LWF Eleventh Assembly , Germany, 20–27 July 2010 Give Us Today Our Daily Bread Official Report

The Lutheran World Federation – A Communion of Churches

Give Us Today Our Daily Bread Official Report

The Lutheran World Federation – A Communion of Churches Published by The Lutheran World Federation Office for Communication Services P.O. Box 2100 CH-1211 2 E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.lutheranworld.org

Parallel editions in German, French and Spanish Unser tägliches Brot gib uns heute! – Offizieller Bericht Donne-nous aujourd’hui notre pain quotidien – Rapport officiel Danos Hoy Nuestro Pan de Cada Día – Informe Oficial

Editing, translation, revision, cover design and layout by LWF Office for Communication Services Other translation, revision by Elaine Griffiths, Miriam Reidy-Prost and Elizabeth Visinand

Logo design by Leonhardt & Kern Agency, Ludwigsburg, Germany

All Photos © LWF/Erick Coll unless otherwise indicated

© 2010 The Lutheran World Federation

Printed in Switzerland by SRO-Kundig on paper certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (www.fsc.org)

ISBN 978-2-940459-08-7 Contents

Foreword...... 7

Address of the LWF President...... 9

Address of the General Secretary...... 19

Report of the Treasurer ...... 29

Letter to the Member Churches...... 39

Message from the Eleventh Assembly...... 41 GIVE us today our daily bread...... 41 Give US today our daily bread...... 42 Give us TODAY our daily bread...... 43 Give us today our DAILY bread...... 44 Give us today our daily BREAD...... 45

Action on the Legacy of Lutheran Persecution of “Anabaptists”...... 47

Mennonite World Conference Response ...... 49 3 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

Service of Repentance...... 51 The Costs of Persecution and Its Legacies...... 51 Seeds of Reconciliation and Peace...... 53

Adopted Resolutions...... 55

Statements...... 65 Public Statement on “Daily Bread” Instead of Greed: An LWF Call for Economic and Climate Justice...... 65 Public Statement on Illegitimate Debt and the International Financial Crisis...... 69 Public Statement on the Deaths at the Duisburg “Love Parade”...... 70

Eleventh Assembly Matters Referred to the LWF Council...... 71 Promoting Sustainable Practices...... 71 LWF Visibility and the Role of Youth...... 72 Renewing the Current Form of the Assembly...... 72 Ecumenical Conciliar Cooperation...... 73 Theological Formation...... 73 A Meeting of Assembly Youth Delegates...... 73

Keynote Address – Give Us Today Our Daily Bread Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams...... 75

Responses to the Keynote Address...... 81 Ms Inga Marie Nordstrand, ...... 81 Ms Jeannette Ada, Evangelical Lutheran Church of Cameroon...... 83

Public Hearings...... 85 Call to Action on Climate Change and Food Security...... 85 Churches Urged to Intensify Efforts in Global Response to HIV and AIDS...... 87 Lutherans Ponder Illegitimate Foreign Debt as a Justice Issue...... 89

Message from the Women’s Pre-Assembly...... 91 On and Transformation...... 91 Women in Leadership...... 92 Human Trafficking...... 92 Food Justice...... 93

Message of the Pre-Assembly Youth Conference...... 95 Sustainability...... 96 Gender Justice...... 97 LWF Visibility and the Role of Youth...... 98 Conclusion...... 98

4 Acceptance Speech of LWF President-Elect...... 99

Address of LWF General Secretary-Elect ...... 101

Sermons ...... 111 Opening Eucharistic Service...... 111 Celebratory Worship Service...... 113 Closing Eucharistic Service ...... 115

Ecumenical Greetings ...... 117 Message from the Ecumenical Patriarch...... 117 Greeting from the Roman ...... 119 Greeting from the World Council of Churches...... 121 Message from the World Communion of Reformed Churches...... 123 Greeting from the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists...... 125 Greeting from the LWF German National Committee ...... 127 Greeting from the Evangelical Church in Germany...... 129 Greeting from the International Lutheran Council...... 131 Greeting from the Pentecostal Churches...... 133 Greeting from the Organization of African Instituted Churches...... 135 Greeting from Aram I, Catholicos of Cilicia...... 137 Greeting from the World Young Women’s Christian Association...... 139

Expression of Gratitude...... 141

Governing Bodies of the Lutheran World Federation...... 145 The Assembly (Art. VII)...... 145 The Council (Art. VIII)...... 145 Members of the Council...... 146 The Executive Committee/Meeting of Officers...... 147

List of Participants By Alphabetical Order...... 151 By Category...... 173

Assembly Day-by-Day Day One: 20 July...... 10 Day Two: 21 July...... 16 Day Three: 22 July...... 22 Day Four: 23 July...... 34 Day Five: 24 July...... 52 Day Six: 25 July...... 92 Day Seven: 26 July...... 102 Day Eight: 27 July...... 106

5 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

6 Congregants at a 23 July eucharistic service. © LWF/Ratna Leak

Foreword General Secretary Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko

The Lutheran World Federation’s Eleventh all may eat and celebrate responsibly God’s gifts Assembly in Stuttgart in July under the poi- intended for all. This urgent reminder by Rev. Shu- gnant theme, “Give us today our daily bread,” Chen Chen was issued against the backdrop of a will be remembered not only as the second global situation where priority is given to allocating such global Lutheran event in the land of the funds amounting to USD 860 billion to rescue Reformation, but also as a significant symbol the banks, but the world’s nations secure only of a memorable ecumenical event in the life USD 123 billion for the development of poorer of the Church of Jesus Christ. nations. And there are many other challenges We committed ourselves to care for God’s people that remain in our hearts and minds: and for God’s creation. Our spiritual eyes we lifted up and our hearts were stirred by the insightful - The number of people living with HIV keynote address of the Archbishop of Canterbury and AIDS continues to grow while only Rowan Williams and the two respondents Ms 42 percent of those in lower and middle- Jeanette Ada and Ms Inga Marie Nordstrand. income countries who need treatment One of the preachers, Rev. Shu-Chen Chen of have access to it. the Lutheran Church of Taiwan, communicated an urgent call for a sharing of the bread of life - Women and girls still struggle for justice with the world. For such to happen, new tables of in the Lutheran Communion and in the hospitality need to be set in such a manner that wider world. 7 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

- Those who are least responsible for cli- by state authorities. The service was a moving mate change often suffer the most from moment experience expressed in gestures of its consequences. rich spiritual significance; The Mennonites as the inheritors of the Anabaptist tradition have - The people of Kenya have been the vic- shown much grace in accepting our apology. But tims of 28 droughts in the past century, our relationship with this peace church should and four in the last decade alone. not remain static. As my counterpart Larry Miller, general secretary of the Mennonite I invite you to read these pages of the official World Conference, says in these pages, both report of the Eleventh Assembly. Pray and of our communities are in need of healing and reflect on the decisions and commitments made forgiveness. This action of reconciliation and by the official representatives of the worldwide forgiveness serves as a model for true reconcili- communion of Lutheran churches gathered in ation among churches and across faiths. Stuttgart. We were a community of follow- Finally, I want to say how grateful I am to ers of Jesus Christ in the Lutheran tradition, our host church, the Evangelical Lutheran representing millions of Lutherans around Church in Württemberg for seeing us through the world as we recommitted ourselves to the the two weeks of sessions and the many years transformative acts of receiving and sharing. of planning and logistics. It was a gift to return We acknowledged that we have received God’s to the land of the Reformation after 58 years. gift of life and therefore must share life with We are in your debt. I also must mention the those who travel with us on this planet. We many volunteers from churches around the as human beings are called to be stewards of world; our ecumenical guests, who continue God’s creation, to have a “dominion” rather to enrich our witness; my colleagues in the than a “domination” relationship with the Geneva secretariat; and all the many partici- rest of creation. We are called to put in place pants at the Eleventh Assembly. They have mechanisms of nurture and care for the physi- given generously of their time and talents. cal and spiritual wellbeing of all. I have had the privilege to serve the LWF In this regard we reiterated our commitment for 28 years and six months, the last 16 of to gender and intergenerational justice, food which I was in the position of general secretary. justice, climate justice, fairness toward those During this period I was, in different roles, suffering from HIV and AIDS, justice for mi- involved in organizing the LWF Assemblies grants and relief for those who suffer under the of the years 1984, 1990, 1997, 2003 and draconian conditions of illegitimate debt. As 2010. The last three of these five Assemblies the message of the Eleventh Assembly reminds I organized as general secretary. During these us, daily bread means “everything included in years I have come to the conclusion that every the necessities and nourishment for our bodies Assembly is a landmark and a milestone in the such as food, drink, clothing, shoes, house, farm, life of communion of Lutheran churches and fields, livestock, money, property, an upright in their ecumenical journey. Therefore the of- spouse, upright children, upright members ficial report of every Assembly is an essential of the household, upright and faithful rulers, document through which were are account- good government, good weather, peace, health, able to the Church, today and tomorrow. I decency, honor, good friends, faithful neighbors consider this official report not to be a record and the like.” (Small Catechism) of “old” events, but a living testimony of how Additionally we committed ourselves at this God works among God’s people who share a Eleventh Assembly to speak out boldly and common self-understanding that inspires them prophetically across ecumenical lines and with to common action. This is a very important communities of other religious faiths. legacy document by and through which we One defining ecumenical event during this give account to our spiritual posterity. Assembly was that of reconciliation and healing As the message of the Eleventh Assembly between Lutherans and our Anabaptist sisters reminds us, “In a time of ‘grabbing and keep- and brothers. Through a liturgical action we ing,’ we once again become aware that true asked for forgiveness from God and the Men- humanity is found in receiving and sharing.” nonites for the wrongful and unacceptable May the gifts offered at this Eleventh Assembly persecution and execution of these reformers offer yet another model for us as we go about during the early days of the Reformation. The the ministry that Jesus evoked in his prayer, Lutheran reformers Martin Luther, Phillip “Give us today our daily bread.” 8 Melanchthon and others approved such actions God bless you. Address of the President The LWF from Winnipeg to Stuttgart Presiding Mark S. Hanson

“First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for while remaining focused on our participation all of you, because your faith is being proclaimed in God’s healing of the world. throughout the world” (Rom 1:8). I ask you to join me in thanking all who have served in leadership the past seven We begin this Eleventh Lutheran World years—especially the LWF Council, Executive Federation Assembly echoing Paul’s words of Committee and advisors, those who serve in thanksgiving for your faith and your proclama- the secretariat in Geneva and those who serve tion throughout the world. Let our voices be the LWF throughout the world. For each of raised in prayers of praise and thanksgiving you and the 140 LWF member churches, I for the Holy Spirit’s work in and through the say thanks be to God. Lutheran World Federation. It has been a great joy and privilege to serve as LWF President the past seven years. During A New Creation in Christ this Assembly, we will have the opportunity to express gratitude to Dr Ishmael Noko for In my report to you I have chosen to invite his exceptional leadership as LWF general you into a conversation that will build upon secretary. I have learned so much from Dr Dr Noko’s excellent report “From Winnipeg Noko’s theological wisdom, his leading the to Stuttgart 2003–2010,” and prepare us to LWF to a deeper expression of communion engage the theme of this Assembly as it will 9 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

be developed in the keynote address by His Grace Arch- Did you hear that? Do you believe it? The new creation in bishop Rowan Williams and addressed in worship, Bible Christ is not just patching up old differences and covering studies and village groups. over old divisions, but then leaving intact the fundamental This conversation continues one in which we have been assumptions and systems of power and privilege that leave engaged over the past seven years. The Council has shaped us trapped in these systems of domination and exploitation the conversation and the renewal process has given it focus. and alienation, trapped in a house of death. The conversation is about our self-understanding as the The new creation is a completely new thing in Jesus Lutheran World Federation. Christ. It is the full dignity of our baptismal life in Christ. I am not suggesting that we turn inward, becoming We are a liberated resurrection community, sent to bear preoccupied with our own identity and survival. Rather, witness in word and deed to the new creation in Christ. I believe our self-understanding is for the sake of being Our self-understanding comes from the transformative turned outward toward the world God so loves. In fact, I proclamation of the gospel as Paul declared it. “I have believe attentiveness to our self-understanding is not for been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, our own sake, but for the sake of the Good News of Jesus but it is Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live Christ and for the sake of the life of the world. in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved What shall we say about our self-understanding as the me and gave himself for me” (Gal 2:19–20). Lutheran World Federation? Or more accurately, how do The good news we proclaim and believe is that Jesus would we reveal to one another and others who we are? Permit rather die than be in the sin accounting business. It is this me to share my observations. transformative and liberating gospel that echoes throughout the 140 LWF member churches. “For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again Evangelical to a yoke of slavery” (Gal 5:1). That is the good news we pro- Our self-understanding as the LWF is inseparable from the claim to those living enslaved by systems of domination and clarity of our proclamation. Throughout the past seven years, exploitation. It is the good news of Jesus Christ announced I have asked repeatedly, “What gospel are we proclaiming?” to those whose dignity has been stripped away and to those It may seem an unnecessary question to some, but it is not, who live immobilized by fear and guilt. for there are competing gospels. Some attractively offer In Christ you are bound to be free—free from the prosperity to those who live in poverty. There are gospels powers of sin, death and the devil. The new creation you that say the way to salvation is through personal morality, are in Christ leads to a life of faith in which reconcilia- acts of charity, political action, pious devotion or right tion is the work—the vocation—God’s mission in which doctrine. Yet for us, it is from the gospel’s transformative we are engaged. proclamation of the new creation in Christ that our self- understanding comes. “So if anyone is in Christ, there is a All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, has become new! All this is from God, who reconciled us in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not count- to himself through Christ” (2 Cor 5:17–18). ing their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message

Day One 20 July

On arrival in Stuttgart, As- sembly participants registered at Stuttgart’s Liederhalle Cul- ture and Congress Center. They gathered at 3 pm for the opening eucharistic service in the city’s historic Stiftskirche, where LWF President Bishop Mark S. Hanson preached and German Minis- ter for Finance Dr Wolfgang Schäuble addressed the congrega- tion on the Assembly theme. The Eleventh Assembly was officially 10 opened at 6 pm (Plenary I). of reconciliation to us. So we are ambassadors for Christ (2 Yes, this is our self-understanding—given to us by God Cor 5:18–20) through Christ.

