Climate Networking at Kirchentag

Tom Vermolen
Jun 30
2 min read

Climate Networking at Kirchentag in Germany

My name is Laura–I am 28 years old, a social worker, currently studying theology. From April 30 to May 4, 2025, I participated in the 39th Kirchentag (Church Day) in Hannover, with the group Christians for Future.

The Kirchentag in Germany is a vibrant gathering, encompassing over 1,500 events within five days, drawing 100,000 full-time visitors and engaging 30,000 active contributors. However, it represents much more than mere statistics. It serves as a joyous festival for everyone, offering a platform for profound discussions and critical debates on contemporary issues. Kirchentag fosters numerous opportunities for productive networking and friendship building. Held every two years in early summer, it is a celebration that welcomes all.

Podium for the music at the Kirchentag — Credits: Christians for Future Miesbach

The Kirchentag also offers a plethora of experiences for thousands of attendees, immersing them in the life of the host city. From performances by emerging artists to appearances by prominent figures in politics, science, art, and business, there's something for everyone. Attendees can start their day with a Techno-mass, followed by meditation, and later enjoy classical and rock concerts, along with panel discussions featuring leading politicians. Amidst it all, there's ample time to relax and rejuvenate in the host city's green spaces.

Throughout its history, the German Protestant Kirchentag has sparked numerous initiatives and discussions, including dialogue between Jews and Christians, the introduction of new forms of worship, and conversations on peace and environmentalism, shaping Germany's societal discourse for decades.

This year’s Kirchentag was a rewarding setting for worship and advocating for change. Christians for Future had the chance to meet Luisa Neubauer, a leading figure of the Fridays for Future Movement in Germany. I got the chance to take a photo with Anna Nicole Heinrich, the president of the Protestant Synod of Germany. Additionally, Christians for Future held protests together with Fridays for Future and we were able to talk to many people at a big fair. It was wonderful to hear Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde.

Click here for more information about these inspiring women!

Meeting up with Luisa Neubauer at Kirchentag — Credits: Christians for Future Miesbach

The Kirchentag provides a great platform for Christians for Future to advocate their vision. Christians for Future was founded on 19-06-2019. It started with a petition. As part of the Fridays for Future movement, Christians for Future is committed to climate protection, justice, peace and the integrity of creation. We are part of the global movement, and in our role as Christians, we have joined this global movement to stand together for these goals and ensure that they reach more parts of our faith communities. We pursue diverse courses of action, including working directly in church communities and in the neighborhood, with ecumenically-oriented people, as well as our own campaigns for climate and environmental protection–for example at the Kirchentag. It was a pleasure to be there again and we are looking forward to the Catholics Day 2026 and the next Kirchentag in 2027.