Bishops and Regional Church: Nearly 124,000 Exits - Fewer Bavarians leave the Catholic Church as reforms spark cautious hope
Fewer people left the Catholic Church in Bavaria last year than in previous years. Official figures show 81,852 departures in 2024—a drop of 5,300 from the year before. Despite this decline, the church still counts over 5.3 million members across the region.
The decline in departures comes as church leaders highlight ongoing reforms. Archbishop Herwig Gössl of Bamberg noted that efforts to address historical abuse cases are now being recognised. This shift may have influenced some members' decisions to stay.
Meanwhile, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria saw 42,000 departures in 2025. Its total membership also fell below two million for the first time. Both major denominations face a wider trend: more members are dying each year than are being baptised.
The Catholic Church's figures suggest a slight slowdown in losses. Yet the overall downward trend continues, reflecting broader changes in religious affiliation across the region.
The Catholic Church retains over 5.3 million adherents in Bavaria, despite last year's departures. The Protestant Church, now with fewer than two million members, faces similar challenges. With fewer baptisms than deaths, both denominations are adjusting to a shrinking base.
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