Lutheran World InformationLWI Indian Lutheran Church Ordains Highlights First Women Pastors

Lutheran Congregations Rally Help for Australia’s Flood Victims...... 3 Across flood-devastated Queensland, Lutheran congregations and schools rallied to help desperate people in their communities to recover from the immediate impact of disaster...

New “LWF together” Initiative with Youth for Environmental Justice...... 5 Young Lutherans around the world will tackle environmental justice and experience the communion of The Lutheran World Federation through “LWF together – the earth needs you,” beginning May 2011...

Lutheran Churches’ Response Urged for Humanitarian Crisis in North Africa...... 12 Front row: the four newly ordained women pastors (left to right) Rev. Vijaya Victor, Rev. Nelavala Gnana Prasuna, Rev. Smitha Das, Rev. LWF General Secretary Rev. Martin Kasimala Sireesha; back row, (left to right) Rev. Augustine Jeyakumar, UELCI executive secretary, Rev. Chandran Paul Martin, LWF Junge is calling Lutherans worldwide deputy general secretary, SALC Bishop Chandra Sekhar and ELM’s Rev. Helmut Grimsmann. © UELCI/Timothy Melvin to prayer, support and advocacy concerning the humanitarian crisis developing from the swift political A Step Toward Inclusion, Reconciliation and Equal changes in North Africa... Opportunity TIRUPATI, India/GENEVA (LWI) – The South theology, noted Victor, who will serve as FEATURE: New Roles for Andhra Lutheran Church (SALC) in In- director of the SALC women’s desk. Women in Chile...... 15 It is Friday evening. Maria Leyton dia ordained its first women pastors on 12 A “celebration of liberation, inclusion, is looking forward to an encounter January, marking a new era for ordained reconciliation and equal opportunity,” was to take place the next day. After ministry in the church whose history dates how Rev. Nelavala Gnana Prasuna described the devastating earthquake of 27 February 2010, the Evangelical back to 1865. her ordination. It was a precious covenant Lutheran Church in Chile initiated “Finally the dream has come true,” said “between me and God’s community to work regular discussions among those SALC Bishop Chandra Sekhar at the for God in partnership with ordained men.” affected by the quake in the port sector of the city of Concepción... ordination service of the four women and She expressed the conviction that the two male pastors at St Peter’s Lutheran church would grow as a result of women’s Church in Tirupati. He noted that histori- ordination, and reminded women in min- cal, cultural and traditional roots of SALC istry of their responsibility “not to divide had prevented theologically trained women but to unite, not to exclude but to include, from “even dreaming of ordination.” and not to rule but to nurture.” Rev. Vijaya Victor, the first to be or- Newly ordained pastor Rev. Kasimala dained, said many women who witnessed Sireesha will minister in a parish and head the historic ceremony saw it as the beginning of women’s leadership in the church. Many Continues on page 10 more have expressed an interest in studying 201102 Contents

Communio 1, 10....Indian Lutheran Church Ordains First Women Pastors 3...... Lutheran Congregations Rally Help for Australia’s Flood Victims 4...... Lutheran Volunteers Assist Most Vulnerable in Brazil Disaster 5...... New “LWF together” Initiative with Youth for Environmental Justice 6...... LWF Center in Wittenberg Goes Online with Content on Luther’s Theology 7...... LWF President Younan Urges Diligence in Promoting Religious Co-Existence 8...... Honduras: Call for Lutheran Communion Solidarity as Violence Impedes Pastoral Care 9...... LWF North America Leaders Affirm Commitment to Strengthen Lutheran Communion

Secretariat 11...... Amidst Upheaval in Middle East, LWF Calls for Just Peace in Holy Land 11...... Norwegian Minister Visits LWF 12...... Lutheran Churches’ Response Urged for Humanitarian Crisis in North Africa

Features & Themes 13...... FEATURE: Taking Peace to Southern Sudan Cattle Camps 15...... FEATURE: New Roles for Women in Chile

News in Brief 2...... New Zealand Lutherans Ask for Prayer Following Quake 16...... French Lutherans and Reformed Affirm Creation of United Protestant Church New Zealand Lutherans Ask for Prayer Following Quake

Lutheran Church of New Zealand (LCNZ) President Robert New Zealand’s second major earthquake in five months had Erickson requested prayer and support following the severe compromised the structural integrity of the church worship earthquake that hit Christchurch on 22 February. center, he noted, and seriously damaged the house in which he The 6.3 magnitude tremor wrecked a trail of destruction and his wife live. “We hope to be able to remain in our home, but in the city, killing more than 160 people and damaging an I am afraid that we may have to tear it down,” he commented. estimated 100,000 homes. In the first days after the earthquake, many people were Rev. David Lipsys, pastor of St Paul’s Lutheran Church in spending the nights in tents, without water or food, Lipsys said. Christchurch, reported that there were no known casualties Many were afraid because of the risk of aftershocks. among the congregation, though he emphasized the difficulty Erickson said 27 February was declared a “Sunday of prayer in reaching members. “Loss of power and telephones, com- for the people of Christchurch and surrounding areas.” bined with transport restrictions, is making contact with our The LCNZ is a district of the Lutheran Church of Australia.

Lutheran World Information World Lutheran church members and friends very difficult,” he said. Lipsys (Linda Macqueen, editor of LCA’s The Lutheran magazine, motorcycled to areas that were still not accessible by car to provided information for this story, with additional information find out how parishioners were faring. from LWI.)

The Lutheran World Federation Consulting Editor Circulation/subscription – A Communion of Churches John P. Asling Colette Muanda 150, route de Ferney [email protected] P.O. Box 2100 German Editor CH-1211 Geneva 2, N. N. Lutheran World Information (LWI) Switzerland is the information service Layout of the Lutheran World Federation (LWF). Telephone +41/22-791 61 11 Stéphane Gallay Fax +41/22-791 66 30 [email protected] Unless specifically noted, material presented E-mail: [email protected] does not represent positions or opinions of the www.lutheranworld.org Photos LWF or of its various units. Helen Putsman Penet Interim Editor-in-Chief and English Editor [email protected] Where the dateline of an article contains the Pauline Mumia notation (LWI), the material may be freely [email protected] reproduced with acknowledgment.

