At work with Playmobil

Many mistake this “Häfn” chaplain for an inmate

With his numerous tattoos, Jonathan Werner looks more like a prisoner than a pastor.

(Bild: Reinhard Holl)

A new prison chaplain with an unconventional appearance is causing a stir at Josefstadt prison. But when it comes to looking after the inmates, the theologian relies on tried and tested methods - and toys.

The smell of incense is in the air. Jonathan Werner sits in his office and looks very different to what you would imagine a chaplain to look like. He is tattooed from head to toe, wears a nose ring, earrings, silver rings on his fingers and a full beard with a curved moustache. Werner took on the role of prison chaplain at the Josefstadt prison a few months ago.