Hope in uncertain times: Bishop Elbs calls for confidence

Hope in uncertain times: Bishop Elbs calls for confidence

In a moving message at Lent, Bishop Benno Elbs from Feldkirch called to consider this time as a "hope time". In the midst of uncertain times when peace is brittle and trust in democratic structures disappear, he asks to re -ignite the light of hope. "Aggression and fear poison our social interaction," warned Elbs, asking the question of where people can still find meaning and orientation. He emphasizes that Christian hope is the most important anchor in difficult times. Elbs refers to the Benedictine David Steindl-Rast and emphasizes that hope for trust in life and God is based. "This trusting basic attitude is also important for our life story," he continued, and encouraged the believers to believe in the "promise of what risen", promises comfort and healing, even in difficult situations.

hope as a key to overcoming crises

At the same time, Bishop Georg Bätzing reminded of New Year's Eve how important hope is in the face of global conflicts and crises. In his annual service in Frankfurt Cathedral, he found that hope was the "counter image of fear and despair". The faithful are called to put their hope for Jesus, in the trust that he can save them. However, Bätzing emphasized that hope should not be confused with blind optimism. "Hope is the confidence that my own life makes sense and strives for a goal," he said.

The chairman of the German Bishops' Conference encouraged to integrate the attitude of hope into everyday life by deliberately looking for positive news and taking it up. At a time that is often shaped by negativity, this could change the view of the good. "It is important to give hope to other people in difficult times through small characters and comforting words," added Bätzing. Such gestures could make a significant difference in the lives of others.

This appeal for hope reflects the challenges and faith that many people accompany today. Bishop Elbs and Bishop Bätzing rely on the transformative power of hope in a world full of uncertainties, as well as the reports of Kathpress and church and life show