“Justice in the sight of God”: the motto of the 96th “Deutsche Katholikentag”, a biannual event of German Catholics, which this year will be held in Saarbruecken from 24 to 28 May, is taken from the Benedictus ( Luke 1:75). Its organization is assigned to the ZDK (Central Committee of German Catholics), chaired by Hans Joachim Meyer. This year’s Katholikentag is being held in close collaboration with the diocese of Trier; “some 20,000 participants and thousands of daily visitors” are expected to attend it, explain the promoters. The motto of the Katholikentag will be variously treated in conferences, round tables, exhibitions, cultural events and stage performances, subdivided into four aspects: justice, key concept of biblical theology; justice, test-bed for a country in the midst of transformation; justice, criterion of evaluation for the new Europe; and justice, hope of humanity. Numerous events of an international character, and those dedicated to the continental scenario, are on this year’s programme: “The European significance and dimension of the event – explains the organizing committee – will be underlined by the participation of many of our European neighbours”. The various events being planned for the inauguration include a forum on “liturgy and sacred music”, a “dialogue between Jews and Christians, another dedicated to relations between Muslims and Christians, and an atelier of music, theatre and art”. For further info, consult the website (in German, English and French) www.katholikentag.de.
