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
In Santiago’s El Bosque subdivision, a community garden has transformed lives. Led by EPES health monitors and supported by ELCA World Hunger, the Amajudisa Community Gardening Group grows fresh produce on a once-neglected strip of patio. This garden symbolizes hope and renewal, fostering community spirit and empowering local women. Read more in the spring 2024 issue of “LifeLines.” Read this story and more in the latest Global Links from ELCA for July/August 2024.
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