Sacramental Contextual Our self-understanding as the Lutheran World Federa- But let us be even more specific. With this proclamation tion begins in and flows from our baptism into Christ, in at the center of our self-understanding, it means there whom God is making everything new. Joined to Christ will be a particular social location to our vocation as the and his death and resurrection, through the means of LWF. That social location was foundational to the LWF’s grace—Word and water, bread and wine—we are joined beginning as a response to those who had become refugees to a community of radical inclusion. during the Second World War. Since our beginning as “As many of you as were baptized into Christ have the LWF, we intentionally have stood with those who clothed yourselves with Christ. There is no longer Jew or live on the margins of society. Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer In Bonhoeffer’s words, seeing “from below, from the male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus” perspective of the outcasts, the suspects, the maltreated, (Gal 3:27–28). the powerless, the oppressed and reviled, in short from the At the table of the Bread of Life, there is bread for all. perspective of the suffering” is “an experience of incomparable Regardless of who people are and what they bring to the value.”2 Yes, our self-understanding calls to us to seeing and table, everyone receives the same gift—the body and blood participating in the world from a particular perspective. of Christ—no more, no less. That particular social location to which we as the The credibility and clarity of our proclamation has LWF are called varies throughout the world. In India, it profound implications for our life together. means dedication to accompanying the Dalit people as they struggle for liberation in an oppressive caste system. Where the Eucharist is “properly” practiced, Luther teaches, it For those living with HIV and AIDS, it means we will creates a community of people engaged in public life on behalf accompany their confrontation with systems of discrimina- of the common good, especially the good of the vulnerable. The tion and marginalization that deny their human dignity communing community is “changed” into a people who attend and access to affordable treatment. It means standing with to human needs. They “help the poor, put up with sinners, care who seek to maintain a vibrant Arab for the sorrowing, suffer with the suffering, intercede for others, Christianity in the midst of occupation. That location calls defend the truth.”1 us to stand with indigenous people in their struggle for self-determination. It means walking with our brothers and sisters in Haiti for years to come as they travel the

1 Cynthia D. Moe-Lobeda, Public Church for the Life of the World (Minneapolis: long road of rebuilding their nation. We will stand with Augsburg Fortress, Publishers, 2004) 16–17. See Martin Luther, “The Blessed Sacrament of the Holy and True Body of Christ, and the Brotherhoods (1519),” in Word and Sacrament I, Luther’s Works, American Edition, Vol. 2 Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Letters and Papers from Prison, Dietrich Bonhoeffer 35 (Philadelphia and St. Louis: Fortress and Concordia, 1955–86), 35:57. Works, Vol. 8 (Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2010), 8:52.

Banners bearing the Assembly theme, “Give Us Today Our Daily Bread,” welcomed delegates to the Assembly venue – Stuttgart’s Liederhalle Culture and Congress Center. 11 © LWF/Ratna Leak LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

women who confront patriarchal systems of power and to engage in what just may be the most courageous of all privilege and who, along with children, resist human traf- prophetic acts—the act of reconciliation. ficking that recruits or coerces them into situations such as sexual slavery, forced labor or child soldiery. When civil wars destroy villages, leaving people to wander Communal in search of safety, we will be present establishing camps Being a new creation in Christ, sent with a message and for internally displaced persons. When the fighting stops, ministry of reconciliation, will shape our life together in we will accompany people in the long process of reconcili- the communion of the LWF, as well as our proclamation ation that begins by speaking the truth to the perpetrators and service in the world. of the violence—the truth of human suffering, death and In his greeting to the 2009 Churchwide Assembly of destruction. From South Africa to Liberia to Sierra Leone, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Dr Ish- we have learned that reconciliation is inseparable from mael Noko recalled the 1957 LWF Assembly under the speaking the truth and from repentance. theme “Christ Frees and Unites.” Following a world war Yes, during this very Assembly, we will bear witness to and experiencing the tensions of the Cold War, relations this self-understanding by speaking the truth of the destruc- between and among Lutherans were marked by suspicion. tive attitudes and actions toward Anabaptists by Lutherans. Dr Noko reminded us that Lutherans were not even able We will repent and ask God and our Mennonite sisters and to share the Lord’s Table with “easiness.” Dr Noko said: brothers for forgiveness. We look forward to a reconciled and renewed relationship in the unity of Christ’s body. Yet, it was in the midst of all those doubts, suspicion, and fears Such an act of repentance and reconciliation is not a among them that the Lutherans rediscovered anew what unity one-time event for us as the Lutheran World Federation. means. That true unity is a gift. It is a gift rooted in the procla- It belongs to and flows from our self-understanding as a mation of the Gospel and in the celebration of the sacraments. new creation in Christ sent with a message and ministry This gift is God’s own work. And our hands are to serve that of reconciliation. It will bring confrontation with forces unity. They understood that we, therefore, cannot use our hands that divide humanity, that deny dignity, that destroy to pull apart God’s costly work. God’s creation. As Archbishop Desmond Tutu wrote In light of that rediscovery, our forebears in faith decided in No Future without Forgiveness, “Forgiving and being to do the most sensible thing to do under those circumstances, reconciled are not about pretending things are other than and that is to stay together. They did not forsake one another. they are. True reconciliation exposes the awfulness, the They did not anathematize each other. They understood that the abuse, the pain, the degradation, the truth.”3 Church is the body of Christ, a creature of the Gospel—and, Sisters and brothers, in our polarized world in which therefore, not ours to dismember.4 the divisive voices of religious extremists seem to domi- nate, let us as the Lutheran World Federation continue

4 Ishmael Noko, Pre-Assembly Report, Section XI, Greeting from the Lutheran World Federation, August 22, 2009. Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, 3 Desmond Tutu, No Future Without Forgiveness (New York: Doubleday, 1999) 270. Office of the Secretary.

The Assembly’s opening Eucha- rist worship service around the theme of daily bread took place in 12 Stuttgart’s Stiftskirche. Sisters and brothers of the Lutheran World Federation, crisis presents us not simply with moral tasks, but requires we are called to live as communio because, most profoundly, of us a freshly renovated and fundamental theology. As living is communion. Christian faith and contemporary the Lutheran World Federation, we are committed to science agree that to be is to be in relationship and that that task with the LWF Department for Theology and to be alive is to be immersed in an amazing, complex, Studies’ theological responses to climate change making multidimensional web of relationships. a significant contribution. The revival of Trinitarian theology in the last decades In a recent posted letter to the ELCA following the reminds us that life par excellence is the life of the Trinity ongoing BP petroleum spill in the Gulf of Mexico, I wrote and not of some self-identical One alone with itself. To that indignation and anger over neglect and carelessness use Bishop Antje Jackelén’s image of a “dance” to describe that led to this disaster is understandable. However, to do a life most fundamentally real; life is first and foremost so without recognizing the responsibility we all share—as the dance of Trinitarian relations, communion in the consumers of petroleum products, as investors in an economy strongest sense of the word. that makes intensive and insistent energy demands, and as Communio is a sheer gift, God’s action of radical grace. citizens responsible for the care of creation—lacks credibility Communio is a lived event—being made a new creation and integrity. An honest accounting of what happened (and in Christ, reconciled and given the message and ministry what failed to happen) must include our own repentance. of reconciliation. Therefore, communio defines our self- Yet our witness is that God remains faithful in restoring understanding as the LWF and communio becomes our the creation and human community. God has not abandoned vocation, our way of life. In other words, communio has the creation. The life-giving power of God’s creative goodness profound implications for how we are as the Lutheran remains at work. The Spirit continues to “renew the face of World Federation and for what we do as the LWF. the earth” (Ps 104:30). The centrality of this proclamation Communion describes our relatedness to all of God’s shapes our response to the current environmental crisis. The creation. We hear the whole creation groaning in travail as cleansing water of baptism in Christ, who died not for the life form after life form dies. Ultimately, the problem is not righteous, but for the unrighteous, brings forgiveness and simply pollution of the water and air with resulting global reconciliation. In this reconciled life with God, we have warming. Rather, for us as Christians, it is the spiritual blas- the freedom to move beyond hostility and condemnation to phemy of treating God’s good creation as something else—as give the powerful witness of a reconciled community that an adversarial wilderness, a god-forsaken wasteland, a natural lives in service of the creation and our neighbor. This is a resources dump to be used for our own consumptive living moment when the human community needs to hear not and economic prosperity. It is blasphemous because by our only our words of judgment, but also a word of true hope, conduct we are saying, “We will be our own gods. We will for we have one to speak. treat the planet as if there is no god who made it, no god who declares it good, no god who reconciles it, no god who sustains it and who holds us responsible for its care.” Diaconal Over a decade ago, Lutheran theologian Joseph Sittler Communion is lived in God’s relationship with us, in our said that from a Christian point of view, the ecological relationship with the creation, in our relationships with

13 © LWF/Ratna Leak LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

one another in the LWF and in our relationship to our munity of faith that loves and acts in hope for the world neighbor. As former DMD director Kjell Nordstokke that God so loves. emphasized, we have been called by one who is “among you So for us, the theology of the cross becomes most essential. as one who serves” into a communion that is a koinonia of As Yacob Tesfai has written, “Wherever there is suffering, diakonia, of reconciliation that reaches across every border there are found not only the crucified people but the crucified and boundary to all the world. “To be in Christ implies Jesus as well… In this understanding there is a unity and being in his XARIS—in his work of love.”5 solidarity between Jesus and those who are suffering in their Communion as central to our self-understanding daily existence from unjust structures created by human means that to be the Lutheran World Federation is to be beings. Their cries meld into those of Jesus. He and the engaged in diakonia. It is the work to which God calls suffering people are one; he is one of them.”7 us, the Holy Spirit empowers us and for which Christ This life-giving way of the cross opens out to endless tasks sets us free, “so that those who live might live no longer in every direction, down hard roads it would be easy to avoid. for themselves, but for him who died and was raised for Yet it is radical freedom, springing from God’s amazing them” (2 Cor 5:15). grace. It makes it possible for Christian community to be It is through service, diakonia, that God continues to more than yet another mechanism of parochial or imperialist recreate and restore community in our midst. We have control. As a communion of the cross rather than glory we made clear that the basic directions of our diaconal work will be engaged in a persistent ministry of proclamation and will be transformation, reconciliation and empowerment. reconciliation and healing without borders. Vitor Westhelle Diakonia is our response to the realities of our varied describes this reality in terms of adjacency: the event of the contexts—rebuilding communities after a natural disaster, church standing “squarely in the in-between spaces—spaces providing health care and education, accompanying those where life is produced and reproduced—and the spaces of who live in poverty as they seek daily bread, and working political life, of human communication, policy-framing and to challenge economic systems of illegitimate debt. As mores-forming activities … The church is not an organic the general secretary reports, “the active participation of self-enclosed system but is open to the vicissitudes of com- local partner communities in LWF’s work adds greater municative action and is shaped by them.”8 credibility to subsequent advocacy work, which in turn makes the theological work more connected with real life and its fruits of faith more visible.”6 Ecumenical Communion in Christ in a world of brokenness, sin and Yet not on our own. To be The Lutheran World Federation: injustice is necessarily a life-giving way of the cross—a A Communion of Churches is to be ecumenical. When a solidarity in suffering, a fellowship of resistance, a com- radically inclusive communion is God’s gift to us in Christ and at the center of our self-understanding, we will always

5 Kjell Nordstokke, “The Theology of Diakonia,” a paper presented at the instal- 7 Yacob Tesfai, “The Crucified People,” in The Scandal of a Crucified World, ed. lation of Anders Wejryd as Archbishop of Uppsala, 2 September 2006, 8. Yacob Tesfai (Maryknoll, New York; Orbis Books, 1994) 10–11. 6 From Winnipeg to Stuttgart, 2003–2010 (Geneva: The Lutheran World Federa- 8 Vitor Westhelle, The Church Event: Call and Challenge of a Church Protestant tion, 2009), 37. (Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2010), 39, 44.

