Fusion of church circles: Cologne-Linkrheinisch starts the future!

Fusion of church circles: Cologne-Linkrheinisch starts the future!

A historical moment for the Evangelical Church Circle of Cologne-Nord! On November 9, 2024, the district synod unanimously decided to merge with the church districts of Cologne-Mitte and Cologne-Süd. From January 1, 2026, the new church district of Cologne-Linksrheinisch will be launched. Superintendent Markus Zimmermann emphasized the importance of this decision: "We hereby create a sustainable basic structure." The merger should not only optimize the cooperation between the communities, but also reduce the effort for honor and full-time employees. A brave step into a new era!

The merger is a reaction to the falling membership-from once over 400,000 in 1964 to only 230,000 in late 2023. The synod has lifted the old church circle and thus made a clear cut. Also the Ev. Church district of Cologne-Süd has decided to merge during the Ev. Church district of Cologne-Mitte meets next Saturday. These changes are not only necessary, but also a sign of the future viability of the church in the region.

service with foresight and social responsibility

The synod began with an inspiring sacrament service in the Bocklemünd resurrection church, led by Pastor Kristina Tsoleridis and pastor Nico Buschmann. The latter encouraged the synodals to think about their personal relationship with God. Oberkirchenrätin Dr. Wibke Janssen called on the social responsibility of the Church, especially in politically turbulent times. The synod also discussed the parish planning by 2040, which provides for a drastic reduction from 27.5 to 16.38 positions for the Cologne-Nord church district.

Financial stability is also a central topic: the budget for 2025 has a volume of around 1.4 million euros and expects an excess of 23,000 euros. Superintendent Markus Zimmermann recalled the challenges of the present, including the processing of cases of sexual violence within the church. "We have to face it," he said, emphasizing the need to strengthen membership binding through targeted programs for young people. The synod said goodbye with a clear order: together the challenges of the future and offer people in the communities.