German Catholic Church Sees Slight Attendance Rise Amid Declining Membership

Berlin, Germany – Recent ecclesiastical statistics released on March 17, 2026, by the German Episcopal Conference reveal a complex picture of the Catholic Church in Germany. While overall membership continues to decline, church attendance has shown a slight increase, offering a mixed outlook for the future of the faith in the country.

Membership Trends in 2025

As of 2025, Catholics represent 23% of the total German population, equating to 19,219,601 registered parishioners. However, the number of practicing Catholics continues to decrease. Key statistics from the 2025 report include:

• Baptisms: 109,028 (down from 116,274 in 2024)
• Religious Weddings: 19,478 (down from 22,513 in 2024)
• First Communions: 152,357 (stable compared to 151,702 in 2024)
• Confirmations: 105,334 (stable compared to 105,041 in 2024)
• Religious Funerals: 203,496 (down from 213,046 in 2024)
• Church Attendance: Increased by 6.8% (following a 6.6% increase in 2024)
• Priestly Ordinations: 25 nationwide
• New Members: 2,269 joined the Catholic Church (up from 1,839 in 2024)
• Readmissions: 5,443 members were readmitted to the faith (up from 4,743 in 2024)
• Exits: 307,117 members left the Church (down from 321,659 in 2024)
• Parishes: Decreased to 8,997 (down from 9,29 in 2024) due to structural measures in the dioceses.

Bishop Wilmer’s Response

Bishop Dr. Heiner Wilmer SCJ, President of the German Episcopal Conference, addressed the statistics, acknowledging both the positive and concerning trends. “The 2025 figures… reflect our Church,” he stated. He expressed gratitude for the dedication of church staff and volunteers, highlighting the positive increase in church attendance and stable numbers for First Communions and Confirmations.

However, Bishop Wilmer also lamented the continued high number of departures from the Church, stating, “Every departure from the Church pains us.” He emphasized the importance of continued witness to the faith despite the declining numbers and encouraged volunteers to remain engaged and seek greater acceptance for Christianity in society. He also called for ecumenical unity in this endeavor.

Context and Leadership

Bishop Heiner Wilmer was elected President of the German Episcopal Conference on February 24, 2026, succeeding Bishop Georg Bätzing. GCatholic.org provides a detailed history of the conference’s leadership, tracing back to Cardinal Joseph Frings in 1958.

The German Bishops’ Conference

The German Bishops’ Conference (Deutsche Bischofskonferenz) is the central body for the Catholic Church in Germany, bringing together bishops from the country’s 27 dioceses to address common pastoral tasks and coordinate church activities. Founded in 1966, the conference builds upon earlier iterations, including the Fulda Conference of Bishops established in 1867. Wikipedia details the historical development of the conference, including its adaptation during the division of Germany.

Looking Ahead

The German Catholic Church faces ongoing challenges related to declining membership and societal shifts. However, the slight increase in church attendance and the dedication of its volunteers offer a foundation for continued engagement and outreach. The conference will likely focus on addressing the reasons for departures and fostering a more welcoming and relevant presence within German society.