A philanthropic focus on German society

Among the many appointments Veronica Scarisbrick had set up for her arrival in Berlin, was a meeting with Rupert Graf Strachwitz, Director of The Maecenata Institute for Philantropy and civil Society.
A practicisng Catholic, Strachwitz spoke about the relationship between Church and State in Germany and gave many insights into the just- started Papal journey.
Strachwitz will be present on Thursday evening at the Papal Mass in Berlin's Olympic Stadium together with a group of members of the Order of Malta.
Before expressing his expectations and thoughts regarding Pope Benedict's visit, Strachwitz explained that the mission of the Maecenata Institute is to promote knowledge and understanding of civil society and private philanthropy through academic research, documentation and information, and exchanges between academics, public leaders and professionals in the field.

The Maecenata Institute for Philanthropy and Civil Society at Humboldt University, Berlin, is one of about 5 German academic research centres that focus specifically on philanthropy and civil society.
Regarding the relationship between Churches (all establilshed Churches) and State, he explains that the Churches in Germany have a very strong position in Germany as they are recognised - by the Constitution - as public bodies and are entitled to organise their internal affairs as they see fit. On the other hand they are non-governmental - it's a very delicate constituional position. Many people he says, feel that the Church should draw the line more firmly rather than getting too close to governement although there are advantages (economical) due to the close tie. But he says the Churches could be stronger and more outspoken if they were more independent.
Strachwitz speaks of the impact on society caused by the large influx of Turkish immigrants and of how they have brought changes to the German social and religious scenario.
He speaks of how the sex abuse scandals have rocked the Church and the nation and of his belief that the Church will be stronger by coping with the issue in an honest and strong way.
Strachwitz also speaks of many of his fellow countrymen as people who are looking for God and for a spiritual dimension. He says he thinks that this occasion may prove to offer a response and an inspiration that people are searching for...

listen to the full interview...