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Evangelischer Kirchentag Concludes with Calls for Political Engagement and Inclusivity

The five-day event in Hannover drew over 81,000 attendees and reignited debates on the church's role in politics and societal challenges.

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Overview

  • The 39th Evangelischer Kirchentag ended with a major open-air service attended by 22,000 people, emphasizing themes of tolerance and societal dialogue.
  • Kirchentagspräsidentin Anja Siegesmund reaffirmed the church's commitment to political engagement, countering Bundestagspräsidentin Julia Klöckner's push for a focus on spiritual over political matters.
  • Prominent figures including Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Angela Merkel, and Mariann Edgar Budde participated in discussions and events addressing climate change, democracy, and social justice.
  • Over 1,500 events tackled diverse topics, from LGBTQIA+ rights and racism to peace advocacy and internal church reforms, reflecting the event's broad societal focus.
  • The event marked a return to Hannover, the birthplace of the Kirchentag in 1949, and highlighted its historical mission to support democracy and inclusivity.