Christoph Schönborn, Austrian cardinal

Christoph Maria Michael Hugo Damian Peter Adalbert Graf von Schönborn, O.P., born on January 22, 1945, is a distinguished Bohemian-born Austrian Dominican friar and theologian. Recognized globally, he holds the esteemed title of a cardinal of the Catholic Church, serving as the current Archbishop of Vienna. His influential leadership extended to his role as the Chairman of the Austrian Bishops' Conference for over two decades, from 1998 to 2020. Elevated to the cardinalate in 1998, Cardinal Schönborn also holds a unique hereditary and ceremonial position as the Grand Chaplain of the Austrian branch of the prestigious Order of the Golden Fleece, an order he has been a member of since 1961.

His full name, Christoph Maria Michael Hugo Damian Peter Adalbert Graf von Schönborn, underscores his noble lineage, as "Graf von Schönborn" signifies his status as a Count within the historically prominent House of Schönborn. This formerly sovereign princely house, with its deep roots in the Holy Roman Empire, produced numerous members who occupied high ecclesiastical and political offices, including powerful prince-bishops, influential prince-electors, and cardinals, thereby leaving an indelible mark on European history and the Catholic Church.

Ecclesiastical Career and Influence

Early Life, Formation, and Theological Contributions

Born in Skalken (now Skalka, Czech Republic), then part of the Sudetenland, Christoph Schönborn's early life was marked by the post-World War II period which led his family to relocate to Austria. His vocational journey led him to join the Order of Preachers (O.P.), commonly known as the Dominicans, in 1963. The Dominican Order, founded by Saint Dominic in the 13th century, is renowned for its intellectual tradition, rigorous theological study, and commitment to preaching and teaching. Following his priestly ordination in 1970, he pursued advanced theological studies, earning his doctorate in theology. Cardinal Schönborn's academic prowess was evident in his tenure as a professor of theology at the University of Fribourg, Switzerland, from 1976 to 1991. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the compilation of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, serving as a member of the editorial committee under the guidance of then-Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (later Pope Benedict XVI).

Archbishop of Vienna and Cardinalate

In 1991, Christoph Schönborn was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Vienna, and subsequently, in 1995, he succeeded Cardinal Hans Hermann Groër as the Archbishop of Vienna. As the metropolitan archbishop, he leads the historically significant Archdiocese of Vienna, a key center of Catholic life in Central Europe. His significant contributions and leadership within the Church were recognized by Pope John Paul II, who elevated him to the College of Cardinals in the Consistory of February 21, 1998. As a cardinal, he serves as a principal advisor to the Pope and, if under 80 years of age, is eligible to participate in the papal conclave to elect a new Roman Pontiff. This role places him among the most senior figures in the global Catholic Church.

Leadership of the Austrian Bishops' Conference

Cardinal Schönborn's influence extended beyond his archdiocesan duties. From 1998 to 2020, he served as the Chairman of the Austrian Bishops' Conference, the highest episcopal body in Austria. In this capacity, he acted as the leading voice for the Catholic Church in Austria, navigating complex social, political, and ecclesiastical issues, and representing the collective interests of the Austrian bishops on both national and international stages.

Historical and Familial Ties: The Order of the Golden Fleece and the House of Schönborn

Grand Chaplain of the Order of the Golden Fleece

Further highlighting his unique position, Cardinal Schönborn is the Grand Chaplain of the Austrian branch of the Most Illustrious Order of the Golden Fleece. Founded in 1430 by Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, this chivalric order is one of Europe's most prestigious and exclusive. Following the War of the Spanish Succession in the early 18th century, the Order divided into Spanish and Austrian branches, the latter being traditionally associated with the House of Habsburg. As Grand Chaplain, Cardinal Schönborn holds a significant spiritual and ceremonial role, reflecting a deep-seated connection to Austrian aristocratic traditions. His membership in the Order since 1961 underscores his family's long-standing ties to this esteemed institution.

The Princely House of Schönborn

Cardinal Schönborn is a direct descendant of the formerly sovereign princely House of Schönborn, a highly influential Franconian noble family. This illustrious family played a pivotal role in the Holy Roman Empire, with numerous members holding powerful positions that combined both spiritual and temporal authority. These included prince-bishops, who governed ecclesiastical territories as sovereign rulers; prince-electors, who possessed the crucial right to elect the Holy Roman Emperor; and cardinals, who advised the Pope and participated in papal elections. This rich family history of high office within both the Church and the Empire provides a significant backdrop to Cardinal Schönborn's own distinguished career, linking him to centuries of European history and ecclesiastical leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions about Cardinal Christoph Schönborn

Who is Cardinal Christoph Schönborn?
Cardinal Christoph Schönborn is a prominent Austrian Dominican friar, theologian, and cardinal of the Catholic Church. He currently serves as the Archbishop of Vienna and was the Chairman of the Austrian Bishops' Conference for over two decades.
What is the significance of "O.P." after his name?
"O.P." stands for "Ordo Praedicatorum," which is Latin for the "Order of Preachers." This signifies that Cardinal Schönborn is a member of the Dominican Order, a religious order known for its intellectual tradition, theological studies, and mission of preaching.
When was he made a cardinal?
He was elevated to the cardinalate by Pope John Paul II on February 21, 1998.
What is his role regarding the Order of the Golden Fleece?
Cardinal Schönborn holds the distinguished position of Grand Chaplain for the Austrian branch of the Order of the Golden Fleece, one of Europe's most prestigious chivalric orders, with which his family has historical ties.
What is the House of Schönborn?
The House of Schönborn is a formerly sovereign princely noble family from Franconia, Germany. Historically, many of its members held high offices within the Holy Roman Empire and the Catholic Church, including roles as powerful prince-bishops, prince-electors, and cardinals, demonstrating a long lineage of significant ecclesiastical and temporal influence.