2008-04-01
From Cradle to Counselling
Gabriele Stangl, former Bogi student and staff worker and chaplain at Waldfriede Adventist Hospital in Berlin for the last 12 years, held an intensive course on counselling for our theology students this Monday and Tuesday.
On Fridaynight she already told a crowd of some 100 people about her rich experiences with caring for the sick and those seeking help in counselling. On Sabbath afternoon she shared news about the so called “infant cradle” (in German: "Babyklappe"), a special facility on the outside wall of the hospital where mothers can anonymously deposit their new-born children, whom they cannot or do not want to care for, into the care of the hospital and eventually of a good adoptive family. Gabi Stangl initiated this cradle which was the first worldwide to be installed in a hospital, and she shared moving, shocking but also happy stories with those who had come out to listen to her. It was inspiring to hear how much one individual can do so that “the least of [Jesus’] brethren (and sisters)” may be helped (Mt 25:31-46). She also told our academy students about her work and added a serious appeal to deal responsibly with the God-given gift of sexuality. We want to thank Gabi Stangl and the leadership of Waldfriede Hospital for making this visit into Gabi’s old hometown and school possible.
Images
(Copyright: Martin Ryszewski)
