Schwarzenegger impresses at the organ concert in St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna!

Schwarzenegger impresses at the organ concert in St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna!

Arnold Schwarzenegger, the Styrian native and Hollywood star, recently had a special experience in Vienna that not only showed his heart for music, but also his commitment to climate protection. On June 3, 2025, the AUSTRIAN WORLD SUMMIT (AWS) took place in the Hofburg, an event organized by the Schwarzenegger Climate Initiative for the ninth time. Under the motto “Unite in Action – Terminate Pollution,” the conference advocated for solutions in the fight against climate change and focused on the role of first responders in climate-related disasters. Managing director Martin Krenn also pointed out the international challenges that still need to be overcome in climate protection and criticized the slow negotiations at the UN climate conference COP29.

After this important appointment, the former governor of California visited St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna on Wednesday, June 5th. How Cathedral radio According to reports, this visit took place with great discretion - the cathedral staff were only informed shortly before Schwarzenegger's arrival. Upon his arrival, he was guided through the cathedral by cathedral priest Toni Faber, where he not only viewed the impressive baptismal chapel but also the high altar.

A musical highlight

A very special experience awaited Schwarzenegger: he was allowed to sit at the giant organ in St. Stephen's Cathedral. The actor and political activist operated the manuals and pedals and offered an exclusive organ concert that certainly made not only his heart beat faster, but also that of the listeners. An altar boy named Justin even managed to get a selfie with the star and had the opportunity to have a quick chat with him. Schwarzenegger also humorously discussed his career from bodybuilder to governor and showed that he also has a good knack for music in church.

During his visits to Vienna, Schwarzenegger is regularly drawn to St. Stephen's Cathedral, especially because of the giant organ there, which he already operated in 2021 after its renovation. The cathedral itself is a significant landmark in Vienna and belongs to the Archdiocese of Vienna, which includes approximately 1.06 million Catholics and is the largest diocese in Austria.

A man of clear words

Schwarzenegger is not only a passionate musician, but also a committed climate protector. His visit to Vienna coincided with his commitment to speak about current issues such as air pollution and the climate crisis and to call for an end to dependence on fossil fuels. June 3rd was not only an important day for Schwarzenegger, but also for everyone who takes a clear view of the environment. Because, as the discussions during the AWS showed, the fight against the climate crisis is a collective effort that requires courage, determination and innovation, just like the work of first responders who are on the front lines in times of natural disasters.

But despite the positive approaches, there is also a “but”. The challenges are great, as Martin Krenn from the Bishops' Conference reported at COP29. Some governments often see economic aspects as a priority, while in many countries there is a growing recognition that renewable energy represents the most cost-effective option for energy supply in the long term. Schwarzenegger knows this too - and is using his influence to ensure that awareness of these issues continues to spread.

In a world that is loud and challenging, it is a joy to see someone like Arnold Schwarzenegger not only in the spotlight but also fighting for the good. And who knows, maybe we'll hear even more about his musical talents in the magnificent setting of St. Stephen's Cathedral on a future visit.