Church congregations in the western region of Wuppertal city
In the Archdiocese of Cologne, a significant change is underway. The diocesan process known as "#ZusammenFinden" aims to consolidate the current 178 pastoral care areas into 67 larger, more sustainable units by 2032. This restructuring is intended to strengthen pastoral care, improve resource allocation, and respond to the challenges faced by the Church such as declining church attendance and priest shortages.
One of the most notable developments in this process is the proposed merger of several parish communities in Wuppertal. This merger, which extends from Vohwinkel to Elberfeld and up to Dönberg, is part of the larger diocesan initiative. However, it's important to note that other parish communities may also be involved in the process.
Dean Dr. Bruno Kurth, the pastor of the parishes of St. Laurentius, Herz Jesu, and the parishes in the pastoral care area of Westenist, is expected to play a key role in the merger process. The goal of the merger is to simplify the church structure, promote church life, and pool resources while preserving the diversity of communities and shaping faith locally under changing conditions.
The decision for the merger was made after intensive discussions and a comprehensive voting process. The involved bodies in the merger include parish councils, church boards, and pastoral teams. Yet, no date for the merger has been set yet.
This merger is not limited to the parishes mentioned earlier, but may include other communities as well. The merger is intended to set a clear sign for a future-oriented, solidarity-based, and connected pastoral care in western Wuppertal.
The progress of the #ZusammenFinden process and the specific details of the merger are subject to ongoing discussions and adjustments. For the latest updates, it's recommended to refer to official Archdiocese of Cologne communications or their website. The process represents a strategic pastoral renewal effort to enable the archdiocese to continue effective ministry in fewer but better-equipped units.
In the context of the strategic pastoral renewal effort, some parish communities in Wuppertal are working towards a merger, aiming to simplify their lifestyle and pool resources, while preserving the home-and-garden of diverse communities. This merger forms part of the #ZusammenFinden process, an initiative to strengthen pastoral care and respond to the challenges facing the Archdiocese of Cologne.
