Die Neuentdeckung der Gemeinschaft – Ein Blick auf Quartier, Pflege und Kirche in Pandemiezeiten

The corona crisis has made clear how globalisation and the digital transformation have changed our society. In this “Society of Singularities”, loneliness is spreading.. Simultaneously, the past years have brought about a variety of projects that connect people in a social environment. Caring communities and neighbourhood-networks are reminiscent of the awakening of citizens and organisations during the transition to an industrial society. Digital networks,can offer support in this. The importance here is placed not just in volunteer networks, but in the development of professional structures in organisations capable of providing the necessary care, as well as reform of our social system on a municipal level. Looking back critically on the formation of communities through the “Innere Mission” of the 19th century, it becomes clear that our society must be experienced and considered in novel ways. In opposition to the patriarchal social structures that have been partly reinvigorated during the corona epidemic, the autonomy and inclusion of those affected are essential criteria, as is the continued willingness to engage with people and ideas different from ourselves. For the church this means opening itself towards the community it is part of, engaging with its questions and ideas, and working cooperatively with other community-focussed people and organizations.