Hollerich was first asked about the place of homosexuals in the church, to which he replied that people are created in god’s image and that the church has to reinforce its efforts to be a more welcoming community for them. He acknowledged that many catholic teachings are outdated and argued in favour of modernising the church for its own good.
The clergyman also addressed the role of women in the church and ways in which to open up more positions to them. Hollerich believes that the church needs to become more egalitarian, but also explained that in a world religion, decisions are being made from the top down, which makes it difficult to make individual changes.
Hollerich also acknowledged that fewer people are going to church, which he does not believe to be surprising in this day and age. Religious institutions need much longer to adapt to the digital age and maintain their outreach. Nevertheless, even if people are less attracted to religious services, that still does not mean that they have lost their faith altogether, Hollerich concluded.
Catholic structures need to be reformed in general, stated Hollerich, which is why the Pope has launched a two-year-long enquiry into people’s expectations from the church in the future. The study will not only address members of the catholic faith, but also outsiders. Hollerich underlined the importance of showing empathy and listening to what people have to say.
One potential change could be the abolishment of celibacy for priests. However, Hollerich was unwilling to speculate on the issue, given that a significant amount of people would have to vote in favour of the proposal.
