Schönborn's farewell: A thank you service in the heart of Vienna

Schönborn's farewell: A thank you service in the heart of Vienna

An important chapter of the Catholic Church in Austria is coming to an end: Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, who has led the Archdiocese of Vienna for almost 30 years, will be farewelled on January 18, 2025 as part of a large-scale thanksgiving service in St. Stephen's Cathedral. More than 4,000 guests are expected for this special occasion, including outstanding personalities from politics and church. Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen will also give a speech the Crown reports.

Celebrations and prominent guests

The thanksgiving service, in which Schönborn himself takes over the liturgical leadership, will begin at 2 p.m. It reflects the archbishop's almost thirty-year work and his commitment to a cooperative church. Special features of the service include a joint baptismal commemoration, at which leading representatives of 16 Christian churches will also renew their baptismal vows. Among those celebrating were Federal Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg and Vienna's Mayor Michael Ludwig reports katholisch.at.

A particularly moving component of the service is the presentation of a Gospel book, which over the years has been filled with signatures from thousands of people who have committed themselves to a shared journey of faith with Cardinal Schönborn. The celebrations end with a solemn blessing from the archbishop, who is accompanied by numerous companions and clerical staff. The music is provided by various choirs and cathedral bandmasters who accompanied Schönborn during his time in office.

Strict safety precautions apply throughout the day. St. Stephen's Cathedral will be closed to spontaneous visitors from 8 a.m. until the regular evening mass. In addition, the event will be broadcast live on ORF 2 and other media to enable the numerous interested parties to take part in this historic conclusion. Final preparations are underway and all eyes are on this momentous day.