Freiham: Hope for education instead of unused space

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In the Munich district of Freiham, there is currently a paradoxical state: on a spacious property of 5,400 square meters, which offers larger place than a soccer field, the hoped -for "urban development lighthouse" is missing. Despite the residents that had been based since 2019 and the planned settlement of over 30,000 people in this new district, the property is unused and overgrown.

Missing construction plans of the Catholic Church

A look at the reasons for this development reveals a centralized responsibility. The Archdiocese of Munich and Freising is the owner of the area, which is designated as a common area,, however, there is no need for a church at this location. Instead, the archdiocese has the intention of building an education center, which has not yet been specified. A development plan from 2016 originally outlined a primary school, a kindergarten and other social institutions.

Mobile concept in response to the standstill

In view of the delayed construction activities, the Catholic neighboring community has taken innovative ways to get in touch with the Freiham citizens. In a “Project K: Church in Freiham”, a mobile vehicle is used that accompanied coffee and conversations to find out what needs the community has. Ourania Amperidou, a consultant for social space orientation, explains: "We want to actively integrate people and develop solutions together that are tailored to the needs of residents."

financial challenges of the church

But the external circumstances could represent additional hurdles. In view of a decline in church tax funds, the Archdiocese faces great financial challenges. Instead of in fixed buildings, the resources should increasingly flow into personnel offers in order to be closer to people and to understand their needs.

The future remains uncertain

The ambiguities about the actual use of the property in Freiham ensure a certain uncertainty within the community. Despite the announcement of the archbishopric that pastoral and charitable offers should also be made available in this new development area, the question remains whether the planned educational center will become reality as originally intended or whether a new, flexible concept is being developed on the requirements of the residents.

A call for participation

The situation in Freiham reflects a larger trend in which church institutions are required to adapt to the changed needs of society. Open communication and the exchange between church and society could be crucial to find an adequate answer to the needs of the growing community. While the residents are still waiting for the unused property, the impetus for the shared design is very clear.