14 define ourselves first in terms of our relatedness to others Yet it is clear that sin deeply disrupts our communion in the body of Christ. To quote Bonhoeffer, “We belong with God, with Christians and with each other. Both to one another only through and in Jesus Christ. What individually and corporately, we become—to use Luther’s does this mean? It means, first, that a Christian needs language—incurvatus in se, curved in on ourselves. others for the sake of Jesus Christ. It means, second, that Therefore, our new life in Christ is communion restored. a Christian comes to others only through Jesus Christ. It But not only restored, for in the cross and resurrection means, third, that from eternity we have been chosen in of Jesus Christ, God initiates a more profoundly radical Jesus Christ, accepted in time and united for eternity.”9 communion in which nothing “will be able to separate May these years leading up to 2017 and the commemo- us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom ration of 500 years of the ongoing Lutheran Reformation 8:39). be a time not only for affirming the strong theological Throughout this report I have been reminding us that, and confessional foundations we share as Lutherans, but baptized into the death and resurrection of Christ, we are for renewing a commitment that to be Lutheran is to be renewed in our relationships with God and with each other both evangelical and ecumenical. and transformed. Such communion is not simply life but As the LWF deepens its self-understanding as a com- life abundant, overflowing; not only life but a life-giving munion of churches, it is also imperative that we are clear dynamic, a Spirit-driven disturbance within and among about how Christian World Communions will strengthen us that puts us in motion, that sets us on the way in mis- the unity of the one, holy, catholic and apostolic church. A sion. It is communion as community, that is, ecclesia—a vibrant World Council of Churches is a vital instrument of called-out people—every incurvatus turned inside out in making visible that unity. The LWF’s role in supporting the a dance that moves to the neighbor. first Global Christian Forum in Nairobi, Kenya, is a clear That dynamic of communion is the undoing of every indication of our commitment to expanding expressions of our incurvatus. Therefore—to use the rich Brazilian term con- unity within the diversity we have as the body of Christ. vivéncia (coexistence)—our confession can live in the move- LWF member churches are living out Jesus’ prayer ment of the Spirit only in ecumenical and interreligious to the Father “that they may become completely one, so dialogue and praxis. In addressing the Lutheran-Muslim that the world may know that you have sent me and have dialogue in Indonesia, Ingo Wulforst said, “Diapraxis fo- loved them even as you have loved me” (Jn 17:23). We cuses on the life and space we share in multifaith contexts gather with other Christians for prayer and Bible study, and demands that people of different religious convictions engage together in working for peace and justice, join develop a common vision of solidarity, respect, justice and with other churches and agencies to respond to hunger, compassion. In diapraxis the other is no longer the ‘other,’ homelessness and natural disasters, and participate in the alien, but becomes a friend, a companion struggling Councils of Churches, ecumenical dialogues, full com- for peace and justice in convivéncia (coexistence).”10 May munion relationships.

10 Ingo Wulfhorst, “The Lutheran World Federation’s Study Programs on Islam 9 Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Life Together, Dietrich Bonhoeffer Works, Volume 5 and Christian-Muslim Relations,” occasional paper presented at the Lutheran (Minneapolis: Augsburg Fortress, 1996), 31. Muslim dialogue in Indonesia (Geneva, Switzerland, April 2002), 7.

Congregants at the Opening Eu- charistic Service 15 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

such diapraxis continue to be an expression of our self- International Lutheran Council, let us pledge together to understanding as a communion. find ways to ensure that the formation of leaders does not become the occasion for calling into question the confes- sional integrity of either ILC or LWF member churches. Three Specific Issues: Leadership, Decision-Making and Sustainability Decision-making As I conclude these reflections, there are three specific The renewal committee has helped us consider how deci- issues we must address for they shape our life as a com- sions are made in the Lutheran World Federation. That munion of churches: leadership, decision-making and important discussion must continue during this Assembly sustainability. and in coming years. What decisions belong to the LWF Council and what are the responsibility of the general secretary and cabinet? What Leadership authority will regions have to shape priorities and programs When our self-understanding is that we are a radically for their context that at the same time reflect and support our inclusive and richly diverse communion, then leadership self-understanding as a communion of churches? How do we will reflect that diversity. We have made progress in our hold in healthy tension respect for member churches mak- commitment to encourage member churches to support ing decisions that reflect their self-understanding regarding the ordination of women. Yet we have much work to do in what it means to be faithful Lutherans engaged in mission holding one another accountable for that commitment. in their context while also recognizing that decisions made A radically inclusive communion will challenge systems by member churches have implications for the unity of the of privilege that perpetuate power on the basis of gender, entire communion? When we face diminished financial race or class. A radically inclusive communion will do far resources, how will member churches be held accountable better than we have done the past seven years in electing for their support of the LWF? and appointing women to positions of leadership within the LWF and within member churches. A radically inclusive communion will see gender and generational justice as Sustainability lived out in our own systems of leadership development The issue of sustainability calls for an entire paper, a global as well as in society. consultation. It certainly belongs to the theme of this As- This radically inclusive communion will face the challenge sembly, for when we pray “Give us today our daily bread,” of supporting churches in the South, developing accessible we are praying for all that we need to sustain daily life—not and contextual models of leadership development for their simply our own lives, but also the life of the whole world rapidly growing churches. Northern member churches and our vocations in it, for which we receive our daily bread. can learn much about how important the training of lay The ELCA social statement on economic life, Sufficient, evangelists and catechists is to the growth and renewal of Sustainable Livelihood for All, addresses this issue: “When we the church. In future meetings with the leadership of the pray in the Lord’s Prayer, ‘Give us this day our daily bread,’

Day Two 21 July

Beginning with a morning Eu- charist and Bible study, Assembly participants gathered each day in “Village Groups.” The LWF president’s address (Plenary II), was followed by reports from the general secretary (Plenary III), Assembly committees and the treasurer (Plenary IV). Outgo- ing LWF president Bishop Mark S. Hanson answered journalists’ questions at a midday press confer- ence; delegates attended regional 16 meetings in the evening. we place ourselves in tension with economic assumptions manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever of our society. Rather than being self-sufficient, we need gift each of you has received” (1 Pet 4:10). and depend on what God gives or provides through people, As with previous LWF assemblies, we gather in Stutt- practices and systems. ‘Daily bread’ is not earned by efforts gart when the world is in pain. Billions live in poverty of individuals alone, but is made possible through a variety in a world of great affluence and abundance. Wars rage, of relationships and institutions.”11 the creation groans under the weight of our consumption, The LWF is engaged actively with member churches refugees wander in search of shelter, illness and death and partner agencies in working to develop sustainable come to those who lack access to clean water and health communities that are committed to a sustainable envi- care. You bring to this Assembly the cries of the people ronment. Such sustainable development is a continuing in your communities. commitment that centers on empowering people to de- Yet we gather for this Assembly in confident hope, for velop power and sustainable systems that overcome the God has neither abandoned God’s people nor forsaken forces and factors that oppress, dehumanize, exclude and God’s creation. In diverse languages yet with one voice marginalize them. As a communion, we accompany one we are bold to declare, “Blessed by the God and Father another in this process of self-determination that leads of our Lord Jesus Christ! By his great mercy he has given to improving the quality of life of people. us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection Our self-understanding as an inclusive communion of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Pet 1:3). informs how we understand sustainability. Interdepen- We gather in Stuttgart as more than fragments who dence will guide the path we take in sustaining the work momentarily put together the semblance of a whole. We of the LWF and support member churches. If we retreat gather because we are one by God’s grace through the from our trust in LWF leaders and staff to make deci- death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. God’s gift of unity sions regarding priorities for the LWF and its member will be experienced and expressed again and again in the churches, we risk giving in, instead, to a pattern of mem- midst of our varied diversity and even our differences. Life ber churches making decisions on the basis of their own abundant is life lived in relationship with the Triune God, priorities and resources. Instead, let our proclamation of with God’s creation and all of God’s children. God’s abundance inform our stewardship of resources. As From here we will be sent into the world God so loves a communion, let us together be “good stewards of the and continues to reconcile. We will go in the power of the Holy Spirit and with the promise of the good news

11 Sufficient, Sustainable Livelihood for All (Department for Studies of the Division for of Jesus Christ. Yes, we will leave just as we begin this Church in Society: Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, September 1999) 4. Assembly—in confident hope. Praise be to God.

Delegates reacting to the address of the outgoing LWF President Bishop Mark S. Hanson, and ex- changing views during a break. 17 © LWF/Ratna Leak LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

18 Address of the General Secretary Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko ntroduction and elcome I W sembly Content Coordinator, Professor Erwin Buck and Gertrude Buck; to the Assembly Your presence here—as delegates, ecumenical Office in Geneva under the leadership of the participants, honored guests, visitors, official Deputy General Secretary Rev. Chandran representatives of the state and local municipal Paul Martin, the LWF Cabinet and members authorities—is a sign that the LWF Eleventh of the staff in Geneva; to the IT coordinator Assembly has begun in earnest. We are grate- Ms Jeannette Sylla; to the stewards, the vol- ful to Bishop Frank O. July and, through unteers and the translators and interpreters. him, to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Without your dedicated work, this Assembly Württemberg and the local committee under would not be possible. I want also to offer a the leadership of Kirchenrat Klaus Rieth; to special word of appreciation to the mayor and the Leading Bishop Dr Johannes Friedrich, the authorities of the city of Stuttgart for the to the German National Committee of the generous hospitality extended to us. Lutheran World Federation and the United I also extend greetings to my predecessor Evangelical Lutheran Church in Germany Bishop emeritus Dr Gunnar Stålsett who will (VELKD); to the state and municipal authori- be joining us later this week, and to former ties; to the Assembly Planning Committee; to LWF Presidents Bishop emeritus Christian the International Worship Committee and its Krause and Rev. Dr Gottfried Brakemeier. corresponding local counterpart; to the As- Dr Brakemeier was unfortunately unable to 19 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

attend the Assembly in person, but sends his best wishes time to read this document and that detailed reporting is for this occasion. superfluous. In addition, member churches were kept in- formed about the work of the LWF through annual reports, Lutheran World Information, a steady flow of press releases, From Winnipeg publications and the distribution of Council decisions. It is assumed that these information resources are shared Seven years ago, we gathered in the city of Winnipeg, within the churches through their own internal information Canada, for the Tenth Assembly of the Lutheran World distribution systems. For purposes of this report today, I Federation. We met under the theme “For the Healing of will limit myself to just a few observations, based on the the World.” We departed from Winnipeg with the shared life and experience of the LWF over these years. conviction that, as churches and individuals, we are called to be a healing and reconciling community, to be a sign of hope in the midst of brokenness. We harvested the fruits of To Stuttgart: The Significance our discernment into a basketful of 101 commitments and of Assembling in Germany resolutions. On the basis of these commitments and resolu- tions, the secretariat and the Council identified four main It is now 58 years since the LWF assembled for the first priority areas around which programs and projects were time here in the land of the Reformation (Hanover, 1952). organized and implemented for the period between Win- Today it is difficult to imagine what efforts it took for the nipeg and Stuttgart. These priority areas are: i) to strengthen German churches to host such an international event at Lutheran identity as a communion of churches in mission; a time when the German people were extremely vulner- ii) to deepen ecumenical commitment and foster interfaith able, politically and in other ways. And yet, they chose relations; iii) to bear witness in church and society to God’s to host it despite all difficulties. It was an act of spiritual healing, reconciliation and justice; and iv) to enhance com- courage rooted in the desire to promote national and munication, mutual accountability and sharing. international reconciliation. By God’s grace, Lutherans learned to accept and to live with each other, when there was every reason for them to go their separate ways. The Six-Year Report The churches in Germany showed a willingness to do the most difficult thing, namely, openly to speak about In the six-year report,1 the general secretary, on behalf their painful national history and to let others have a say. of the Council, gives account to the Assembly of the From across the face of the earth they came in numbers programmatic activities and other initiatives undertaken and committed themselves to stay together for the sake within these four priority areas. My remarks today are of the unity which Christ willed and prayed for. In this based on the assumption that delegates have had sufficient regard, I want to believe that the Assembly at Hanover was as transformative an experience for Lutherans then

1 From Winnipeg to Stuttgart, 2003-2010. The report of the General Secretary on as the World Cup has been for the people of the Republic behalf of the Council, Geneva, Lutheran World Federation, 2009. of South Africa today.

