Pope Leo XIV has appointed Monsignor Christian Würtz as the next bishop of Eichstätt in Germany, a decision that is drawing renewed attention because of the bishop-elect’s previous support for proposals that have been widely criticized for conflicting with Catholic teaching.
According to LifeSiteNews, Würtz, 55, currently serves as an auxiliary bishop in the Diocese of Freiburg. The report notes that he was among 38 German bishops who voted in 2023 in favor of a German Synodal Way document supporting the blessing of same-sex couples as well as couples who are divorced and civilly remarried.
LifeSiteNews also reported that six months earlier, Würtz supported the Synodal Way document titled “Doctrinal Reassessment of Homosexuality,” which described homosexual acts as “not sinful” and “not intrinsically evil.” Those positions have been the subject of significant debate because they contradict the Catholic Church’s established moral teaching on homosexuality.
Following the announcement of his appointment, Würtz expressed gratitude for the Holy Father’s confidence and reflected on the significance of the day.
“I am looking forward to my new role,” Würtz said in an official diocesan statement.
He added, “It is a beautiful coincidence that my appointment takes place on the feast day of St. Willibald, the patron saint of the Diocese of Eichstätt. I hope that, with my experience and abilities, I can also contribute to building the Kingdom of God in Eichstätt and walk alongside the people here.”
According to LifeSiteNews, Würtz also thanked the Holy Father, saying, “I thank Pope Leo for the trust he has placed in me and am now looking forward to getting to know the people in the diocese.”
The appointment comes as discussion continues regarding the direction of the Church in Germany, particularly following proposals advanced through the German Synodal Way. While the Catholic Church’s universal teaching on marriage and sexual morality remains unchanged, several initiatives associated with the Synodal Way have generated concern and criticism from bishops and Vatican officials in recent years.
According to LifeSiteNews, Würtz’s previous public positions have become a focal point following his appointment, with observers expected to watch closely as he begins his ministry leading the Diocese of Eichstätt.
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