St. Francis of Assisi's 20-year celebration in Ingolstadt: a summer festival steeped in emotions and traditions
The St. Francis Street Ambulance in Ingolstadt, Germany, recently celebrated its 35th anniversary, marking three and a half decades of providing essential services to those in need. The jubilee day was led by the jubilee police and featured musical entertainment from the band "Die Haberer."
Founded by Brother Martin, a trained nurse with qualifications in medical and psychiatric fields, the ambulance serves as a vital hub for up to 80 people daily. It covers several floors, equipped with kitchens and rooms, and offers a range of services including a healthy breakfast, shower facilities, laundry services, and medical care.
A significant portion of the ambulance's visitors struggle with mental health issues, addiction, homelessness, or poverty in old age. Brother Martin, who brought the idea of the street ambulance to Ingolstadt 20 years ago, expresses a deep concern for these individuals and wishes for more acceptance in society for homeless people.
The day center also includes an emergency shelter that operates 365 days a year. The ambulance is supported by interns, volunteers, doctors, and the clinic, and offers additional services such as board games, haircuts by the Barber Angels, eye tests, debt counseling, and weekly cooking from the student movement from Dollstraße.
A special place in the center is the meditation room, where evening prayers are held and a tree of life stands with green hearts bearing the names of deceased visitors. Brother Martin's motto remains "All are invited to the Lord's table."
The Villa Chiara in Offenbau near Thalmässing is closely connected to the street ambulance. Brother Martin runs the ambulance with Oli, an occupational therapist. The open café at the Villa Chiara takes place on the last Sunday of every month.
Homemade cakes, fresh coffee, and crispy, freshly grilled chickens were served at the jubilee day. The event was a testament to the hard work and dedication of Brother Martin and his team, who continue to make a difference in the lives of those in need in Ingolstadt.
The St. Francis Street Ambulance, in addition to being a hub for various essential services, also fosters a unique lifestyle within its home-and-garden spaces. The open café at the Villa Chiara, run by Brother Martin and Oli, offers a weekly gathering point for the community, serving as a reminder of the charitable home-and-garden lifestyle embodied by the ambulance and its team.
