Abbess of Westerholt: A year full of hope and culture in Walsrode!

Walsrode, January 5, 2025 - As part of a conversation at the turn of the year, the abbess of the Walsroder women's monastery, Eva von Westerholt, highlighted her views on democratic values ​​and social responsibility. She had previously completed a tour for guests of her 1,000-year-old monastery. Margot Friedländer, a Holocaust survivor who was also present, addressed the guests with strong words and appealed: “Be human.” This illustrates the ethical guidelines that are at the forefront.

In her conversation, Abbess von Westerholt discussed important points such as the importance of tolerance and respect in dealing with one another. She is committed to democratic dialogues that are fact-oriented and wants to strengthen the political center and counteract anti-democratic currents in society. In a global context, she calls for peace and advocates for the rights of women, especially in Afghanistan. She is also passionate about combating global warming.

Ecumenism and cultural program in focus

The abbess also expressed the wish for successful ecumenism and emphasized the individual responsibility of each individual. She sees hope, confidence and trust in God as important spiritual sources of strength. She would like to see many curious visitors to the monastery life and a growing integration into the city of Walsrode. She also announced a varied cultural program that is intended to appeal to all age groups. The first program item will take place on March 23rd at 7 p.m. in the Walsroder town church, featuring Beate Josten (vocals), Regina Ackmann (organ) and Norbert Mauerhof (recitation) with texts from the Book of Psalms, such as District newspaper reported.

Eva von Westerholt, who has been abbess since the beginning of 2020, was officially introduced as the new abbess of the Protestant women's monastery in Walsrode on May 21, 2022. The 62-year-old, who holds a doctorate in law and has a professional background in the real estate industry, describes her position as fulfilling and with great scope. The monastery, which was founded in 986, is one of the six Lüneburg women's monasteries that became Protestant women's monasteries after the Reformation. The introduction took place in the Protestant town church in Walsrode and was a church and secular ceremony, like evangelisch.de reported.

Since she took office, the monastery has been open to pilgrims during the day and von Westerholt has initiated various cultural events, including concerts, readings and programs for children and young people. Lower Saxony is known for its vibrant tradition of Protestant monasteries, and there are currently 15 inhabited Protestant women's monasteries and women's monasteries under the care of the Hanover Monastery Chamber.