The Pastoral Letter is a documentary that tells the story of one of the most remarkable figures of the Danish Occupation during World War II: Bishop Hans Fuglsang-Damgaard. In September 1943, the Bishop issued a pastoral letter in which he strongly condemned the Nazi persecution of the Jews and called upon Danish churchgoers to stand in solidarity with their Jewish compatriots. This powerful message was read aloud by 2,000 priests across churches in Denmark during services on October 3, 1943.
Former Chief Rabbi Bent Lexner and historian and journalist Bent Blüdnikow guide viewers on a historical journey, combining archival photographs, expert interviews, personal testimonies, excerpts from Fuglsang-Damgaard’s memoirs, letters, and official documents. Together, these elements create a compelling portrait of the Bishop. The film explores the central question: Who was Hans Fuglsang-Damgaard, and what gave him the courage to speak out so boldly, despite the personal risk?
The documentary aired on Danish national broadcaster DR in October 2023, marking the 80th anniversary of the rescue of Danish Jews who fled to Sweden.
The production was funded by the Municipality of Copenhagen (Københavns Kommune), the Augustinus Foundation, the Louis-Hansen Foundation, the Levin Foundation, the Chas Otzens Foundation, and the Ernst and Vibeke Husmans Foundation.
Director & Cinematographer: Casper Høyberg
Producer & Co-director: Ulrik Gutkin
Editor: Jens Bidstrup
Assisting Producer and Fundraiser: Marianne Abildgaard