Summary
In preparation for the sixth and final Synodal Assembly in Germany, reform-minded Catholic organizations called for the implementation of already agreed-upon resolutions and voiced hopes for an ongoing process despite personnel changes at the leadership level of the German Bishops’ Conference. Barbara Stöckmann, a press representative from the Women’s Community of Germany (kfd), stated that the Synodal Way should conclude positively. Christian Weisner highlighted results from the last Church membership survey which revealed that 96% of respondents supported reform initiatives outlined in the Synodal Way. He also mentioned plans for a synodical conference in October 2025 in Rome, emphasizing its global relevance. However, several issues remain unresolved, particularly regarding gender equality and queer pastoral care. Ulrike Göken-Huismann, representing the German Catholic Women’s Community (kfd), criticized that only incremental progress has been made on these fronts. She noted that a preliminary norm for allowing laypeople to preach during Eucharist services had been approved by several bishops but not yet implemented across all dioceses. Dorothee Sandherr-Klemp, spiritual advisor of the Catholic Women’s Community (KDFB), added societal-political context, suggesting such reforms are necessary in light of contemporary political upheavals. Martin Schockenhoff from the “pro concilio” team called for structural changes and implementation to ensure the survival of Christian communities. Rainer Teuber criticized the lack of full implementation of the blessing ritual for same-sex couples, stating that while some bishops had approved it during the Synodal Way deliberations, it was not uniformly applied across all dioceses. Schockenhoff echoed this concern, stressing the importance of both approval and practical execution in reform processes to maintain Christian communities.
Key Topics
Synodale Weg, Kirchenmitgliedschaftsuntersuchung, Frauenfrage
