Carmen Álvarez Cuadrado
The new president of the German bishops, Bishop Heiner Wilmer, is a man of consensus. Chosen to lead the synodal-style church in Germany, his approach is similar to Leo XIV.
MSGR. BERTRAM JOHANNES MEIER
Bishop of Augsburg (Germany)
I am very, very pleased. He is also a man of measured words, because mediation is not carried out in front of cameras, but rather behind the scenes.
This is, according to many, one of his greatest qualities. Even some sectors most critical of the synodal process see in him hope for reconciliation.
KERSTIN GOLDSCHMIDT
Spokesperson, “Neuer Anfang” Initiative
He can overcome the deep divisions between the two sides. There's a synod path members and there is the criticism, the opposition of the synodal path. And we think that he is an intermediate bishop who can go between or like a bridge builder between these two sides because he's a very respected spiritual man.
Those who know him highlight that his balanced mode of operating could be the way to improve tensions with the Holy See.
STEFAN MÜCKL
Pontifical University of the Holy Cross
He truly is a person of dialogue and listening. What I have heard many times from his diocesan priests in the Diocese of Hildesheim is that he genuinely hears people, listens, and truly seeks to begin a synodal journey in the way Pope Leo wants it.
Wilmer also has international experience from his time in Venezuela, Asia, Africa, and the United States, and has many Vatican connections from his time as superior general of the Dehonians.
FR. LEVI DOS ANJOS FERREIRA
Being in Rome, you encounter the Universal Church. We are in constant contact with the Vatican, both on the bureaucratic side and also regarding legislation and many other matters; we are in contact with them. So we are continually in contact with the Church throughout the whole world.
Although considered socially progressive—he is open to controversial issues such as blessings for same-sex couples or female ordinations—Wilmer seeks institutional consensus and moderation, ultimately maintaining obedience to Rome.
FR. LEVI DOS ANJOS FERREIRA
Vicar General, Dehonian Congregation
Knowing Heiner as I do, he will do it prudently, because changes like these are not made overnight.And as I keep insisting, Heiner is not someone who imposes decisions, but rather someone who opens dialogue.
Leo XIV and Wilmer will have to look for common ground. They previously met in November 2025, before Wilmer’s election.
In March, the pope transferred him to the Diocese of Münster, one of the largest in the country, and, four days later, received him in Rome. There, Wilmer presented statutes from the German church to the Dicastery for Bishops.
Now the ball is in the Holy See’s court as it reviews the statutes. With confusion surrounding much of Germany's synodal process, many believe it will be best if the Vatican plays straight with them.
