A priest in the Diocese of Passau dismissed an altar boy after a photo with AfD politician Maximilian Krah surfaced, during which the priest labeled the young man as a 'Nazi'. The Diocese confirmed the dismissal and reiterated its support for a free, democratic basic order, while expressing a willingness to engage in dialogue with individuals holding problematic political views.

In a rare and bold move, German Catholic bishops, including members from the Diocese of Passau, issued a unanimous statement condemning the rise of far-right extremism and xenophobic ideologies, specifically targeting the populist Alternative for Germany (AfD) for its nationalist agenda. This public political stance highlights the diocese’s commitment to opposing authoritarian and exclusionary politics.

During a meeting held on November 29-30, 2023, members of the Freising Bishops’ Conference, which includes leaders from the Diocese of Passau, sharply criticized the AfD for its far-right positions and electoral gains. They stated that extremist, racist, and anti-democratic ideologies are incompatible with Christian values and responsible church leadership.

A report reveals that over $10.6 million was spent by the Catholic Church in the Northeastern United States to oppose extensions to the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse claims, thereby undermining reforms intended to aid survivors. This aggressive lobbying effort highlights a disconnect between public commitments to accountability and the church’s financial priorities.