Controversial German Bishop Will Not Seek Reelection as Bishops’ Conference President

Controversial German bishop will not seek reelection as bishops’ conference president

Bishop Bätzing said it was "a great honor and joy" to serve the German bishops' conference as its president "in truly demanding times."

Who will lead Germany’s bishops after Bätzing?

Bishop Georg Bätzing announced Monday that he is stepping down as chairman of the German bishops’ conference.The opening Mass of the German bishops’ fall plenary assembly at Fulda Cathedral on Sept. 22, 2025. Credit: Deutsche Bischofskonferenz / Marko Orlovic.In a letter to bishops, Bätzing said he would “not be available for re-election” when the German episcopate meets in Würzburg on Feb. 23-26, at the end of his tumultuous six-year term.The 6…

Bishop Georg Bätzing won't seek reelection

Bishop Georg Bätzing of Limburg, president of the German bishops' conference, who spearheaded the controversial Synodal Way during his six-year term, announced that he will not seek reelection when the bishops meet for the spring assembly in February.

Controversial German bishop will not seek reelection as bishops' conference president - The Dialog

Bishop Georg Bätzing of Limburg, president of the German bishops’ conference, who spearheaded the controversial Synodal Way during his six-year term, announced that he will not seek reelection when the bishops meet for the spring assembly in February. The Diocese of Limburg published excerpts of Bishop Bätzing’s letter to the German bishops’ conference Jan. 19, saying that he reached the decision “after consultation and mature reflection.” Accor…