Honorary citizen Vienna: Cardinal Schönborn as a bridge builder of the city

Honorary citizen Vienna: Cardinal Schönborn as a bridge builder of the city

Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, the highest Catholic spiritual in Austria, has received a new award: he was appointed honorary citizen of the city of Vienna. At the ceremonial handover of the certificate of honor and attachment by Mayor Michael Ludwig (SPÖ) on Monday, November 11th, Schönborn was recognized as a "spiritual bridge builder". "" Being Viennese is a calling, "said the cardinal and described the award as an honorable earthly recognition.

Schönborn, born in Skalsko in 1945 and grew up in Vorarlberg, has had an impressive career. After studying in Bonn, Paris and Vienna, he became an auxiliary bishop in 1991 and in 1995 Archbishop of Vienna. In 1998 he was appointed cardinal. In his eulogy, Ludwig emphasized that Schönborn played a central role in the cooperation between the church and the city, in particular through its sensitive modernizations and initiatives.

a bridge builder between the communities

Ludwig emphasized that Schönborn was not only spiritual but also intellectually active, but always remained down to earth. Even if the relationship between the church and the city was not always smooth, Schönborn had created a trusting cooperation through his influence. The city chief also mentioned some controversial steps of the cardinal, such as the establishment of a vaccination street in St. Stephen's Cathedral. This decision ensured heated discussions, but Schönborn countered with his humanitarian approach.

Another significant moment in Schönborn's term was his reaction after the terrorist attack in Vienna in November 2020, where he donated comfort and put the human perspective in the foreground. In doing so, he also clearly commented on social issues such as asylum policy and climate protection and thus brought his views to questions such as the blessing of homosexual couples. His openness to other religions also promoted inter -religious dialogue in Vienna, which is seen as a positive example.

honorable words and modest reflection

in the laudation of old Federal President Heinz Fischer, Schönborn's tireless commitment to the weak and his contribution to social interaction in the city was recognized. Schönborn himself described the award as "" Bohemian boy "" "and emphasized the value of the cooperation between the city and the church, which is considered a model for religious peace.

In his last statements before the upcoming resignation, which Pope Francis is expected to accept at the end of January 2025, Schönborn admitted whether he was sometimes too diplomatic during his term and was missing in clear words. This honest reflection rounds off the image of a man who worked on his values with integrity and a deep commitment.