The Romanian Orthodox ‘Holy Trinity’ Parish in Heidelberg, Germany, has been invited to join the Heidelberger Dialog der Religionen (“Heidelberg Dialogue of Religions”), a forum established by the city’s administration to bring together representatives of the city’s major religious communities.
According to the City of Heidelberg, the initiative aims to bring together representatives of the city’s principal faith communities at the same table for the first time, creating a platform for dialogue and cooperation. The forum seeks to encourage the exchange of perspectives among religious communities, advise the local authorities on religious matters, increase the visibility of religious life in Heidelberg and promote peaceful coexistence within society.
Recognition of the parish’s contribution
Speaking to Basilica.ro, the parish’s pastoral associate, Serafim Armanca, said the invitation reflects both recognition and responsibility.
“After more than a decade of sustained Orthodox presence in the city of Germany’s most prestigious university, the invitation from Heidelberg City Hall to participate in this dialogue is an honour for us. At the same time, it is also recognition of the contribution our faithful—Romanians and others alike—have made to the life of the city.”
“Our participation in this forum is motivated both by the desire to bear witness to our Orthodox faith—with respect for other faiths—and by the need to bring attention to the challenges our community faces,” he added.
Religious communities strengthen social cohesion
At the forum’s inaugural conference, Stefanie Jansen, Heidelberg’s Deputy Mayor for Social Affairs, Education, Family and Equal Opportunities, highlighted the important role religious communities play in urban life.
“For many people, especially in multicultural cities such as Heidelberg, religious communities are important sources of guidance, security and social belonging. Much of their contribution to social cohesion is taken for granted and yet often remains invisible,” she said.
The Heidelberger Dialog der Religionen will organise regular meetings among representatives of religious communities and involve them in public events held throughout the city. The next meeting is scheduled for this autumn, when the Romanian Orthodox parish will become a full member of the forum.
The Holy Trinity Romanian Orthodox Parish was established in the summer of 2015. Since late 2017, it has celebrated its liturgical services at St Joseph’s Church in Eppelheim.
Photo: Heidelberg City Hall / Philipp Rothe
