Who will lead Germany’s bishops after Bätzing?

German media are converging on a candidate

Bishop Georg Bätzing announced Monday that he is stepping down as chairman of the German bishops’ conference.

The opening Mass of the German bishops’ fall plenary assembly at Fulda Cathedral on Sept. 22, 2025. Credit: Deutsche Bischofskonferenz / Marko Orlovic.

In a letter to bishops, Bätzing said he would “not be available for re-election” when the Germa…