St. Joseph's Church in Racibórz

The Church of St. Joseph in Racibórz is a Roman Catholic parish church, located in the Ocice district at Gdańska Street. It belongs to the Racibórz deanery of the Opole diocese. It was built between 1937 and 1938 in a modernist style, designed by the architect Felix Hinssen from Nysa, and the construction was overseen by Monsignor Carl Ulitzka, the parish priest of St. Nicholas Church. The funding for the construction came from donations by the faithful and support from Cardinal Adolf Bertram. The church was blessed on October 23, 1938, by Father Ulitzka, and consecrated on May 29, 1939, by Cardinal Bertram. In 1941, a new parish was established, and its first parish priest was Monsignor Bernhard Gade. Services in the church are held in both Polish and German, highlighting its multicultural character. The church underwent a renovation completed in September 2013, which was partially funded by the city authorities. In 2012, the church was entered into the register of historical monuments, reflecting its historical and architectural value. Parishioners plan to fund a commemorative plaque in honor of both monsignors, which could serve as an interesting element of local culture and history. The Church of St. Joseph is an important place both for the faithful and the local community, connecting various traditions and histories.