Christian leaders in Germany have expressed profound sorrow and solidarity following a tragic incident at the Magdeburg Christmas Market on Friday, where a vehicle plowed through the crowded space, leaving at least five people dead and over 200 injured.
The Council of the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD) and the German Bishops’ Conference jointly denounced the attack, calling it “inhuman.” The motive for the assault remains unclear, though the perpetrator is currently in custody.
In a unified statement, EKD’s Bishop Kirsten Fehrs and Bishop Georg Bätzing of the German Bishops’ Conference lamented the loss of life and extended heartfelt prayers. “The horror, grief, and sympathy are felt by many people throughout Germany and the world today. Our thoughts and prayers are in Magdeburg at this time,” the statement read.
The bishops conveyed deep compassion for the victims’ families and called for prayer for the injured and the deceased, as well as their loved ones who remain in anguish. They also acknowledged the efforts of emergency responders and chaplains who have been tirelessly aiding those affected.
The Central German regional bishop, Friedrich Kramer, echoed these sentiments, expressing prayerful support for the victims and their families. Similarly, Catholic Bishop Gerhard Feige of Magdeburg described the attack as a devastating act, especially during a season meant to celebrate peace and goodwill. Feige emphasized the need to oppose extremism in all its forms and to foster peaceful coexistence within society.
As the community grapples with this tragic event, places of worship have become havens for solace. Magdeburg Cathedral was initially opened on Friday evening for prayer but later closed for security reasons. It reopened on Saturday for a vigil service, providing a space for collective mourning and reflection.
A memorial site has also been established at the west portal of St. John’s Church, near the location of the attack, serving as a poignant reminder of the lives lost and a call for unity and peace amidst sorrow.
This heartbreaking incident underscores the need for vigilance and compassion in a world yearning for the light of Christ’s hope, especially during the Christmas season.
