Ecumenical Academy in Dresden: A symbol of unity and diversity

Ecumenical Academy in Dresden: A symbol of unity and diversity

On Sunday, an important meeting of the Evangelical Church in Germany took place in Dresden, at which Bishop Heinrich Timmerevers once again discussed the close interconnection of the large Christian churches in East Germany. Timmerevers emphasized that being a Christian is unimaginable without fellowship with other churches and Christian communities. These common paths lead back to the time of the GDR, when Protestant communities often opened their churches for Catholic services and an intensive dialogue was maintained between the denominations. “We consciously sought conversations at that time in order to resolve differences and support one another,” said the bishop, while recalling the often difficult times in which believers faced disadvantages because of their faith. Many reported the valuable support they received from their fellow Christians.

A special highlight of the event was the call for marriage anniversaries to come together and share moving stories about interdenominational marriages. “It is time to reflect on the past and take responsibility,” said Timmerevers. He pointed out that there is an ecumenical information center in Dresden that represents ecumenism in practice and symbolizes a place of exchange. He also emphasized the personal dimension of friendships between Protestant and Catholic Christians: “These relationships are a valuable treasure.”

Planned academy for ecumenism

Another important point on the agenda was the planned establishment of a joint academy by the Saxon regional church and the Dresden-Meißen diocese. This academy is intended to enable Christians of different denominations to come together, learn from each other and promote mutual understanding. “We see a great opportunity here to send a visible signal for a future-oriented and relevant church,” emphasized Timmerevers. The importance of ecumenism, especially in an increasingly diverse society, is once again highlighted.

In this context, it is also interesting to note that interfaith marriages – relationships between partners of different Christian denominations – have seen a significant increase in recent decades. While in the 1920s there were around 10% of all marriages, by 1985 around a third were found to be of different religious denominations. This trend shows that, although the barriers to such relationships have historically been high, they are increasingly being reduced. By Vatican II, for example, numerous reforms in mixed marriage law were already in force, which made marriage possible under certain conditions.

In summary, it can be said that the discussions and plans surrounding ecumenism in East Germany not only lead to a strengthening of interdenominational relationships, but can also promote lived ecumenism for many couples whose love and commitment extends beyond denominational boundaries. Bishop Heinrich Timmerevers and the Protestant and Catholic communities are therefore faced with the exciting task of continuing to accompany and actively shape these developments.