Vatican and German Bishops Continue Dialogue on Proposed Synodal Body

Representatives from the Roman Curia and the German Bishops Conference met in Rome on November 12 to continue discussions on the proposed statute of a new synodal body for the Church in Germany. The gathering marked the fourth round of dialogue since conversations began in 2022, reflecting the ongoing effort to clarify the structure and mission of the planned “synodal conference.”

According to a joint press release, the meeting took place in an atmosphere described as honest, open, and constructive. Both sides examined a range of issues involving the character, composition, and responsibilities of the proposed synodal body. No further specifics were made public, in keeping with the quiet and gradual nature of the negotiations.

The concept of a synodal conference emerged after years of debate surrounding the German Synodal Way, a reform initiative that sparked intense discussion both within Germany and at the Vatican. Earlier proposals envisioned a permanent synodal council that would bring together bishops and lay representatives to guide church governance. However, Vatican authorities repeatedly warned that such a structure could risk creating an entity that would rival or overshadow the bishops conference.

As a result, both sides agreed last year to change the name of the proposed body and revise key elements of its statute. They also confirmed that the synodal council would not hold authority above or equal to the German bishops conference. The new synodal conference concept represents an attempt to address these concerns while still responding to the desire in Germany for ongoing synodal dialogue.

Wednesday’s meeting continued a series of previous encounters held in July 2023, March 2024, and June 2024. These discussions have aimed to find common ground and ensure that the proposed body remains consistent with universal Church teaching and governance structures.

The Vatican delegation at the meeting included several senior officials: Cardinal Pietro Parolin, secretary of state; Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith; Cardinal Kurt Koch, prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity; and Cardinal Arthur Roche, prefect of the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments.

The German delegation was led by Bishop Georg Batzing of Limburg, president of the German Bishops Conference. He was accompanied by Bishop Helmut Dieser of Aachen and Auxiliary Bishop Ansgar Puff of Cologne. Also present was Bishop Stefan Oster of Passau, who attended as a guest.

Bishop Oster’s participation is notable because he has been one of the more vocal critics of the German Synodal Way. His presence suggests an effort to include diverse perspectives as the discussions move forward.

While many questions remain unresolved, both sides appear committed to continuing dialogue in hopes of reaching a mutually acceptable framework for the synodal conference.