 No. 02/2011 Lutheran World Information Lutheran Congregations Rally Help for Australia’s Flood Victims Three-Quarters of Queensland Declared a Disaster Area BRISBANE, Australia/GENEVA (LWI) – homes submerged, belongings washed Business people donated their time Across flood-devastated Queensland, away, and livelihoods destroyed in the and skills to the recovery effort and Lutheran congregations and schools aftermath of heavy rainfall, compa- people of all ages and walks of life rallied to help desperate people in rable only to the 1974 flooding whose raised funds to help victims. their communities to recover from damage at the time was estimated at In Brisbane, the Good News the immediate impact of disaster. AUD 200 million. congregation at Middle Park acted After a day of mucking in as a Three-quarters of Queensland as an evacuation center, providing volunteer, Rev. Stephen Nuske of St was declared a disaster area while food, accommodation and counsel- Andrew’s Church in the state’s capital parts of northern New South Wales ing for the homeless. The church at Brisbane reflected: “My initial reac- and Victoria were also threatened by Everton Park offered beds and meals tions to the devastation of the floods high waters. to victims. were numbness, shock, isolation and As the LCA’s executive officer St Peter’s College at Indooroo- anxiety and loss of hope.” In his city Trevor Ruthenberg, himself a vol- pilly was operating as an emergency congregation, 12 homes were flooded, unteer, put it, “The emphasis is very shelter, making available up to 100 four badly; some members are suffer- much on local community support— boarding house beds. Chaplain Peter ing hardship, but he says they remain rolling up your sleeves and cleaning Bowmer said, “It is envisaged that optimistic. “We are caring for one up the next door neighbor’s house.” some of the start-of-year college another. This has strengthened us He added: “I acknowledge the camps will be replaced with com- as a congregation,” said Nuske, one great work that occurs for God munity service projects.” of many members of the Lutheran within this church. I know that many Church of Australia (LCA) provid- good things happen in his name but ing support. I firmly believe it could be so much Work Has Only Just Begun The water came to within a street of the Bundaberg church in Queensland, said Rev. Chris Gallasch. “It’s heart- breaking to drive around Bundaberg and see people’s ruined furniture dumped along the roads. But at the same time it’s so encouraging and up- lifting to see the way people are pitch- ing in and caring for each other.” Pastor Athol Pukallus agreed that the work had only just begun, “especially the counselling side of things.” He and Good News community chaplain Sean Conry were asked to go to people in their ruined homes and sit with them as the reality of what had happened

The car park of the LCA Queensland District Office was inundated. © Noel Noack became a burden too heavy to bear. The expectation was that when power was restored, people could A week of devastating January better. We could do so much more move back into their homes, and floods in Queensland left 30 people with what we have to offer.” there would be need to provide dead, 12 missing and 30,000 homes Still, across Queensland, Lu- furniture and other goods. “We need and businesses affected. Cost of the theran communities worked hard to pray that the generous spirit of cleanup was estimated at USD 5 bil- to clean out houses and ensure that the people of Brisbane, Queensland lion, making it the country’s costliest flood victims had food, accommo- and Australia will continue well natural disaster. Crops were destroyed, dation and basic household goods. into the future because this will be

No. 02/2011  a long, hard road back to normality an World Federation (LWF) General floodwaters,” and offered prayers for for thousands of people.” Secretary Rev. Martin Junge expressed individuals and LCA pastors and other Messages of solidarity were sent to “deep condolences and solidarity with staff are providing care and support in the LCA from Lutheran churches and the families of those who died and all this midst of the crisis. partners across the world. The Luther- who were suffering as a result of these “We also express solidarity and pray for the Australian authorities, agencies and volunteers some who even risk their lives to assist the com- munities. May God bless the work of their hands!” added Junge. The 70,000-member LCA has been an LWF associate member church since 1952. Its overseas aid and resettlement agency Australian Lutheran World Service supports the LWF Department for World Service in implementing programs in Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Central America and the Caribbean. (Linda Macqueen, editor of LCA’s The Lutheran magazine, provided in- formation for this story, with additional

Pastor Athol Pukallus and Jill Shepherdson of Good News Lutheran Church with a “basket of hope” containing food information from LWI.) and household goods assembled by Middle Park and Rochedale congregations for flood victims. © LCA/Susan Seng 21 January 2011 Lutheran Volunteers Assist Most Vulnerable in Brazil Disaster Coordinated Needs Assessment Critical for Effective Response

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil/GENEVA (LWI) maybe hundreds… and we might not sisted and avoid the waste of resources – Lutheran congregations in Brazil have enough food to offer.” and replication of help,” said Lieven. worked in solidarity with disaster relief Heavy rain in the southeast caused “At the same time, we also need organizations to assist the millions of floods and mudslides in many cities to think both on mid and long-term people affected by the country’s worst in January, especially in the state of levels, when the media’s attention on climatic catastrophe in decades. Rio de Janeiro in the Serrana region. this region will be gone,” he noted. “It is all very, very sad, but after so Millions of people are affected. More They already found that while much death we have to start thinking than 750 people died, mainly from enough clothing had been donated, and working for life,” said Rev. Guil- Rio de Janeiro, Teresopolis, Petropolis, there was a shortage of diapers and herme Lieven, synodical pastor of the Sumidouro and Nova Friburgo, the clean underwear. They were asking Evangelical Church of the Lutheran towns hardest hit by the disaster. for financial donations so that those Lutheran World Information World Lutheran Confession in Brazil (IECLB). Authorities feared the death in charge could buy basic goods ac- Lieven illustrated the level of toll could climb as rescue workers cording to local need. solidarity by recounting the story retrieved more victims buried under “We want to work in an organized of the president of a local Lutheran collapsed homes and buildings. way, so we can know what needs to congregation who was sheltering 18 IECLB congregations estab- be done,” said Kronbauer. “As soon people in a space normally shared lished two solidarity committees in as we have a clear picture about the between her and her mother. different cities and worked with other major needs we will share it with our Another volunteer, Rev. Adelcio organization and the government to partners.” Kronbauer, distributed food to the assist the affected population. ACT Alliance, the Geneva-based worst hit areas in an army truck. “First we want to identify people’s global church emergency and devel- “When the truck arrives in certain needs, work on a diagnosis of the opment body of which The Lutheran locations, the atmosphere is tense, situation, and then we will work on an World Federation (LWF) is a member, everyone is quiet. You never know how action plan. This way we want to assist issued an international alert on the many people might be starving there… the most urgent requests of those unas- situation in flood-stricken regions.

