Wachsen wie ein Baum - 51 Jahre Diakoninnen der ELKB - 40 Jahre Diakoninnengemeinschaft Rummelsberg

Today, deaconesses from the Bavarian regional church are indispensable. However, the path to professional equality for women and men has been long. When Bavarian female pastors fought for their place in the ministry in the 1970s, the first women began their training as deaconesses in Rummelsberg. They were formally trained starting in 1982. Their calling and spiritual community were the sources of strength from which they drew their perseverance and courage. Despite numerous obstacles, the women ultimately succeeded in being recognized as equal partners in the church and diaconate. In their male-dominated environment, they set many important impulses.

This book presents the history of Bavarian deaconesses for the first time in a comprehensive manner. In very personal texts, the women share their experiences of resistance and support on their journey toward equality. Supporters and advocates also have their say. A scholarly contribution sheds light on the tradition of diaconal work and outlines the positions of the Rummelsberger Brotherhood and the regional church regarding the development of the deaconess community. Many photographs bring important individuals, events, and places to life. A complete list of the 258 deaconesses of the Evangelical-Lutheran Church in Bavaria showcases the diversity of their professional fields. Rummelsberger Series Vol. 24 with contributions from Thomas Greif, Dorothea Richter, and Gabriela Neumann-Beiler.