Spirituality in medicine: Conference in Eichstätt highlights new paths

Spirituality in medicine: Conference in Eichstätt highlights new paths

The importance of spirituality in medicine and nursing is increasingly coming to the fore, especially in times of uncertainty and change in healthcare. The conference “Illness and suffering as a transformative force?” took place on March 6th and 7th at the Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt (KU). which was dedicated to this important topic. Under the direction of Prof. Dr. Janusz Surzykiewicz, chair of social and health education at the KU, the conference offered space for exchange and networking between researchers from various disciplines.

The event, which was held in cooperation with the University of Freiburg, the University of Witten/Herdecke, the Cardinal Wyszynski University in Warsaw and the Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore in Rome, aimed to develop concrete recommendations for action for research-based spiritual care. The relevance of spirituality, particularly in an increasingly secularized society, was addressed in both theoretical and practical contexts.

Focusing on spirituality and quality of life

A central aim of the conference was to build bridges between different disciplines and to connect theory with practice. Spirituality is identified as a fundamental human need and a resource for healing and coping. Psychospiritual resources can help those affected in difficult life situations to become active and improve their quality of life.

In the United States, spiritual needs are already an integral part of medical training for doctors. In Germany they are increasingly being recognized and integrated into the palliative and hospice sectors. The conference aims to increase awareness of the importance of spirituality and to further expand the area of ​​“spiritual care”.

Public conference and ceremony

On the second day of the conference, a public conference took place in the auditorium at the KU's Eichstätter Campus, which was enriched by expert lectures and panel discussions. Participation in the conference was subject to a fee: 90 euros for regular participants and 25 euros for students and young researchers. Registrations were possible until March 5th.

A festive evening on the first day of the conference was rounded off with the presentation of a book about the Italian pastor Luigi Novarese. The event also offered the opportunity to participate online to reach a wider audience.

The conference is a further step to promote the integration of spiritual aspects into medical and nursing practices and shows that the needs of patients go far beyond physical and medical aspects. Further information is available on the KU website www.ku.de/intkonf available.

With a clear focus on research and practice, the importance of spirituality in healthcare continues to be studied and promoted to ensure holistic care for patients.