 No. 02/2011 Lutheran World Information LWF General Secretary Rev. Martin Junge was in dialogue with the IECLB leadership and expressed the LWF’s solidarity and prayers with the Brazilian people, churches and authorities during this difficult period. “We see diaconal expression linking up in a wonderful way as individuals shelter neighbors; con- gregations mobilize and distribute resources and connect to government and other networks,” he said. “It is a special joy for me to see how the global and local response connects to our international col- laboration under ACT Alliance,” Junge added. The 717,000-member IECLB In the Floresta neighborhood of Nova Friburgo, Nilcimar Fleiman digs the earth with her hands, looking for joined the LWF in 1952. FLD, its missing personal items, like clothes and photos. © ACT/FLD/Gustavo Bonato diaconal arm, works among mar- ginalized communities to promote Its members in Brazil, including the relief where it was needed most. Com- gender equality, combat racism and IECLB’s Lutheran Foundation of munity-based churches in the cities overcome violence. Diakonia (FLD), Koinonia, Ecumeni- already deployed emergency response (By Susanne Buchweitz and Mar- cal Coordinator Services, Diaconia and teams and were walking alongside celo Schneider) Christian Aid, collaborated to bring devastated communities. 21 January 2011 New “LWF together” Initiative with Youth for Environmental Justice Young Lutherans Use Internet for Biblical Reflection and Action

GENEVA (LWI) – Young Lutherans face in their own contexts–places as groups are going to implement actions around the world will tackle envi- diverse as Sweden, Brazil, Tanzania, in their own contexts to address local ronmental justice and experience the Indonesia and the United States. and global environmental challenges communion of The Lutheran World Organizers hope the program will and injustices. While the individual Federation (LWF) through “LWF be an important learning experience for activities may be small, they will have together – the earth needs you,” be- all young people involved. The youth the potential to be a powerful sign of ginning May 2011. Launched by LWF Youth at the Department for Mission and Devel- opment (DMD), “LWF together” combines a new method of global learning with renewed efforts for environmental justice. Coordinated by the LWF youth desk, local Lutheran youth groups around the world will team up with two other youth groups in different continents using the Internet to read relevant Bible passages together and develop an understanding of God’s creation and humanity’s responsibil- ity toward it. The young adults will analyze the Pedro Munaretto, a steward from Argentina’s United Evangelical Lutheran Church, speaks during the youth environmental challenges that they presentation at the July 2010 Eleventh Assembly. © LWF/Erick Coll

No. 02/2011  the Lutheran communion’s commit- Day. The youth groups will present the other and praying together, under- ment to environmental justice. work as well as their new connections standing and sharing, reading the “To my knowledge, this is the first with young Lutherans around the Word of God together and engag- time something like this has been at- world to their local congregations. ing in joint action for the healing of tempted,” said Rev. Roger Schmidt, The program was developed in God’s creation,” said Rev. Dr Musa secretary for LWF Youth. “There gatherings of young people around P. Filibus, DMD director. “‘LWF were several projects of groups in the LWF Eleventh Assembly held together’ uniquely combines all these different countries reading the Bible in July 2010 in Stuttgart, Ger- traits that make communion a real- together and sharing their insights. many. In their Pre-Assembly Youth ity. I look forward to learning from However, ‘LWF together’ combines Conference, more than 100 young young people in our churches and reading of the Bible [and] advocacy representatives from LWF member gaining from their inspiration for efforts, alongside joint analysis and churches agreed to prioritize issues of our common witness in the world,” action,” he noted. sustainability as well as the visibility Filibus added. “We also hope that through this of the LWF in their joint work. The dynamic program the Lutheran com- idea was further developed in an More information about “LWF togeth- munion can be experienced by many online consultation and at a meeting er” is available on the LWF Web site at: young people around the world,” he of youth workers. www.lutheranworld.org/lwf/ added. “The program clearly affirms index.php/themes/ “LWF together” will conclude in principles at the core of what it is to lwf-together October 2011 around Reformation be in communion: talking with each 25 January 2011 LWF Center in Wittenberg Goes Online with Content on Luther’s Theology Junge: Space for Cross-Cultural Discussions and Shared Learning HANOVER, Germany/GENEVA (LWI) – The the center seeks to promote greater 2017,” said Rev. Hans W. Kasch, the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) fellowship among churches and center’s director. Center in Wittenberg has a new web enable Christians worldwide to This self-understanding is also site: www.lwb-zentrum-wittenberg.de encounter the theology of Martin reflected in the materials on the site. giving more detailed information about Luther at the birthplace of the The center organizes seminars with its broad spectrum of activities. Reformation. “The new web site is a deliberately international focus. An initiative of the LWF Ger- intended to raise the profile of the Participants are invited to engage man National Committee (GNC) center and establish it as a com- intensively with the most varied and the United Evangelical Luther- munication platform in the run-up aspects of Lutheran theology, under an Church of Germany (VELKD), to the Reformation anniversary in the guidance of visiting academ- ics. Fourteen pastors from all five continents attended the last course in November 2010 on “Justification with Luther and Melanchthon.” The center also offers young people from the global ecumenical movement the Lutheran World Information World Lutheran opportunity of an internship and gives assistance for theological study periods in Wittenberg. A further emphasis is the Luther Garden project: to plant 500 trees in a designated park in the city of Witten- berg by 2017, the 500th anniversary of the Reformation. Churches from all over the world and from all denomi- nations are invited to sponsor one of the 500 trees and also plant a tree in their home church. This project is a Participants of the Second International Seminar are happy to encounter Luther during Reformation festivities joint collaboration between the LWF, in Wittenberg. © LWF-Center/ Wittenberg GNC and the city of Wittenberg.

