Churches Shrink - Bishop Bets on Cooperation

Churches Shrink - Bishop Bets on Cooperation - Churches Shrink - Bishop Bets on Cooperation

Catholic Bishop Dominicus Meier of Osnabrück has spoken out about the future of Germany’s churches amid ongoing membership declines. While the drop in numbers has slowed, he insists that stronger partnerships could secure their role in society. His proposals include closer ties with Protestant churches, welfare groups, and even local hospitals.

The decline in church membership has eased slightly in recent years. The sharpest fall came after the abuse scandal broke, but the trend has since stabilised. Despite this, younger generations remain sceptical, though many still value services like pastoral support during confirmation.

Meier sees collaboration as the way forward. He has called for deeper cooperation between Catholic and Protestant churches, along with welfare organisations such as Diakonie and Caritas. Municipal hospitals, like Osnabrück’s city clinic, and Catholic operators such as Niels Stensen could also play a part. These partnerships would focus on shared goals rather than full mergers.

The bishop also plans to meet with federal politicians. He argues that the state no longer funds vital services, such as debt counselling, leaving churches to fill the gap. According to Meier, even critics acknowledge the need for the church’s work in these areas.

To avoid wasteful overlap, he suggests merging certain services. The existing partnership between Niels Stensen and Osnabrück’s municipal clinic serves as a model. By working together, churches could streamline their efforts and maintain relevance.

Meier’s proposals aim to strengthen the church’s position through practical alliances. With membership numbers still falling, his focus on cooperation with welfare groups, hospitals, and political figures could shape its future. The bishop remains convinced that society still relies on the church for essential support.