Nestled in the heart of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where the medieval streets whisper stories of centuries gone by, Oliver Gußmann stands as a modern-day guide to both history and faith. As a Tourist Priest, his role is unique—combining his vocation as a Lutheran pastor with a deep commitment to welcoming and guiding tourists from around the world. His mission is to share not only the profound beauty of his town and its churches but also the timeless wisdom of faith that transcends borders and cultures.

A Calling Across Borders

Oliver’s journey into the pastoral life was not straightforward. Although his father was a pastor, Oliver had a “critical” relationship with him and sought to explore faith in his own way. “I wanted to know who Jesus Christ was on my own terms,” Oliver reflects. His quest for understanding led him to a deep dive into the historical roots of Christianity, including a year spent in Israel studying the Talmud and Jewish tradition.

Today, Oliver’s path is deeply rooted in the Lutheran tradition, and his role as a tourist pastor in Rothenburg is a testament to his belief that faith should be accessible, welcoming, and relevant. “I am a citizen of the world,” he says, emphasizing that national borders are less important to him than the shared human experience of faith and spirituality. Whether it’s a pilgrim seeking solace or a tourist seeking knowledge, Oliver is there to guide them, connecting the rich history of the church with the modern-day experiences of those who visit.

A Unique Role: The Tourist Pastor

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a small town, but its historical and cultural significance draws visitors from across the globe. It’s home to many medieval landmarks, including the stunning St. Jacob’s Church (or St. Jakobskirche), where Oliver serves as the pastor. But what makes Oliver’s role stand out is that he is one of the few pastors in the world whose primary mission is to serve tourists.

“In this area, we have a pastor specifically for tourists. It’s not something that’s common, but here in Rothenburg and nearby Nuremberg, we welcome travelers who come to experience the town’s beauty and history,” Oliver explains. He serves as a bridge between the sacred and the secular, offering historical tours of the church and offering spiritual guidance to visitors who may be far from home. His daily routine includes conducting small services for tourists, guiding them through the church’s altars and artwork, and providing counsel to those who seek it.

“We have church guides who take people around and show them the church, and I’m there to offer the spiritual side of the experience,” Oliver shares. His deep connection with the church and its history gives visitors a sense of the town’s Christian heritage, while his open-minded approach makes everyone, regardless of their background, feel welcome.

Embracing Life’s Challenges with Faith

As a pastor, Oliver is no stranger to the emotional weight of his work. He has experienced the heartache of conducting funerals, including the heartbreaking task of burying a child. “It’s one of the hardest parts of my job,” he admits. “When someone comes to me with their grief, especially something as tragic as suicide or the death of a child, it’s a heavy burden.”

Yet it’s also in these moments where Oliver’s faith and wisdom come to the forefront. Rather than offering solutions, he listens, accepts, and helps others find the strength to navigate their pain. “Jesus Christ was someone who accepted people as they were,” Oliver explains, emphasizing that offering compassion and understanding is often the most powerful ministry.

His ability to help others is not just rooted in theology but also in the deeper understanding of human psychology. “I’m not a psychologist, but I know how to guide people in their emotional journeys, particularly in times of crisis,” Oliver says. The wisdom he shares often revolves around acceptance—acceptance of life’s challenges, acceptance of others, and acceptance of oneself.

Connecting Faith and Family

While his work as a pastor is demanding, Oliver’s family life also plays a key role in shaping his spiritual journey. His wife, a teacher of English and French at a local school, provides him with a steady source of support and balance. “We are very different in our professions, but we complement each other,” Oliver says. “She helps me stay grounded in everyday life, while I help her stay focused on the spiritual side of things.”

Their son, who is 14 years old, is navigating the tumultuous teenage years, a challenge that Oliver openly acknowledges. “It’s difficult when he doesn’t do his homework or when we have friction, but as a family, we make it work,” he reflects. His faith, once a point of conflict with his father, has now become a guiding force in how he approaches both his work and his relationships.

A Global Perspective in a Local Setting

What makes Oliver’s approach to ministry unique is his global perspective. He doesn’t just see himself as a pastor to those within Rothenburg’s walls—he sees himself as a guide to anyone who crosses his path. His role as a tourist pastor is a manifestation of his belief that borders do not define the spirit; rather, it is shared experiences and universal values that bind us together.

As a self-proclaimed “citizen of the world,” Oliver believes in the power of community and hospitality. His motto, “God, our Lord is always with you,” a quote from the fifth book of Moses, serves as a reminder to visitors that they are never truly far from home, no matter where they are.

“In Rothenburg, we welcome people from all over the world. It doesn’t matter where you come from or what language you speak; here, we all share in the beauty of this town, its history, and its faith,” he says with a smile. “For me, this is a ministry of connection. A ministry of being present for people, of sharing wisdom, and of reminding everyone that God is with us all.”

Conclusion

Oliver Gußmann’s role as a tourist pastor in Rothenburg is a living example of how faith can be both deeply rooted in tradition and universally applicable to all people. Whether he is guiding visitors through the awe-inspiring St. Jacob’s Church or offering a compassionate word to those struggling with life’s difficulties, Oliver embodies the power of service, acceptance, and connection. His story is a reminder that faith isn’t confined to a building—it is a living, breathing part of our everyday lives, no matter where we come from or where we’re headed.

In a world that can often feel divided, Oliver’s approach to ministry offers a beacon of hope: that love, compassion, and faith can transcend borders and bring people together, one step at a time.

Humans of the World Season 10, Episode 4 now streaming on Britalians TV.