German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier lamented the diminished standing of Christian churches in German society and urged greater engagement with religion in a speech at a gathering of German Catholics on Wednesday.
Steinmeier praised the commitment of Christians to democracy and to the poor, marginalized and desperate people in society.
That is "all the more reason why I can only deeply regret that the churches are experiencing such a great loss of approval and trust," Steinmeier said in his speech in the central German city of Erfurt. "One must speak of an epochal change."
Steinmeier spoke at the 103rd German Catholic Day, which is actually a series of events related to the church that stretches across several days.
He said that the churches must confront the "self-created" problems that have reduced their standing in society and broken trust with believers, including "the terrible fact of mass abuse and especially the long history of its cover-up," according to the text of his speech provided in advance to dpa.
In addition, Steinmeier said there is a growing alienation and indifference in large parts of society towards religion and what goes beyond our lives.
"Are the churches not giving enough impetus here? Is their message too quiet, too pale, too low profile?" Steinmeier asked.
Many people were searching for meaning and direction in their lives, he added.
"Our critical question to ourselves, as Christians and as a church, must be: Do these earnest searchers find convincing answers, do they find spiritual expertise, do they find empathetic support in our groups, communities and initiatives?"
He noted the important role that Christian social welfare groups, such as the Catholic Caritas and the Protestant Diakonie, still play in German society. But he said they need new sources of strength and reinforcement.
"I know and I am certain that a great deal of good still emanates from the Christians in our country," said Steinmeier.
Hopeful steps for the future are already being taken, "and that also gives me hope myself," he said.