New Pope Leo XIV.: Bätzing praises excellent choice for the church

Overview - Bishops' conference chairman Bätzing: Pope Leo XIV. "Excellent choice"

Georg Bätzing, the chairman of the Catholic German Bishops' Conference, rated Pope Leo XIV's election as extremely positive. In Bonn, the Limburg bishop expressed his conviction that the new Pope will play an important role as an intermediary within the global Catholic community. Bätzing emphasized that the choice was "excellent" and he was certain that Leo XIV will act as a "bridge builder".

His first speech showed that Pope Leo XIV quickly won the trust and hearts of a large community. Bätzing noticed that the Pope was able to connect to billions of people with his smile and his desire for peace within a very short time. The new Pope represents an attitude of the dialogue and a church that looks beyond national borders.

on behalf of all Catholic Christians in Germany congratulated Bätzing Leo XIV with great joy. The German Catholic Community expresses its gratitude for the twelve -year pontificate of Pope Francis and is pleased that Leo XIV is once again a Pope at the head of the World Church. This is perceived as a new phase in the management of the church who wants to tackle global challenges with a view to continuity and progress.

In his first message, Leo XIV set important accents of continuity to his predecessor. He called on peace and emphasized the commitment of the church in international conflicts. These statements not only strengthen the global Catholic community, but also offer new hope for believers in Germany.

In addition, Leo XIV reminded of his experiences in Latin America and the synodal processes there. Bätzing interpreted this information as an important step towards a synodal church that is based on the community and wants to be there for everyone. According to Bätzing, this vision provides the Catholic Church in Germany with support and drive in its own renewal process.