Hannover is gearing up for a significant event as the 39th Evangelische Kirchentag opens its doors on April 30, 2025, running until May 4. The city expects up to 150,000 attendees to participate in this vibrant celebration of faith, culture, and community, marking a return to its roots where the first Kirchentag was held in 1949.
Under the motto "Mutig, stark, beherzt" (Courageous, Strong, Bold), the Kirchentag will transform Hannover into a hub of discussion and celebration, with a focus on democracy and current societal challenges. Attendees can look forward to a packed program featuring over 1,000 events, including services, debates, concerts, and cultural performances.
The opening day will feature a grand street festival in front of the Neues Rathaus, highlighted by a free concert from the popular band Marquess. This festive atmosphere will set the tone for the days to come, inviting people from all walks of life to engage and participate.
Hannover's streets will be closed to vehicles during the Kirchentag, allowing for safe pedestrian access to the many events planned. The city has implemented significant security measures, including parking bans and the installation of 250 concrete bollards to ensure the safety of participants. The Lower Saxony Ministry of the Interior has been actively involved in the planning, confirming that while there are no specific threats, heightened vigilance is necessary given the current security climate.
"The Kirchentag brings people together for conversations that might not happen otherwise," said Kirchentagspräsidentin Anja Siegesmund, emphasizing the event's role in fostering societal cohesion. Political figures such as Bundespräsident Frank-Walter Steinmeier and former Chancellor Angela Merkel are expected to attend, alongside activists like Luisa Neubauer, highlighting the event's significance in the national dialogue.
With a budget of approximately 24 million euros, the Kirchentag is supported by the state of Lower Saxony and the city of Hannover, which contribute 7 million and 4 million euros, respectively. Many of the over 1,500 planned events will be free, including various services and concerts, making it accessible to a wide audience.
As the Kirchentag unfolds, attendees will engage in discussions on pressing issues such as the future of democracy, environmental protection, and the challenges posed by global conflicts. The event also aims to address sensitive topics like abuse within the church, paving the way for open and respectful dialogue.
In addition to the discussions and spiritual services, the Kirchentag will feature a diverse array of cultural offerings, including music performances across genres, theater productions, and literary readings. This blend of faith and culture aims to create an inclusive environment where everyone can find something meaningful to participate in.
For those interested in a more personal connection to the event, the Kirchentag will also offer spontaneous wedding blessings on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Couples can take advantage of this unique opportunity to celebrate their love in a communal setting, with ships departing every half hour from the Maschsee for the blessings.
The Kirchentag is not only a celebration of faith but also a platform for civic engagement and community building. It serves as a reminder of the importance of dialogue and understanding in a diverse society. As Dr. Kristin Jahn, the General Secretary of the Kirchentag, stated, "We are here to search for the good and dare to do it together!" This spirit of collaboration and mutual respect is at the heart of the Kirchentag experience.
In preparation for the event, the city has made provisions for accommodation, with visitors staying in hotels, youth hostels, and even schools. The influx of attendees is expected to lead to some traffic diversions and street closures, particularly on the opening day. However, the city is well-prepared to handle the logistics of such a large-scale event.
As the Kirchentag approaches, the excitement in Hannover is palpable. The event promises to be a significant gathering for faith, culture, and community, encouraging participants to reflect on their values and the future of society. With its rich history and commitment to inclusivity, the Kirchentag stands as a beacon of hope and unity in challenging times.
As Hannover prepares to welcome thousands, the anticipation builds for what is sure to be a memorable and impactful Kirchentag. From engaging discussions to lively celebrations, the event embodies the spirit of togetherness and the pursuit of a better world for all.
