Church in political dispute: Between withdrawal and responsibility

Church in political dispute: Between withdrawal and responsibility

The relationship between church and politics was the focus of a discussion initiated by Bundestag President Julia Klöckner (CDU). Klöckner calls for the churches to exercise restraint in day-to-day politics and criticizes the fact that religious communities comment on topics that are not relevant enough, such as traffic rules. These words were taken up in a podcast by Rundblick, in which Christian Calderone (CDU) and Michael Lühmann (Greens) also had their say. Lühmann contradicts Klöckner and emphasizes that the church should act politically in order to be able to offer a protective space, which is based on his experiences in the GDR.

Lühmann emphasizes that the church played a central role during the Monday demonstrations against the SED regime. He sees it as necessary for the church to remain uncomfortable for all political sides and to engage with relevant social debates. Calderone also warns that over-politicization could dilute the uniqueness of the church, but at the same time emphasizes the need for humility in political debate.

Role of the church in society

The discussion surrounding the political role of the church spans various perspectives. Anne Gidion from the Protestant Church emphasizes that it is the church's task to bring important social issues such as social justice, migration and sustainability into the political discourse. Karl Jüsten also sees the expectation from the Catholic Church that the church will take a stand on important issues such as the protection of life.

In another exchange, Christian Stäblein from the Protestant Church emphasized that churches should not act as better politicians, but rather should warn and speak to consciences. Ex-CDU Education Minister Annette Schavan explains that the churches are important dialogue partners for political parties, even if there is not always agreement in their positions.

Criticism and controversy

The dialogue also highlights the challenge that churches should express themselves on political issues without getting lost in current political issues. Kathrin Göring-Eckardt (Greens) calls for churches not to act as value agencies. The motto of the upcoming church conference “Colorfully Connected” is intended to celebrate the diversity of the Christian faith and provide spaces for encounters and understanding.

Overall, it becomes clear that the relationship between church and politics is a sensitive topic. While some politicians call for a reserved role for the church, others advocate that the churches actively take their place in social debates. The conversation about the political role of the church therefore remains relevant and will continue in the context of the upcoming church conference in Hanover, where the hotels are almost fully booked and numerous events are planned.