Third CSD service in Leipzig: courage, visibility and hope!

Third CSD service in Leipzig: courage, visibility and hope!

On June 22, 2025, Leipzig experienced its third service on the occasion of Christopher Street Day (CSD), which was organized by the Catholic Youth Leipzig. This special event brought together not only the young believers, but also diocesan youth pastor Michael Kreher and youth officer Stefan Plattner. Together they discussed courage, visibility and the painful injuries that many people have experienced in their search for acceptance. The service took place in the provost's church and offered a space in which the longing for an open church was audible.

Guest speaker Stefan Plattner made it clear that the CSD is by no means a costume party. He and other participants took the opportunity to speak during the service about the challenges that queer people have to overcome every day in order to live their identity. “The real challenge is not only your own acceptance, but also the pastoral support from the church,” says Plattner. This highlighted the need for the church to open up and learn to deal with the diversity of people.

A special place for everyone

An impressive statement came from a young person from the diocese's youth helper group, who expressed a thought that also surprised Plattner: "I think Jesus would run with the CSD." This idea resonated with many and highlighted how important visibility and acceptance of diversity is for the community. Plattner confirmed that the marginalized would always find Jesus close to them and that they would certainly dance and laugh happily at the CSD.

Following the service, there was a lively exchange in the church courtyard, where visitors were provided with refreshing drinks and rainbow pizza. Such events not only mark a shift toward greater acceptance, but also create opportunities for community and connection.

A look back at the history of the CSD

Christopher Street Day has its roots in a significant event in American history. On June 28, 1969, there was a violent riot against the police at the Stonewall Inn in New York. This event is considered a milestone in the global gay movement and provided the impetus for the first CSD, which took place in New York in 1970. In Germany, the first CSD was organized in Berlin in 1979, and since then this day has developed into a colorful celebration of diversity that receives widespread support from political parties and sponsors. Looking back, the CSD is not only a day of celebration, but also a powerful symbol of resistance against discrimination and violence in the LGBTQ+ community.

The development leads to the consideration of the queer victims of National Socialism, who remained in the dark for a long time. The Bundestag commemorated the queer victims for the first time on January 27, 2023, which represents an important step in the culture of remembrance. In this context, the history of Section 175, which violates criminal law and was a sad reality for many people until it was abolished in 1994, is also an important part.

With its CSD service, the Leipzig Catholic Youth is sending a sign of hope and change in the church. They stand for an inclusive community in which every person can have their place and feels safe. Such initiatives are crucial to raise awareness of the challenges many people face and to celebrate the vibrancy and diversity of our society.