Austrian Minister Praises Orthodox Role in Social Cohesion
Austria’s religious affairs minister honored the Orthodox Churches in Vienna for their enduring role in strengthening social cohesion through faith, family, and community.
VIENNA — Austria’s Minister of Religious Affairs, Claudia Bauer, praised the contribution of Orthodox Christians to social cohesion and public life during a New Year’s reception hosted by the Serbian Orthodox Parish of St. Sava on January 16. Speaking at the Church of the Resurrection of Christ in Vienna’s second district, Bauer emphasized that “in a time when much is unsettled,” society must return to what provides stability: family, community, and faith.
The reception followed an evening Vespers service and brought together Orthodox clergy, ecumenical representatives, diplomats, and political leaders. Bauer noted that Orthodox Churches should be more fully included in public discourse on religion, stressing that the Serbian Orthodox Church has been an integral part of Austria’s religious landscape for centuries. She thanked the parish for its dedication to pastoral care, charitable service, and community life, describing it as a place where Christianity “lives and grows.”
Among those attending were several Orthodox bishops, Catholic representatives, and senior figures from Austria’s political and diplomatic circles.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Abp. Ieronymos warned that, without Christ, Europe loses peace and stability.
