Elisabeth of Thuringia: A light of charity in Eisenach!

Elisabeth of Thuringia: A light of charity in Eisenach!

A look at history shows how long the topics of charity and social responsibility have been anchored in our society. In this context, Elisabeth of Thuringia, who lived from 1207 to 1231, is cited as an outstanding example. She was the daughter of King Andreas II of Hungary and Gertrud von Andechs and brought light into the lives of the needy in Eisenach. The Osnabrück Church emphasizes that Elisabeth is referred to as a “star” who gives hope and warmth to the poorest. Her tireless service to the sick and needy, which was seen by some as degrading, makes her a symbol of charity.

Today's society can learn a tremendous amount from Elisabeth. Because even in times when social challenges seemed to be decreasing, there are still people who stand up for others. The Church values ​​the charitable groups that follow its example and recognize the dignity of every person through their activities. Gratitude is expressed for all those who address the needs within the diocese and their work is viewed as an act of charity.

Social responsibility in modern times

Looking back at the 19th century, it becomes clear that dealing with the growing need for support as society changed was extremely complex. Industrialization and urbanization meant that traditional church charity reached its limits, while municipalities were overwhelmed with caring for the poor and sick. Against this background, people wrote in Berlin in 1820: “Freedom from evils, support for families and prevention of contagious diseases” were necessary. Social actors tried to solve these central problems using different approaches.

Debates about pauperism and the impoverishment of large sections of the population gained momentum from the 1830s, while German princes and cities tried to introduce uniform social systems. At the same time, the different legal relationships within the German Confederation were important. In Bavaria and Württemberg, homeland law applied until 1870, while Prussia and Baden wanted to place responsibility for providing supplies for all residents in the hands of the municipalities.

Women as pioneers of the social movement

Women in particular played a crucial role in social assistance work. A strong network of denominational and cross-denominational women's associations dedicated to social work emerged in large cities. The Baden Women's Association of 1859, for example, initiated a private welfare system and supported women in education. Alice Salomon became a pioneer who linked the issues of women's rights and social work.

After the First World War, however, the active commitment to social issues was overshadowed by social and economic crises that reduced the influence of the old women's movement. While the new women's movement of the 1970s built on past debates and advocated for political participation in “care work”, it shows that commitment to the weaker and charity remain timeless.

As the Church of Osnabrück emphasizes, the mission to give care and recognition is also important today. In the spirit of Elisabeth of Thuringia, each individual can contribute to preserving the dignity of every person and enabling a change of perspective in order to provide hope even in difficult times.

For more information about the historical background and significance of the social movements, you can visit the relevant pages below FileZilla as well as the Federal Agency for Civic Education access.