Bishop Hanson and LWF Office for Communication Services Director Rev. Karin Achtelstetter addressing journalists at a 21 July 20 press conference. The world has changed since 1952. Developments such equipping the faithful to be fluent in the first language as the fall of the Wall and the liberation of Nelson of their faith: knowledge of the Scriptures. Mandela released forces that have reshaped our global Toward this goal, Luther and some of his colleagues village. The forces of globalization have both connected in Wittenberg initiated the production of Christian and disconnected people. The gap between those who educational materials for the instruction of children, do not have enough to eat and those who have far more youth, laity and clergy. It was in Wittenberg that Luther’s than they need has grown tremendously. Despite stron- Small Catechism was produced, now translated into more ger controls, the movement of people crossing borders to languages than any other of the Lutheran confessional seek a better tomorrow has increased. Here in Europe, writings. It was a fulfillment in its day of one of the ex- the situation of minority peoples and communities has pectations expressed in the Official Common Statement become an increasingly heated political issue. At the on the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification same time, theological dialogues and ecclesial agreements (JDDJ, 1999) to “interpret the message of justification in have changed the European ecumenical landscape. And language relevant for human beings today.”2 interreligious dialogues and consultations have a greater Many people coming to this country for the first time priority than ever before. see the places where Luther lived and worked as literally Political scientists and economists describe Germany “inspirational.” While these Reformation sites belong to the as the major player in the process of European integration. German people, the spiritual wealth they represent is in my Therefore holding an Assembly on German soil brings us view an ecumenical gift to the one church of Jesus Christ. face-to-face with European realities such as immigration, Therefore, meeting here offers an opportunity for Christians secularization and the ecclesial and missiological question from other lands to reconnect spiritually with the historical of what it means to be church in Europe today. Could place where the Reformation movement crystallized. this be an occasion for the churches in Europe to share with others the challenges they face within a context of such rapid change? What do these changes mean for the Give Us Today Our Daily Bread churches in Europe that have traditionally been seen as “majority” churches? What can the “minority” churches in Sisters and brothers, we are gathered here today from dif- Europe say about being church in transition? ferent contexts, nations and tribes of many tongues, and Germany was also at the epicenter of the sixteenth-cen- from different time zones. We bring with us the experi- tury Reformation. Here, nearly 500 years ago, a dynamic ences, perspectives, concerns and emotions of the people movement took hold which built on previous movements we represent. We shall spend an entire week discerning in the Western church. This movement refocused on the what God wants us to be and do, under the theme: Give gospel of God’s justifying grace as proclaimed in the us today our daily bread. When Martin Luther spoke of Scriptures. It was in this region that initiatives began to “daily bread” he referred not only to physical and spiritual make the Bible accessible again to the ordinary believer. sustenance, but to all that is necessary for a human life in Translating the Bible into German—long before the advent of the Bible Societies—was a fundamental step toward 2 www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils

21 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

dignity—including good government. In so doing, Luther Bread also represents the spiritual significance of simple leads us to address the structural causes of physical and fellowship. It was in the act of breaking bread that the spiritual poverty, as well as the symptoms. risen Lord Jesus was revealed to the travelers on the road Millions of people on our planet still do not have their daily to Emmaus. It is in fellowship and care for one another bread, rice, ugali, or potato—food that is healthy, nutritious that we recognize the face of God. And so may we find the and appropriate to their needs and cultures. They do not have face of Christ around the Lord’s Table, in conversations daily shelter and daily clean water. They suffer from unjust and daily meals during these days together. national and international economics and politics. The petition for our daily bread is a communal peti- tion—not for “my” bread but for “our” bread—that entails Building an Inclusive communal responsibility rather than individual privilege, Communion of Churches not only within the human community but also within the community of creation. According to the biblical story of One of the significant steps taken by the Assembly in the Garden of Eden, human beings have dominion over Winnipeg was to add to the LWF’s name the descrip- creation. They are charged with “presidential responsibility tive phrase “A communion of churches.” This implies a and duties” for the whole of creation. Therefore the “us” and change of perspective regarding the relationship between the “our” in the prayer includes the needs of our fellow hu- the LWF as an organization and its member churches. man beings, as well as those of the rest of creation including The member churches are the LWF, and through the the buffalo, the elephant, the birds and the fish, and the structures of governance they live out their koinonia. Yet, wellness of the environment. What we receive from God is we should recognize that the LWF has what one might only edible, digestible, enjoyable and spiritually nutritious call two “qualities.” Structures such as the Assembly, the when we are conscious of the needs of others. Council (with its various committees) and the Communion In the current context of global economic and environ- Office are the organs of the Lutheran communion; they mental crisis, provoked in part by greed and a lack of mutual share in the DNA of the communion. The second quality accountability, the theme of this Assembly is especially is expressed when the LWF acts as an instrument of the poignant. How can and how should we live together in this communion, as it relates to other organizations or com- global village? How can and how should we recognize and munities outside the communion of member churches. reflect the interconnectedness of the whole human family? Communion in Christ is a gift of the Holy Spirit. It is How can and how should we demonstrate responsibility and also a task and a responsibility; a calling for all of us to love to our neighbor? How can and how should we together engage in the work of communion-building and a privilege sustain, nurture and strengthen our communion? How can and to do so. The six-year report highlights numerous examples how should we as churches hold our political and economic of consultations, workshops, visitation programs by staff, leaders to account? How can and how should we exercise our and from church to church, and other activities and ini- “presiding” responsibility and obligation toward a suffering tiatives whereby the LWF has sought to pursue this task. creation? How can we find the “Christ” in “crisis”? These are The meetings of the Council and of the committees of the some of the essential questions for our deliberation. Council, held in different places, have been instrumental

Day Three 22 July

The keynote address by the Arch- bishop of Canterbury (photo) Rowan Williams (Plenary V) and responses were followed by the first report of the Nominations Committee. The Assembly “Action on the Legacy of Lutheran Persecution of Anabap- tists” was preceded by silent reflec- tion and prayer, concluding in a public worship service of confession and repentance. An evening session (Plenary VIII) focused on the LWF Renewal Committee report. 22 in strengthening member churches to work together and lenged to work toward becoming a communion that truly to see beyond their immediate contexts. You have seen reflects the body of Christ—complete in all its parts and the different kinds of publications initiated through the representative of its full diversity. various departments and units of the LWF. There are Equitable participation in God’s mission is the hallmark also exhibitions on display at this Assembly that illustrate of an inclusive communion. Member churches were there- the work carried out by the LWF, member churches and fore urged to take appropriate steps toward the ordination related agencies, as well as ACT Alliance and the Ecu- of women and, where it was not the case, to put in place menical Advocacy Alliance. The Public Hearings during policies of equality. During the last Assembly the call was this Assembly are intended to animate discussions on directed to member churches to undertake theological study some of the issues that have preoccupied the LWF over on overcoming the remaining barriers that prevent gender the past seven years: food security and climate change, mainstreaming and women’s ordination. But in most cases, illegitimate external debt and HIV and AIDS. All these even Assembly or Council decisions that received strong activities and interests have brought together represen- support at the time do not enjoy much subsequent fol- tatives from member churches from across the world to low-up by churches. It challenges us to examine whether work together and thus to promote intra-Lutheran unity and to what extent Assembly resolutions are considered in God’s mission. by the churches as morally binding. We confess that we Communication is the lifeblood of the communion. As are a communion, but in many cases it seems we are still members of the communion it is our duty to ensure that live and act like a federation. However, even belated and we keep communication going in and between regions. partial progress must be acknowledged. You may recall Without good communication, relationships break down, that the LWF Seventh Assembly in 1984 called for a bal- leading to frustration and suspicion. ance to be achieved between men and women Assembly The Communion Office, mentioned earlier as one of delegates as of the LWF Ninth Assembly. That vision has the organs of the LWF communion, is indispensable for finally been realized at this Assembly. the building of communion. Therefore it is important that The LWF put in place a Youth Desk in the early ‘80s such an office be sustainable for the sake of the whole in order to coordinate and support youth programs in communion and that it represent our global diversity. member churches. Over the years both the Assembly and We are called to be an inclusive communion. Without Council, as well as other governing bodies of the Federation, living out that calling, we cannot be effective witnesses have made resolution after resolution calling for a church for justice and inclusiveness in our societies. There have inclusive of its youth. Some progress has been made in been many expressions of this commitment by the LWF this regard. Nevertheless the absence of young people in within the limitations of its evolving self-understanding: many churches today, and the fact that many are finding many resolutions, the appointment of specialized desks, more meaning in charismatic worship services, is a sign the establishment of quotas and the articulation of an that mainline churches need to renew their liturgies and inclusive ecclesiology. Nonetheless, more than 60 years practices. At this Assembly we shall hear more from the after its foundation, the LWF still struggles to live up to LWF Youth about how they envision more inclusiveness its own vision of inclusiveness. We continue to be chal- in the life of the communion.

Dr Christian Krause of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Brunswick (right) embracing H.E. Metropolitan Augoustinos of Germany (left). 23 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

The body’s strength depends on the participation of all its most excluded members, whose voices would never be heard members. Around 10 percent of the world’s population—or by the international media, but who have much to tell about 650 million people—live with a disability, and 80 percent of human dignity and faithful witness to the gospel. them live in developing countries. For the church to be an inclusive community for people with disabilities is not an option but is a characteristic by which it must be defined. Diaconal Response and The church has a special responsibility to create a Current Challenges space for those communities that have been weakened and excluded in both church and society to speak for Diakonia is an integral part of being a communion of themselves. Toward this goal the Assembly in Winnipeg churches. It is the proclamation of God’s mercy and justice emphatically recognized the place of indigenous peoples through deeds of love and compassion, the expression of in society and in our communion. Yet, much more needs the love of neighbor and a further means of witnessing to be done in order to recognize and affirm the indigenous to Christ. In diaconal action, the church points beyond perspective and voice in the Lutheran communion, in the itself to the kingdom of God in our midst. For the LWF, wider church and in society at large. diaconal responsibility to refugees and other victims of Likewise, more needs to be done in pursuit of the conflict provided the first invitation to join the path that dignity and rights of Dalits, and against the entrenched led us to communion among Lutheran churches globally. discrimination of the “untouchables,” which represents And we continue to live out the diaconal calling through radical denial of the most basic notions of human dignity our faithful service to the poor and the oppressed in LWF and the most fundamental principles of human rights. The country programs throughout the world. issue has increasingly emerged as a focus of international Diakonia cannot be divorced from the Eucharist or ecumenical concern and action, notably at a joint WCC/ from prayer. It is prayer and action; prayer in action. These LWF global ecumenical conference in 2009 at Bangkok. days, prayer is too often regarded as an expression of the This called for a global ecumenical solidarity movement to church’s powerlessness, of its surrender to the powers and end this dehumanizing system of exclusion. This is a call I principalities of this world. The tendency is to treat prayer personally wish to affirm and extend to the Assembly. as plan “B” on which to fall back when every other human I also have in my heart the Lutheran communities of effort has failed. And yet, prayer is the energy without Kazakhstan and the region of Central Asia, whose history, which diakonia loses its essential character and vitality. struggle and perseverance greatly moved me when I visited Jesus Christ was the first “,” who cared for the them in the years 2003, 2006 and 2009. These communities, poor, the sick and the oppressed. This was one of the de- having suffered forced removal, suppression of their identity, fining features of his ministry on earth. His question to massive emigration, poverty and lack of opportunity, have the paralytic man at the pool of Bethesda, “Do you want nevertheless survived and maintained their faith in God’s to be healed?” is as relevant today as it was then. Devel- goodness and justice. They are true witnesses and examples to opment has long been focused on the delivery of goods the whole church. It is the mission and responsibility of a global and services, which has inevitably resulted in a culture of communion of churches to lift up the voices of its smallest and dependency. Diakonia must be about the whole person, a

24 process in which the whole person is engaged as an active the dynamic involvement of the LWF in practical ecumen- participant in their own healing and well-being. ism. Out of more than 100 members of ACT Alliance, LWF member churches have acted together in reflecting about one third belongs to the Lutheran family. This theologically on their public role and in developing common is a visible sign of the shared commitment of Lutheran strategies to respond to poverty and economic injustice, for churches to ecumenical cooperation in diakonia. diakonia is not just about responding to the symptoms of The signing of the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of human suffering, but about seeking prophetically to change Justification in 1999 was a powerful sign of the value of what is causing or contributing to poverty and injustice. the LWF as an instrument for ecumenical progress. On 31 The LWF has joined the growing ecumenical movement October 2009, in Augsburg, Lutherans, Roman Catholics for climate justice by actively addressing environmental and Methodists commemorated the 10th Anniversary of the degradation, desertification and the humanitarian impacts signing of the Declaration. A planting of commemorative of increasingly severe weather events and recognizing the trees in Wittenberg took place during these 10th anniversary particularly harsh impact of climate change on the poor— celebrations with the participation of representatives of including food security, livelihoods and the environment. various Christian World Communions, underscoring the At this Assembly, we will have a special opportunity to wide ecumenical significance of this document. The dia- reflect on the impact of climate change on the availability logue related to the JDDJ is continuing. A group of biblical of daily bread for all God’s people and to deliver a clear scholars from the LWF, the Roman Catholic Church, the theological message about our global interconnectedness World Communion of Reformed Churches and the World and common responsibility. Methodist Council is engaged in further study of the biblical During these days we will also reflect together on other understanding of justification. Local and regional dialogues global challenges that have marked the LWF’s prophetic are also reaching important new understandings, such as diakonia since Winnipeg, including our work in addressing the recently-concluded dialogue between Lutherans and the moral and ethical dimensions of illegitimate debt on Catholics in the Nordic countries. the basis of a an LWF program hosted in Buenos Aires Another initiative carrying very wide ecumenical poten- by the Latin American churches on behalf of the entire tial was the adoption of the LWF statement on episkopé in Lutheran Communion; and our ongoing role in responding Lund in 2007. Indeed, Lutherans do not see themselves as to the HIV/AIDS pandemic. We shall give attention to “the church,” but as a movement within the one church. We our responsibility to uphold the rights and dignity of all are aware that we need other Christians. The results of that people – especially the most marginalized and excluded. awareness and of the relationships that we have consistently pursued are visible in this Assembly. The unprecedented number of ecumenical participants makes this Assembly Ecumenical Achievements itself a landmark in the history of . and Challenges Here in Stuttgart we will be asked to take an action redefining our relations with Mennonites from whom we The formation of the ACT Alliance from a reconfiguration have been estranged for 500 years and about whom our of ACT International and ACT Development demonstrates Lutheran confessions had very harsh things to say. Leading

