Germany's First Humanist Chaplain Brings Secular Support to Prisoners

A prison in Brandenburg welcomes its first humanist chaplain—could this be the future of secular care in Germany? The move challenges traditional norms.

, and Administrator

2026 March 16 . 7:01 PM

1 min read

The image shows a sketch of a man sitting on the ground with his hands clasped in prayer. He is... — The image shows a sketch of a man sitting on the ground with his hands clasped in prayer. He is wearing a long robe and has a peaceful expression on his face. His eyes are closed and his hands are clasped together in a gesture of reverence. His hair is long and dark and his skin is a light shade of brown. He appears to be in a meditative state, with his eyes closed as if he is in deep thought.

Germany's First Humanist Chaplain Brings Secular Support to Prisoners

The Humanist Association of Germany (HVD) has taken a significant step by appointing its first humanist chaplain in a prison. Ian Mengel now works at Neuruppin-Wulkow prison in Nord-Brandenburg, offering support to non-religious inmates. This move reflects the growing demand for secular pastoral care in a country where nearly half the population identifies as non-religious.

Mengel's role mirrors that of traditional chaplains, providing a confidential space for inmates to explore questions of meaning, ethics, or simply seek comfort. Like his religious counterparts, he keeps no records and operates without fixed objectives. His early months have focused on understanding prison routines, rules, and structures before fully engaging with inmates.

The HVD's push for secular pastoral care extends beyond prisons. It is also working with the military and other state institutions, prioritising individual needs over broader systemic critiques. The organisation argues that humanist support strengthens democracy and fosters peace by addressing moral and existential concerns through personal dialogue. Currently, funding for these services relies on lottery grants. The HVD is now lobbying for a permanent place in the state budget, aiming to secure long-term financial stability. Germany's Constitution already guarantees equal treatment for non-religious pastoral care, but implementation has lagged behind demand. In Brandenburg, where 80% of people are unaffiliated with any religion, the need for such services is particularly pressing.

Mengel's appointment marks a milestone for secular pastoral care in Germany. If successful, it could pave the way for similar roles in other institutions. The HVD's efforts to secure stable funding will determine whether these services become a lasting feature of the country's support systems.