Freiburg Cathedral Protests Erupt Over Choir Director’s Dismissal

The controversial firing of Domkapellmeister Boris Böhmann disrupts Christmas services and exposes deep divisions within the Catholic Church.

Domkapellmeister Boris Böhmann, a 22-year veteran of the Freiburg Cathedral’s music program, was dismissed earlier this year, sparking widespread backlash.
Christmas Eve services were disrupted by prolonged applause and protests from attendees expressing solidarity with Böhmann and opposing the decision by Archbishop Stephan Burger.
The live broadcast of the service was abruptly terminated by the diocese, citing 'mutual disturbances,' which has been criticized as censorship by some parishioners.
The diocese has not disclosed specific reasons for the firing, citing data protection, but internal conflicts and allegations of management issues have been reported.
Support for Böhmann remains strong, with petitions, open letters, and protests calling for the reversal of his dismissal and greater transparency from church leadership.