Manfred Sauer receives Europe's Tolerance Prize for his life's work!

Manfred Sauer receives Europe's Tolerance Prize for his life's work!

Fresach, Österreich - On Thursday evening, Manfred Sauer, the long-time superintendent of the Evangelical Church of Carinthia-East Tyrol, was awarded the European Tolerance Prize in Fresach. As reported press text, he received this honor for his impressive humanitarian life's work and his tireless commitment to tolerance, democracy and human rights. A really remarkable evening, which praised the merits of a man, shaped Fresach not only as a spiritual center, but also as a European cultural site.

Manfred Sauer, who has been a superintendent of the Diocese of Carinthia-East Tyrol of the Lutheran Church A.B. is active in Austria, his journey in Evangelical Theology in Vienna and Hamburg began. After his time as a vicar in Zell am See, he took over the parish offices in Pörtschach, Moosburg and Krumpendorf from 1987. His commitment led to the state exhibition in 2011 and the establishment of a museum on the history of the Protestants in Carinthia, which made Fresach into the spotlight not only regional, but also beyond the borders.

The tolerance talks: A forum for important topics

A central element of his work is the tolerance talks that have been carried out for years, which will take place again in Fresach in May. The 10th European tolerance talks offer a forum from May 15 to 18, 2024 to under the subject of "Truth - what is really?" to discuss important social issues. Organized by Denk.raum.Fresach , around 30 philosophers, scientists and authors will take part in these discussions. Current topics such as the upcoming European elections in June and the challenges are intensively treated by democratic currents.

The importance of truth in today's world cannot be assessed high enough. Mayor Günther Albel, for example, emphasizes the central role of truth in public discourse, while Sauer himself emphasizes the urgency to find new security in digital society. The tolerance talks also offer the opportunity for events such as the Ethics Forum and a Poetry Slam that promote a wide range of perspectives.

social responsibility and commitment

With a view to the major challenges that the company faces, church communities in Germany are also calling [Evangelisch.de] (https://www.evangelisch.de/Inhalt/238898/31-2025/ Democracy and-Menschenwuerde-kirchen-zur-bundeBundahl- on). The churches emphasize the importance of democracy, human rights and diversity, which is all the more relevant in times of populist challenges for the basic values.

Here it becomes clear that the topics that cut acid through its work and the tolerance talks are important far beyond the borders of Carinthia. The dialogue about human dignity, cohesion and use against extremism are essential for a functioning democracy and a respectful way of dealing with each other.

at a time when the keyword "truth" is often proven ambivalent, it is all the more important that we promote and actively participate in the discussions. With his motivating personality and his network, Manfred Sauer is an excellent example of the positive effects of community engagements. The award with the European Tolerance Prize is not only recognition, but also a call to all of us, for a respectful and tolerant coexistence.