Benedict XVI Forum in Altötting: Believers find the meaning of the sacred

Benedict XVI Forum in Altötting: Believers find the meaning of the sacred

On Wednesday evening, Curia Cardinal Kurt Koch ceremoniously opened the “Benedict XVI Forum” in Altötting. This five-day event, which takes place in the meeting center on Holzhauserstrasse, has the motto “The Sense of the Sacred”. The opening ceremony on July 2nd began with a pontifical mass, followed by a lecture by the well-known theologian Prof. Dr. Dr. Weimann, who presented an introduction to the topic. The workshop is aimed at believers and anyone interested who would like to delve deeper into this central topic of theological discussion.

Cardinal Koch called on participants to see the forum not just as an academic event, but as a spiritual opportunity. This is particularly important as a recent study shows that the importance of religion has declined dramatically worldwide, also affecting countries such as Poland, South Korea and the USA. The intellectual exchange in Altötting could therefore be seen as a welcome encouragement to reflect on the weakening ties to religious communities.

Lectures and program highlights

The forum offers an extensive program with lectures by well-known theologians. In addition to Prof. Dr. Dr. Weimann will also be spoken by other experts such as Prelate Markus Graulich, Ludger Schwienhorst-Schönberger and Christian Schaller. Today, July 3rd, the day begins with a Holy Mass in the Chapel of Grace, followed by lectures that illuminate the deep content of holiness in Scripture and faith as the key to knowledge.

In advance, Cardinal Koch attached particular importance to the participation of the Orthodox theologian Stefanos Athanasiou, who is a member of the New Ratzinger Student Circle. The lectures cover a wide range of topics, ranging from sin and grace to the mystery of the sacred to current religious issues.

A look at the social role of religion

At a time when the social significance of religions is controversial, Benedict XVI. Forum an important step in reflecting on the place of faith and spirituality in modern life. Contemporary diagnosticians emphasize the profound transformation processes that have shaped the religious landscape in recent decades. People are becoming increasingly less attached to traditional religious communities and are choosing an individual religious affiliation.

The results clearly show that religion often becomes a personal choice, regardless of origin and tradition. This raises questions about the role churches can still play in a rapidly changing society. Events like Benedict XVI. Forums provide a platform to discuss these questions and find possible answers.

One of the highlights of the forum is the closing service on Sunday, July 6, at 10 a.m., led by Cardinal Koch in the Basilica of St. Anne. K-TV will broadcast all of the event's program items live, so that those interested who cannot be there will also have the opportunity to take part.

In times when trust in institutional structures is declining, the renewal of personal faith is an important step. The discussions in Altötting could provide inspiration for many to search for the meaning of the sacred and to consolidate their own spiritual identity.