#EU #Austria – The Archdiocese of Salzburg under Franz Lackner came under renewed criticism in late May 2026 after it confirmed plans to host a full-day training workshop titled “Queer People in Our Parishes” in early June, marking the second consecutive year for the event.
The program, organized in cooperation with the Rainbow Pastoral Platform and the Homosexual Initiative Salzburg (HOSI Salzburg), featured sessions on personal experiences of homosexuals in Catholic parishes, terminology clarification, theological and canonical reflections, and practical pastoral actions. Organizers positioned the workshop as a means to enhance outreach and understanding within local faith communities.
A similar event took place in May 2025. At that time, the Austrian Catholic news site kath.net questioned the archdiocese’s partnership with HOSI Salzburg, noting the group’s positions on homosexuality diverged from official Church teaching. Archdiocesan officials responded that effective pastoral care demanded speaking “WITH people and not ABOUT them,” describing HOSI as a key contact point for queer self-advocacy in the region.
The 2026 announcement drew swift attention from conservative Catholic outlets and social media users. Critics argued that collaborating with activist groups whose views conflicted with longstanding doctrine on sexuality, marriage, and gender undermined fidelity to Catholic teaching.
The Archdiocese of Salzburg had a documented history of progressive approaches to these issues. In 2020, it published a book exploring blessings for same-gender couples, reflecting an emphasis on dialogue and inclusion.
As the June 2026 workshop approached, the archdiocese stood by its decision, framing it as essential ministry to diverse communities amid broader Church discussions on pastoral care for LGBT individuals.
Image: Salzburg Cathedral, the seat of the Archbishop of Salzburg.
