A prominent figure within the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) is escalating tensions with the Evangelical Church in Germany (EKD), accusing church leadership of a growing disconnect from their congregations and a perceived political bias. Steffen Bilger, parliamentary group secretary of the CDU/CSU parliamentary group, voiced his concerns in an interview with “Focus” magazine, asserting that a significant number of CDU members and indeed broader membership, finds the EKD’s political stances increasingly objectionable.
Bilger’s critique underscores a simmering issue within German society: the perceived divergence between established institutions and the values held by their constituents. He argued that while the church has a right and responsibility to engage in political discourse and offer critique when appropriate, that critique must be firmly rooted in Christian teachings. Critics contend, however, that the EKD’s interventions often lack this grounding, veering into areas of partisan politics and alienating more traditionally minded members.
The CDU politician suggested a worrying trend of church officials operating with a limited understanding of the sentiments within their own flock. This lack of sensitivity, he implied, not only risks undermining the church’s influence but also contributes to a broader erosion of trust in established institutions. The remarks are likely to amplify existing debates regarding the role of religious organizations in the political arena and prompt further scrutiny of the EKD’s leadership and strategic direction. The incident highlights a potential rift within the CDU, traditionally a close ally of the EKD, as the party navigates increasingly complex social and political landscapes.
