State Election: Churches Alarmed by Result in Saxony-Anhalt

The result of Saxony-Anhalt’s state election has left the churches “deeply concerned,” according to the leaders of the Protestant and Catholic churches in the state. They said the vote had fundamentally changed the political landscape and left Saxony-Anhalt divided.

“Our concern is for social peace and people living together in our state,” Protestant Bishop Friedrich Kramer, Catholic Bishop Gerhard Feige and church president Karsten Georg Wolkenhauer said in a joint statement. They interpreted the result as evidence of widespread dissatisfaction among the population.

The church leaders also pointed to a contrasting reality: many people continue to support one another with advice, practical help and time. They help, donate, share, listen and strengthen each other, they said.

“

Our concern is for social peace and people living together in our state.

Their concerns extend to consequences they associate with the AfD’s announced plans for culture and education, civic institutions and voluntary work, as well as for Diakonie, Caritas and the churches. Kramer said the churches would remain firmly alongside people who watch the AfD’s policies with vigilance.

Feige appealed to the AfD to respect Saxony-Anhalt’s constitution and Germany’s Basic Law without qualification, and to uphold the dignity of every person. “Anyone who wants to take responsibility in government takes responsibility for all people in our state,” he said. About 300,000 Protestants and Catholics live in Saxony-Anhalt, including roughly 235,000 Protestants and 66,000 Catholics.

“

Anyone who wants to take responsibility in government takes responsibility for all people in our state.