The ongoing challenge of being present: Similarities and differences in pastoral approaches to people

Non-judgmental, genuine attention is one of the greatest gifts we can give to one another. How this can be achieved intentionally and, if possible, in a structured way is something that remains to be discovered. Among other things, this book addresses the question of how important this struggle for constant presence is in pastoral care. Research on this topic was conducted using expert interviews. A religious education teacher, a pastor, a therapist and a monk were interviewed. The results and findings and the topics that emerged from them can be found in the first part of the book. The contact process is then explained using a case study. The book concludes with some thoughts on the challenges of mindful pastoral care in a secular environment. The author draws on her many years of experience working with children and adults in private, school and therapeutic settings. Her creative educational approach enables a practical examination of this complex topic and opens up new avenues in pastoral care.