 No. 02/2011 Lutheran World Information LWF General Secretary Rev. On the Luther Garden, Junge “The garden carries a strong sym- Martin Junge affirmed the impor- said it was encouraging to see the bolic message: each tree planted reaf- tance of the Wittenberg Center as enthusiasm with which LWF mem- firms our understanding of the global place that provides space for cross-cul- ber churches and other Christian nature of the LWF communion, its tural discussions and shared learning. churches are receiving this creative ecumenical commitment and its “People coming from all regions of the initiative. The tree planting was understanding of being church in LWF can connect to the fundamental inaugurated in November 2009 need of ongoing reformation,” Junge theological insights of Lutheran the- with the planting of 25 trees by rep- added. ology and interpret this according to resentatives of the LWF and other (A contribution from VELKD and the diverse contexts and challenges Christian World Communions and LWI) in their respective churches,” he told from churches in Germany and other 3 February 2011 Lutheran World Information. parts of Europe. LWF President Younan Urges Diligence in Promoting Religious Co-Existence Interview with Bishop Younan on First “World Interfaith Week of Harmony” JERUSALEM/GENEVA (LWI) – Classroom and playing field activities at Talitha Kumi Evangelical Lutheran School in Beit Jala, West Bank, are an opportu- nity for Christian and Muslim students to grow and learn together. This is one of the four schools run by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and Holy Land (ELCJHL). The 2,027 students enrolled in the ELCJHL schools in 2011 comprise around 52 percent Chris- tians and 48 percent Muslims. On the occasion of the first “World Interfaith Harmony Week” (1-7 February 2011) designated by the United Nations General As- sembly last October, Rev. Elizabeth A boy sits, surrounded by his classmates in Talitha Kumi Evangelical Lutheran School in Beit Jala. McHan spoke with ELCJHL Bishop © ELCJHL/Elizabeth McHan Dr Munib Younan, also president of The Lutheran World Federation to be developed not only in Jordan love of neighbor should be promoted. (LWF) about the significance of this and in the Middle East, but also I find that our Lutheran theology of week for the Holy Land faith com- throughout the world. creation and our theology of redemp- munities and for the global Lutheran It is my wish that we Arab- tion both speak to this. We are cre- communion. Christians may be of help to those ated equally. And we are redeemed countries in which Islamophobia is equally. Together, these theologies The proposal for the World Interfaith growing by sharing how we here in provide a strong basis from which to Harmony Week came out of Jordan. Jordan and the Holy Land live with dialogue with our sisters and broth- What is the significance of Jordan as the other religions, working to overcome ers in humanity from all religions, country of this initiative’s birth? not only Islamophobia, but also while we also have a strong basis It is very fitting that the proposal anti-Semitism and anti-Christian from which to deal with any kind of for the World Interfaith Harmony sentiments and actions. exclusivity, extremism, or superiority Week came out of Jordan, as Jor- complex. dan is a country in which Muslims How does Lutheran theology speak and Christians have been living in to religious teachings about tolerance, How does the observance of this week harmony for 1,400 years. I welcome respect for others and peace across the relate to the ELCJHL context? the initiative of King Abdullah, and globe? Our church has a prophetic role hope that this paradigm of Christian- In a time of extremism, the core in the Middle East. Its prophetic role Muslim coexistence should continue religious values of love of God and is to serve our Lord and our neighbor.

No. 02/2011  Our strength is not in our numbers, The World Interfaith Harmony role of women, and reconciliation in but in our witness for love, for justice, Week is significant for The Lutheran our world. I call on all LWF member for hope, for forgiveness, and for rec- World Federation and all its member churches to observe this, the first week onciliation. This we do through our churches because there is no place of February as the World Interfaith educational ministries and through in the world in which Lutheran Harmony Week in the next years. interfaith dialogue with Muslims and churches live on their own. Lutheran with Jews, and through the Council churches, rather, live with other To the global human community this of Religious Institutions in the Holy religions—sometimes in a minority week? Land, which is comprised of the two position, sometimes in a majority My appeal is this: that religion be chief Rabbis, the Islamic court, the position, but never alone. the source of harmony, justice, and minister of religious affairs in Pales- As the ELCJHL observed this reconciliation in this world. Find from tine, and the heads of churches. And first week, I am convinced that it the holy writings that which builds for me, as long as the church is an carries a strong message for our LWF this world in the love of God and love integral part of the fabric of society, it member churches around the world to of neighbor, not what divides it. Find carries in itself a living witness. find the common values that promote from the holy writings the common justice, coexistence, peace, tolerance, values of our shared humanity. Thus, What is the significance for the LWF and to work together for the eradica- we will live in harmony. and its member churches? tion of poverty, the promotion of the 4 February 2011 Honduras: Call for Lutheran Communion Solidarity as Violence Impedes Pastoral Care Day of Fasting and Prayer on 13 February

SAN PEDRO SULA, Honduras/GENEVA “We ask that you keep us in your see it but don’t speak up out of fear for (LWI) – The Christian Lutheran prayers, trusting that they might help their lives,” the ICLH stated. Church of Honduras (ICLH) urged change this situation so that everyone LWF member churches in the sister churches around the world can live together in peace,” the church Latin American and Caribbean re- to pray for an end to the wave of said in the mid- January letter. gion and the ecumenical family have violence that continues to plague the “These are areas where every day expressed solidarity with the ICLH Central American country. is one of death and survival. That by offering prayers and support and The ICLH set aside Sunday, 13 reality is hitting various neighbor- visiting with the church. February, as a day of prayer and hoods of San Pedro Sula really hard, A group from the Salvadoran fasting and its president, Rev. José where [organized] groups continue Lutheran Church went to Honduras Martin Girón urged the solidarity to control individual blocks or entire “to listen and accompany our sister of churches in the global Lutheran groups of streets. Everyone who lives ICLH in their distress and grief,” communion for this initiative. there knows what is happening. They Bishop Medardo E. Gómez Soto “Children don’t go outside to play, neighbors rarely visit each other and women spend their days trapped in- side their humble homes,” the ICLH said in a recent letter addressed to Lutheran World Information World Lutheran various church organizations includ- ing The Lutheran World Federation (LWF). The church said the violence was affecting its pastoral care with some congregations unable to offer services in affected regions. La Colonia La Unión community of San Pedro Sula is particularly affected. One congregation was unable to celebrate Christmas services because of kill-

ings that took place on the street In Langue, Valle department, the LWF/DWS Honduras program works with community members on food where the church is located, forcing security projects including home gardens to enhance family nutrition and provide income with the sale of surplus. its members to close the church. © LWF/DWS Central America

 No. 02/2011 Lutheran World Information reported in a 26 January letter. It was The ICLH has expressed grati- community-based approach. The after this meeting with ICLH leaders tude to the Episcopal (Anglican) and church’s work is focused on lay lead- Rev. Girón and Rev. Hernán López Reformed churches in San Pedro de ership development, children and of the Good Shepherd Lutheran Sula for inviting the Honduran Lu- youth ministry, preventative health Church in La Colonia La Unión theran church to use their premises care, HIV and AIDS awareness, that the Honduran church urged for worship. “The ICLH is thankful micro-enterprise projects for women, support from the global Lutheran for this offer,” said Girón. environmental education and disaster communion and from the ecumeni- The ICLH has 1,500 members prevention and response. cal family. The meeting was hosted in 10 congregations and five mission The Honduran church joined the by the LWF Department for World points. It works with marginalized LWF in 1994. Service (DWS) office in Honduras. groups in the country, utilizing a 11 February 2011 LWF North America Leaders Affirm Commitment to Strengthen Lutheran Communion Important Years Leading Up to Reformation Anniversary

