Ecumenical Way of the Cross ThroughKREUZt” unites Gmünd and České Velenice!

Ecumenical Way of the Cross ThroughKREUZt” unites Gmünd and České Velenice!

The third cross-border ecumenical Way of the Cross “Through CROSS” took place on March 28, 2025 in Gmünd and České Velenice. The event was organized by the Gmünd – Dietmanns – České Velenice Parish Association. The Way of the Cross marked the conclusion of a project that began two years ago and offered participants the opportunity to reflect on central questions of life that relate to the life of Jesus. These questions were:

• Wo werden meine Lebenswege durchkreuzt?
• Wo habe ich mir mein Leben anders vorgestellt?
• Stehe ich mir vielleicht selbst im Weg?

The Stations of the Cross were drawn up by Thomas Binder and accompanied by Pastor Tomáš Vyhnálek ​​and Deacon Roland Senk. Weather permitting, the event started at 6 p.m. at the Church of St. Agnes in České Velenice and ended at the parish church of Gmünd St. Stephan. After the Stations of the Cross an agape took place in the parish hall.

Travel registration and weather conditions

Participants were advised not to forget their passports as the event was cross-border. However, if the weather was unpleasant, an alternative date was available at the Gmünd-St. church. Stephen planned.

Promoting ecumenism

As part of the cross-border Way of the Cross, it becomes clear how important ecumenical events are. They not only promote interreligious dialogue in a world marked by crises, but also understanding and reconciliation between different faith communities. In this context, the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD) refers in its brochure “Moments of Ecumenism” to global ecumenical commitments and their importance for peace and justice.

The EKD highlights various projects that, for example, support schools for disadvantaged or refugee children in Lebanon and Addis Ababa, as well as organize ecumenical prayers for peace in Ukraine. These globally oriented initiatives help to overcome fears and promote long-term understanding between religions, which was also evident during the implementation of the Stations of the Cross in Gmünd.

In addition to the ecumenical Way of the Cross, other events are planned for April. These include a singing meeting with dancing on April 6th as well as a herb hike on April 5th and a men's group from the Heidenreichstein company pastoral care on April 7th.

The large number of participants and the bilingual implementation of the Way of the Cross testify to the high level of acceptance and interest in ecumenical cooperation in the region. It is a step in the right direction for reconciliation and dialogue across religious boundaries.

For further information about developments in ecumenism, the EKD refers to its website, where comprehensive insights into its commitment are provided.
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