In Würzburg, approximately 60 bishops and auxiliary bishops convened at the Burkardushaus for an election akin to a German papal conclave, though with modern amenities. The primary objective was to select the new chairman of the German Bishops' Conference, a role that serves as a spokesperson and moderator rather than an executive leader. The selection process involved an initial "primary election" to gauge preferences, with formally eligible candidates being the 25 active diocesan bishops, though realistically, those in their late 50s or early 60s with leadership and Roman experience were favored. The election occurs amidst internal church tensions regarding reforms, with the outgoing chairman, Georg Bätzing, having navigated the Synodal Path and taken public stances against right-wing extremism. Expectations from lay representatives like the ZdK emphasize continuing reforms, while groups like "Neuer Anfang" seek to overcome internal divisions. Paderborn Archbishop Udo Markus Bentz emerged as a prominent candidate, balancing reformist views with attention to conservative concerns, though his high profile could be a risk. Other potential candidates with Roman experience include Heiner Wilmer, Stephan Ackermann, Franz Jung, Bertram Meier, and Franz-Josef Overbeck. The election requires a two-thirds majority in the initial rounds, with a simple majority thereafter, and the outcome is anticipated by 11:30 AM.