New spirituality: Bishop Wilmer calls for change in faith!
Hildesheim's Bishop Heiner Wilmer calls for a new spirituality for Christians at the symposium on Kurt Koch's 75th birthday.

New spirituality: Bishop Wilmer calls for change in faith!
On November 2, 2025, an important symposium took place in Vallendar on the occasion of the 75th birthday of Curial Cardinal Kurt Koch. Hildesheim Bishop Heiner Wilmer took the opportunity to call for a new “robust spirituality” among Christians. In the church's current discussions, it is essential to shed light on the practical effects of faith, explains Wilmer. The classic view that all people have a natural inclination towards religion must be questioned. Only 19% of the population believe that God revealed himself in Jesus Christ, which shows how much the theological perspective has changed.
Wilmer warns against naively dismissing secularization and prematurely proclaiming a “return of religion.” Instead, it requires a spirituality that focuses on silence, faith experiences, divine beauty, and a commitment to justice. This view is also reflected in the most recent study on religious affiliation, which shows that agreement with the statement about the existence of God among Catholic and Protestant members is only 32% and 29% respectively.
The new religious landscape
Given the current social dynamics, it is no wonder that the need for religion and spirituality continues to exist in times of secularization and ideological pluralization. A study by the European University of Vocational Training shows that religion is becoming increasingly plural and individual. Clear boundaries between religion and non-religion are often blurred and hybrid phenomena emerge.
In this demanding landscape, theology is required to develop interdisciplinary approaches to the perception and interpretation of religion and spirituality. Research perspectives such as organizational psychology, sociology and adult education are coming into focus in order to do justice to the dynamic changes.
A look into the culture
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Overall, it is to be hoped that both the church and the cultural landscape in Germany and far beyond will continue to promote lively exchange and new ideas so that faith not only remains theoretical, but can also be experienced in practice.
In conclusion, it can be said that developments in the church and society are closely linked. Wilmer and his colleagues are committed to making faith not just a concept, but a living reality in the community. Whether in the religious area or in culture, it is time for new paths and perspectives.