Thirty-one women from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and France gathered in Darmstadt for the R.E.A.L. plus weekend to explore intercultural pastoral care, religious diversity, and what it takes to build respectful, understanding relationships based on mutual respect and equality.
How do we connect with people whose life experiences, cultural backgrounds, or religious beliefs differ from our own? How can we truly listen to one another without jumping to conclusions? And what does it mean to accompany people with empathy and respect through very different circumstances in life?
Participants explored these questions during the R.E.A.L. plus weekend in Darmstadt, October 22–25, 2026. The central focus was intercultural pastoral care—a topic that could hardly be more relevant in today's diverse society. The weekend began by examining the differences and commonalities between coaching, mentoring, and pastoral care. What opportunities does each approach offer, and where are their limitations? What kind of attitude and mindset are needed to accompany others responsibly?
The focus then shifted to different religious and cultural backgrounds. Participants explored the foundations and diversity of Islam, discovered the significance of Shabbat in Judaism, and examined intercultural diversity within Christianity, using the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Germany as an example.
One thing became clear: If we want to understand others, we must be willing to question our own perspectives. Behind religious traditions, cultural customs, and different ways of life are always real people, each with a unique personal story. We do not have to see everything the same way to understand one another. But we do have to be willing to listen, reconsider our own assumptions, and truly connect with the person behind the story.
The weekend, however, was not limited to theoretical discussions. The final topic, "Next Steps," focused on developing practical ways to build relationships based on mutual respect and equality. How can we build bridges without minimizing our differences? How can we create spaces where people feel seen, respected, and valued?
Alongside the intensive seminar sessions, there was plenty of time for personal connections and conversations. Longstanding friendships were refreshed, and new ones were formed. Participants reflected together, discussed challenging issues, wrestled with difficult questions, laughed, and even cried. These personal experiences made it especially clear how important it is not simply to talk about people, but to listen to them.
Even in 2026, far too many women continue to face life circumstances marked by discrimination, exclusion, violence, or a lack of opportunities—even within our own communities. This challenges us to look more closely, listen more sensitively, and take responsibility wherever we have the opportunity to make a difference.
Once again, R.E.A.L. plus demonstrated that intercultural competence does not begin with knowledge about others, but with a willingness to meet them openly and as equals.
R.E.A.L. is a professional development program offered by the Women's Ministries Department. It is designed to empower women personally, spiritually, and in their social skills. Through practical seminars, participants combine knowledge, personal reflection, and concrete tools for everyday life. R.E.A.L. plus takes selected topics a step further, providing opportunities to explore specific challenges involved in supporting and accompanying others through different life circumstances.