THE “KATHOLIKENTAG” 2016

The “Katholikentag” is the biggest meeting of Catholics in Germany and this year was the 100th edition held in the city of Leipzig, 25th to 29th May 2016. Archbishop Kaigama was invited  by the organizing team to participate  in a panel talk during the multi-day event. The panel took place on Saturday, May 28th, at 2.00 pm. The title of the  round table talk was:

“Appreciate Values – Perceive Hardships – Overcome Violence
Christian-Muslim Dialogue: Jointly for Peace”

The other participants were  Prof Fr. Samir Khalil Samir SJ, one of the leading experts on Islam in the Catholic Church and Dr. Timo Güzelmansur, managing Director of a German Organization called “Centre for Christian-Muslim Encounter and Documentation”, which is a department of the German Bishops’ Conference. He is also a Turkish convert from Islam to Catholicism.

During the “Katholikentag” the charity Aid to the Church in Need” (KIRCHE IN NOT) had a stand in the city centre of Leipzig where they informed about the worldwide support for persecuted Christians. Several religious groups, organizations and movements from all parts of Germany and beyond also had their exhibitions advertising,supporting and encouraging Catholic spiritual and pastoral life. The atmosphere was very animated with thousands of faith-filled youth, men and women, indicating that there is greater hope for Catholic faith and practice.