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Religious Communities
IGGÖ and Austria as Bridge Builders Through Interfaith Dialogue
From Vienna to the provinces: the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan is increasingly becoming a platform for social cohesion in Austria. While Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen sent a strong signal for diversity at the interfaith Iftar in Cobenzl Castle, the Islamic Religious Community in Austria (IGGÖ) emphasized the importance of internal cohesion at its internal Muslim fast-breaking ceremony.
February 26, 2026
Yom Kippur: Day of Atonement and Second Chances in Vienna
The Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, marks the end of the ten days of repentance and remembrance that begin with the New Year festival of Rosh Hashanah. In 2025, Yom Kippur begins at sundown on Wednesday, October 1 and ends at nightfall on Thursday, October 2. As the holiest holiday of spiritual repentance, it is an essential opportunity for reconciliation with God and fellow human beings and is also observed in Vienna with strict fasting and intense prayer.
October 1, 2025
Islamic Religious Community in Austria on the Future of Imam Training
With the symposium “Imams in modern society: training paths and social responsibility”, the Islamic Religious Community in Austria (IGGÖ) initiated a discussion about the role of imams in Austria. The event aimed to lay the foundations for Austrian imam training that does justice to both the religious traditions of Muslim communities and the requirements of a pluralistic society.
December 2, 2024
Vienna's Mayor Establishes "Council of Religions" to Foster Interfaith Dialogue and Peace
Vienna's Mayor, Michael Ludwig, convened a significant meeting at the cityhall, bringing together representatives from diverse religious groups in response to recent developments in the Middle East. These events underscore the vital role of religious tolerance and understanding in maintaining peaceful coexistence in society.
October 19, 2023
New Lockdown: No Public Church Services After December 27
Also during the upcoming lockdown, Austria's Minister of Cultural Affairs together with representatives of churches and religious communities have agreed to suspend all public church services until January 17. Places of worship will, however, stay open for personal prayers.
December 22, 2020
Lockdown: Public Church Services Suspended Until Further Notice
In addition to the measures put in place by the federal government, Austria's Minister of Cultural Affairs together with representatives of churches and religious communities have agreed to suspend all public church services until further notice. Places of worship will, however, stay open for personal prayers.
November 17, 2020
Churches and Religious Communities after Corona: New Measures and First Public Services
After two months without public services, it will be possible to attend public services again. This is what all 16 churches and religious communities recognized in Austria have agreed upon together with Minister of Education and Cultural Affairs Susanne Raab.
May 14, 2020