CHICAGO, USA/GENEVA (LWI) – Leaders Church in Canada (ELCIC), and the tant to the ELCA presiding bishop for of The Lutheran World Federation Toronto-based Estonian Evangelical ecumenical and interreligious affairs. (LWF) North American region ex- Lutheran Church (EELC) Abroad. At the meeting, committee mem- pressed “strong affirmation” to strength- The committee provided impor- bers agreed that their purpose is to en the Lutheran Communion during an tant responses to the ongoing LWF “strengthen the Lutheran communion 11-12 February meeting in Chicago. strategic planning process to deter- by bearing witness to the fullness of Christ’s body for and with the world as a global community exercising visible solidarity among member churches. This solidarity is expressed in altar and pulpit fellowship among all member churches.” Members agreed that they would propose to coordinate decisions and ac- tions of the LWF to entities within each North America region church body and monitor reception of those actions. They also agreed to commit to ongoing conversations to recognize “our mutual giftedness and mutual poverty, so that we receive the wit- ness, gifts, prayers, and expertise Left to right: Rev. Donald J. McCoid, assistant to the ELCA presiding bishop for ecumenical and inter-religious from the (Lutheran) communion.” relations; Mikka McCracken, ELCA global mission; Ms Christina Jackson-Skelton, ELCA and LWF treasurer; The need was stressed to revitalize and ELCIC National Bishop Rev. Susan C. Johnson, also LWF vice president for the region. © ELCA/John Brooks and strengthen relations in the region They agreed to proposals on how mine priorities and direction for the to participate more fully in the life of they will work together to fulfill re- LWF from 2012 through 2017. “The the communion; and to further the gional needs; provided input into the regional conference was held at a mo- region’s identity as member churches LWF’s strategic planning process; and ment when the LWF [is] engaging in of the LWF. shared updates on their church bodies. a process of discerning new ways to NARC members also reported on The meeting, convened by the live out its vision of witnessing God changes in staffing and funding at the LWF’s Department for Mission and in the world,” said DMD Director national level, along with work to im- Development (DMD), was held at Rev. Dr Musa P. Filibus. The LWF prove and build relationships. ELCIC the church-wide office of the Evan- Council is expected to act on a pro- National Bishop Rev. Susan C. Johnson, gelical Lutheran Church in America posed strategy in June. also LWF vice president for the region (ELCA). Member churches of the “These are important years leading and a member of the LWF Executive LWF North America Regional to the 500th anniversary year of the Committee, reported that the ELCIC Committee (NARC) include the Reformation,” said committee chair- was undergoing a reorganization process ELCA, the Evangelical Lutheran person Rev. Donald J. McCoid, assis- at the national level, which would likely

No. 02/2011  be a topic of discussion at the church’s Orlando, Florida, will consider rec- copalians and Anglicans in the two national convention in July. A task force ommendations from an ELCA task countries will celebrate full commu- is preparing a draft of a social statement force that has studied possibilities for nion agreements, which have been in on human sexuality for presentation to the church’s future. place for 10 years. the ELCIC Church Council and the Rev. James F. Mauney, bishop of Filibus highlighted the regional national convention. the ELCA Virginia Synod, Salem, said conference’s fruitful reflection on The ELCIC is working toward he and other synod bishops continue to what it means to be a regional ex- a new relationship with indigenous work with congregations following the pression of the LWF, and welcomed peoples and “on a call to spiritual decisions of the 2009 ELCA Church- participants’ strong affirmation of the renewal” among members, she said. wide Assembly on human sexuality. commitment to serve God together “We hope to hold our church together Rev. Hannes Aasa, Consistory through service to the neighbor and as we commit to a deeper discipleship,” representative and Canadian dean of work for justice and peace. Johnson said, adding that there was “a the EELC Abroad, reported about the He encouraged the North Ameri- profound spirit of hope in the church.” November 2010 agreement between can member churches to continue the The ELCA churchwide organiza- the Tallinn (Estonia)-based EELC reflection they started at the conference, tion recently announced a significant and the EELC Abroad to establish on the need both to give to the commu- reorganization of its structure and staff. closer ties, including a decision to nion and receive from it. “In this way, “We’re talking about how we do our have one archbishop instead of two. the whole church is nourished and the planning in a more strategic way,” said Archbishop Andres Põder heads the understanding of living in communion Ms Christina Jackson-Skelton, trea- church in Estonia and Bishop Andres is made real,” he noted. surer of the ELCA and of the LWF. Taul leads the EELC Abroad. (John Brooks, director of ELCA News The 2011 ELCA Churchwide In May, Lutherans in the United Service wrote this article for LWI) Assembly, to be held in August in States and Canada, as well as Epis- 21 February 2011 Indian Lutheran Church Ordains First Women Pastors Continued from p. 1 the new pastors that they had been gelical Lutheran Mission (ELM – for- called into a ministry with many mer Missionsanstalt Hermannsburg), the women and youth empowerment challenges. He reassured them of Germany. He noted that oppressive project, while Rev. Smitha Das be- God’s presence and power to change structures still existed, leading to wom- comes director of the Sunday school and reform the church. en’s subordination both in church and ministry. The new SALC pastors Martin brought greetings from society. He urged the newly ordained included two men, Rev. T. Sundaram Rev. Dr Musa P. Filibus, director of women to become more active in the and Rev. K. Suwarna Raju. the LWF Department for Mission church and enrich its spiritual life. Rev. Dr Augustine Jeyakumar, and Development (DMD), who SALC grew out of the work of executive secretary of the United expressed hope that the historic step the Missionsanstalt Hermannsburg, Evangelical Lutheran Churches in by SALC would be a source of “in- becoming independent in 1949. The India (UELCI), said he hoped the spiration for the whole church and for 45,500-member church joined the ordination would lead to broader other women in their leadership both LWF in 1952. reconciliation in the church. “With in congregational life and society.” Women’s ordination is one of the Lutheran World Information World Lutheran the recognition of women as equal The DMD director noted that key issues for the LWF Women in partners in God’s vineyard the church SALC’s decision “to integrate wom- Church and Society (WICAS) desk. has affirmed that it is a family church,” en into the ordained ministry signifi- Around 80 percent of the 145 LWF said Jeyakumar, a member of The cantly affirms the commitment of the member churches ordain women. Lutheran World Federation (LWF) LWF and its member churches to (By UELCI Communications Sec- Council. He expressed his desire to see be a sign of an inclusive communion retary Rev. Timothy Melvyn) the three Lutheran churches in India in the world.” It embraces the full that do not ordain women move ahead participation of women in leadership, More information about WICAS is in their discussions on the issue. The “enabling women to bring forth their available on the LWF Web site at: UELCI brings together 12 churches, gifts for the missional church and its www.lutheranworld.org/lwf/ 11 of which belong to the LWF. public witness,” he added. index.php/who-we-are/cen- Preaching during the occasion, “Women are put to shame all over tral-offices/dmd/women-in- Rev. Chandran Paul Martin, LWF the world,” pointed out Rev. Helmut church-and-society deputy general secretary, reminded Grimmsmann representing the Evan- 20 January 2011

10 No. 02/2011 Amidst Upheaval in Middle East, Lutheran World Information LWF Calls for Just Peace in Holy Land General Secretary: Fundamental Injustices Must Be Redressed GENEVA (LWI) – The general secretary In a statement on the 18 Febru- such settlements were a violation of of The Lutheran World Federation ary United States veto of a United international law and undermined (LWF), Rev Martin Junge, has urged Nations Security Council resolution the prospects for peace and the stabil- the Lutheran communion to support calling on Israel to cease all settle- ity in the region. those advocating for peace with jus- ment activities in the Occupied Pal- “Fundamental injustices must tice in the Holy Land. estinian Territory, Junge noted that be redressed, if peace is to be more than just a word,” he said. The LWF affirmed the responsibility of the international community to support Israelis and Palestinians in the search for a just peace in the Holy Land. Junge urged Lutherans and all others to “encourage and pray for those who work for a peaceful resolu- tion to the conflict,” particularly in this time of tumult and upheaval in the Middle East and North Africa.

