In social discourse and medial perception church and theology are predominantly present when it comes to the moral foundations of communal life. Regarding these topics they make public statements, publish social papers or memoranda. Recent examples are the debates on the migration crisis, euthanasia, sexual ethics, climate change, and financial capitalism. In view of this trend the churches should give less prominence to behavioural norms and advocate more the individual capacity to form a personal judgement on ethical issues. It is a self-misunderstanding when churches understand themselves...

What is the theological meaning of baptism and what significance does it have for the whole of Christian Life? What is the relation between baptism and church, especially in its concrete form? What are the legal regulations that are linked with baptism? What questions arise in view of the current praxis of baptism - regarding its ritual character, the various expectations of parents and the person to be baptised, or in view of the people who want to be baptised even when they have no affiliation with the church? What are the challenges for the congregation regarding baptism of infants, young...