Predigen in Katastrophenzeiten.

Preaching in times of disaster is a sparsely researched subject in homiletics. Based on a phase model in the sociology of disaster, the task of sermons is the preparation for such crises: It is precisely in the "good" times that the finitude and fragility of life, human suffering, and eschatological hope should be addressed. In the acute stage of a catastrophe, preachers need the courage to remain silent, lament, and comfort. And in the prolonged period of recovery it is the responsibility of sermons to interpret experiences and to offer practical support and counsel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]