Overview

• Franz Müntefering, former SPD chairman and federal minister, formally left the Catholic Church at the start of 2025.
• In recent interviews, the 85-year-old revealed his departure stems from longstanding disillusionment and institutional criticisms.
• He specifically pointed to the Church's handling of sexual abuse scandals and its failure to meet societal responsibilities.
• Müntefering also denounced the Church's employment practices, such as dismissing employees for divorcing or converting to another faith.
• This public declaration aligns with broader debates in Germany about the Church's role and accountability in society.