Hubertus van Megen warns against rapid German Church reforms

Hubertus van Megen, the newly appointed Apostolic Nuncio to Germany, has issued a critique regarding the pace and nature of reforms proposed by the German Synodal Path. In recent interviews, the Dutch diplomat expressed concern that certain sectors of the German Church are attempting to implement changes “too much and too fast.”

Van Megen argued that attempting to adapt the Church to modern social transformations is an “illusion” that will not save the institution from secularization. He emphasized that the Church’s mission is rooted in the message of Jesus Christ rather than social accommodation.

Despite his criticisms, the Nuncio noted that the German bishops' decision to present their reform proposals to Rome demonstrates an awareness that the German Church is part of the universal Church and does not wish to act in isolation. Having previously served in Africa for nearly 16 years, Van Megen noted that he received warnings from clergy and laity in Africa about the complexities of the German religious landscape before his arrival in Berlin.