“Because of a certain phenomenon, our world is on the path to destruction. The universe is slowly but surely being destroyed. No one can stop it, even if they had the power of God. But do not despair. There is one way to save this universe. If we are fated to die, then we shall stop our history at a certain point, and restart it. And we shall repeat that process, eternally. —Wilhelm, explaining his belief to a young Kevin Winnicot. ”

Wilhelm (VEEL-helm) is merely one of his many names. He is also known as Mr. Wilhelm. As a major figure of Ormus, he is known as Cardinal Heinlein and Lord Heinlein. After the current pope is killed in Episode II, Wilhelm becomes the new pope by Episode III. Lord/Cardinal Heinlein is also a Hyams Group representative.

Wilhelm is, along with his loyal servants known as the Testaments, the main antagonist of the Xenosaga series and the mysterious founder and CEO of the largest interplanetary conglomerate, Vector Industries. He also served as the Executive Committee Director of the Galaxy Federation, up to a decade ago.

As Heinlein, he is also the leader of a religious cult based on Christianity known as Ormus, which existed in the era of Lost Jerusalem.