Antwerp (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The Sint-Jan Maria Vianney Church in Wilrijk is being converted into a gymnasium, as part of a broader plan to repurpose seven Antwerp churches for new uses.
At a press conference on the new church policy plan, the city made this announcement. Six additional churches will be given new purposes in addition to the Wilrijk church.
Together, the diocese and the Belgium city of Antwerp have created a new church policy plan for 2025–2030. The plan provides a long-term outlook for Antwerp’s fifty-nine Roman Catholic parish churches.
While some churches continue to serve a religious purpose, others are given a new cultural or social mission.
The Sint-Jan Maria Vianney church is the most impressive location. It is being converted into a gymnasium for Apollo, a gymnastics club.
“This gives our club and our 500 members a huge boost,”
Says Sven Geysemans of Apollo.
“During the day and during school holidays we do not need our hall, so the church can offer space to schools, clubs and various activities.”
In addition to the church in Wilrijk, there are 6 other churches that will be given a different purpose.
“Some of them will go to other Christian communities,”
Says Stijn De Rooster (N-VA), alderman for Religious Services.
“One will also go to an architectural firm, another will be used as a theater in the future. In addition to these 7 churches that will be given a new purpose in the short term, another 7 will be added in the coming year.”
Antwerp Bishop Johan Bonny has mixed feelings about the repurposing of the various churches.
“I would have preferred to have been bishop 50 years earlier because then I could still consecrate new churches everywhere,”
Says Bonny.
“The reality is unfortunately different today, but I am not leaving this church in Wilrijk with tears in my eyes. I am happy that a social project for young people is being given a place here.”
How will the church in Wilrijk be transformed into a gymnasium?
By carefully modifying the existing building to provide rock climbing facilities while maintaining important architectural elements, the church in Wilrijk is being converted into a gymnasium. In order to preserve the building’s historic integrity and preserve the original stained glass windows, altar, and other features, the conversion entails erecting climbing walls that are securely fastened.
This strategy adds a contemporary recreational function while preserving the church’s beauty and spiritual ambiance.
Alongside the climbing and workout facilities, the design frequently keeps certain spaces for traditional use or introspection, striking a compromise between the establishment of a lively community gym and the preservation of sacred space.
