1. When you think of Lübeck, what images come to mind?
Joachim Gauck: Probably the same ones that Lübeck residents have. I see this beautiful cityscape with the towers, and the number 7 is familiar to me as a Rostock native. I also always think of the Holstentor, like most Germans do when the name Lübeck is mentioned. And that connects me. There are good feelings.
2. Whether it's Hanseatic Day, lectures at St. Jakobi, or the 850th anniversary of the cathedral – you are often a guest in Lübeck. What impresses you about this city?
Joachim Gauck: There are various things that impress me when I think of Lübeck. You know, I was born during the war and come from a city that was heavily destroyed during the war. Lübeck was even more destroyed than Rostock and decided after the war to restore its old character through reconstruction measures. This benefited the townhouses and churches, and countless Lübeck residents recognized and rediscovered their home. That is something that has made a deep impression on me. Both as President and as a citizen, I am impressed by the civic spirit that has remained strong. Unlike in East Germany, where this active civil society spirit that promotes its own interests from the bottom up has somehow been broken, we still have this civic spirit in the Hanseatic cities in the West, which make us feel responsible for our city and surroundings. There are also companies that have become part of the city society as patrons and donors, and on whom politicians can count for support. This has created a situation where elected politicians and responsible civic engagement, state, civil society, and also the church shape things. This is a high cultural and political asset. Independent of the beauty of the buildings, Lübeck as a way of life is something we must absolutely preserve and promote.
3. The seven towers of Lübeck's five old town churches need help. For many years, there has been a campaign supported by many volunteers, "I want to see seven towers." How important is this civic engagement from your perspective?
Joachim Gauck: By taking on the patronage of 7Türme+, I do so because I have been impressed by the activities of the campaign, which has been around for many years. Here we have civic engagement that has raised millions. This means the campaign has succeeded in winning over its citizens hearts and minds: This is our city, this is World Heritage and our home, and we feel responsible for it. And this is so important because we have a tendency in parts of our population to say, "Let them do it." The institutions of the state or the church are often overwhelmed without the involvement of the citizens. Therefore, I am always pleased when we have activities from the federal government, the state, but also from the middle of society. This also has a political reason. It is not just the proximity to the home where we live, but this engagement of individuals is something that embodies the lifeblood of democracy. People who engage in regional concerns learn that it is important to be involved beyond self-interest. And liberal democracy ultimately lives from this.
4. Now there will be a new foundation to finance the preservation of Lübeck's inner-city churches – 7Türme+. Why are you taking on the role of patron?
Joachim Gauck: I am very happy to take on the patronage of 7Türme+ – not only out of North German solidarity from Hanseatic city to Hanseatic city, but because as a citizen and former Federal President, I am fascinated when people, individuals, foundations, public bodies, politically engaged people, and people from the churches come together to create a great work. And Lübeck is too beautiful to be left to decay. It is a site that belongs to the World's Heritage. We want to leave our descendants testimonies of our strength, will power and show them that we feel responsible. Living responsibility is the lifeblood of democracy. Therefore, I am also happy to support the activity with my patronage.
5. What wish or appeal would you like to address to people in Lübeck, Schleswig-Holstein, and all of Germany?
Joachim Gauck: There is something like German disgruntlement, similar to German fearfulness, which comes relatively early when we compare ourselves with neighboring countries. Some even consider this disgruntlement and fearfulness to be a sign of cultural maturity. Of course, this is nonsense. We need people who believe in success. We also need a continuation of the willingness to help that was once started. Often, people lose momentum after they have helped once, but we need those who have staying power. Therefore, I congratulate those who have decided to join in promoting this beautiful work.