Vance und Trump versuchen, Hassreden in eine christliche Folie zu verpacken.

The 2024 Mediterranean Theological Meetings held in Lovran focused on preserving peace and emphasized dialogue as a crucial path toward overcoming wars, social divisions, and internal conflicts within religious communities. The meetings brought together theologians and students from various Christian traditions, alongside members of other faiths, to discuss themes such as war, peace, and the role of dialogue in modern society. Among the key speakers was theologian Mario Trifunović, who highlighted the importance of open communication and mutual understanding in fostering harmony. Trifunović underscored the message delivered by Cardinal Blase Cupich of Chicago, emphasizing that young people do not desire cultural wars. He noted that they seek security within their religious communities to live responsibly and collaborate with others. According to Trifunović, church leaders and elders must recognize that cultural conflicts will most deeply alienate youth. He stressed that students participating in these meetings should hear this message and build their future work within their communities based on it. A notable aspect of the meetings was the participation of individuals from different Christian traditions, Catholics, Orthodox Christians, Protestants, as well as students from Islamic backgrounds. Trifunović argued that this diversity forms the foundation of better societies. He quoted Rijeka’s Archbishop Mate Uzinić, who described this inclusivity as essential for the improvement of Croatia and neighboring countries. Trifunović emphasized that openness and a willingness to engage in dialogue are fundamental to all meaningful progress. Addressing the main theme of the gatherings, "Peacebuilding in the Age of Militarism", Trifunović warned against believing that conflicts can be resolved through force. He stated that once one accepts the idea that war can solve problems among people, they have already taken the first step toward conflict. The Mediterranean Theological Meetings advocate for dialogue as the sole path to peace. He cited Uzinić’s clear assertion that war is never a solution, always a mistake and a loss, while dialogue creates the conditions necessary for lasting peace. Trifunović dismissed the notion that the pursuit of peace is naive. He argued that it is vital to engage in conversation, listen to one another, and attempt to understand differing viewpoints. He maintained that believing in the possibility of peace is not naïve. In his view, shared discussions and efforts to comprehend each other are the initial steps toward achieving peace. These meetings, he added, are essential in helping young people develop a mindset of collective movement and dialogue. He also pointed out that the Mediterranean Theological Meetings have faced criticism since their inception, particularly due to their emphasis on open dialogue. This has been linked to warnings from Rijeka’s Archbishop regarding the responsibility of public speech. Trifunović noted that the meetings began in Dubrovnik in 2019 with the theme of theology in a pluralistic society and were met with numerous criticisms even then. He explained that simply seeking open discussion on internal church matters and communication styles led to the spread of verbal hostility. After the participation of internationally recognized theologians such as Tomas Halík, Teresa Forcades, and Father Ivan Šarčević, these figures faced discrediting. Unfortunately, such situations continue to recur today. Trifunović criticized politicians for using religion to manipulate public sentiment and for advancing their own agendas. He mentioned that some segments of the Catholic Church, particularly on the right wing, foster skepticism towards such initiatives. However, he contrasted this with experiences from participants in the Orthodox Church, including a child of war who had fled their home. This individual expressed that younger generations are healthier and that these meetings have a healing effect. Trifunović believed that such gatherings represent a valuable corrective to dominant societal narratives. In addition, Trifunović commented on the relationship between the Vatican and the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump, particularly focusing on the policies of Vice President JD Vance. He argued that attempts to frame political actions as Christian are misleading, as their content contradicts evangelical values. He described how Vance and Trump's rhetoric, though loud and populist, seeks to package hatred under a veneer of Christianity. He concluded that Vance speaks of faith but practices something entirely different.