Who is the German bishops’ new leader?
The Pillar • • world
Key Points:
- Bishop Heiner Wilmer began his tenure as chairman of the German bishops’ conference by emphasizing a mission focused on placing God at the center and promoting peace and justice, reflecting his Dehonian spirituality.
- Born in 1961 and formed within the Dehonian order, Wilmer has a background combining theological scholarship, educational leadership, and international experience, including time as superior general of his order and close ties with Popes Francis and Leo XIV.
- Since becoming Bishop of Hildesheim in 2018, Wilmer has faced challenges of declining Catholic membership and attendance, initiating significant structural reforms and prioritizing transparency and accountability regarding sexual abuse within the diocese.
- Wilmer's election as chairman signals a strategic choice by the German bishops
