At Alfa College, four pastors are active across the locations. The core task of the pastors is to guide students and staff in matters of meaning, identity, and life events. Daily, the pastors engage in conversations with students and staff. Common themes among students include:
- Mental health issues (depression, suicidal thoughts, stress, loneliness, anxiety)
- Requests for help due to autism, ADHD, ADD, PTSD, etc.
- (Sexual or violent) trauma
- Support in grief and loss
- (Unsafe) home situations
- (Sexual) identity
- Poverty
- Migration background
Among staff, common themes include: balance between work and private life, conflict in the workplace, existential questions, home situations, illness, and death. The pastors are also approached by teachers to discuss classroom conversations about societal themes such as polarization, diversity and inclusion, and global political tensions.
Impact
The work of the pastor is not always easily measurable, but its effects are noticeable. The impact of a pastor's presence at each location is particularly felt in the relief it provides to teachers dealing with complex issues. Additionally, the confidentiality ensured by the pastor's role within the organization allows for discussions about life themes, attention, and advice. Within the organization, the pastor serves as a signal function to provide both solicited and unsolicited advice regarding the identity of the organization, undercurrents, and trends in the school climate.