The full text of the “Statement on Israeli Settlements and the US Veto” is available as a PDF document on the LWF Web site at: www.lutheranworld.org/ lwf/index.php/call-for-just- The Islamic cemetery immediately behind Rachel’s Tomb, with a section of the separation wall that cuts off the burial grounds from the holy site. © ELCJHL/Elizabeth McHan peace-holy-land.html Norwegian Minister Visits LWF Focus on Sustainable Solar Project in Mauritania Geneva (LWI) – Rigmor Aasrud, Nor- LWF and its projects and programs. wegian Minister for Government The minister was accompanied by a six- Administration, Reform and Church member delegation, which included two Affairs, on a visit to The Lutheran representatives of the Church of Norway, Word Federation (LWF) Secretariat an LWF member church. on 25 February said she was impressed Junge briefed the group on LWF by the diapraxis approach taken by the projects and programs in Israel and Lutheran communion in its activities. Palestine and the long-term involve- This approach combines theological ment of the LWF in Jerusalem through and practical knowledge and methods, the Augusta Victoria Hospital. and ensures that church action is always The minister expressed her enthu- linked to diaconal activities. It builds on siasm with regard to an LWF De- long-standing interfaith relations that partment for World Service project have been developed locally, striving involving women in Mauritania. The to foster understanding and fellowship project is a South-South partnership among different religions. The dimen- with Indian women to develop and Rigmor Aasrud, Norwegian Minister for sion of mutual accompaniment across Government Administration, Reform and Church build solar panels to produce electric- contexts and cultures is also important. Affairs © Johnny Syversen ity for homes. The Minister stated Aasrud met with LWF General Sec- that she was especially convinced by retary Rev. Martin Junge to learn about support for the LWF’s work. He also the sustainability of this project. the work of the LWF. Junge thanked the emphasized the key role played by the Other topics taken up during the minister for her government’s generous Church of Norway in supporting the discussions were the situation of ethnic

No. 02/2011 11 minorities, such as the Dalits in India, Sudanese government is confronted Read more about the sustainable as well as the LWF’s efforts in the area with an outstanding external debt that solar project in Mauritania: of illegitimate debt, an issue in which had little to do with financing develop- www.lwf-assembly.org/ churches in Latin American have been ment projects. explore/diakonia-service/ particularly involved and about which Church of Norway has nearly 4 barefoot-engineers-bring-light- there is considerable debate at present million members and has been part of to-remote-villages/ in Sudan and South Sudan. The South the LWF since its creation in 1947. 25 February 2011 Lutheran Churches’ Response Urged for Humanitarian Crisis in North Africa LWF-Led Assessment in Tunisia to Elaborate Immediate Relief Needs GENEVA (LWI) – The Lutheran World Libya. On 1 March the General Junge asked the churches for con- Federation (LWF) General Secretary Assembly suspended Libya from the tinued financial support as the LWF Rev. Martin Junge is calling Luther- Human Rights Council. responds to the humanitarian crisis. ans worldwide to prayer, support and “The international community is He urged Lutherans in Europe advocacy concerning the humanitar- unanimously condemning the indis- to advocate with their governments ian crisis developing from the swift criminate use of violence and the viola- to show compassion toward those political changes in North Africa. tions of human rights,” Junge noted. fleeing North Africa. “While the In a 3 March letter to LWF mem- ber churches, Junge urged the churches’ prayers for people in North Africa and the Middle East so “that violence and repression will stop,” that people would “be treated with dignity and respect” and that leaders “will be chosen who are honest and accountable.” In December a popular uprising began in Tunisia, forcing the Tuni- sian president to flee the country in January. Similar protests in Egypt in January forced the country’s president to step aside in February. Protests that began peacefully in Libya in February are resulting in a huge humanitarian crisis as the country’s leader fights to Bangladeshi evacuees scramble to receive food after crossing into Tunisia fleeing violence in Libya. keep his hold on power. © Reuters/Yannis Behrakis Junge deplored the loss of life and expressed hope that those fleeing would In view of the large-scale hu- struggling countries bordering Libya be able to return home safely and that the manitarian crisis unfolding from Libya, are generously keeping their borders refugees will find refuge. He expressed Junge pointed out that an LWF-led open, the European discussions seem Lutheran World Information World Lutheran particular concern for Libya where the humanitarian assessment team was to focus more on how to protect their country’s leader, Muammar Gaddafi, “is expected in neighboring Tunisia. The borders” in a humanitarian situation trying to cling to power in the most cruel LWF-ACT Alliance rapid assessment that calls for a different approach, way, ordering his security forces to shoot team will elaborate a preliminary ap- Junge added. and kill his own people. The death toll peal and coordinate the shipment and The general secretary expressed may already be in the thousands.” Most distribution of immediate relief goods as his hope that the political changes in of those fleeing the country are foreign well as the establishment of water sup- North Africa would “pave the way for workers, predominantly from Egypt ply infrastructure in close coordination political governance that is account- but also from other countries including with UN organizations on-site. able to the very people it represents.” Bangladesh and Nepal. The LWF is a founding member He added, “People want to have The general secretary welcomed of ACT Alliance, a global network their dignity respected. People want the United Nations’ actions against of church-related organizations col- to be treated fairly and honestly – they Libya. The Security Council in laborating in humanitarian assistance reject injustice and corruption.” February imposed sanctions against and development. 3 March 2011

