Cardinal Schönborn urges Austrians to cherish freedom, reject contempt at Vienna’s “Austria Celebration.” Gospel guides unity; music honors heritage.
Newsroom (27/10/2025, Gaudium Press ) In a poignant reminder of the fragility of freedom, Cardinal Christoph Schönborn urged Austrians to cherish their nation’s peace and liberty during the annual “Austria Celebration” held at St. Stephen’s Cathedral on Sunday, coinciding with the country’s national holiday. Speaking to a packed congregation, the Cardinal emphasized the need for guidance and unity, both as a nation and as individuals, in navigating the challenges of modern life.
“Freedom and peace are not guaranteed,” Schönborn said, addressing the gathered faithful. “We must treat them with care, seeking signposts for our path as a country, as communities, in parishes, families, and personally.” Drawing from the Gospel of Luke’s parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, he highlighted the dangers of self-righteousness and contempt, noting that such attitudes inflict “a great wound in Austria.”
The Cardinal pointed to the historical use of derogatory terms like “Tschuschn” as examples of divisive language that undermines national prosperity. “Jesus speaks to us personally as citizens,” he said, encouraging introspection to root out contempt and foster compassion. Quoting the Book of Sirach, Schönborn outlined three guiding principles: justice, prayer, and an awareness of mortality, which he described as a humbling reminder of humanity’s shared destiny.
The Cardinal also called attention to the plight of refugees and the marginalized, asking, “Do we hear the sorrow of those who have lost their homes and had to flee in our country?” He praised Austria’s social and constitutional framework, urging gratitude for the fundamental rights it upholds.
A Tradition Rooted in Resilience
St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a symbol of Austria’s post-war reconstruction, served as the fitting backdrop for the celebration. Rebuilt with contributions from Austria’s federal states after its near-destruction in 1945, the cathedral stands as a testament to national unity. This year’s event, hosted by the Archdiocese of Vienna with support from the Vienna Building Guild, underscored the construction industry’s vital role in the nation’s recovery.
The ceremony was steeped in musical tradition, with Franz Schubert’s Mass in B-flat major as the centerpiece. A special tribute marked the 200th anniversary of Johann Strauss II’s birth, featuring his iconic “On the Beautiful Blue Danube” waltz, often regarded as Austria’s “secret anthem” for its uplifting resonance, particularly after the country’s liberation 70 years ago. The service also included a rare performance of Rudolf Weinwurm’s Ave Maria, composed to a poem by Empress Elisabeth and premiered alongside the “Danube Waltz” in 1867.
The celebration opened with solemn brass fanfares and the Mariazeller calls, followed by a candlelight procession accompanied by traditional Marian hymns. The event concluded with the resonant tolling of the Pummerin, Austria’s largest Marian bell and a symbol of post-war renewal. Its inscription, dedicating the bell to the “Queen of Austria” for peace through her intercession, echoed the Cardinal’s call for gratitude and unity.
As Austria reflects on its past and future, Schönborn’s message resonated: humility, compassion, and gratitude must guide the nation’s path forward.
- Raju Hasmukh with files form https://www.katholisch.at/
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