Festive confirmation: Ten recruits from Lower Austria celebrated in Pitten!

Festive confirmation: Ten recruits from Lower Austria celebrated in Pitten!

On February 21, 2025, a solemn soldier's site took place in the district of Neunkirchen, in which ten recruits from various Lower Austrian garrisons received the sacrament. The ceremony was held in the rectory church of Pitten and led by military dean Oliver Hartl on behalf of the military bishop. A musical accompaniment was designed by the Combo of Military Music Lower Austria, which contributed to the festive atmosphere.

The company preparation of the recruits lasted three days and took place in the Bundeheer seminar center Seebenstein. In his sermon, Hartl emphasized the meaning of God's spirit in the life of the believers. He encouraged the recruits to have trust to God and to experience freedom in the community with him. Hartl emphasized that Christian faith gave hope and opened a new perspective. This message was particularly relevant for the recruits as well as their sponsors, sponsors and relatives who experienced a moving day together

Incoming importance of confirmation

Confirmation was an important step for the participants on their way of life. The ceremony was not only seen as a spiritual event, but also as an opportunity to strengthen faith in the middle of the challenges that soldiers have to face today. In times when missions abroad and the associated risks have become commonplace, the support in faith is becoming increasingly important for many soldiers.

In addition, the Evangelical Military Passion, which has been active in the Bundeswehr for over 55 years, offers support in the practice of faith. It enables confidential conversations and fears that can occur in everyday military life. Military clergy are not part of the military hierarchy building, but share the everyday life of the soldiers and offer support in different situations.

role of military pastoral care

The core tasks of military pastoral care include "accompanying", "encouraging", "preaching" and "orienting" soldiers. Services are offered regularly, often also on special occasions such as vowing or in use. Despite the challenges of the soldier's profession, this helps to maintain a piece of home and to counter the reservations of grief and fears. Many soldiers appreciate the opportunity to have discussions with military priest in abroad or during exercises.

The day of confirmation remains alive for the ten recruits as a spiritual strengthening and memory of the common belief in God in the hearts of those involved. The festive ambience, which was characterized by the musical accompaniment and the personal address of the military decree, ensures that this experience not only represents a religious celebration, but also an encouragement for the upcoming life of the young soldiers.