New Leadership for the Archdiocese of Vienna
Fr Josef Grünwidl has been officially appointed as the new Archbishop of Vienna, ending a period of anticipation following the retirement of Cardinal Christoph Schönborn. The appointment was made by Pope Leo XIV on October 17, 2025, marking a significant transition for the prominent Austrian archdiocese.
Grünwidl, who is 62 years old, had been serving as the Apostolic Administrator of the archdiocese since January 22, 2025, when Cardinal Schönborn's resignation was accepted by Pope Francis on his 80th birthday. His elevation to Archbishop comes after nearly nine months of the see being vacant, a duration longer than usual in recent church history.
A Profile of Archbishop Josef Grünwidl
Born on January 31, 1963, in Hollabrunn, Lower Austria, Josef Grünwidl brings extensive experience within the Viennese Church to his new role. He was ordained a deacon in 1987 and a priest on June 29, 1988, by Cardinal Franz König. Grünwidl pursued studies in theology at the University of Vienna and also completed a concert organ degree at the University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna.
His career has seen him hold various significant positions, including serving as secretary to the then newly appointed Archbishop Schönborn from 1995 to 1998. He also worked as a pastor in several parishes, was a dean, and chaired the Vienna Priests' Council from 2016 to 2023. Prior to becoming Apostolic Administrator, he was the Episcopal Vicar for the southern vicariate from January 2023.
Grünwidl is recognized for his pastoral approach and openness to dialogue. He was previously associated with the 'Pastor's Initiative' (Priests' Initiative), a reform-minded movement. He has expressed progressive views, including questioning mandatory priestly celibacy and advocating for discussions on female deacons. Despite initially stating in July that he did not aspire to the archbishopric, he has now accepted the leadership of the archdiocese.
Cardinal Schönborn's Legacy and Retirement
The appointment follows the retirement of Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, who concluded his nearly 30-year tenure as Archbishop of Vienna on January 22, 2025, his 80th birthday. Cardinal Schönborn, a highly respected theologian, played a crucial role in the Catholic Church, notably assisting in the writing of the Catechism of the Catholic Church and serving as chairman of the Austrian Bishops' Conference for 22 years.
His resignation, which he had first offered five years prior at the canonical retirement age of 75, was finally accepted by Pope Francis. Cardinal Schönborn's long and influential leadership leaves a significant legacy within the Austrian Church and beyond.
Looking Ahead
Archbishop-elect Grünwidl's episcopal consecration is scheduled for January 24, 2026, with his predecessor, Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, expected to perform the ceremony. The appointment has been met with widespread congratulations from various religious and political figures in Austria, who expressed hopes for continued good ecumenical cooperation and wished the new Archbishop strength and confidence in his demanding role.
5 Comments
Bermudez
Another liberal pushing a secular agenda. The Church is losing its identity.
Bella Ciao
While his pastoral approach sounds promising, the mention of questioning celibacy and advocating for female deacons raises concerns for many. It will be interesting to see how he navigates these issues without causing schism.
Muchacha
So much for tradition. This appointment will only cause deeper division.
Manolo Noriega
Female deacons? This is just capitulating to modern trends, not faith.
Fuerza
It's good that he's open to dialogue, as the article states, but radical reforms could alienate many faithful. A delicate balance will be needed to unite the community.