Religion in Germany

The Basic Law protects freedom of faith, conscience and religious belief. People may follow a religion, change their religion, practise it together with others or live without a religion. Christianity has strongly shaped history, public holidays, buildings and customs. The Roman Catholic Church and Protestant regional churches are particularly widespread; there are also Orthodox churches and many free churches. Jewish life has been part of Germany’s history for many centuries. After persecution and murder under National Socialism, protection, remembrance and a living Jewish presence today have special significance. Muslim life is diverse, shaped by different family histories, branches of Islam, mosque communities and personal forms of religious practice. No single organisation speaks for all Muslims. Other religious communities include Buddhist, Hindu, Alevi, Yazidi and Bahá’í communities, for example. Beliefs and everyday practices vary within each religion. Many people have no religious affiliation, are agnostic or are atheist. Humanist and other worldview organisations also provide education, advice, ceremonies and social services. Religion appears in everyday life through prayer, worship services, dietary rules, clothing, festivals and ceremonies marking life events. How much a person observes these practices is a personal choice. The state and religious communities are legally distinct, but they cooperate in some areas. Examples include social welfare, pastoral care, religious education, public holidays and institutions run by religious organisations. Conflicts arise when beliefs, rules and rights come into contact. Respectful exchange means asking questions, not assuming someone has a particular faith and recognising that others have equal rights.