Church of Anhalt Sees Pressure for Change - German Protestant church faces collapse as membership drops sharply
The Evangelical Regional Church of Anhalt is facing escalating financial strain as its membership continues to dwindle. With numbers decreasing from 25,000 to 23,300 in just a year, leaders are now convening to tackle the crisis. A special meeting in Dessau-Roßlau will center on the 2026 budget and long-term strategies.
The church has historically valued its independence, steering clear of mergers with other denominations. However, this position may no longer be tenable. President Karsten Wolkenhauer has cautioned that without significant reforms, sweeping changes will become inevitable.
The church must now determine how to adapt to shrinking numbers and tightening budgets. Without intervention, further decline appears likely. Leaders have made it clear that the status quo is no longer a viable option.
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