Pope Leo XIV’s Appointees described as “Really Shepherds” by Former Bishop
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Pope Leo XIV’s selections for the episcopate are men of genuine pastoral character, according to a senior church official. The assessment comes from Bishop Emeritus Felix Genn of Münster, who recently met with the pope and shared insights into his leadership style and ongoing reforms within the Catholic Church.
The remarks, made during an interview with Vatican Radio on Friday, january 23, 2026, highlight the Pope’s commitment to appointing bishops who embody the spirit of service, reminiscent of his own work in the Andes. Genn,75,whose resignation was accepted by Pope Francis in March 2025 after 16 years leading the Münster diocese,remains an active member of the Vatican Episcopal Authority.
Familiarity with the Pontiff
Genn’s long-standing relationship with Pope Leo stems from several collaborative projects. “And I have once again noticed that what I have experienced in six years is now evident again: what an attentive listener Pope Leo is and how humble and humble he does this service,” Genn stated.This familiarity provides him with a unique outlook on the current direction of the Church. Notably,the head of the Vatican Episcopal Authority from 2023,Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost,is now Pope Leo XIV.
Synodal Study Group Progress
The former bishop of Münster currently leads the Vatican synodal study group tasked with examining key aspects of the episcopate, including the election of bishops, ad limina visits, and the ongoing education of bishops – all topics stemming from the world synod. The group is nearing completion of a document outlining proposals for greater participation by the laity in the selection of bishops.
“The text on the ‘participation of the people of God in the selection of shepherds’ was ready, could be presented to Pope Leo and woudl ‘soon be made public’ – supplemented by a three-page summary,” Genn revealed. Work on a separate document concerning ad limina visits – the periodic meetings between bishops and the Pope – is currently underway. While discussions on “education and further training of bishops” have not yet begun, Genn emphasized their importance, asking, “What good is a synodal church if we have bishops who don’t practice a synodal style?” He stressed that embracing a synodal approach is not merely a matter of policy, but requires continuous learning and practice.
Unity Amidst Diversity in Germany
Looking ahead, Genn addressed the upcoming election for the chairman of the German Bishops’ conference. He underscored the importance of presenting a unified front to the public “despite all plurality,” emphasizing the need to avoid divisions within the conference. Maintaining continuity with existing initiatives is also crucial, especially “in this challenging situation of upheaval in a secular world,” and ensuring the Church can continue to “have an evangelizing effect.”
Genn concluded by stating that Pope Leo is observing the developments within the Catholic Church in Germany “wisely, modestly and clearly,” suggesting a measured and thoughtful approach to navigating the challenges facing the Church today.