Delegates voting; and praying in preparation for the Assembly action of repentance and reconcili- ation for past Lutheran persecution of Anabaptists. 25 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

theologians of our movement—including Martin Luther churches is our longest continuing dialogue, preparing now himself—were willing to use theological arguments to sup- to celebrate its 30th year. The Commission has found and port the violent persecution of members of the Anabaptist articulated important areas of agreement in recent years on tradition. But now we can build on the careful historical and topics surrounding the church, notably on the Eucharist, theological work of the Lutheran-Mennonite International and has helped deepen mutual knowledge and respect with Study Commission, whose report has been made available these venerable communities of our shared faith. to all delegates. We will consider an action that asks for In many parts of the world, Lutherans and Anglicans forgiveness—from God and from our Mennonite sisters live very closely together, and in a number of places have and brothers—for the persecution and violence of which expressed these mutual recognitions in terms of agree- our Lutheran forebears were guilty and of which we are ments of communion. Through such lenses as the diaconal the inheritors. I appreciate the fact that the International character of the church, our dialogue seeks to deepen Lutheran Council is present when we take this action because these relationships. all Lutherans share in this historical heritage. We extend our warmest greetings to the new World This reflection and action will likely be one of the Communion of Reformed Churches, formed last month and significant landmarks for which this Assembly is remem- bringing together two separate Reformed church families. bered and by which the future of the LWF and of the Your presence at this Assembly immediately following wider ecumenical movement will itself be marked. Only your own Uniting General Council is a strong ecumeni- by rooting out the violence, exclusion and discrimination cal sign of encouragement for Lutherans who are praying in our own tradition and practice as Lutheran churches, for the same goal. and by seeking to heal memories among us and between We are pleased also to have our Methodist partners us and other church families, can we become credible with us. Last year in Augsburg, as we celebrated the 10th and effective witnesses for peace and reconciliation in anniversary of the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of our wider societies. Justification, one of the most prominent new developments On behalf of all of us, I say a special word of welcome to was the presence with us of Methodists, who also have His Eminence Walter Cardinal Kasper, now the President added their affirmation to the Declaration in the years Emeritus of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Chris- since the last Assembly. tian Unity and also the former bishop of this very place. We look forward to 2017 when we will mark the 500th Wherever he has been, he has worked with us Lutherans anniversary of the Evangelical Reformation. It is my hope in warm and fruitful cooperation, and we take this op- that we might find an appropriate ecumenical way to mark portunity to thank him for all that he has accomplished. this anniversary in which we can celebrate what we have We also want to extend our congratulations for the 50th achieved in overcoming the condemnations of the past and anniversary this year of the formation of the Secretariat in making visible the unity of the church, and in which we for Promoting Christian Unity, the forerunner of what is seek to discover together the message of the Evangelical now the Pontifical Council. Reformation for the whole of the church today. We are honored also that the Ecumenical Patriarchate is TheWorld Council of Churches has a unique and irreplace- represented at this Assembly. Our dialogue with Orthodox able role in bringing Christians together, and many of

During the Assembly action, par- ticipants listened intently to Men- nonite World Conference President Danisa Ndlovu’s address, and Mennonite Church Canada Ex- ecutive Secretary (Witness) Janet Plenert presented a foot-washing 26 tub to LWF President Hanson. our member churches are its members also. This “double cooperation in humanitarian service—even if we still have belonging” is represented here by the new General Sec- much to learn and to understand—interfaith diapraxis has retary of the WCC, the Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit, from become part of the LWF’s being. our own Church of Norway. As the WCC prepares for In the year 2002, an LWF-supported initiative on the the culmination of its Decade to Overcome Violence, we African continent brought together seven major religious recognize how deeply its concerns and commitments are traditions, namely Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hindu- also ours. The WCC Assembly in 2013 is being organized ism, Buddhism, Baha’i and African Traditional Religion. as an inclusive and participatory event, and the LWF will Inter-Faith Action for Peace in Africa (IFAPA) is the play its full role both in the planning process and in the network and process that resulted. An IFAPA Commis- Assembly itself. I would encourage us to consider what sion was appointed to help guide the work of this network, additional steps we as a communion might take in this and IFAPA women’s and youth desks were established. regard, such as holding an LWF Council meeting in With private sector support, a pilot project of interfaith conjunction with the WCC Central Committee or within collaboration for water resource access and management the “expanded space” of the WCC Assembly. was undertaken in the Kirehe district of Rwanda. Numer- ous interfaith initiatives were taken in conflict-affected or post-conflict situations in Africa. Many LWF member Interfaith Diapraxis churches in Africa have participated in these initiatives, gaining important insights and developing valuable re- As much as we seek the church’s visible unity for the sake of lationships. Christ’s mission on earth, we recognize that there are other In Asia, the understanding of interfaith diapraxis has religious communities that constitute part of the world that been informed by the local communities’ response to the God so loved. Therefore, the ecumenical community’s goal devastating impact of the 2004 tsunami. Formerly separated is not only the unity of the church, but the transformation by religion, Muslims and Christians found themselves of the human race into a human family. working side-by-side, discovering compassionate human The LWF is committed to enabling our member churches beings behind religious stereotypes. The friendships and to relate to other religious communities in their contexts, mutual cooperation that resulted inspired subsequent to plant the seeds of transformation and to find what God LWF seminars on a “dialogue for life.” Diapraxis provides is doing in other traditions and other cultures. a platform from which people of all faiths can jointly ad- Interfaith diapraxis—practical cooperation across dress many common concerns and, in the process, build religious borders—has been a special focus of the life of deeper and stronger relationships. the LWF in the period since Winnipeg. This engagement is based in part on the LWF’s longstanding practical experience in international diakonia. In countries such The LWF Renewal Process as Mauritania, Cambodia and elsewhere, people of other faiths are working for and with the LWF in the pursuit At its meeting in /Bethlehem in 2005, the Council of a shared humanitarian objective. Through this practical endorsed the general secretary’s proposal to initiate a process

27 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

to envision a renewed LWF. The Executive Committee, for the promotion of sustained and respectful conversa- acting on behalf of the Council, appointed a Renewal Com- tions among and within the member churches on these mittee chaired by Bishop emeritus Raymond Schultz. pastoral and ethical concerns. In March 2007, the Council The decision to embark on the renewal of the LWF was received the proposed guidelines and sent them to LWF based on an assessment of the changes that have created member churches for use during a period of five years, a different context for the LWF today than that of the i.e. from 2007 to 2012. The member churches were asked past. The general human, social and political landscape to consult each other in the process of decision-making has changed, and much of this change has been related regarding these matters. Like most other decisions of the to the processes of globalization. Ecumenical achieve- LWF Council, these guidelines are not strictly binding on ments have created a new environment for the ongoing member churches, but should be morally persuasive. search for visible unity. The decision in Winnipeg to From the reports received so far it is clear that the member add a descriptive phrase to the name of the LWF—“a churches are at various stages of reflection and action and communion of churches”—reflects a deepening of inner- that different positions are emerging on these issues. Lutheran relations and of the LWF’s self-understanding. During the pre-Assembly gatherings I have had consul- These changes cannot any longer be accommodated in tative discussions with church leaders and delegates as to the current structure. how we might proceed toward 2012, taking into account After a long process of consultation with various stake- that the Assembly was imminent. The general consensus holders, the Renewal Committee submitted its report to was that these issues not be dealt with by the Assembly the Council in October 2009. The report included nine but that the process be allowed to continue until 2012 as recommendations for action by the Council. The main originally recommended by the task force. outcome of the Council’s decision was the proposal to I therefore advise the Assembly to allow the process amend the current constitution and to reorganize the to continue as planned for the sake of those member Communion Office. Tomorrow, Bishop Schultz will churches that have only recently begun to reflect on these introduce this item and the Assembly will be asked to matters. Beyond that, the newly elected Council will as- make decisions on amending the Constitution. The new sume responsibility. Council will deal with the Bylaws and the Communion Office. The secretariat self assessment process, in which the Executive Committee and staff participated, has been Conclusion completed and the learning from this exercise will be invaluable for the next steps in this process. On 31 October I conclude my service with the Lutheran One of the underlying reasons for seeking to renew the World Federation. I thank you all, the member churches, LWF is the realization that the LWF needs to be a place President Bishop and Ione Hanson, the and a forum in which member churches can dialogue with Treasurer, Mr Peter Stoll, the Council members, Honor- each other; a place where a culture of listening permeates ary Council members, LWF staff in Geneva and in the every conversation. There is a need to reduce the tendency field, ecumenical collaborators and co-workers, my wife to dominate decision-making processes. I believe that it Gladys and family for the support you have given me was a timely step for the LWF to embark on this process throughout my ministry in the LWF. Your invaluable at this moment. Changes in the contexts in which we are support was indispensible for the mandate I was called called to act together require an LWF that is truly owned to undertake. Where I failed it was because I did it alone, by all member churches, not just by a few. and where I succeeded it was because you stood by my side. The President has informed me that on Friday this week I will have an opportunity to say special words of good-bye Marriage, Family and Sexuality to the Assembly. I shall therefore wait until that moment to convey my appreciation to all of you. The Lutheran communion, like some other church families, To my successor Rev. Martin Junge, I congratulate you is engaged in a process of discernment with regard to the once again in the presence of the member churches and pastoral challenges associated with issues of marriage, before the respectable ecumenical partners of the Lutheran family and sexuality. These issues are hardly new, but have World Federation. I commend you to God’s care and ask been emerging over a long period of time, in different ways the member churches and ecumenical friends to extend and in different contexts. I have even found some of my to you the friendship they have accorded to me over these own reports dating back to 1995 proposing a process of years. Since the beginning of this year, the handing over reflection on these issues. has gone on well. I wish you and your family strength and As many of you will be well aware, the LWF Council God’s blessings as you will soon take leadership respon- appointed a task force mandated to develop guidelines sibilities in the Lutheran World Federation.

28 Report of the Treasurer Progress in Stewardship Mr Peter Stoll

To Be a Lutheran jointly, reflecting theologically, and working Communion under Changing together ecumenically. By engaging jointly in Financial Conditions the four tasks, we discovered that we could be much more than a strategic alliance. We What does it mean to be a Lutheran commu- could be a communion. nion in the rapidly changing contexts of our Soon we realized that our work had to globalized world today? What does it mean meet the needs of an ever-changing world. At to meet the growing expectations of member least every year—sometimes every day—we churches? And what does it mean to support saw new challenges and new circumstances this communion under ever more challenging for our work. What has made our work suc- financial conditions? cessful? We have held on to our mission and Let us take a look at history. Shortly after vision through all obstacles, while adapting World War II, the Lutheran World Federa- everything else to the constant changes. From tion (LWF) started as a diaconal movement the very beginning, we did this globally. at a time when churches around the world Today, we are witnessing the accelerating wanted to jointly support the suffering people pace of globalization. We are confronted with in Europe. At that time, there were three other increasingly new challenges for our churches. motivations for the creation of a global body We have to do our work under rapidly changing, like the LWF: tackling mission challenges if not deteriorating, financial conditions. 29 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

To cope with this situation, the LWF and its member The authorities and auditors are putting more and more churches have to concentrate on: emphasis on good internal control systems (ICS) and risk • being a communion; management in different organizations, be it a profit-mak- • holding on to our mission and vision; ing company or a non-governmental organization (NGO). • being willing and flexible enough to adapt to the The LWF defines the ICS as the full range of activities, conditions and contexts in the world today. methods and steps, established by the Council, in order to ensure a smooth running of the activities. The LWF Over the last several years, especially since the 2003 Tenth developed its ICS over the last several years by introduc- Assembly in Winnipeg, Canada, the LWF has been ac- ing the following elements: celerating the learning process to deal with this situation. • LWF principles for internal control systems; Let us first look at what has been successful. • financial risk and control assessment; • internal audits in all departments, including Depart- ment for World Service (DWS) country programs; What Has Been Successful in • administrative guidelines (including financial deci- Finances since Winnipeg 2003 sion making, monitoring and control); • investment principles and guidelines.

