Cardinal Schönborn: Church needs bridge builders in times of crisis!

Cardinal Schönborn: Church needs bridge builders in times of crisis!

Cardinal Christoph Schönborn was recently honored at the Vienna City Temple for his tireless commitment to interreligious cooperation. He was recognized for his support of the Jewish community and his offensive stance against anti-Semitism was highlighted. Especially after the devastating Hamas massacre on October 7, 2023, Schönborn has shown himself to be a steadfast friend of the Jewish community. This was also emphasized by Deutsch, who pointed out Schönborn's rejection of a ban on slaughter and praised his significant contributions to coming to terms with Christian anti-Semitism Small newspaper reported.

In a press conference that is believed to be his last, the cardinal also expressed optimism about the future of Christianity in society. Despite the continuous decline in church membership in Austria and Europe, Schönborn sees Christianity as a source of meaning and renewal. He emphasized that people who were not raised in Christian traditions are showing interest in religious faith, such as the 13,000 adults who were baptized in France last year. Schönborn explained that Christianity can provide important answers to people's big existential questions. Loud Vatican News, he emphasized that the church today is obliged to strengthen offers of meaning and to offer people guidelines for their questions.

Finally, the cardinal expressed concern about global geopolitical uncertainty and rearmament in Europe. In these times he advocates falling back on common values ​​and treating each other with respect. Schönborn, who has been Archbishop of Vienna since 1995, emphasized the need for dialogue and the preservation of the Church's beliefs in order to remain able to act in the current social challenges. These thoughts fit into his extensive appreciation as one of the most colorful figures of the Church in Europe today.