Yes, the state was afraid for the church. But no, living as a Christian was not impossible in the Socialist Eastern Germany. “From my father, I have never heard bitter things about other people.”

Germany is currently in an unusual situation for its inhabitants: we are in a deep crisis. And not just in one area, but in several: The economy, politics, administration, churches... This is the way out, says columnist Wolfgang Stock.

Martin Luther (1483-1546) did not believe that his new theology, which caused the Reformation, was his invention. He owed it all to Staupitz, his Father Confessor. But who was Staupitz?

This column is about something that happened 500 years earlier – no problem if you have forgotten about it. On 9 October 1524, Martin Luther ascended the pulpit in regular, civilian clothes, no longer in a monk’s habit. Without this act, the revolution he unleashed seven years ago would not be complete. Even today, it is good to reflect upon this.

Church has a bonus, says our Swedish columnist Julia Boehme. You don’t only have fun with your brothers and sisters. In difficult times, your relationship is even tested. “We have the opportunity to help, learn and forgive.”