"Retirement Discussion with Bishop Felix Genn" or "Bishop Felix Genn Talks About Retirement with Münster Seniors"
Bishops Unwinding: A Peek into Life After the Mitre
Dive into the relaxed retiree life of Emeritus Bishop Dr. Felix Genn, former ruler of the Münster Diocese. In a candid chat with senior parishioners of St. Lamberti, he spilled the tea on his first 100 days of retirement (and boy, did it spill)!
Lavish Legacy to Lowly Living
Unfamiliar territory, indeed! Our 75-year-old retiree warned the crowd with a chuckle, "St. Martin's Church, I know as a youth church, now I'm meeting a different breed here." Over 50 senior citizens joined the June 3rd event, titled "Just Saying...," a forum for the elderly to chat candidly. The main subject? Genn's transition into a post-mitre lifestyle.
With a "real cut" from the bishop's office, Genn confessed, but added, "I haven't cried for the office yet." He's adamant about steering clear of meddling with his successor's affairs—a prerequisite for maintaining a peaceful retirement in Münster.
A new lease on life—with the old weights?
Genn's new role includes advice for the Vatican on international personnel decisions. It's "a source of joy and vitality," he said. But learning to say no isn't easy, he quipped—especially when you’re 75!
Sayonara, Sacred Stuff
Relocating from the grand bishop's abode to a cozy apartment in Münster wasn't a walk in the park. Genn’s heart felt a twinge as he parted ways with precious items, including parts of his vast library and private correspondence. He handed over many keepsakes to the diocesan archive, leaving behind a piece of his tenure.
Yet, he feels a sense of liberation. Wandering Münster, chatting with locals, and visiting attractions like the wild horse capture in Dülmen are experiences he missed out on before.
The People's Priest—Retired!
Genn's retirement doesn't mean he's disappeared. His presence at St. Martini’s was proof. Participants asked questions ranging from his thoughts on his successor to his connections with Rhineland-Palatinate. "I never thought I'd feel so at home here in the lowlands," he said, eliciting enthusiastic applause from the crowd. One attendee summed it up neatly, "It's nice that you're staying with us."
Succession Showdown
The Vatican holds the reins for Genn's successor. The Cathedral Chapter sent a trio of candidates to Rome in April, but when Pope Francis will appoint the new bishop for Münster remains a mystery. Genn kept his lips sealed during the event, maintaining his newfound reserve.
The New Chapter Begins
Felix Genn remains anchored in Münster—as a concerned resident, with a soft spot for the townspeople. Despite leaving the big stage, a new chapter unfolds, replete with encounters, composure, and credibility.
- Genn, now a retired bishop, seems to embrace a simpler lifestyle, commenting, "I haven't cried for the office yet," and enjoying local experiences previously unattainable, such as wandering Münster and visiting attractions.
- As the Vatican selects his successor, Genn continues his involvement with the diocese through advice on international personnel decisions, expressing a sense of liberation in leaving his personal effects, including correspondence and books, at the diocesan archive.
