2024-11-18 16:15:00
Today, Monday, Diakonie director Maria Katharina Moser presented an Advent wreath to Mayor Michael Ludwig in the Red Salon of Vienna City Hall. The wreath was designed by students from the IFIT school in the 2nd district and carries 24 red and white candles – one for each day of Advent.
Mayor Michael Ludwig gratefully accepted the wreath on behalf of the City of Vienna and emphasized the importance of Diakonie: “Founded exactly 150 years ago, Diakonie has repeatedly found answers to the challenges of the time – from the industrialization of the 19th century to the social upheavals of the 20th century to the complex social issues of our present day. In all these years, the Diakonie has been a reliable partner for the people of Vienna.” From the very beginning, the Diakonie has been an expression of lived charity, which has been committed to people who are dependent on support for a century and a half – from children and the sick to to people on the fringes of society, said Mayor Ludwig. “The city of Vienna is proud to have such a strong partner like Diakonie at its side – a partner that not only helps, but also focuses on values such as solidarity and humanity,” said Ludwig.
Wreath is a traditional expression of the connection between the city and the diakonia
As a sign of the solidarity between the Evangelical Church and the city of Vienna, Diakonie – the social service of the Evangelical Church – presents an Advent wreath to the mayor of Vienna every year. Traditionally, students from the Inclusive Fit School (IFIT) in Leopoldstadt design and decorate the wreath and always decorate it with as many candles as there are days in Advent. Since the first Sunday of Advent this year falls on December 1st, there are exactly 24 candles. After the presentation, the large Diakonie Advent wreath moves, as every year, to the Vienna Christmas market on the Rathausplatz, where you can also find all sorts of interesting facts about the history and origin of the Advent wreath tradition as well as the people who have been working tirelessly for a fairer society for 150 years. can experience.
In addition to its director Moser, the Diakonie was represented by the managing directors Stefan Marchewa and Wilhelm Raber as well as Diakonie Eine Welt rector Wolfgang Ernst, who thanked the City of Vienna for the continued support of the Diakonie: “The Advent wreath is not just a sign of hope, but also an expression of gratitude for the support of Diakonie. Because without reliable partners like the city of Vienna, we wouldn’t be able to help people.” The presentation of the Advent wreath was accompanied by music by two students from the Johann Sebastian Bach Music School.
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What inspired the students at IFIT school to design the Advent wreath for Mayor Ludwig?
**Interview with Maria Katharina Moser, Director of Diakonie**
**Editor:** Good afternoon, Ms. Moser. Thank you for joining us today. Could you share more about the significance of the Advent wreath you presented to Mayor Ludwig?
**Maria Katharina Moser:** Thank you for having me. The Advent wreath represents not only the beginning of the Advent season but also symbolizes hope and light during a time that can often feel overwhelming. Each of the 24 candles marks a day in the lead-up to Christmas, reminding us to reflect on our values of solidarity and charity.
**Editor:** The wreath was created by students from the IFIT school. How did this collaboration come about?
**Maria Katharina Moser:** We wanted to engage young people in a meaningful way, connecting them to the traditions of our community. The students designed the wreath as a hands-on project that allowed them to express their creativity while learning about the importance of giving back and supporting those in need.
**Editor:** Mayor Ludwig emphasized the long-standing partnership between the Diakonie and the City of Vienna. In your view, how has this partnership evolved over the past 150 years?
**Maria Katharina Moser:** The partnership has grown immensely in response to societal changes. Initially focused on basic needs during the industrial age, we’ve adapted our services to meet contemporary challenges, such as housing, mental health, and social integration. Together, we continue to advocate for the marginalized and ensure that every person in our community can find support.
**Editor:** What message do you hope the wreath conveys to the people of Vienna as we approach the Advent season?
**Maria Katharina Moser:** I hope it serves as a reminder of the importance of community, compassion, and support for one another. As we light each candle, let us think about those who are struggling and consider how we can help. Together, we can foster a spirit of generosity and kindness that benefits everyone in our city.
**Editor:** Thank you, Ms. Moser, for your insights. It’s clear that the work of Diakonie has a profound impact on our community.
**Maria Katharina Moser:** Thank you for shedding light on our mission. It’s essential that we all come together during this season to uplift one another.
