A traditional benefit soup supper hosted by the Catholic Women’s Movement of the Diocese of St. Pölten took place Tuesday, February 24, 2026, in the East Austria Hall of the Lower Austria State House in St. Pölten.
The annual event, held in conjunction with the Day of Family Fasting, drew Lower Austria Governor Johanna Mikl-Leitner as an honored guest. The recipe for the Lenten soup was provided by former kfb chairwoman Anna Rosenberger and prepared by the state house kitchen.
The gathering offered a moment for community solidarity as global challenges continue to mount. Mikl-Leitner described the event as “a beautiful tradition” and “a lovely gathering.”
Solidarity as a Social Responsibility
“With this benefit soup supper, we take an important step towards solidarity, a pleasant togetherness and practiced neighborly love, year after year,” Mikl-Leitner said, extending “a heartfelt thank you” to all involved. “You all create this day a day of confidence, hope, and humanity,” she emphasized, acknowledging current global challenges.
Mikl-Leitner highlighted the importance of cohesion and mutual support, stating the necessitate to “give people support and orientation and take responsibility for others.” She added that Lower Austria, with its favorable living conditions, has a particular obligation: “And precisely because things are going so well for us in Lower Austria, we are obligated to help others and share with them.”
Humanity and Aid for Women in Focus
The governor specifically referenced the SEEDS project, which supports women in India and aims to enable them to live self-determined lives. “With this joint meal, we can help far beyond the borders of Lower Austria – this time in northeastern India, where this donation will actually arrive,” she said.
Diocesan Bishop Alois Schwarz also praised the initiative, expressing gratitude for “how humanity is being attempted here in a region where there is so much poverty and need.”
Monika Liedler, chairwoman of the Women’s Movement of the Diocese of St. Pölten, recalled that the benefit soup supper has a “long tradition.” “It’s one thing to talk about solidarity and another to make solidarity a reality,” she said, thanking the guests for their “contribution to a more just world.”
Anna Rosenberger also spoke of a “living tradition that runs throughout the country” and shared her personal experiences during a trip to India.
This year’s action focuses on the theme of “Participation – Shaping the Future Together.” Donations will support approximately 3,000 women in India who are working for a life without violence and for equality.
Anna Raab, Deputy Chairwoman of the Catholic Women’s Movement Austria, emphasized the importance of sustainable aid: “It’s not just about financial support, but also about an exchange on equal terms.”
The event, accompanied musically by the group “aCord,” sent a strong signal of solidarity and lived humanity. More information about the SEEDS project can be found here.
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