Grünwidl demands dialogue between church and politics in difficult times

Grünwidl demands dialogue between church and politics in difficult times

Wien, Österreich - Vienna, March 21, 2025- the apostolic administrator of the Archdiocese of Vienna, Josef Grünwidl, has vehemently spoken out for more intensive dialogue and cooperation in church and politics. In an interview for the Ö1 show "Religion Aktuell", he expressed his concerns on the sidelines of the General Assembly of the Bishops' Conference in the Hungarian Arch Abbey Pannonhalma. Grünwidl emphasized the need for a "cooperation at eye level", which is sought in the synodal process of the church. In view of the increasing political extremism, he explained that a "real dialogue" was essential to protect democracy as a matter of course. The protection of the weakest and the protection of human rights is always in the foreground, which also reflects the attitude of the Bishops' Conference.

In addition, Grünwidl was appointed "honorary canor" on November 1, a prestigious award, which was awarded by Cardinal Christoph Schönborn. Since 2023 he has been a bishop's vicar for the Vicariate Süd - under the Wienerwald, where he actively brings himself into the interests of the archdiocese. The cathedral chapter, to which he now belongs as an honorary member, is responsible for the election of central religious offices. With this appointment, he assumes another significant responsibility to promote a pioneering role in the interpersonal and political dialogue in the Archdiocese of Vienna, such as kathpress.at reported.

The appointment as an honorary canonist is an expression of trust and appreciation for Grünwid's commitment. The cathedral chapter, consisting of auxiliary bishops and other high -ranking church representatives, plays a central role in the spiritual and administrative direction of the St. Stephen's Cathedral. In its new function, Grünwidl is expected to actively participate in the further development of the church in the current political landscape and raise the voice of the church loudly and clearly, which also