12 No. 02/2011 FEATURE: Taking Peace to Southern Sudan Lutheran World Information Cattle Camps LWF Intervention Reduces Community Conflict PANYAGOR, Southern Sudan/GENEVA (LWI) – It has been six years now since Betty Adau Bul started going to cat- tle camps in Jonglei state, Southern Sudan. Her mission: seeking an end to the many inter-ethnic cattle raids that occur among the agro-pastoral- ists communities here. “Our message to the young people is that raiding kills, so they must stop it,” says the mother of two. At 26, she is the youngest member of a local peace com- mittee in Nyauk Piyam division where The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) is working with community members to foster peace and reconciliation. In the Dinka homeland, families Betty Adau Bul, peacemaker from Panyagor, Jonglei, Southern Sudan © LWF/Fredrick Nzwili keep large herds of cattle on the plains and grow grains such as millet around camp identifies a location which must that had been put up,” says Mary Obara, their permanent settlements. Recently, be secure with a water source nearby, DWS Sudan program coordinator. the raids have become very violent, usually a pond. The many herders in prompting heightened intervention any given camp are able to offer secu- from the LWF through its Department rity to their animals. The people sleep Peace Committees for World Service (DWS) program in the open or near a fire, entertaining From its offices in Panyagor town, the in Sudan. The raids here involve the themselves through wrestling and Twiic county headquarters, DWS Su- Dinka, Nuer and Murle, all pastoralist dancing competitions. dan works with community members communities, who also abduct children “The months of December and May on water and sanitation, education, under ten years in the attacks. are critical times, because this is when food security, and peace building. The The cattle camps, comprising raids increase. When they occur, our interventions against the raids are part hundreds of animals, are organized development work comes to a stand- of the program on peace work. all the time, but they move toward the still. Last year, for example, the raids While the LWF has been sensitiz- Nile between the dry months when destroyed all the fields we had planted ing both men and women about the water is scarce. The head of the cattle and the income-generating activities dangers of these raids there is a special focus and notable progress with the cattle camp boys. “Their work revolves around cattle, and the conflict height- ens when they are taking animals to the River Nile,” says Obara. The cattle raids became more fierce from the early 1990s at the height of the civil war between the government of Sudan and the former rebels, the Sudan People’s Libera- tion Movement/Army (SPLM/A) as communities easily acquired guns, still in the hands of locals. In 2006, the LWF launched 11 “Piyam” peace committees, which ac- cording to community members are doing a lot to reduce conflicts in the A Dinka man watches his herd at a cattle camp in Panyagor, Jonglei state. © LWF/Fredrick Nzwili county. The committees composed

No. 02/2011 13 of 11 members each, with a careful back to their parents. Then parents announced in Juba the preliminary consideration for clan balance, were decide whether to organize a wedding results of the 9-15 January refer- trained on peace issues. or not,” she explains. Dowry negotia- endum—more than 99 percent of Adau joined the Piyam soon after tions are usually left to the men. The Southern Sudanese had voted for teenage. She too has been a victim of normal rage for dowry is 30 cows, but separation from the north. In Jon- the raids, having lost eight cows in an in some cases it may reach 100. glei much like in other states in the attack two years ago during which region, there is general calm. But one person was killed. residents are cautious the cattle raids Bul Mayen Deng, the leader of Boreholes may increase as water reduces and the committee to which Adau be- The committees have also reduced all communities move their animals longs recalls only too well the 2008 inter-community conflicts at water towards the Nile River. attack—he lost 150 heads of cattle to points, grazing land and at fields Expectations remain high, with the raiders. He still finds it difficult to where the residents cut grass for southern Sudan residents and return- forgive the men he says were from the thatching houses (Tukul). ing refugees hoping services such as neighboring community, because they “We tell the people that peace is clinic and schools will be available also killed his brother. “Our experi- crucial: why it is important to keep it within a short period, and that the ences like this are not of one day. They at water points or at the field. Tension peace that has marked the voting are not pleasant either,” he adds. over who will get water first at the well period would prevail. “We must The high dowry limits set by fami- or grass in the field can easily become a continue the peace building initia- lies have also been forcing the young- community conflict,” Mayem explains. tives between the tribal communities,” men to stage the raids. In cases where The LWF has been drilling bore- says Mr Arie Den Toom, the LWF they cannot manage to raise the num- holes and training community members DWS representative in Sudan. ber of cows demanded through raiding to maintain them in a bid to reduce ten- “Anything that happens and or any other means, some choose to sion at water points and curb part of the changes the political situation in the elope with the girl, an action which movement toward the Nile. “We trained north, between now and July will have often generates more conflict. a water user committee to manage the a tremendous impact on the process “Girls are precious. They are seen as source. They fence the area, clean it and towards independence,” said Den sources of wealth. So when they elope in the process resolve simple conflicts,” Toom while explaining some crucial the father may mobilize a whole village says John Mabior, acting program man- elements of the Comprehensive Peace to go and rescue her and that becomes a ager at the LWF Panyagor office. Agreement (CPA) that mandated the community conflict,” remarks Obara. Families contribute one Sudanese referendum are yet to be implemented Mary Abuk, LWF peace building Pound per month to support the before the south declares indepen- officer in Panyagor spoke of decreas- borehole maintenance. dence. These include the north-south ing cases of elopement and clashes at border demarcation, resolving the wells since the inauguration of the disputed Abyei border region, citizen- peace committees. “The committees Post-Referendum ship and nationality, oil-sharing and have been reaching out to those who On 30 January the Southern Sudan currency, among others. have eloped and urging them to go Referendum Commission (SSRC) In Jonglei, the LWF plans to in- tensify peace conferences between the communities in addition to starting mobile schools at the cattle camps to guarantee education for children who Lutheran World Information World Lutheran accompany the family livestock. “We have also been discussing the possibility of working with teachers, who are living in the camps. While mobile schools within the camp would be the best option, they are expensive,” adds Den Toom. By LWI correspondent Fredrick Nzwili

Read more feature articles on DWS work in Sudan at www.lutheranworld.org Women returnees from Khartoum draw water from taps fed by a borehole in Bor, Panyagor, Southern Sudan. © LWF/Fredrick Nzwili 1 February 2011

