altar, fostering a sense of community and participation. The baptismal font is centrally placed, emphasizing the importance of baptism in the Christian faith. The tabernacle, located in a dedicated sacrament chapel within the tower, adds a spiritual focal point to the space. This chapel is flanked by vibrant stained-glass windows featuring plant motifs, adding a touch of color and life to the serene interior.

Sacred Treasures

St.-Anna-Kirche is home to several significant religious artifacts. A statue of Saint Anne, the church’s patron, greets visitors in the entrance hall. In 2011, the church received a precious relic of Saint Anne, donated by the Underberg family. This relic, housed in a neo-Romanesque case crafted by a Parisian silversmith in the 19th century, is displayed to the left of the altar, next to a sculpture of Anna selbdritt from the St.-Anna-Kapelle.

The church also houses the original Pietà sculpture from the Rheinberg grotto, a poignant depiction of Mary holding the body of Jesus. This 16th or 17th-century work has been replaced at the grotto by a lightweight replica, ensuring its preservation within the church.

Other notable artworks include the altar cross, a gold-ringed tabernacle adorned with a lamb motif and gemstones, and a series of Stations of the Cross along the right wall, inviting reflection on Christ's passion and sacrifice.

The Organ

The church’s organ, built by Orgelbau Fleiter in 1996, is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and sound. With 22 registers distributed across two manuals and a pedal, the organ’s fully mechanical action ensures a rich and expressive musical experience. Its presence enhances the liturgical celebrations and adds a majestic auditory dimension to the sacred space.

St.-Anna-Kirche is more than just a building; it is a vibrant community hub and a place of spiritual solace. Its unique architecture, rich history, and sacred treasures make it a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring the cultural and religious heritage of Rheinberg. Whether you are drawn by its architectural beauty, its historical significance, or its serene atmosphere, St.-Anna-Kirche offers a profound and memorable experience for all who enter its doors.