Military Dean General Kirschner talks about pastoral care in times of crisis

Military Dean General Kirschner talks about pastoral care in times of crisis

Next Thursday, June 26, 2025, Schwalmstadt will be the venue for an important lecture on the challenges of military pastoral care in Germany. At 7 p.m., the Treysa Hospital Chapel, Steingasse 52, will open its doors for the Military Dean General Thorsten Kirschner, who will speak on the topic of “Caring for European soldiers in times of growing threats”. Admission to this event is free and all interested parties are warmly invited. The main focus is on providing pastoral support to soldiers in a changing security policy environment. Kirschner illustrates the importance of this work, especially in the context of multinational operations and changing threats. Loud nh24.de Kirschner was also awarded the Medal of Merit of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany for his services.

In his role as the Bundeswehr's top Protestant military chaplain, Kirschner conveys essential aspects of military pastoral care that have been adapted to the challenges and circumstances of the Bundeswehr in recent years. The armed forces are currently confronted with a variety of challenges that entail not only physical but also psychological stress. A key point in these difficult times is loud evangelisch.de the need to develop a concept for church work in the event of defense. Military Bishop Bernhard Felmberg has taken the initiative to prepare military chaplaincy for the “military chaplaincy stress test”.

The role of military chaplaincy

The military chaplaincy has reorganized itself in recent years in view of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine and is faced with the challenge of how it can act in the event of a defense. Thorsten Kirschner will emphasize in his lecture that pastoral care not only functions in challenging times, but also as an essential oasis in the soldiers' everyday lives. The military pastoral care offers are open to all soldiers, regardless of their religious affiliation. Commonalities and a sense of belonging are crucial in difficult times to provide support and orientation.

Pastoral care plays a major role, particularly in areas of deployment and in mission-like obligations. The focus is on topics such as threats to life and limb and the challenge of maintaining family relationships over long distances. Church services, pastoral discussions and personal support are important in meeting the pastoral needs of soldiers.

Invitation to exchange

After the lecture there is also the opportunity to exchange ideas over a small drink with snacks and drinks. The chairman of the European Union Schwalm-Eder, Heinrich Vesper, organized the event and is expecting a lively response from those interested in exchanging ideas about the challenges and solutions of military pastoral care. This event promises not only interesting insights, but also a valuable opportunity to reflect on the role of military chaplaincy and its importance in today's world.