14 No. 02/2011 Lutheran World Information FEATURE: New Roles for Women in Chile One Year after Earthquake, Lutherans and ACT Alliance Continue Support to Poor Families CONCEPCIÓN, Chile/GENEVA (LWI) – It is Friday evening. Maria Leyton is looking forward to an encounter to take place the next day. After the devastating earthquake of 27 Febru- ary 2010, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chile (IELCH) initiated regular discussions among those af- fected by the quake in the port sector of the city of Concepción. The houses here are small and squat. They are inhabited by poor people. The tsunami unleashed by the earthquake devastated this quarter. ACT Alliance, the global church emergency relief or- ganization, of which the IELCH and The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) Maria Leyton and her daughter Tiare Salazar Leyton in housing provided by ACT. Their home was destroyed by are members, provided those hardest-hit the earthquake that hit Chile in February 2010. © Rainer Lang with new houses. The LWF Department for World Service (DWS) sent a staff The 54-year-old single parent of three Weak Social Security member to Chile to help coordinate the children says that without the help Vasquez Castillo, a social worker of cooperation with ACT Alliance; this provided by the Lutheran church and the Lutheran church, considers the person helped the church to set up an ACT Alliance after the earthquake conditions in Santa Clara to be scan- emergency relief program and strength- and the ensuing tsunami, she would not dalous. “The earthquake revealed ened the collaboration with ACT Alli- have pulled through. A year after the how weak social security in Chile ance and other churches locally. catastrophe, she is still overcome with is,” he says. He denounces the hidden Encouraged by the Lutheran emotion as she recounts how Lutheran consequences of the earthquake in church, around 80 families from the volunteers were the first to help out. the social sphere. For him, this “silent heavily damaged neighborhood meet “We were meter-deep in the mud earthquake” is a long-term problem. every Saturday morning under the and debris left by the tidal wave that The 25-year-old social worker theme “sharing the table.” They talk swept over our district,” Leyton re- hopes that the earthquake will make about their concerns and problems, calls. “Our house was completely de- people more aware of the country’s and devise ways to provide mutual stroyed,” says her 18-year-old daughter problems. In this regard, he men- assistance. “Attendance is mainly by Tiare Salazar Leyton. “We were able tions the protests of environmental mothers with their children,” says to reach safety on a nearby hill,” she protectionists that until now had not Maria Isabel Castillo Moreno. adds. She also talks about the fish offal been heeded. Yet, the earthquake has The social worker from the Lu- from the neighboring fish factory and proven true the criticism about the fish theran church highlights the fact the stench it created. and paper factories that pollute the en- that the situation has given women The elder Leyton is happy that as vironment with hazardous substances a new role in this male-dominated one of the hardest-hit persons, she such as lead and cadmium, which society. Above all, solidarity within was provided a temporary house by can lead to miscarriages in pregnant the congregation has been reinforced. ACT. The houses are solid wooden women and cause cancer. The tidal For Maria Isabel Moreno, the de- structures and can be converted into wave brought these hazardous sub- velopment of a feeling of belonging permanent homes. A year after the stances from the port basin floor to the together within the congregations earthquake, over 1,000 people in surface. For Castillo, the shameless only functions through women. the area are still living in emergency exploitation of nature is the darker shelters. Many others are still living side of Chile’s economic success. in dilapidated houses that should in IELCH pastor Rev. Oscar San- Hardest-Hit fact have been torn down a long time hueza also deplores that, following the Maria Leyton is one of the women ago. There is neither running water earthquake, the government attempted participants in the regular gatherings. nor electricity. to paint for the world the image of a

No. 02/2011 15 Lutheran World Information The 55-year-old, who during Chile’s55-year-old, The during who Alliance-sponsoredprojectsforrelief Counting on Women Lutherancongregations, itisdifficult IELCH congregations in El Sembrador, For this, he is especiallycountingisForonhe this, flourishing and economicallyflourishingand success Sanhueza says he would like to tackle women, who could start small busi small start could who women, assistance for the reconstruction of reconstruction the for assistance and psychological support. assessmentafter one year of the ACT high unemployment rate among the unemploymentamongratehigh its Department for Mission and Devel necessary machines available as part of nesses. LutheranThe church readyis positive a convictions,makes his for ful country. He views with concern the to gather on their own the necessarythe owntheirgather onto project.the However, forthesesmall could be trained, for example, as seam toorganizeworkshops where women unemploymentthe problemhead-on. tortured and jailed was dictatorship opment(DMD)continues provideto over 100 families who received homes peopleinthe congregations he serves. starting capital of EUR 5,000. stresses.He iseager alsoto make the An extraordinary joint session An of extraordinary the synods of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of France (EELF) and the Reformed Church France (Église protestante unie de France) with a sub-title indi cating it is a “Lutheran and Reformed communion” (communion time. year’s one in synod to the bylaws and constitution of France (ERF) mid-January in Paris, France, agreed on an in a unified roster of pastors,allowing eachtradition to maintain its stitutional framework forbody’s framework the unified future submitting stitutional the new body would be the called United Protestant Church of luthérienne et reformée). Other issues agreed on included having The joint synod, following up on earlier decisions, affirmed affirmed decisions, up earlier on The following jointsynod, In the meantime, the LWF through French Lutherans and Reformed Affirm Creation of United

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A child outside the new houses in the Concepción neighborhood. © Rainer Lang ©Rainer neighborhood. Concepción the in houses new the outside A child La Trinidad, and El Buen Samaritano, Rev.Dr Patricia Cuyatti, underscores IELCH. “This has been developed been has “This IELCH. which were also seriously affected. ing them during stressing times in the nicationwithchurch leaders–motivat for Latin America and the Caribbean, rate,to pray, to write and support our churches in the communion to collabo emergency; inviting and moving other through close and continuous commu thesignificance the supportof the to brothers and sisters in Chile.” Protestant Church The LWF/DMD area secretary secretary area LWF/DMD The [email protected] +41/22-791 61 11 61 +41/22-791 +41/22-791 66 30 66 +41/22-791 E-mail Published and distributed by: Published and distributed Federation World The Lutheran Ferneyde route 150, Box 2100 P.O. Geneva Switzerland 2, CH-1211 Tel. www.lutheranworld.org Fax - - churches in France including the 10,400-member EELF, EELF, 10,400-member the including France in churches Church of France bewill held in May 2013 in Lyon, France. governing bodies will be invited to examine the draft constitution and bylaws and provide feedback on them before their adoption in spring 2012. The constitutivesynod ofthe United Protestant specificdifferences, andchanging the electoralmandate to four years instead years of theand respectively.three current six which joined the LWF in 1947. in LWF the joined which The Lutheran TheLutheran World member three has(LWF) Federation (Translated from (Translated from In the meantime, the EELF and ERF congregations and their - - - Bulletin d’information protestant d’information Bulletin *The article is in the continuing continuing the in is article *The Rainer Rainer Lang, with additional informa It joined the LWF in 1955. LWF in It the joined 2010 in Stuttgart, Germany. Stuttgart, in 2010 tion from LWI.) from tion Eleventh Assembly, held 20–27 July on focusing series features’ LWI Bread,” the theme of the LWF LWF the of theme the Bread,” the topic “Give Us Today Our Daily The IELCH has 3,000 members. members. 3,000 has IELCHThe (This feature article was written by written wasarticlefeature (This 4 March 2011 4 March ) -