Global Partner Spotlight: Prayers, Progress, and Pastor Kristin’s June Update from Madagascar
In her latest update, Pastor Kristin Engstrom—our ELCA missionary in Madagascar—shares how the Malagasy Lutheran Church (MLC), one of the fastest growing Lutheran churches in the world, is responding to both humanitarian needs and faithful theological discernment.
From disaster response to sustainable farming, the MLC models how to live out God’s Work. Our Hands. When two hurricanes recently devastated southern Madagascar, MLC churches opened their doors as shelters, distributed emergency food in partnership with the government, and offered medical care through the church’s healthcare system, which is supported in part by the ELCA. They even distributed free malaria treatment to reduce post-flood illness.
But the most significant update this month is spiritual: The national church council of the MLC has voted to begin official churchwide discussions on women’s ordination. Although women have been allowed to study theology for decades, they are not yet eligible to be ordained pastors. Now, each synod within the MLC is invited to lead Bible studies and conversations ahead of a national vote at the 2028 Church Assembly. “Please keep the Malagasy Lutheran Church in your prayers,” Pastor Kristin writes, “as they enter this time of prayerful preparation and faithful discussion.”
The June newsletter also celebrates the progress of the MLC’s Gender Justice Project, supported by the ELCA. The project holds Bible studies and workshops for both men and women, while also addressing practical needs—like producing washable feminine hygiene pads that have met urgent demand across generations.
Kristin’s presence as an ordained ELCA woman continues to open new conversations and connections as she teaches on gender justice, sustainability, and stewardship across Madagascar. To read her full June newsletter, visit her blog or download the PDF:
You can support Pastor Kristin’s ministry or receive her future updates by visiting community.elca.org/MissionaryGiving.