Old Catholic Community in Düsseldorf Celebrates 150th Anniversary (Düsseldorf, Germany)

The Old Catholic Community in Düsseldorf celebrated its 150th anniversary with a service at the Thomas Church in Reisholz on Saturday. Founded in 1876, the community traces its roots to three men who opposed the teachings of the First Vatican Council, particularly the doctrine of papal infallibility and the Pope’s absolute authority. These early dissenters, Richard Hasenclever, Roman Weidinger, and Franz Lützeler, established the Old Catholic Church in the Rhineland before the council’s formal adoption of these doctrines. Markus Koegel, current chairman of the Old Catholic Community Board, expressed admiration for their courage in challenging the prevailing religious norms of the 19th century.

The Thomas Church, located in Düsseldorf/Aachen, has been a central place of worship for the Old Catholic community since 2008. Koegel highlighted the significance of the founding fathers’ commitment to human values and a more accessible understanding of the Church. He emphasized that their actions were a testament to civil courage, urging contemporary members to uphold similar principles.

Contrary to common misconceptions, the Old Catholic Church is not characterized by traditionalist practices. Services are conducted in modern language, and the community embraces progressive values such as the ordination of women and the inclusion of lay members in episcopal elections. The church also supports remarriage for divorced individuals and offers blessings for same-sex couples, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and ecumenism.

The Old Catholic Church acknowledges the fallibility of both individuals and institutions, a stance that aligns with its democratic structure. Bishop Matthias Ring, who celebrated the anniversary service, noted the community’s emphasis on participation and shared decision-making. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and active involvement among congregants.

Looking ahead, the Old Catholic Community in Düsseldorf/Aachen is preparing for an upcoming election to select a new parish representative. This process underscores the community’s ongoing commitment to democratic governance and active engagement within its congregational life. The anniversary service served as a reminder of the community’s enduring legacy and its continued relevance in contemporary religious discourse.

Source: Read the original report (translated from German)