The Evangelical Church in Hesse and Nassau Takes on Loneliness
Church mail campaign aims to combat solitude within Evangelical community - Church Mail Campaign Targeting Loneliness Within Evangelical Community
The Evangelical Church in Hesse and Nassau (EKHN) is stepping up to confront the issue of loneliness. This week, over 800,000 evangelical households in the regions, along with 400 communities in Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate, will receive mail with the title, "You are not alone alone." Corresponding banners will also be displayed in various communities.
The campaign aims to de-stigmatize loneliness by presenting it as a universal, shared experience, according to Church President Christiane Tietz. The mail from the EKHN also highlights available resources and encourages empathy and meaningful conversations with those experiencing loneliness.
A Where's Waldo-esque Design
The letter's design harks back to Where's Waldo, underlining that even amidst a sea of people, one can feel lonely. Loneliness impacts individuals of all ages and life situations.
Evangelical church communities are using this initiative as an opportunity to extend invitations to activities such as movie nights or walks together. Details about these engagements and counseling offers can be found on the EKHN website.
"Pulse Mail": A Connective Lifeline for Many
Since 2012, the EKHN's "Pulse Mail" has been reaching out to its members. A survey by a polling institute found that 86% of participants open the letters, with a third delving into them thoroughly. For many, it is the sole interaction they have with their church.
The "Pulse Mail" project receives an annual budget of 650,000 euros, providing one to two letters for church members in Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate every year.
- Hesse
- Loneliness
- Nassau
- Rhineland-Palatinate
- Frankfurt am Main
Churches often combat loneliness through community building, counseling, volunteer opportunities, prayer support, and outreach programs. In Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate, potential resources might include local church initiatives, regional Christian organizations, and community events. Reach out to local churches or organizations for specific details on the EKHN's efforts in these regions.
- In line with its continuous efforts to combat loneliness, the Evangelical Church in Hesse and Nassau (EKHN) has introduced an employment policy aimed at facilitating mental-health support and health-and-wellness programs within its community.
- To further address the issue of loneliness and promote a sense of community, the EKHN is also implementing a science-based strategy by incorporating resources on cognitive behavioral therapy, stress management, and mindfulness practices into its employment policy.
