In Germany today, some 50 million people identify themselves as Christians, and religious events such as national church conferences have proven highly popular in recent years. At the same time, both of the major Christian churches are facing a number of challenges, such as a shortage of priests and ministers, aging congregations and dwindling membership. Finally, they must continually reassert themselves in a society that is becoming increasingly pluralistic, including in terms of its religious offerings.

What place, then, are the Christian churches accorded within German society at the beginning of the 21st century? Do they still represent "mainstream Germany" or have they become marginal players who occasionally manage to stage a major media event, but who have little impact on everyday lives? Does Christianity still have a meaningful role to play in contemporary society? Can it still serve as a source of guidance in a more complex, globalized age?

The Bertelsmann Stiftung believes the world's religions, and especially Christianity, have a critical part to play within society, one that extends far beyond merely given people spiritual guidance. In order to ensure this remains the case in the future, it is necessary to ask how demographic change and the increasing heterogeneity many countries are experiencing will affect social structures in general and Christian churches in particular.

The Bertelsmann Stiftung is thus organizing discussion forums, expert panels and working groups to assist the country's churches in carrying out their social roles. We are partnering with a number of church groups throughout Germany to develop new approaches to youth work, media and communication, and corporate culture and management.

More information on The Future of Christianity will be available here shortly.