Responding to Ethical Convictions The following have been identified as key processes to be by Implementing Standards monitored: of Good Governance • procurement; In 2005, the LWF decided to respond to its ethical convic- • travel costs; tions of accountability, transparency and good stewardship • physical assets; by adopting international standards of good governance. • salaries; The presentation of the LWF’s consolidated financial • finance; statements was changed accordingly to meet the International • information technology. Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). This lengthy exercise, involving close cooperation with the external auditors and actuaries, concluded in 2008 with the presentation of the Appropriate Emergency Response annual financial statements in conformity with IFRS and The most recent example of an appropriate emergency re- Swiss law. Its benefits to the LWF include: sponse was the Haiti earthquake. The LWF received pledges • a clear, recognizable format for donors; and funds from all corners of the world, from so-called rich • full disclosure of all assets, liabilities and reserves; and poor churches alike. As a reliable operational organiza- • fairer presentation of performance (income and tion, the LWF receives funds also from governments and expenditure), cash flow and financial position; organizations related to the United Nations (UN). • consistency in presentation in accordance with pro- Although the work in Haiti is very challenging, the fessional standards. LWF was quickly able to deploy staff from other country

Prayer preceded, and a special “Service of Repentance” followed the Assembly’s repentance and 30 reconciliation action. programs, agencies and from Ge- LWF Membership Fees 2003-2009 (USD) neva to speed up the rehabilitation 3,500,000

work. Unlike other organizations 3,000,000 that leave after a few months of an emergency, the LWF stays as 2,500,000 long as the local communities 2,000,000

need assistance. 1,500,000

1,000,000

Fair Membership Fee 500,000

The LWF membership fees are 0 calculated every two years. They 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 are based on the number of mem- bers in the church and on the gross national income (GNI) or the wealth of the member church country. This has do not pay their fair membership fee. I strongly urge all proven to be the best way to keep the membership fees as churches to show ownership of and responsibility for the fair as possible. For example, if the GNI of the country LWF by paying their membership fees. increases and the number of members in the church stays the same, then the membership fee increases accordingly. Or, if two churches have the same number of members Development and Current but the wealth of the countries (GNI) is different, then Situation of the Reserves the church with higher GNI must pay a higher member- The LWF is facing changing financial situations as are its ship fee. For example, the Church of Norway and the member churches. To cope with these changes reserves Protestant Christian Batak Church in Indonesia have are necessary. approximately the same number of members, but because The following table shows the development of the the GNI of Norway is 15 times higher than the GNI of reserves over the last several years. Due to the change in Indonesia, the membership fee of the Church of Norway accounting principles during the period, the figures may is 15 times the fee of the Protestant Christian Batak not be fully comparable, but they still give a good picture Church in Indonesia. of the situation. The above chart shows the development of membership The increase in reserves has occurred mainly in DWS, fees from 2003 to 2009. where there are sufficient funds compared to the risk, The membership fee contributions increased from but not too high. In the other departments the reserves USD 2.6 million in 2003 to USD 3.2 million in 2009, could be higher. an increase of 23 percent. This is a good sign. However, there are still churches both in the North and South that

© LWF/M. Brown

31 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

Development of Reserves 2003-2009 (Million USD) integrity of creation. The LWF 25 does all this in cooperation with reputable partners such as the 20 Ethos Foundation in Geneva. 15

10 DWS Operational 5 Result

0 Another success story is the good 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 operational results of DWS. Dur- ing the last several years, DWS has Department for World Service (DWS) General Secretariat (GenSec) been able to stabilize its financial Department for Mission and Development (DMD) Department for Theology and Studies (DTS) situation due to the implementa- tion of more systematized controls and monitoring. DWS has also Ethically Reflected Investment Policy been increasingly accessing UN, governmental and private LWF funds and reserves are invested according to financial foundation funds through its enhanced resource mobiliza- and ethical criteria. The organization has an investment tion capacity, so that about half of the department’s income portfolio of approximately USD 65 million in four separate comes from non-church related sources. All these activities legal entities: the Geneva secretariat, the pension fund, have helped to bring reserves to a satisfactory level. Deep the endowment fund and the Ecumenical Institute in gratitude is extended to the DWS management team for Strasbourg. All investments in these entities are managed its hard work. However, there is no time to rest, as new according to ethical principles approved by the Council challenges and risks emerge every day. in 2008. The purpose of these principles is to promote positive corporate social responsibility consistent with what we understand as God’s intention in the world. God Assembly Budget creates and sustains all that is, and calls us to seek justice, The Eleventh Assembly budget is USD 2.3 million. This event peace, dignity and sustainable communities for all. We do is quite expensive. I hope that in the future the LWF will be so as responsible stewards of what God has created and able to coordinate assemblies together with other ecumenical entrusted to us. How we invest our resources and hold organizations—not only for cost-saving reasons. companies accountable for their practices should reflect This time, the LWF entered into a cooperation agreement these faith convictions. Investments play an important with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Württemberg, role in societies, for good or ill. In today’s global economy, according to which the Württemberg church takes care the challenge is for both companies and individuals to of the local logistics in Stuttgart. We believe that the ensure that the distribution of economic benefits is equi- financial outcome of this Assembly will be neutral for table, supports sustainable communities and preserves the the LWF.

Attending the repentance service in Stuttgart’s Old Reithalle were outgoing LWF General Secretary Noko, outgoing President Han- son and MWC President Ndl- ovu. Among the symbols on the altar were olive branches, a pine foot-washing tub, and an image of 32 Anabaptist martyr Dirk Willems. © LWF/M. Brown While there have been success stories since Winnipeg, DWS needs more cooperation with the member churches some areas within the LWF’s finances still need further in the South and in Eastern Europe. In DWS, churches attention. have a precious instrument for their diaconal work reach- ing beyond their own borders. This is what communion is all about. Perhaps further improvement of communication What Needs Further Attention could help to renew and widen the commitment of member in the LWF’s Finances? churches to the global diaconal work of the LWF. Ultimately, fundraising is a matter of delivering the best possible results. It is about added value, transparency, Fundraising credibility and reputation. When we are able to be among Fundraising must fit the very different contexts in the the best in our area of work, we also get partners who are regions and in the member churches. Although there is willing to work with us. a constant need for improvement in fundraising, we have to be aware that a successful way of doing fundraising in one church or country may not match the situation Endowment Fund somewhere else. The LWF Endowment Fund supplements the financial Consequently, the LWF has developed a fundraising support provided for the work of the Lutheran Commu- strategy with different measures for different contexts. This nion. The fund was established in 1999 with a long-term strategy needs to be reviewed and assessed regularly. target of CHF 50 million. It has been growing gradually. Fundraising is about motivating people or organizations The total funds at the end of 2009 amounted to CHF 11.8 to be part of something which is worthwhile. It is a big chal- million (USD 11 million). The next goal is to reach CHF lenge to find new partners through fundraising. Therefore, it 20 million by 2017. Some member churches have already is very important to cultivate relationships with the existing pledged to donate their share. partners. It is essential to raise funds for something that is Since its foundation, the endowment fund has donated important to potential donors. From our experience, it is CHF 2.5 million to the work of the LWF. Please visit the much easier to raise funds for emergencies, rehabilitation, endowment fund stand here at the Conference Center and development and advocacy work than it is for theological check how your church is doing. You can also speak with and ecumenical work or interchurch cooperation. However, the endowment fund board members during the breaks if the LWF is not able to finance these latter tasks, it runs and at regional meetings. the risk of becoming just another NGO. Are the member churches willing to maintain and finance these parts of the work of the secretariat in the future? LWF Pension Fund As mentioned earlier, joint global diakonia has been one The LWF has its own small pension fund with 96 active of the trademarks and a strong pillar of the LWF from its members and 54 pensioners. During the financial crisis very beginning. In order to uphold and renew this spirit and the financial status of the pension fund deteriorated sub- commitment in a changing global economic environment, stantially but during the last year the situation improved

© LWF/Arní Danielsson

33 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

significantly. The coverage level of the pension fund is part of our everyday communion vocabulary. So should now approximately 100 percent. There is still some dis- “efficiency” and “effectiveness.” tance to go to reach the target level of 114 percent. The In the emergency and development community, there Pension Fund Board, of which the LWF treasurer is the is more and more emphasis on having operational orga- chairperson, monitors regularly the coverage level and nizations that are internationally certified. DWS is part the number of members in the fund. of a group of NGOs that are committed to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of aid by developing standard- ized systems for financial and operational reporting based Greater Sustainability of the LWF on adequate accounting and accountability standards. The LWF also works to improve the sustainability of the In the future, funding streams will relate to compliant member churches. I would like to put three questions to organizations being certified by standard-setting bodies the new Council on the issue of improving the LWF’s rather than to specific projects and processes. Thus DWS sustainability. is at the moment acquiring certain certifications. I am convinced that one of the strategic emphases of • Ecological: Will the LWF secretariat be ready for the new LWF Council should be to ensure good qual- certification under the Eco-Management and Audit ity management and pertinent operations for the whole Scheme (EMAS) in the next years? EMAS is a man- secretariat. Perhaps the secretariat will be able to attain agement tool for organizations to evaluate, improve an International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and report on their environmental performance. quality certification in the coming years.

• Social: What are the key challenges for further development of LWF personnel policies in Geneva Strategic Planning: From a and in country programs and regions? 2007-2011 Strategic Plan to a Rolling Strategic Plan • Financial: What would it take to make the LWF The current strategic plan for the LWF secretariat took finances more crisis-proof? two and a half years to prepare—from September 2004 to March 2007. While this was a learning experience for both the Council and staff, it was a time-consuming Quality Management exercise. Given the fast pace at which changes are oc- The LWF secretariat’s annual budget is approximately curring across the world, few organizations can afford USD 100 million (without the DWS associate country lengthy strategic planning carried out every five years programs). This money has been entrusted to us for the or so. In the future, such extended processes should be healing of the world. We must be good stewards. Therefore avoided. The LWF needs to seriously consider having a it is necessary that the LWF secretariat provide high qual- rolling strategic plan that is reviewed annually, becomes ity processes, programs and projects. Words like “quality,” integrated with the annual planning cycle and enables “accountability,” “transparency” and “strategic” should be the Council to play an important role.

Day Four 23 July

In their reports to the Assembly (Ple- nary IX), women identified human trafficking, women in leadership and poverty as issues for attention; and youth called for attention to sustain- ability, gender justice and LWF visibility, and offered themselves as gifts to the communion. Public Hearing I called for action on “Daily Bread, Climate Change and Food Security.” The evening was devoted to a celebratory evening dinner for outgoing LWF General Secretary 34 Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko. According to the proposed new LWF Constitution, “the • The Council should determine how LWF work Council shall define the strategy of the LWF according in theology and ecumenism should be focused to decisions and actions made by the Assembly.” It might and carried forward. be a good idea for the new Council to have a workshop or a discussion on what “strategic planning” means in the Since 2004, no further discussion on this report has taken context of the LWF. We need to be cautious: the LWF place in the Council. It seems that all units concerned will not be able to sustain all its traditional programs. have wanted to continue their work as before, despite the unfavorable funding projections. Given this scenario, the time is now appropriate for the Council and the Strasbourg Funding for Theological and institute board to undertake together a serious review of Ecumenical Work in the LWF the LWF’s theological and ecumenical work, including The Ecumenical Institute in Strasbourg is a separate founda- the possibility of structural changes. tion with its own budget and board. While the institute’s budget has been fairly stable in the past, the projection for 2012 is that there will be a dramatic decrease in funding. Augusta Victoria Hospital The issues dealt with by the Department for Theology and in East Jerusalem Studies and the Office for Ecumenical Affairs in Geneva The Jerusalem program with Augusta Victoria Hospital on relate to those addressed by the Strasbourg institute. In the Mount of Olives in East Jerusalem is the biggest DWS addition, the Department for Mission and Development country program. The annual budget of the hospital alone and DWS also deal with theological, ecumenical and is approximately USD 13 million. In the mid-1990s, the interfaith matters in their daily work. hospital experienced great financial difficulties. Under the The Council in 2004 received a report on the funding leadership of the current management team, the hospital of theological and ecumenical work in the LWF, which has systematically developed unique and high-quality ser- was prepared by the representatives of the units mentioned vices for the Palestinian population and at the same time above. The conclusions of the report were as follows: renovated the buildings. It has been amazing to follow how the hospital has been able to adjust to new funding • Staff in the different units do not think that the situations and sudden political changes in the area. current structures need to be changed. Because of its location, numerous activities and big bud- get, the hospital also carries certain financial risks. There is • More funding is needed for the theological and still an old renovation deficit from the 1990s amounting to ecumenical work of the LWF. USD 5 million. This deficit will be reduced by at least USD 200,000 per year. Secondly, the amount of income received • Those proposing further changes, especially in the from patient fees varies between USD 2-5 million. In order institutional ordering of this work, need to be aware to secure its daily running costs, the hospital has been able of the complications involved and whether the ad- to build up some buffer funds. In addition, a tax agreement vantages would outweigh the disadvantages. with the Israeli government removed a big potential liability.

© LWF/Arní Danielsson

Leading the women’s presentation were (from left) Federation of Evangelical Lutheran Church- es in Switzerland and Liechtenstein President Dagmar Magold, LWF Council member Rev. Selma Chen of the Lutheran Church of Taiwan (Republic of China) and Rev. Elitha Moyo of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe.

Marc Villwock, Evangelical Church in Central Germany and Rahel Gysel, , acted out their call for greater gender justice and sustainability. 35 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

LWF Income 2003-2009 (USD) Mr Pauli Rantanen. Neverthe- less, supervising the finances of 110,000,000 the LWF, chairing the Finance 100,000,000 90,000,000 Committee of the Council and 80,000,000 Emergency Income, interpreting the financial situ- B-budget 70,000,000 ation to the Council requires Other B-budget 60,000,000 certain financial expertise. This Income 50,000,000 need for financial expertise will Other A-budget 40,000,000 Income continue even with the planned 30,000,000 Membership fees, constitutional changes. 20,000,000 A-budget According to the proposed new 10,000,000 LWF Bylaws, the title and role of the - 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 treasurer will change; the chairper- son of the Finance Committee will no longer have the same responsibili- ties as the treasurer did in the past. Although the hospital’s finances seem to be stable currently, For example, the chairperson of the Finance Committee will the situation needs to be constantly monitored. no longer be vice-president of his or her region. The way things are done in the LWF need not only adjustment in the coming years, but also immediately. ACT Alliance The recently launched ACT Alliance will probably expand the potential of churches and related organizations to What Needs to be Adjusted respond better to emergencies, increase collaboration in in the LWF’s Finances? development work and provide a shared voice for advocacy. As one of the biggest partners in ACT Alliance, the LWF can provide high quality, efficient and effective services Development of Finances 2003-2009 to the Alliance, which I am confident will contribute to The following tables show the development of income and a bright future for both organizations. expenditure from 2003 to 2009. The total budget amounts to approximately USD 100 million per year. This does not include the budgets of DWS From Treasurer to Chairperson associate country programs totaling about USD 20 million of Finance Committee annually. Most of the funds are designated by the donors The position of treasurer of the LWF is a voluntary position for certain programs and projects. There is very little money and not a full-time job; the full-time job with regard to available that can be allocated to programs and projects by the the LWF’s finances is carried out by the finance director, Council or LWF staff. This is a constant challenge for us.

