Samaritan’s Purse expands crisis support network in Germany

Samaritan’s Purse is expanding its crisis support network in Germany by introducing a specialized training program titled ‘Hope in Crisis’. This initiative is based on the model of the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team, which was established following the September 11 attacks to provide emotional and spiritual support through trained chaplains.

Since its inception, the team has responded to nearly 1,000 disasters globally in cooperation with Samaritan’s Purse. In Germany, the program aims to train members of church communities to assist others during acute crises, such as the Ahrtal flood disaster. Sylke Busenbender, Chairwoman of Samaritan’s Purse Germany, stated that the program is intended to complement, rather than replace, existing emergency pastoral care structures by preparing individuals to offer presence and listening during unexpected hardships.