Dialogue: Church Leaders Met With Chief Rabbi

ORF (Austrian Public Broadcasting), January 14, 2025
German original: https://religion.orf.at/stories/3228426/

In the run-up to the Day of Judaism on Friday, January 17, the Bishop of Linz, Manfred Scheuer, invited all diocesan representatives for Jewish-Christian cooperation to a meeting for the first time in order to strengthen the Catholic Church's commitment in this area.

The meeting took place on Monday at the premises of the Coordinating Committee for Christian-Jewish Cooperation in Vienna. The Chief Rabbi of Vienna, Jaron Engelmayer, also took part in the meeting. The pastoral theologian Regina Polak gave a keynote speech. Martin Jäggle, President of the Coordinating Committee, was also present as host.

It was the first meeting of its kind, which served to improve networking and the exchange of experiences throughout Austria. Bishop Scheuer subsequently expressed his gratitude to Kathpress for the exchange, in which the Catholic side was primarily concerned with listening and learning. Such a meeting is also a good opportunity to dispel confusion, said Scheuer.

Bishop concerned about anti-Semitism

Scheuer was concerned about reports that Jews were considering leaving Austria due to increasing anti-Semitism. “It is our concern that Jews feel safe here and that Jewish life is growing,” said the bishop.

On behalf of the Church, the bishop called for sensitive language and practice in relation to Jews in Austria. Bishop Scheuer is responsible for the dialogue with Judaism in the Austrian Bishops' Conference.

For “Judaism-sensitive pastoral care”

Prof. Polak expressed her dismay at the increase of anti-Semitism in Austria, which also exists among Catholics. On the other hand, she strongly encouraged the Christian-Jewish dialogue. In the face of rampant anti-Semitism, Catholics are urged to stand by Jews and Jewish communities in this country.

At the same time, it is important that a “Judaism-sensitive pastoral care” be learned in parishes that does not unintentionally reinforce anti-Jewish stereotypes – for example in the liturgy or in sermons. At the same time, Polak pointed out that such a dialogue is a source of joy, establishes new friendships and deepens one's own faith.