On this Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we highlight the Lutheran World Federation’s commitment to advocating for indigenous rights globally. Through initiatives like the “Pathways to Equality” project in Namibia, their advocacy handbook, and participation in global human rights councils, the LWF continues to work for justice, dignity, and the empowerment of indigenous communities worldwide.
Read MorePhoto: For the tenth time, LWF World Service has organized the Talent competition "Kakuma Got Talent in Kakuma refugee camp, Kenya. The event fosters creativity, boosts morale, and offers a sense of normalcy amid the challenging conditions of the camp.
Finland: searching for religious identity in a shifting society
Africa: Perspectives for an inclusive, just and intergenerational church
New York: Faith leaders call for true and transformative peace
LWF and Taizé: Crafting unity and hope from refugee camp sand
‘Global Faith Unfiltered’ priorities: Creation groans but hope inspires action, by Rev. Jussi Luoma
Cameroon: Trusting others to lead for church growth, by Rev. Delphine Fongeh Nsufor
The 2024 Africa Lutheran Church Leadership Consultation is taking place in Abuja, Nigeria, from September 18 to 22, under the theme “We, who are many, are one body.” This gathering of 90 African Lutheran leaders aims to strengthen unity within the church while exploring how diversity enhances their collective mission. Leaders from various church sectors are participating in dialogues and reflections to empower their ministries across the African Lutheran communion.
Read MorePhoto: Floods, caused by heavy rains, impacted the Far North region of Cameroon.
AI and Church Communication: Balancing Innovation with Connection
This week our global spotlight is on Bishop Leila Ortiz, the first Latina bishop in the ELCA, who blends her Pentecostal upbringing with Lutheran theology to create a ‘Luthercostal’ ministry that emphasizes grace, justice, and spiritual renewal. Now serving on the Lutheran World Federation Council, she provides fresh leadership and perspective on global church challenges.
Read MoreRev. Danielle Dokman, supported by the ELCA’s International Leaders Program, is preparing to expand her leadership in Suriname and the Caribbean. Currently pursuing her doctorate in Old Testament at Luther Seminary, she aims to strengthen the visibility of the Lutheran church in society and train lay and clergy leaders. Read more about her journey and other updates from ELCA Global Mission in the latest edition of Global Links as well as updates on mission personnel and other news.
Read MoreChurches across the globe may soon celebrate a new Feast of Creation. This proposed liturgical festival, championed by both Eastern and Western branches of Christianity, could be introduced in 2025 as part of the 1700th anniversary of the Council of Nicea. The festival would focus on honoring God’s creation and recognizing the urgent need for environmental healing. Read more at ELCA.org.
Read MoreThe Lutheran World Federation (LWF) advocates for human rights, gender justice, climate justice, and interfaith peacebuilding through its global Justice and Peace initiatives. Learn how LWF’s local-to-global advocacy approach promotes dignity and equality for all.
Read MorePhoto: Rev. Dr. Anne Burghardt, LWF General Secretary, delivering the keynote address at the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland during their Mission Partnership Consultation in Helsinki on 29 August.
ELCA World Hunger is making strides against global hunger by addressing its root causes in collaboration with global partners. Supporting over 60 countries, this initiative leverages local knowledge and church networks to implement sustainable solutions in healthcare, income generation, and more, demonstrating the power of our collective contributions.
Read MorePhoto: Delegates from 12 LWF member churches take part in 2nd meeting of the Climate Justice Forum for Latin America and the Caribbean
New commissions to further dialogue with Roman Catholics and Pentecostals
LWF World Service, the humanitarian and development arm of the Lutheran World Federation, is dedicated to providing compassionate and professional assistance in 26 countries worldwide. With a focus on serving the most vulnerable, LWF World Service is renowned for its field presence in hard-to-reach areas, linking local community needs with global advocacy and peace work.
Read MorePhoto: In an urgent appeal for peace, the LWF warns “there is everything to lose through an escalation of the conflict” in the Middle East region. Photo: Wafa / APAImages (CC-BY-SA)
India: Theology that embraces tolerance and prioritizes justice, by Rev. Anup Indwar
The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) unites over 77 million Lutherans across 99 countries, embodying our shared commitment to faith, justice, and service. As we highlight the global Lutheran community, we celebrate the rich history and ongoing impact of Lutherans worldwide, from the Reformation to the present day. Learn more about how the LWF addresses global challenges and how you can be part of this global mission.
Read MorePhoto: Milita Poskiene, LWF Council member and treasurer of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Lithuania.
Poland: Supporting the forgotten migrants at the border with Belarus
Brazil: "Being the church of Jesus Christ in this country and its society"
Task forces to develop policies on climate and intergenerational justice