© LWF/Luis E. Ramírez

36 During the last four years, the income and expendi- financial situation of the churches and their members tures have increased, especially in DWS. However there after the financial and economic crisis over the last has been a structural deficit for some years now in all several years. the other departments. I first alerted the Council about this in my report in 2005. This structural deficit was not • Doing work more efficiently – this will help but what obvious during the good years with significant exchange would certainly be more effective is to reduce the gains. Ultimately there will come a time when there will amount of workload put on the Geneva staff by the no longer be exchange gains. The exchange gains in the Assembly and the other governing bodies. last two years have been minimal. Consequently, the structural deficit has become vis- • Reducing expenditure by restructuring the Geneva ible. Against this background, it is indeed the right time secretariat following the proposals of the renewal to restructure the secretariat in order to ensure that the process and under the leadership of the general necessary work can be carried out with balanced budgets secretary-elect – this would entail redesigning the in all units for many years to come. That does not mean structure and following budgets that are in line with that we should only adjust to existing financial realities; the new strategic goals, and linking the Geneva that would definitely be wrong. However, the restructur- coordination expenditure more clearly and transpar- ing must be linked to a clear, strategic reflection on: What ently to the programs and projects. is the LWF? What are our tasks in the world? What resources are available for this work? How can we make The process of restructuring has to be guided by the incom- these resources available? ing Council. The latter should be aware of some questions How shall we cover the struc- tural deficits in the budgets of the LWF Expenditure 2003-2009 (USD) departments? 110,000,000 100,000,000 • Focusing – packaging dif- 90,000,000 ferently, deepening existing 80,000,000 DWS Programs/Projects relationships of cooperation, 70,000,000 DWS GVA Coordination building new ones. It could 60,000,000 help very much if the As- DMD Progarms/Projects 50,000,000 sembly would set a limited DMD GVA Coordination 40,000,000 number of directions for the DTS Programs/Projects 30,000,000 LWF for the next period. DTS GVA Coordination 20,000,000 GenSec Progr/Projects 10,000,000 • Fundraising – necessary but GenSec GVA Coordin. may not be sufficient, taking 0 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 into account the difficult

Daily bread was the theme of Ger- man artist Anne Stickel’s mural in a Brot für die Welt Assembly exhibit; singing after a public hearing on “Daily Bread, Climate Change and Food Security.” 37 © LWF/Ratna Leak LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

that the current Council has raised and which bodies and within the LWF secretariat have not yet been answered: that meets the changes happening at an accelerating speed? • Would it be helpful to decentralize more of the secretariat’s work to create more synergy with the resources of the Finally member churches or regions? Our work as the Executive Committee and • Could the secretariat or parts of it be as the Council under the leadership of our located in a more cost-efficient loca- president Bishop Mark Hanson, as the Finance tion, taking into account the synergy Committee, and my work as the treasurer in in Geneva with other bodies at the the years since Winnipeg would not have Ecumenical Center and with Geneva- been possible without the support of member based UN organizations? churches, agencies, national committees and the staff in Geneva under the leadership of • Is there a need to restructure the seven the general secretary, Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko. LWF regions, the departments of the I want to express my gratitude to all of them secretariat or other structures to work and especially to the finance director, Mr more efficiently and effectively? Pauli Rantanen, and his team for exception- ally good work in hard times. Please join me • Are we ready to implement a new style of in giving them a big hand. leadership within the LWF’s governing

38 Falafel sandwiches prepared from a recipe in the LWF cookbook, Food for Life: Recipes and Stories on the Right to Food were among the homemade traditional dishes offered to Assembly participants at a social evening in Stuttgart’s Schiller Square. © LWF/Luis E. Ramírez

Letter to the Member Churches

We, the delegates of the Eleventh Assembly munion in ways that are possible on such of the Lutheran World Federation, met in special occasions. Stuttgart, Germany, from 20 to 27 July, 2010, The “daily bread” theme evoked discus- under the theme, “Give us today our daily sions, particularly in village groups and bread.” We shared together a rich variety public hearings, on food security, climate of experiences and perspectives which have change, economic greed, illegitimate debt, deepened our relationships and strengthened human trafficking, HIV prevention, and our Communion. gender justice. This was a praying Assembly. At this first “Today you have heard and honored our LWF Assembly with a prayer for its theme, story.” A high point of the Assembly was the days were woven together by the Assem- this response we heard from leaders of the bly hymn, inspired by this prayer. Each day, Mennonite World Conference, as the As- one word of this petition was highlighted in sembly asked forgiveness for violence done to worship and Bible study. Through creative, Anabaptist Christians in Reformation times multi-lingual liturgies of Holy Communion and its continuing legacies in Lutheran teach- that expressed the faith we share, the diver- ing. With us for this action were a cloud of sity within our Communion could also be ecumenical witnesses, who were a sign of the celebrated. In these times of worship we felt Body of Christ at this deeply moving moment. the deep inter-connectedness of our Com- The experience of the power of forgiveness and 39 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

reconciliation at this Assembly promises hope ness, imagination and great care. To return for the future with Anabaptists, but also as an to Martin Luther’s own country again was example for other places where relationships significant as we prepare for the anniversary are strained or broken. We returned to this of 500 years of reform in 2017. spirit of repentance and forgiveness repeatedly We are including with this letter a Summary in relation to a variety of issues throughout of the Message of the Eleventh Assembly. We this Assembly. commend also to your attention the complete Finally, we recognized the transitions which Message from the Assembly, and its Resolutions lie before us. Rev. Martin Junge, the General and Public Statements. In these documents the Secretary–elect, inspired the Assembly with commitments of the Assembly can be more his visions for the future of LWF. His forward- fully discerned. They are available on the LWF looking address was an important complement website, www.lutheranworld.org. to the farewells we say at each Assembly, to We leave Stuttgart with a sense of gratitude Council members, staff and others who have for what God has done through the LWF in become our friends over the time of their its past and with prayers for its work in the service. Approval of changes recommended future. We take home renewed commitment for the renewal of the LWF allows us to to the Communion and to one another. move forward with a strengthened structure To all of you around the world who could for the future. not be with us in the Assembly: you were daily We have been surrounded by the warm in our thoughts and prayers. We ask now for hospitality of our hosts in Germany and in the your prayers also, that the work done at this Evangelical Lutheran Church of Württemberg. Assembly bears rich fruit in the life of our They have welcomed us with thoughtful- Communion in the years to come.

Bishop Mark S. Hanson Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko Outgoing President General Secretary

40 Bishop Terry Buck Hwa Kee, Lutheran Church in Singapore, proposes an amendment to the Assembly Message during a morning plenary session on the last day of the Assembly. © LWF/J. Latva-Hakuni

Message from the Eleventh Assembly

“Give, give us, give us today, give us today The whole of creation is a gift and not our our daily bread”—a thousand voices joined achievement. We start off our life by receiving: in this theme song at the LWF Assembly in breath, nourishment, life itself. Stuttgart. Here is our message. As Christians we confess and affirm our dependence on God’s grace. God sustains us, grants us talents, intelligence, ingenuity. Through GIVE us today our Christ, God gives us salvation; sets us free. daily bread In as much as we depend on God, we also depend on others and others on us. Jesus himself In a time of “grabbing and keeping,” we once set an example—not only did he give abundantly, again become aware that true humanity is found he also received love and care in being anointed in receiving and sharing. “We love because he by the unnamed woman (Mk 14:3–9). first loved us. Those who say, ‘I love God,’ and hate their brothers or sisters, are liars; for those who do not love a brother or sister whom they Commitments and actions have seen, cannot love God whom they have Knowing that in the act of sharing both givers not seen. The commandment we have from and receivers can be deeply transformed, we him is this: those who love God must love their commit ourselves to foster the awareness of brothers and sisters also” (1 Jn 4:19–21). receiving and the blessing of giving, 41 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

• by saying grace at meal time to testify that we are factual evidence to illuminate our discussions and deepen dependent on God’s grace and giving our learning as communion. Even though we long for agreement, we know that • by showing gratitude to our fellow human beings the basis of our communion is not shared opinion, but for what we receive from them shared faith. Jesus showed us that each one—woman, man and • by sharing the gospel of grace with the people around child—is equally valuable and important before God. As us, freely passing on what we have received a communion that rejoices in its diversity and recognizes this equal humanity: • by sharing not only our material goods, but also our knowledge and know-how with others • We acknowledge that our own policy of gender justice is only partially implemented. We need • by caring for the environment, which we do not further reflection and implementation. We believe own, so future generations may enjoy the fruits of that in order to be a legitimate and credible voice creation and lead wholesome lives. for gender justice in society, the church must first achieve gender justice within its own structures and practices. Churches should be ahead of their Give US today our daily bread time in granting women and men the opportunity to develop and use to the full their God-given gifts. We are a community with fellow Lutherans and all Chris- Realizing gender justice changes and re-values the tians and, beyond that, with people of all faiths and none. roles of both men and women; new roles in churches Through Christ each one of us can relate directly to God, for both may shift traditional roles in society. but as children of God we are bound to one another. Be- cause of our interdependence we need to make every effort • We emphasize the inclusion of persons with dis- to communicate across linguistic and other barriers. abilities in church and society. We acknowledge that we face brokenness on all levels: in our Lutheran and Christian world, between different faith • We oppose all types of human trafficking and com- traditions, between humankind and the rest of creation. modification of the human body. However, as Lutherans we testify that reconciliation is possible in Christ. This was witnessed to in the profound • We emphasize that children’s needs vary: some suf- expression of repentance and forgiveness between Luther- fer physical starvation and abuse, others spiritual ans and Mennonites in this Assembly. starvation and neglect. Still others become victims As members of LWF, we each stand firm in our faith of human trafficking or are forced to become child and heritage. With all our differences, we encourage each soldiers. Many societies fail fully to recognize chil- other to listen prayerfully to the stories and perspectives dren’s rights and needs. When we put the rights, needs of others, seeking wisdom, theological knowledge and

At a special dinner tribute to Dr Noko, vice-president for Africa Bishop Dr Zephania Kameeta con- veyed greetings from the region; a quilt made by women church mem- bers was a gift from the Evangeli- 42 cal Lutheran Church in America. © LWF/Ratna Leak and welfare of children at the centre (Mk 9:36), we Give us TODAY our daily bread have a future much brighter than we can imagine. “The creation waits with eager longing for the revealing • We reject the oppression of and discrimination against of the children of God” (Rom 8:19). When people are people for reasons of ethnicity, nationality or caste. transformed by the gospel, creation breathes a sigh of We express our support for the Dalit communities relief, and communities flourish. Where the gospel takes in their hopes and aspirations for a new tomorrow. root, creation benefits. We highlighted several issues that are of burning rel- evance today, as they have been for several yesterdays: Commitments and actions • Food justice: Recognizing adequate and nutritious • We ask for gender education to be included in all food as essential to life, we are painfully aware that theological study. while large portions of the world population are impoverished and hungry, in other instances forty • We ask all churches to recommit to gender and percent of food gets thrown away uneaten. This denies generational justice and inclusiveness. Box-ticking the fact that food is precious. The answer is not to is never enough. fill empty bowls with cheap charity, but rather with the costly pursuit of justice for the sake of this and • We ask the LWF and all member churches to facilitate future generations. Direct support of the hungry and exchanges for the sake of more widespread positive marginalized has to be combined with development exposure to women in lay and ordained leadership. and education. Our work has to empower people to fend for their own rights and live in dignity. • We refer to the resolution on human trafficking and relevant actions called for by this Assembly. • Climate change: We are aware that the window of opportunity for the reduction of greenhouse gas is • We endorse the message from the youth pre-Assembly shrinking. We realize that those who are most to on the topic of sex education. blame often feel the least affected. As one conse- quence of this global crisis, some indigenous people • We call for LWF and all member churches to make are at risk of losing their ancestral land and culture. the rights and welfare of children a priority for future theology and action. • HIV and AIDS: We recognize that the body of Christ is infected and affected; the church is both • We commit ourselves to continuing the dialogue part of the problem and part of the solution. The with the Mennonites and the LWF and its member churches’ silence or ill-advised recommendations churches. have contributed to the ongoing spread of the pan- demic. At the same time, churches are instrumental

© LWF/Hans Kasch

43 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

in providing information and education that result and ensuring the inclusion in church and society of in effective prevention. those infected.

