Bishop Kohlgraf: Church must remain present on social issues!

Bishop Kohlgraf: Church must remain present on social issues!

The Bundestag election is over and Bishop Peter Kohlgraf from Mainz is faced with a variety of reactions. During the election campaign, the Bishopshaus in Mainz became a center of political discussion. As a result, the church responsible were given outraged letters and threats of church exits, which often depended on the political statements of the bishop. In a statement, Kohlgraf points out that he cannot fulfill all wishes and appeals to society to accept different perspectives. "We all have joint responsibility for a successful coexistence," he emphasizes.

It is important for Kohlgraf that believing people actively contribute to social debates. In this context, he speaks of the community as a prayer community that is supposed to form an indispensable network between people and God. Despite a decline in believer numbers, the prayer for Kohlgraf remains a central part of the church mission. The bishop does not see a critical look at the churches as harmful, but as a necessary reaction to controversial positioning that exist in society. He also demands a reversal because the unbelievability of the churches has visible consequences.

political responsibility of the church

Kohlgraf defends the speeches of the church in social discussions. As katholisch.de , he emphasizes that the church cannot be kept out of questions of human dignity and social policy decisions. "We do not make party politics," he explains and emphasizes that the church positions in ethical questions are clear and clear.

Nevertheless, Kohlgraf endeavors to make no statements in the election campaign that could be exploited in part. In his opinion, the church should not be an extended arm of political parties and vice versa. Instead, Kohlgraf asks to appreciate different opinions and endure the diversity of views in a democracy.

Hope for constructive debates

"My hope is in the desire for more constructive objectivity in political debates," says the bishop and calls on all citizens to actively strive to take a respect. He refers to the first letter to Timotheus, in which it is called to pray for all people and rulers. This attitude shows that the spiritual dimension of prayer can also be understood as a contribution to a decent society.

The current situation demands both church representatives and believers to rethink their commitment in society. The dialogue between church and politics remains a central topic that continues to belong to the agenda. The bishop sees responsibility for a positive social development not only among the governing, but for every single citizen.