Scandal in the Diocese of Fulda: Over 230 cases of abuse uncovered!

Scandal in the Diocese of Fulda: Over 230 cases of abuse uncovered!

Today, June 17, 2025, the results of a shocking final report on addressing sexual violence in the Diocese of Fulda were published in Fulda. In the last few decades, at least 120 people have come forward as victims of sexual abuse between 1945 and today. But the number of unreported cases could be considerably higher, as vorsprung-online.de reports.

As part of this investigation, a total of over 230 documented cases of abuse were recorded, and the crimes were almost exclusively attributable to 37 male perpetrators, all of whom were priests. Bishop Dr. Michael Gerber commented today on these unfortunate results, emphasizing the suffering of those affected and admitting the church's failure. In his speech, he apologized not only to those affected themselves, but also to all those who have lost trust as a result of the institution's actions. He made it clear that the investigation should be done out of respect for those affected and not to protect one's own reputation.

The role of the Commission

The Diocese of Fulda has set up an independent commission chaired by Gerhard Möller, which has existed since September 2021. This commission is committed to the goal of making the victims heard and enabling transparent access to files. Over 2,124 personnel files from the period since 1945 have already been analyzed, of which 239 document criminal sexual acts. Gerber acknowledged this tireless work by thanking the commission, which will continue to address the issue until September 2025.
The commission has also developed guidelines to support and train prevention officers.

An encouraging sign is the hotline that has been set up for those affected, which can be reached from June 17th to July 2nd, 2025. These initiatives are intended to ensure that appropriate contacts and support are available for everyone affected.

Looking outside the box

A further look at the situation in the Protestant regional churches shows that there is also an increasing number of those affected. The evangelisch.de reports new reports in almost all regional churches, with the number of cases having risen sharply since the publication of a comprehensive abuse study in January 2024. In Westphalia in particular, reported cases have increased from 37 to 60. Here, too, the number of unreported cases is high, and it is clear that a rethinking of how to deal with the victims is required.

The situation in the Catholic and Protestant Churches makes it clear that the path to coming to terms with and prevention is a long and difficult one. Nevertheless, the growing awareness of the issue shows that the voices of those affected are being heard and that it is time to bring about fundamental change.

The evaluation of the results of the report in the Diocese of Fulda will continue, and the first results will be presented on June 26, 2025. Bishop Gerber's words will continue to be crucial in regaining trust and providing the victims with the support they need.