Diaconal ethics

Regional Case Studies and Linking Perspectives

Diaconia – the Christian practice of social service and care – plays a significant role in societies across the globe. Shaped by diverse contexts, it takes on a wide range of forms and purposes, organizational models and networks, and involves both professional and voluntary engagement. Its relationships with churches, as well as with public and private welfare systems, are equally varied.

This volume offers a comprehensive overview of the global landscape of diaconia, exploring its historical development, contextual expressions, organizational patterns, and theological foundations.

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An empirical dogmatics of religious communication in social welfare work (Loci diaconici)

Diaconia and diaconal institutions are theologically productive. Employees of diaconal institutions reflect on their experiences in their work context by relying on theological motifs, concepts, and narratives. Thus, one can find thoughtful and nuanced interpretations of relevant issues and challenges in the social sector. These reflection are not only important in explicitly religious practices such as devotions, but also in everyday situations, encounters, attitudes, roles, and organizational structures. Megan Arndt and Thorsten Moos systematically explore this “theology in the field” and bring it into dialogue with the Protestant tradition. Based on empirical study data, they develop a contextual theology of diaconia.

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Ongoing research project on ethical issues in diaconal organizations.

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Concept, research perspectives, practice: interdisciplinary working group on the differentiated perception of the role of religion in organized aid (cultural studies, economics, social sciences, theology, and other disciplines)

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