Diaconal work: theologian, not a social manager

Uo face new challenges, as job descriptions like to say, Michael Frase has never had to change jobs in the past 25 years. For that long, the evangelical pastor was head of the diaconal work for Frankfurt and Offenbach. “There were many changes during this time,” says the 65-year-old theologian. “No trace of idling or always the same rut.”

Frase will be retired on Wednesday and his successor Markus Eisele will be officially inaugurated. The Evangelical Church in Frankfurt and Offenbach has given itself a new organizational structure. Eisele is now a deaconry pastor and managing director in the Evangelical Regional Association for outpatient help, youth and adult education, work with seniors, inclusion, kindergartens, counseling services and help for the homeless.

Tasks that also occupied Frase. Although the diaconal work for Frankfurt and Offenbach has 1,600 employees, the outgoing director did not see himself as a social manager. “I’ve always dealt with the issues as a theologian.” The Diakonie represents a Christian image of man. “We have to reflect on our role.” That’s why devotions and church services are always part of it – even on company outings.

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