The Evangelical Church in Lower Austria: Between Renewal and Challenge

The Evangelical Church in Lower Austria: Between Renewal and Challenge

The role of the Evangelical Church in today's society is becoming increasingly important, especially when it comes to topics such as climate change, hospitality and demographic change. Michael Simmer, the new superintendent of the Evangelical Church in Lower Austria, sees his task in acting as a warning voice and actively contributing to social issues.

Simmer emphasizes that the church does not act in part, but it is their duty to point out undesirable developments and to work for the common good. A central topic here is the man -made climate change, which he sees as an essential point in which the church plays an important role. "We have to help with consciousness formation," explains Simmer, who points out that every parish should initiate climate protection projects and is therefore invited to see critical how they use their own resources.

openness and inclusion

Another important aspect is the openness of the Evangelical Church. Simmer describes this openness as an invitation to all people, regardless of origin, sexual orientation or belief. "Everyone has an indivisible dignity," says Simmer, and the interreligious dialogue is a central part of this openness. In addition, the church does not perceive age limits in the Lord's Supper and welcomes everyone who feels invited.

The current number of members in the Evangelical Church are, however, worrying. Simmer explains that the developments are not good in the long term, especially in the diaspora, where it is a greater challenge for many people to get to services. This makes it clear that the church also has to break new ground in the commitment. The question arises how church life can be designed in the rural regions under these conditions.

A central point that Simmer wants to initiate is the greater integration of volunteers into Catholic work. "We are very rich in volunteers in Lower Austria who can take on a lot of work," he emphasizes, seeing this and sees a chance to make the church future -proof. It is also important that these volunteers play a larger role in the worship area and on special occasions.

Good Friday and social challenges

An still open topic remains the Good Friday, which has no longer been recognized as a legal holiday in the recent past. Simmer sees this as a wound that still hurts, especially because of the importance of this day within the Protestant tradition. "Good Friday could be a public holiday for everyone," he notes what the possibility of a broader discussion about this holiday implies.

The experiences that Simmer could gain as a youth pastor and school head manager, he sees as an advantage in his new position. This helped him to develop a good understanding of the different needs of the communities in Lower Austria and appreciate the diversity of the region.

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