Light of hope: Memmingen sets an example for human rights!

Light of hope: Memmingen sets an example for human rights!

On Friday evening, October 26, 2025, a moving gathering took place at the Freedom Fountain in Memmingen, where numerous participants lit a light of hope. The event, which was embedded in the nationwide celebrations of missio Munich, provided space for important conversations about freedom and human rights. Msgr. Wolfgang Huber, President of missio Munich, gave a rousing speech and highlighted the urgency of standing up for justice and human dignity. The guests from the Philippines provided impressive reports about the current situation in their home country, where human rights are under serious threat. bistum-augsburg.de reports that ...

The Filipino guests had already been active in Memmingen in the previous days. They visited, among other things, the town hall, the correctional facility and several schools to talk to each other. These exchange opportunities are not only an opportunity to share the realities of life, but also a valuable contribution to better understanding between cultures. The Philippines was chosen by missio Munich as an example country for the diocese of Augsburg and Memmingen, which underlines the importance of the country at this time.

Human rights in focus

The central theme of the delegation trip revolves around the untenable human rights situation in the Philippines, especially under the government of President Rodrigo Duterte. Many people here are affected by the cruel anti-drug war, in which up to 30,000 people have lost their lives. The church representatives are therefore calling for increased efforts to support the bereaved and political prisoners. The challenges are great: discrimination against the indigenous population, land grabbing and protection from sexual abuse are other pressing problems that need to be addressed. missio.com provides information about the details of this trip.

This makes Msgr. Huber's call all the more important, as he emphatically emphasizes that the human rights situation in the Philippines is a central concern in the church's commitment. The upcoming World Mission Sunday, which will be celebrated this year in the diocese of Augsburg, is intended to draw attention to this problem and show solidarity.

The role of the church

In the Philippines, an island nation with over 7,600 islands and the largest Christian population in Asia, the Catholic Church plays a crucial role in the social fabric. Despite the deep roots of faith, many people struggle against poverty, inadequate education and a lack of medical care. As an important supporter, the church advocates for the weakest in society, promotes educational projects and strengthens women's rights in order to ensure justice and equal opportunities. missio-hilft.de highlights the activities.

missio's work includes not only help in acute emergency situations, but also long-term projects that strengthen communities and give hope for a better future. Next Sunday, the focus of the celebrations will be a celebratory service in the Church of St. Joseph, where visitors will have the opportunity to exchange ideas and support the concerns of the people in the Philippines. The light of hope that was lit on Friday should shine far and wide and keep solidarity with those in need alive.