The Independence and Role of Churches Amidst Political Controversy
In the wake of contentious remarks by Markus Söder, the Bavarian Minister-President, the World Council of Churches (WCC) President, Heinrich Bedford-Strohm, has firmly emphasized the autonomy and critical role of churches in society.
Independence from Political Influence
"Churches do not have the task of pleasing those in political power," Bedford-Strohm asserted during a discussion on "Flight, Asylum, and Migration" in Stendal, Saxony-Anhalt. "By doing so, they would fundamentally betray the cause they represent."
Söder had previously urged churches to exercise more political restraint, suggesting that their criticism of the government’s migration policies could jeopardize their state funding.
"The idea of making the rights of churches dependent on their behavior towards those in political power is absurd," Bedford-Strohm countered. "In democracies, such attitudes have no place."
As a former Bishop of Bavaria and long-time EKD Council Chairman, Bedford-Strohm drew on his experience in the WCC to illustrate the dangers of government interference in church affairs. "I know such attitudes from autocratic countries. They have no place in democracies."
Critical Role in Society
Bedford-Strohm emphasized that churches play a vital role in democratic societies through their public engagement and advocacy for the marginalized.
"If there are voices from politics these days that want to deny churches the right to comment critically on fundamental issues in current debates, then there is a fundamental misunderstanding," he said.
"A democratic society needs churches that speak up publicly, that stand up for the weak and vulnerable, and that participate in public discourse by speaking out truths, even uncomfortable ones, thus contributing to social cohesion."
He underscored the importance of churches speaking truth to power and challenging unjust policies. "Churches have the responsibility to speak out against injustice, oppression, and discrimination, regardless of who is in power," Bedford-Strohm said.
Balancing Political and Religious Roles
The WCC President acknowledged the complexities of churches navigating the interplay between political and religious responsibilities.
"Churches should not become political parties," he cautioned. "But they cannot remain silent when fundamental values and principles are at stake."
He called for a respectful dialogue between churches and political leaders, based on mutual understanding and a recognition of distinct roles.
"Churches have a mandate to speak for the voiceless and to challenge injustice," Bedford-Strohm said. "Political leaders have a responsibility to create just and equitable societies. Both roles are essential for a healthy democracy."
State Funding and Church Autonomy
Regarding the issue of state funding for churches, Bedford-Strohm stressed that it should not be contingent upon political loyalty.
"State funding for churches is not a matter of privilege but a recognition of the valuable contribution they make to society," he said.
He argued that churches fulfill important social welfare functions and contribute to the common good through their educational, counseling, and charitable work.
"Churches should not be beholden to any political party or ideology," Bedford-Strohm concluded. "Their independence is essential for them to fulfill their mission of serving all people, regardless of their political beliefs or social status."
