.- The German Catholic news website kath.de has created a special page on its site dedicated to the German bishops' hopes for the country's World Cup soccer team.
The page, titled “Weltmeisterschaft 2010 – So tippen unsere Bischofe” currently features Bishop Joachim Wanke of the Diocese of Erfurt and Bishop Norbert Trelle of the Diocese of Hildesheim.
Each bishop was asked two questions. “What chance does the German National Team have at the 2010 World Cup?” and “What do you associate with a soccer celebration such as the World Cup?”
“Despite the difficulties with the team’s formation, I hope that the German National Team will master the World Cup,” said Bishop Wanke. He added that he associates the World Cup with, “ideally, a fabulous summer.”
“The chances are good,” said Bishop Trelle. “I believe they will be among the final four, and if they catch ‘a good run,’ they can be the world champions.”
Bishop Trelle is pleased that the event is being held in an African country for the first time and hopes that this World Cup may “bear fruit for the development of South Africa.” He also hopes for “a peaceful celebration” with respect and fairness for people of all nations, so that the tournament be remembered as more than just a soccerfest when it is all over and done in a few weeks.
Germany beat Australia in the first round with a score of 4-0.
Worldwide, there have been no reports of friendly wagers between bishops as to the outcome of the games.
