60 years of the letter of reconciliation: panel discussion in Hamburg on peace

60 years of the letter of reconciliation: panel discussion in Hamburg on peace

On Tuesday, November 4th, the Hamburg Catholic Academy invites you to a special panel discussion: “60 years of correspondence between the Polish and German bishops – impulses for Europe”. This event honors an important milestone in the history of German-Polish relations, as the correspondence began exactly 60 years ago with the emphatic words “We forgive and ask for forgiveness” from the Polish bishops to their German colleagues. Loud Archdiocese of Hamburg This exchange contributed significantly to the reconciliation of the two nations after the horrors of the Second World War.

The discussion will be led by well-known speakers such as Dr. Jörg Luer, Dr. Krzysztof Niedałtowski and Dr. Robert Żurek directs and deals not only with the historical dimension of the correspondence, but also with the present-day lessons that can be drawn from it. The importance of the Catholic Church in maintaining relations between Germany and Poland is also a focus. Anyone interested is welcome to register by email at programm@kahh.de or by phone at 040 / 36952-0.

Review of the story of reconciliation

The correspondence between the bishops is not only a historical document, but also a sign of Christian peace and willingness to reconcile. How katholisch.de Reportedly, this letter asked for forgiveness for the atrocities and displacement that occurred during the war. This happened against the background of the first contacts between Catholics in both countries in the 1950s, which were initiated particularly by lay people.

Especially in 1966, during the 1,000th anniversary of the Christianization of Poland, the exchange found a new dimension: the Polish bishops invited their German colleagues, and the German bishops' response was an urgent call for forgiveness for the offenses against the Polish people. However, this answer was met with disappointment as the recognition of Poland's western border was not discussed. Nevertheless, the exchange of letters was seen as an important step towards reconciliation.

Current challenges for reconciliation

Today's discussion about German-Polish relations is not only characterized by historical interest, but also by current issues such as nationalism and right-wing populism. The Bishop of Limburg, Georg Bätzing, emphasizes the need for ongoing dialogue in order to avoid the dangers of alienation. The complexity of relations between the bishops' conferences becomes particularly clear in view of the tensions that have arisen due to various reform ideas on the German side and the reaction of the Polish bishops. In 2023, a letter of complaint from the Polish archbishop to Pope Francis caused a stir.

In summary, the panel discussion in Hamburg offers a valuable opportunity to reflect on the history and present of German-Polish relations. It creates space for dialogue and reflection on the role of the church as a mediator in an area that is still sensitive.