Vienna's Archbishop Grünwidl Warns Against Self-Proclaimed "Saviors" in Politics

"Faith or religion will always be political," said Vienna's Archbishop Josef Grünwidl, as it has to do with values and ways of life. However: "Party politics is not the business of the Church." In this context, the designated archbishop finds it "concerning" that politicians, such as US President Donald Trump, currently "stylize and allow themselves to be worshiped as saviors, as messiahs. As if they were the new saviors." This is a "dangerous and very concerning ethic."

Kickl Speech a "Crossing of Boundaries" for Vienna's Archbishop Grünwidl

Grünwidl therefore joins the criticism of Salzburg's Archbishop Franz Lackner against FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl, who did not spare religious allusions in a party conference speech. Where the Gospel or other Christian symbols are used to polarize or divide, Christianity and religious symbols are being abused. "When the cross is used to bring division into society, a boundary is crossed."

The designated archbishop also points to the recent statements of the Bishops' Conference on the welfare state. The episcopate defends itself against the ridicule of solidarity and charitable engagement as well as aid organizations. Moreover, a budget consolidation should not come at the expense of the poor and weak, the appointed Archbishop of Vienna also finds. "Otherwise, it is a budget that will cause great social tensions in the long run. The tensions will become even greater, poverty will increase instead of decrease, and this will have major consequences."

Vienna's Archbishop Grünwidl Does Not Rule Out Changes to Celibacy

As the future archbishop, Grünwidl also faces major internal church challenges. Staff shortages and a lack of priests have led to parish mergers. An end to this process is now in sight, the future archbishop gives hope. "We are now somewhat on the home stretch in the Archdiocese of Vienna." In general, Grünwidl also sees a danger in the Church being too preoccupied with structural issues and itself. "That is always a danger that exists."

What would Grünwidl advise a young man who cannot decide between priesthood and marriage? "I would tell him that it is currently not possible in our Church to pursue both paths. He should consider and examine again whether he would be willing to take this step under the conditions that currently apply in our Church." However, Grünwidl can imagine that this could change in the long term and that the calling to priesthood and to celibate life "could be decoupled."

Reforms in the Church Not Without a Bishop

That Grünwidl is open to change is proven by his former membership in the Pastors' Initiative. "I was young once too and had a storm and stress phase." As a newly appointed pastor, he was close to the people. "And I also met many people there who suffered under the current regulations of the church." However, when the "Call to Disobedience" came, Grünwidl found it "a bit difficult." Because even reforms and change would not be possible without a bishop.

He also told Cardinal Schönborn at the time, "I am someone who wants to go with him with critical obedience." And otherwise, he always tried to openly express his opinion to the Cardinal. "That we talk honestly with each other or, as it is so nicely said in Jewish, speak frankly. I believe that is a topic we need to learn in the church." Even in his short time as an administrator, he noticed that it is difficult "in such a position to find people who really honestly say what they think."

Vienna's Archbishop Grünwidl for More Cooperation with Orders

Grünwidl also has insight into the work of priests as a former acting chairman of the Priests' Council. A study presented there essentially showed high job satisfaction. Nevertheless, nearly a quarter struggle with the task, some are overwhelmed or have other problems. "I think there are certainly celibacy issues for some," said Grünwidl. Important for his new role is now to particularly look at those priests who are in leadership positions.

Closer cooperation with religious communities is also important to Grünwidl, which are canonically independent of the dioceses. A meeting with the new leadership team is planned at the upcoming spring plenary assembly of the Bishops' Conference. "There are so many points of cooperation, there are so many questions and sometimes problems that concern both of us, that it is certainly necessary and sensible to work together more closely and to engage in dialogue."

No Change of Chairmanship at Bishops' Conference

Grünwidl does not currently see it as realistic that he himself could be appointed cardinal. "It took three years for Cardinal Schönborn. And I am very happy and grateful if I now have time to settle well into this office as archbishop." Fundamentally, a voice from Austria in a papal election would be desirable: "From an Austrian perspective, that would probably make sense." However, Pope Francis has deliberately taken a different line here and appointed cardinals from the global south. "Whether Pope Leo continues this line, or whether he also strengthens the European Church again and brings it more into the fold of the College of Cardinals, remains to be seen. I think that cannot be said yet," said Grünwidl.

Grünwidl is also not currently aiming for other roles, such as the chairmanship of the Bishops' Conference. He also says: "I will be consecrated as bishop in January and elections will be held in March. So I am not available as chairman two months after my bishop's celebration. I think Archbishop Lackner is doing a very good job." His term as chairman runs until summer 2026 at the latest. In another term, however, he would reach the bishops' age limit of 75 years. For now, Grünwidl's episcopal consecration is scheduled for January 24. "There is simply great respect for this task and the responsibility one takes on," he looks forward to the celebration. He himself wants to "withdraw once more for retreats, days of silence, and also spiritual preparation for this task." He has chosen the Benedictine Abbey of Göttweig in the Wachau for this purpose.

(APA/Red)

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