Abstract:
This dissertation investigates, through bibliographical research, the contribution of the theology of the cross from the Heidelberg Debate to the practice of pastoral counseling. The question that seeks to be answered is to what extent the theology of the cross from the Heidelberg Debate contributes to the practice of pastoral counseling. This dissertation seeks to understand and deepen Luther's conception of the theology of the cross with a view to pastoral counseling. To this end, it will review the texts in which Luther addresses the topic, establishing a dialogue with his main commentators. It is, therefore, an exploratory research. The technical research procedure used was bibliographical research. Initially, pastoral counseling is examined, firstly treating the male and female pastor as Seelsorger and Seelsorgerin, and then the theme of the male and female pastor as counselor is worked on. In a second moment, the Heidelberg Debate is addressed as the locus classicus of Luther's theology of the cross, followed by the development and presentation of this theology of the cross. In a third moment, the research focuses on the main aspects of Luther's theology of the cross. Firstly, it deals with Deus absconditus and Deus revelatus, Deus absconditus and faith, and life under the cross. Finally, the contributions of the theology of the cross to pastoral counseling are presented. The theology of the cross is taken as a foundation and some notes are made with a view to pastoral counseling based on the three realities provided by the theology of the cross, namely, the reality of paradoxes, the reality of Anfechtung (suffering and temptation), and the reality of eschatological hope. The research indicates that the theology of the cross offers a hermeneutic for interpreting both the life and the experience of Anfechtung, providing a basis for pastoral counseling in the contemporary context. This hermeneutical approach has enabled the development of a cruciform pastoral counseling model that provides support for pastors and other care professionals. This model aims to help people in suffering, promoting comfort, hope, and a deeper and more meaningful understanding of their faith.
