Graz-Seckau diocese to introduce Austria’s first two-person leadership

The Graz-Seckau diocese will introduce a two-person leadership team for its general vicariate from September, ORF reported. Auxiliary Bishop Johannes Freitag will oversee pastoral responsibilities, while Lukas Grangl will manage secular affairs.

The new structure follows the retirement of General Vicar Erich Linhardt. The position, previously held by one person, will be divided between Freitag and Grangl in a model described as unique in Austria.

Freitag, who has been an auxiliary bishop in Styria for just over a year, will be responsible mainly for pastoral and ecclesiastical matters. Grangl, a native of Upper Styria, will serve as diocesan director and oversee administration, financial affairs and other secular responsibilities.

The two men have worked together before in the military diocese. Grangl has also worked closely with Freitag in the Graz-Seckau diocese since April last year.

Grangl studied theology and law and has worked in banking, real estate and tax consulting. He also works at the Defence Ministry on national and international concept and strategy development. He is married and has three children.

The general vicariate reports directly to the diocesan bishop, who sets the overall direction. The vicariate is responsible for implementing it.