From Zambia to Madagascar: ELCA Global Missionary Pastor Kristin’s New Call

Pastor Kristin Engstrom, an ELCA Global Missionary, has exciting news to share! After faithfully serving in Zambia, she has now completed her first year in Madagascar as the ELCA Country Representative and Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM) Coordinator.

You can read more about Pastor Kristin’s ministry, see photos, and explore her reflections in her February 2025 Newsletter, available here. Please share this newsletter with your congregation and on social media, helping spread the good news of God’s work in Madagascar!

Pastor Kristin’s ministry has taken her across the island, building relationships with the Malagasy Lutheran Church (MLC), one of the fastest-growing Lutheran churches in the world. With five million members, MLC is deeply committed to holistic gospel ministry, addressing spiritual and material needs alike. Over the past year, she has witnessed national church leadership elections, visited seminaries and inclusive schools, and walked alongside ministries focusing on healthcare, development, and gender justice.

This transition has not been without its challenges. Madagascar remains one of the world’s poorest nations, and recent funding cuts from USAID have impacted vital programs, including the Malagasy Lutheran Church Healthcare System. The ELCA remains a steadfast supporter, and prayers are especially needed during this rainy season, as communities work hard to cultivate rice, cassava, and other essential crops.

If you’d like to learn more about all ELCA Global Missionaries, you can access the updated 2024 directory here: ELCA Global Missionaries Directory.

Finally, we invite you to keep Pastor Kristin, the Malagasy Lutheran Church, and the people of Madagascar in your prayers. May God continue to bless this mission, deepen our global partnerships, and guide us as we walk together in faith.

Grace and peace be with you!