70 years of The Word for Sunday”: A look back full of hope and inspiration!
Federal President Steinmeier honors 70 years of “The Word for Sunday” in Munich. The show remains an important anchor in times of crisis.
70 years of The Word for Sunday”: A look back full of hope and inspiration!
Munich – Three cheers for 70 years of “The Word for Sunday” – an anniversary celebration that made history! On November 14, 2024, 120 guests of honor gathered in St. Markus Church to celebrate the remarkable existence of Germany's second oldest television show. Starting with the first mass broadcast on May 8, 1954, the program has produced over 3,650 editions to date and reaches around 1.2 million viewers on the first every week.
A truly strong anchor in turbulent times
Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier found moving words to appreciate the meaning of “The Word for Sunday”. “The Word for Sunday is a 70-year success story,” he announced emphatically. With its warm language, the show encourages people to ask ethical and socially relevant questions and thus gives viewers much-needed guidance in a time of linguistic brutalization. “A democracy needs debates, but we have to conduct them with respect!” continued Steinmeier.
Church leaders praise the valuable contribution
The churches drew attention to the transformative power of mission in the modern world. Bishop Kirsten Fehrs emphasized that in a time full of uncertainty and fear, Sunday's words act as a solid anchor of hope. “Right now we need an inner compass and the thoughtful words of the show provide more guidance than ever,” she said.
Cardinal Reinhard Marx added that “The Word for Sunday” keeps the voice of God awake in society and promotes cohesion. The director of the Bavarian Radio, Dr. Katja Wildermuth stated: “Four minutes of pausing and thinking, once a week, remains a valuable ritual in this fast-moving world.”
From the end of the television broadcasts to the current programming, “The Word for Sunday” follows an eventful history that remains incomparable in today's media scene! Another reason to be happy for the viewers who tune in on Saturdays after the daily topics and, in the best case scenario, find profound encouragement. “The Word for Sunday” – an irreplaceable part of life for many!