Cardinal Woelki Under Fire: Over 60,000 Signatures Seeking His Removal
Outpouring of support for Woelkis's termination, with 55,000 signatures collected - Signature drive amassing over 55,000 supporters in a push for Woelkis' removal
In the spotlight amidst controversy, Cardinal Rainer Maria Woelki, Archbishop of Cologne, Germany, faces a petition spearheaded by a Munich priest with over 60,130 signatures as of June 6, 2025. The petition accuses Cardinal Woelki of moral corruption and negligence in addressing sexual abuse allegations against Church officials—grounds that could potentially lead to his removal under canon law[1][3][5].
The investigations against Cardinal Woelki were discontinued following a fine payment, leaving many feeling that it doesn't paint a favorable picture of his integrity[1][3]. The petition concludes that as a result, Cardinal Woelki is "morally completely corrupt" and urges Pope Leo XIV to swiftly relieve him from his position for the greater good of the German Church[1].
One of the petition's initiators, Theologian Thomas Schüller from Münster, expressed astonishment at the outpouring of public support. The petition's resurgence in popularity is due to Cardinal Woelki interpreting the investigation results as an absolute acquittal, which many find distasteful since the Church's honesty and acceptance of guilt for past transgressions is considered its vital asset[1].
As of now, the back-and-forth with Cardinal Woelki continues, but there is hope that Pope Leo XIV will make an unbiased decision considering the Church and the public's best interests[1]. The developing situation leaves Cardinal Woelki's future role as Archbishop of Cologne uncertain.
Meanwhile, the Archdiocese of Cologne issued a statement saying that the discontinued investigations by the Public Prosecutor's Office mark a final point for Cardinal Woelki. He remains committed to addressing the future concerns of the Archdiocese of Cologne with full dedication[1].
- The controversy surrounding Cardinal Rainer Maria Woelki, Archbishop of Cologne, has sparked a significant debate in the realm of EC countries' politics and general-news, with over 60,000 signatures on a petition calling for his removal due to allegations of moral corruption and negligence in handling sexual abuse cases.
- The business world is closely monitoring the situation, as the outcome could potentially impact the Church's reputation, which is crucial for maintaining donor trust and financial stability.
- The ongoing investigation and petition have also raised concerns about the Church's commitment to transparency and accountability in crime-and-justice matters, becoming a topic of discussion in various sectors, including finance, politics, and the broader community.
