German Synod Approves Oversight Mechanism for Bishops — Even Marx Opposed It
The central dispute concerned whether the new body should "monitor" the implementation of synodal resolutions in the dioceses.
Even Cardinal Reinhard Marx of Munich warned against creating a superior authority that would supervise bishops or interfere in diocesan governance. “I do not want that,” Marx said.
Similarly, Bishop Peter Kohlgraf of Mainz said that a control body overseeing bishops would contradict Catholic principles.
Bishop Josef Overbeck of Essen expressed confidence. The Vatican has been informed about the planned body and he expects approval in the coming weeks.
Asked about a possible rejection from Rome, Bishop Georg Bätzing of Limburg said he had no indication that approval was in doubt and ruled out proceeding without Vatican consent. “We will not begin unless Rome gives the green light,” he said.
The German Bishops’ Conference is scheduled to vote at the end of February on the statutes of the future Synodal Conference.
Sidenote: During the debate, several participants complained about what they described as a lack of communication from Rome, saying letters sent to the Vatican have gone unanswered and that they have not received even an acknowledgment of receipt.
Theologian Thomas Söding said the future path of the Catholic Church in Germany would remain the synodal path.
Picture: Pressebilder dbk.de/Synodaler Weg/Marko Orlovic, #newsGdggoyrrzo