Archbishop Welki Does Not Attend Final Synodal Assembly

Kölner Erzbischof
Synodalweg
theologische Differenzen
Author

Meldung

Published

February 6, 2026

Summary

Cardinal Rainer Maria Kardinal Woelki, the Archbishop of Cologne, will not participate in the sixth Synodal Assembly taking place in Stuttgart. The Synod began on Thursday and is evaluating progress made during previous synods. In an interview with Domradio Cologne, Cardinal Woelki explained that he considers the Synodal path to have come to a close. This conclusion was reached by German bishops and the Central Committee of German Catholics in 2019. Initially, five sessions were planned; however, only four took place as theological differences emerged during the synods. Cardinal Woelki emphasized the need for deeper theological understanding amid differing views on the Synodal concept. He noted that Pope Francis and Pope Leo had emphasized Synodality as a spiritual endeavor aimed at evangelization. Nevertheless, he observed significant variation in how the German Synod was utilized to establish specific church positions rather than engaging in theological discourse. Woelki also addressed tensions within the German Bishops’ Conference, expressing his concern over placing blame on anyone for not wanting what is good for the Church. He called for strengthening Catholic journalism and noted that donations could support journalistic endeavors.

Key Topics

Kölner Erzbischof, Synodalweg, theologische Differenzen


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