Nazis and the Church

Question 1

In what ways were the Nazi ideals opposed to the values of Christianity?

Answer 1

• Nazis glorified strength and violence; Christianity focuses on love and forgiveness
• Nazis hated the weak; Christianity helps the weak
• Nazis believed in racial superiority; Christianity teaches respect for all people
• Nazis saw Hitler as a god-like figure; Christians believes in God

Question 2

Why did Hitler see the Catholic Church as a particular threat?

Answer 2

• Catholics were loyal to the Pope, not to Hitler
• Catholic schools and youth groups spread messages (love, forgiveness etc.) which was at odds with Nazi views
• Catholics supported the Centre Party - a party Hitler wanted to remove

Question 3

What was the concordat?

Answer 3

An agreement between Hitler and the Pope that the Pope would stay out of politics if Hitler did not interfere with the Church

Question 4

When was the concordat signed?

Answer 4

July 1933

Question 5

How did Hitler break the concordat?

Answer 5

Within a few months:

• priests were harassed and arrested - many ended up in concentration camps for criticising the Nazis
• Catholic schools were interfered with and eventually abolished
• Catholic youth movements were shut down
• Monasteries were closed

Question 6

What were the Protestants who supported Hitler called?

Answer 6

‘Germany Christians’

Question 7

Who led the German Christians?

Answer 7

Ludwig Muller - became Reich bishop (national leader) in September 1933

Question 8

What was the group of Protestants called who OPPOSED the Nazis?

Answer 8

The Confessional Church

Question 9

Who was the leader of the Confessional Church?

Answer 9

Pastor Martin Niemoller

Question 10

What happened eventually to Martin Niemoller and the Confessional Church?

Answer 10

In 1937 Niemoller was arrested and put in a concentration camp (along with about 800 fellow ministers). The Confessional Church was banned.

Question 11

When was the Confessional Church set up?

Answer 11

1934