Vienna, Eisenstadt and Budapest: women design pastoral care

Vienna, Eisenstadt and Budapest: women design pastoral care

at a time when social encounters and pastoral support are more in demand than ever, the central role of women in pastoral care was emphasized again. During a recently taking place in the "Dom-Island" in Eisenstadt, organized by Bischofsvikar P. Lorenz Voith, representatives of the conversation patient facilities from Vienna, Eisenstadt and Budapest came together to discuss their experiences and challenges.

The meeting brought together important personalities, including the head of the "conversation island" in Vienna, Verena Osanna, and Sr. Martha, who heads the "Oazis" in Budapest, and Sr. Eveline Bettstein, who is responsible for the "Dom Island". All three institutions are strongly shaped by women, not only in pastoral care, but also in management positions, which emphasizes Bischofsvikar Voith as particularly remarkable. "This has significance for today's church," said Voith during the meeting.

Developments of the facilities

A look at the history of these facilities shows that the “Oazis” was founded in Budapest ten years ago, inspired by the model of the Viennese “conversation island”. The "Oazis" belongs to the Hungarian conference of the women's order and is supported by the Jesuits. A striking point is the large proportion of less than 40 year olds among visitors, which is 62 percent. This facility regularly offers 27 hours a week pastoral accompaniment and has more than 25 volunteer pastors in their team.

The "Dom-Island" in Eisenstadt, which was launched on the initiative of Bischofsvikar Voith, celebrates its four-year existence this year. With a team of six employees, a wide range of pastoral offers is provided here. The Vienna "Talk Island" was founded in 2008, financed by the domestic religious communities and the Archdiocese of Vienna, and is now under the sponsorship of the Austrian Order Conference.

important topics and visions for the future

p. Voith also emphasized the relevance of the conversation pastoral in the context of the "Holy Year 2025", which was proclaimed by Pope Francis. Under the motto "Pilgrim of Hope", Pope Francis will take up this year. The pastoral care offered in the facilities is intended to help people share their worries and hopes and find a spiritual way.

The merits and the influence of women in pastoral care are unmistakable and offer a valuable perspective for future development in the church. The discussions and experiences that were shared during this meeting in Eisenstadt are not only important for the representatives of the facilities, but also for the entire community of believers.

For further details on this topic, The report on www.katholisch.at comprehensive information.