Overview

• Boris Böhmann, director of the Freiburg Cathedral Choir for 22 years, was suspended following disruptions during Christmas services, including applause and protests from attendees.
• The protests were in response to Böhmann's prior dismissal, announced for February 2025, which had already sparked widespread criticism and support for him within the community.
• Erzbischof Stephan Burger cited Böhmann's alleged approval of the disruptions as the reason for his immediate suspension, though Böhmann denies any prior knowledge of the protests.
• The diocese has faced criticism for its handling of the situation, with supporters of Böhmann accusing church leadership of internal mismanagement and lack of transparency regarding the dismissal's reasons.
• Legal action is being considered by Böhmann's attorney, who claims the suspension is unjustified and disputes the allegations made by church officials.