Bishop Janssen remains in Hildesheimer Cathedral: affected people outraged!

Bishop Janssen remains in Hildesheimer Cathedral: affected people outraged!

Stand: 17.10.2024 9:36 pm

A controversial decision was made by the diocese of Hildesheim with regard to the former bishop Heinrich Maria Janssen. Despite the serious allegations of sexual abuse, his body remains in the crypt of the Hildesheim cathedral. This decision was made on Thursday, and it is certain that it will cause far -reaching reactions.

The diocese justifies this step with the dead rest of the bishops buried in the crypt. A change would be interpreted as a judgment about the dead, which should be avoided. In order to change the character of the crypt, it will no longer be accessible to the public in the future, which signals that it should no longer be regarded as a place of veneration.

affected criticize the decision

While Janssen's term between 1957 and 1982, according to a scientific study from 2021, sexual violence and abuse of power occurred within the diocese. Five alleged victims accuse him of having committed sexual assault, among them cases of violence against children. The North Council of Affairs describes the diocese's decision as "shameful" and sees this a lost opportunity for public regrets. "Here is a 'perpetrator bishop' among believers who gather in the cathedral," said a representative of the group.

is particularly criticized that the perspectives of those affected do not include the decision-making, although their voices have been heard. A sign of respect for the victims was clearly challenged in this situation.

Shield should provide information about allegations

In the future, a sign in front of the crypt will inform about the allegations of abuse against Janssen. A change in funeral practice is also in prospect: deceased bishops should no longer be buried in the crypt, but instead in the Annen cemetery of the cathedral. These measures seem to be targeting the public about the urgent topics of abuse of power and sexualized violence within the Church.

The discussion about this case is therefore far-reaching, and the decisions of the diocese of Hildesheim are followed closely by the affected and the public. Dealing with the past is of great importance for many, and the current situation could be seen as a test for the reform ability of the church.