Our annual general meeting took place on May 17th in the new, barrier-free community center of the Baptist Church of Linz – a modern and open building that already sets a strong architectural example of hospitality and inclusion. The warm and attentive hospitality of the Linz community shaped the atmosphere of the entire meeting and contributed significantly to its successful outcome.
Change in the federal leadership – thanks and new beginnings
A special moment was the ceremonial farewell to Walter Klimt, who served for many years as Secretary General of the Federal Government. In recognition of over 30 years of dedicated service, especially in the field of diaconal work, he was presented with the Golden Cross of Merit by Dr. Katarina Moser, the director of Diakonie Austria. His farewell speech was a moving look back at a long journey, combined with an encouragement to continue shaping the community with passion and responsibility.
At the same time, David Bunce was confirmed as the new Secretary General.. With him begins a new chapter in the federal leadership, which is greeted by many with anticipation and hope.
Guests from home and abroad
The assembly welcomed numerous guests, including Claudia Krupensky, the new General Secretary of the Free Churches in Austria (FKÖ), Lars Müller from EBM International, Anne-Marie Pirschl from the School Office and Elke Müller from the Free Churches Bank in Germany. Their contributions and presence underlined the close ties across municipal and national borders and opened up a view of shared challenges and opportunities.
Growth and diversity in the federal government
It was particularly encouraging to hear about the steady growth in the federal government. New groups and church foundations were presented, including the inclusion of the Vertical Linz church as an associated church in the federation. There was also positive news to report from existing initiatives: the Mongolian group in Linz, the Slavic group in Vienna, and a new community founded in Vienna, which emerged from the Graz International community. These developments show how vibrant and diverse the Baptist movement is in Austria.
Education and religious instruction as a shared task
Another focus was the religious education of the free churches, which continues to be very successful and attracts great interest from female students. Gleichzeitig wurde betont, dass es noch mehr Religionslehrerinnen und engagierte Schüler*innen braucht, um das volle Potenzial an österreichischen Schulen auszuschöpfen. Der freikirchliche Religionsunterricht bleibt ein zentrales Feld gemeinsamer Verantwortung und geistlicher Bildungsarbeit.
New management at KJW
Im Rahmen der Versammlung wurde auch bekannt gegeben, dass im Herbst Alice Urban die Leitung der KJW übernehmen wird und damit David Bunce in dieser Funktion nachfolgt. This transfer of responsibility exemplifies the generational change and the encouragement of young leaders within the federal government.
A Union with a future
The 2025 Delegates’ Assembly made it clear: The Federation of Baptist Churches in Austria is vibrant, diverse and future-oriented. Despite differing opinions on theological and structural issues, the interactions were characterized by respect, openness, and a palpable spirit of cooperation. Diversity is experienced not as an obstacle, but as an enrichment – a strong sign for a shared future in faith.
This gathering was not just an organizational meeting, but an expression of vibrant community and spiritual unity. She encouraged people to break new ground, take responsibility, and work together to build a church that is relevant and hopeful in society.
Thanks to Lea Dörl for the pictures
