Evangelical Church Leader Urges Transparency and Accountability in Addressing Coronavirus, Sexual Abuse, and Political Extremism

During a state synod meeting in Görlitz, the bishop of the Evangelical Church of Berlin-Brandenburg-Silesian Upper Lusatia, Christian Stäblein, highlighted several important issues that needed to be addressed. He emphasized the importance of an honest examination of the corona pandemic and stressed the need for open and honest conversations to learn from the experiences of the past year.

The church faced strict corona measures during the pandemic, with services being canceled or held under strict rules. Stäblein acknowledged the challenges faced but emphasized that the overall response was not in vain. The pandemic was seen as a joint effort to protect lives, and the bishop expressed gratitude for the efforts made.

Another important topic at the church parliament meeting was the further processing of sexual abuse within the Evangelical Church. The church leadership provided funds for the professionalization of processing, prevention, and intervention work to support victims and address the issue. The church acknowledged its responsibility in addressing abuse and pledged to support those affected.

Stäblein also emphasized the need for accountability and a commitment to changing structures that facilitated abuse. He called for transparency and a clear distancing from any form of populism or incitement that undermines democracy and violates human rights.

The church parliament is set to debate a proposal from its council of elders regarding a clear distancing from the Alternative for Germany (AfD). The church is committed to upholding democracy and the rule of law and will resist any actions that undermine these principles. Stäblein highlighted