• We recognize that in today’s world migration and • Prevention, treatment and care must be given equal issues connected with it are increasingly posing a priority. We call on all churches to consider how best challenge to social cohesion and political systems. to act on prevention of HIV transmission in their We acknowledge the large amount of work that has been specific contexts. done in some of these areas. We anticipate a time when we no longer need to speak about such issues each day. • Political commitment to achieve universal access to treatment is waning. We call on all governments to fulfill the promises they have made in this regard. Commitments and actions This will enable people with HIV to live full and productive lives for the benefit of society. • Food justice: We refer to the resolutions and actions of this Assembly. • The churches are invited to pursue their commit- • As we are only beginning to understand the ment to welcoming migrants who have emigrated extent of the issue, our first priority should for political, economic or climatic reasons. be to educate ourselves about the dynamics of food production and distribution in a globalized world. Give us today our DAILY bread • We ask the member churches to be actively involved in diaconal work with those suffering The world we live in is God’s ongoing creation of which from food injustice and support the work of the we as creatures are a part. For our living, we rely on basic LWF Department for World Service. gifts that we cannot produce such as the atmosphere, fertile soil and clean water. We are creative creatures, capable • Climate change: We refer to the resolutions and of developing skills and inventing technology to improve actions of this Assembly. our lives as well as to jeopardize them. Jesus says, “I have come that you might have life in • HIV and AIDS: The rate of infection continues abundance” (Jn 10:10). As Christians we are called to to exceed the rate of increased access to treatment. be good stewards of God’s creation and to share its gifts Hence the following actions are all of paramount equitably. However, we have been polluting, exploiting and importance. destroying God’s creation, therefore decreasing biodiversity and causing the basic necessities of life to deteriorate. • Churches are asked to maintain the awareness of the We are acutely aware of the environmental, social and disease, counteracting stigma and marginalization economic unsustainability of many current patterns of behavior and practices in our global village. Our context

44 today fails to provide a balance between these three pil- • sustainable practice in the ownership and use of land lars of sustainability. The ongoing global financial and and buildings economic crisis has shown us serious concerns regarding the unconstrained accumulation of wealth of the few at • good and transparent governance the expense of the many. Illegitimate debts, incurred by unscrupulous lenders • sustainable management practices. and borrowers, have plunged countries into deep financial crises, which are a major cause of hardship in affected Furthermore we call upon the LWF and its member societies. churches to Greed is a sin that contributes to current unsustainable practices and systems, and therefore must be confronted. • advocate for the cancellation of illegitimate debts It also fuels the injustice between rich and poor; between developed and developing countries and communities. We • promote sustainable development as Christians and churches repent of our complicity in this greed-driven culture. • raise awareness on environmental issues.

We look to a future where all share in the daily bread. Commitments and actions Through our repentance and the forgiveness promised to us by God, as well as our daily rebirth in our baptism, we Give us today our daily BREAD are strengthened to work for the renewal and rebirth of creation. Therefore we commit to promoting alternatives Give us today our daily bread. “What does this mean?... to prevailing economic systems so that God’s gifts may Daily bread includes everything that has to do with the be distributed in a more sustainable and just manner. In support and needs of the body, such as food, drink, cloth- accordance with the resolutions of the LWF Assembly we ing, shoes, house, home, land, animals, money, goods, a call on LWF and all member churches to give attention devout husband or wife, devout children, devout work- to concrete actions such as: ers, devout and faithful rulers, good government, good weather, peace, health, self-control, good reputation, • consistent ethical investment policy and practice good friends, faithful neighbors, and the like” (Luther’s Small Catechism). • purchasing policy that is responsible ecologically The sacramental sharing of bread and wine obliges us and socially to care for the daily bread of our societies (1 Corinthians 11:17-34). As a communion of small and large churches, • carbon dioxide neutral event management we recognize that we fulfill the obligation of feeding the world physically and spiritually in various ways, for • ecologically sound means of transportation instance through preaching the gospel, education and

During the evening, Dr Noko was showered with gifts, and participants were entertained by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe Betseranai Choir as well as by a slide-show depicting special moments in Dr Noko’s life. 45 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

capacity building, social and political diakonia, We acknowledge that the climate crisis advocacy, and effective communication and issues of sustainability make dialogue In an increasingly multicultural world, and diapraxis between people of different the need for dialogue and working together faith traditions essential and may provide an (diapraxis) grows more urgent daily. The impulse toward greater mutual understanding. fruits that are harvested from ecumenical This comes to expression in common advocacy and interfaith dialogue and diapraxis depend and action. on the depth of knowledge and immersion We expect the LWF and its member church- in our own tradition. Being well grounded es to speak up loudly and prophetically. in our faith tradition enables us to be open, Going out with this message, trusting the receptive, and hospitable to others. Triune God, we proclaim:

As we face rising waters, hunger, and displacement, God suffers with us. As we mourn the distress and wounds of God’s creation, God weeps with us. As we struggle for justice, God struggles with us. As we expose and challenge climate injustice, God empowers us. As we are troubled by divisions in and between our churches, God challenges us to become what we already are in our baptism. As we, in the light of the gospel, discover the reforming power of diversity and tension, God inspires us to repentance, reconciliation, and renewal. As we dare to face the challenges of giving and receiving, of sharing, God creates God’s people into newness. (cf. God, Creation and Climate Change, p. 129)

46 Using bowls of olive oil from the Holy Land, congregants in a special “Service of Repentance” made the sign of the cross on each other’s hands. © LWF/Arní Danielsson Action on the Legacy of Lutheran Persecution of “Anabaptists”

Note: Below is the statement approved by the Trusting in God who in Jesus Christ was Council of The Lutheran World Federation reconciling the world to himself, we ask for in Chavannes de Bogis (Geneva) in October forgiveness—from God and from our Menno- 2009 and adopted at the VIIth Plenary Ses- nite sisters and brothers—for the harm that our sion of the LWF Eleventh Assembly on 22 forbears in the sixteenth century committed July 2010 to Anabaptists, for forgetting or ignoring this persecution in the intervening centuries, and When Lutherans today realize the history of for all inappropriate, misleading and hurtful Lutheran – Anabaptist relationships in the portraits of Anabaptists and Mennonites sixteenth century and beyond as it is presented made by Lutheran authors, in both popular in the report of the Lutheran – Mennonite and scholarly forms, to the present day. International Study Commission, they are We pray that God may grant to our com- filled with a deep sense of regret and pain over munities a healing of our memories and the persecution of Anabaptists by Lutheran reconciliation. authorities and especially over the fact that We commit ourselves: Lutheran reformers theologically supported this persecution. Thus, The Lutheran World • to interpret the Lutheran Confessions Federation, A Communion of Churches wishes in light of the jointly described history to express publicly its deep regret and sorrow. between Lutherans and Anabaptists; 47 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

• to take care that this action of the LWF towards upholding and maintaining will bear fruit in the teaching of the freedom of religion and conscience in Lutheran Confessions in the seminaries political orders and societies, and and other educational activities of our member churches; • to urge our international bodies, member churches, and in particular our congre- • to continue the exploration of unresolved gations, to seek ways to continue and issues between our two traditions, in par- deepen relations with the Mennonite ticular baptism and relations of Christians World Conference and with local Men- and of the Church to the state, in an nonite communities through common atmosphere of mutual openness and the prayer and Bible study, shared humani- willingness to learn from each other; tarian engagement, and common work for peace. • to affirm the present consensus, gained by the experience of our churches over the Recommended by the LWF Council, October centuries, in repudiating the use of the 2009, for approval by the LWF Eleventh As- state’s power either to exclude or enforce sembly, July 2010. particular religious beliefs; and to work

48 Mennonite World Conference Response to the Lutheran World Federation Action on the Legacy of Lutheran Persecution of Anabaptists

Given by President Danisa Ndlovu (photo, right)

Martin Luther and the Anabaptists called this said to him, ‘Not seven times, but, I tell you, seventy practice of the early Christians the “rule of times seven’” (Matthew 18:18-22 NRSV). Christ.” We find it in Matthew 18, one of only two places in the New Testament where Jesus Today in this place, we together—Lutherans uses the word ecclesia—“church.” Both times and Anabaptist-Mennonites­—are fulfilling his subject is “binding and loosing.” More the “rule of Christ.” specifically, in this instance, Jesus teaches Today in this place, we together—Lu- about granting forgiveness while reestablishing therans, Anabaptist-Mennonites, and other communion in the community of disciples. Christians—are living out a basic and essential meaning of church: binding and loosing; seek- “Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be ing and granting forgiveness; restoring and bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth healing relationships in the body of Christ. will be loosed in heaven. Again, truly I tell you, if To God be the glory! two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done by my Father in heaven. For where two *** or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them. Then Peter came and said to him, ‘Lord, if Trusting in God who in Jesus Christ was rec- another member of the church sins against me, how onciling the world to himself, you have taken often should I forgive? As many as seven times?’ Jesus this action on the legacy of the persecution of 49 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

Anabaptists in which you ask for forgiveness which take seriously the jointly described from God and from Anabaptist-Mennonite history found in the Lutheran-Mennonite sisters and brothers. You seek forgiveness: International Study Commission Report; • We commit ourselves to take care that • for the harm that your forbears in the six- your initiative for reconciliation is known teenth century committed to Anabaptists; and honoured in Anabaptist-Mennonite • for forgetting or ignoring this persecu- teaching about Lutherans; tion in the intervening centuries; and • We commit ourselves to continue with • for all inappropriate, misleading and you deliberation on the unresolved issues hurtful portraits of Anabaptists and between our two traditions, in a spirit Mennonites made by Lutheran authors of mutual vulnerability and openness to to the present day. the movement of the Spirit; • We commit ourselves to encourage our Are we worthy to receive your request? We are member churches, their local congrega- painfully aware of our own inadequacy. tions, and their institutions to seek fuller We cannot bring ourselves to this table with relations and greater cooperation with heads held high. We can only come bowed Lutherans in service to the world. down in great humility and in the fear of the Lord. We cannot come to this point and fail To God be the glory! to see our own sinfulness. We cannot come to this point without recognizing our own need *** for God’s grace and forgiveness. At the same time, we are profoundly moved During the Last Supper, Jesus said to his by your spirit of repentance and by your act disciples: of seeking forgiveness. And we remember the prayer of George Blaurock, the first “I give you a new commandment, that you love Anabaptist—baptized on January 21, 1525, in one another. Just as I have loved you, you should Zurich (Switzerland); burned at the stake on also love one another. By this everyone will know September 6, 1529, in Klausen (Austria). that you are my disciples, if you have love for one While in prison Blaurock wrote these words: another” (John 13:34-35).

I sincerely pray for all my enemies, O Lord, however He also gave them a physical, embodied dem- many there may be. Do not lay their sins to their onstration of this new commandment: charge. Lord, I entreat this according to your will. “Jesus (…) got up from the table, took off his outer We believe that God has already heard and robe, and tied a towel around himself. Then he granted this Anabaptist prayer. We believe poured water into a basin and began to wash his that today God has heard your confession and disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel is granting your appeal for forgiveness. We that was tied around him” (John 13:3-5). joyfully and humbly join with God in giving forgiveness. In the spirit of the “rule of Christ,” Some Anabaptist and Mennonite churches have we believe that what we are doing together here maintained the practice of foot washing. This today on earth, God is doing also in heaven. wooden foot washing tub comes from one of To God be the glory! them. We offer it to you as a sign of our com- mitment to a future when the distinguishing *** mark of Lutheran and Anabaptist-Mennonite relationships is boundless love and unfailing Trusting in God who in Jesus Christ was service. We will learn to seek one another’s good reconciling the world to himself, not only from a posture of voluntary and mutual submis- have you sought forgiveness for past acts, sion. For it is in our vulnerability to one another you have demonstrated the integrity of your that God’s miraculous, transforming, reconciling initiative by making specific commitments to presence is made visible in the world. new action. We gratefully acknowledge these To God be the glory! commitments. In response: Mennonite World Conference • We commit ourselves to promote interpre- 22 July 2010 50 tations of the Lutheran-Anabaptist story Stuttgart, Germany Congregants in the special “Service of Repentance” © LWF/Arní Danielsson

Service of Repentance

The Costs of Persecution “Anyone who wants to be a proper Christian and its Legacies must leave behind all they possess and suffer persecution until death” they were warned. No, martyrdom was neither sought nor Testimony 1: glorified at the time. It was only lived and Frieder Boller, Chairperson, accepted as the unavoidable consequence of Association of Mennonite their witness. That was rooted in the confi- Assemblies in Germany dence: “Who will separate us from the love of Christ” (Rom 8:35)? Barbara Unger was a young mother of four chil- Barbara Unger was executed, with others, dren. With others, she chose to be baptized in in Reinhardsbrunn, , on 18 January 1529. That was her YES to following Jesus and her 1530, barely 18 months after her baptism. YES to living with brothers and sisters in visible There is plenty of documentation that those community. They wanted to be a community persecuted had already forgiven their tormen- incarnating the Body of Christ—where daily tors. They did so in the spirit of the Lord’s Prayer life demonstrated the practical effects of justice, and that Jesus had prayed, “Forgive them, for non-violence and love of their neighbor. they do know not what they are doing.” She and the others who were baptized were And yet the blood witnesses in those times prepared for what might come. also remind us of Jesus’s words: “See, I am 51 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

sending you out like sheep into the midst of wolves” (Mt 1000-year-old law of the Roman Empire. For this Lutherans 10:16). appealed to the Mosaic Law, even though Martin Luther Today we see ourselves seriously confronted with the had formerly declared a direct appeal to the Old Testament awkward question: to be theologically illegitimate. The reformers did not have “What would I be ready to die for?” a precise and differentiated perception of Anabaptists; nev- What are we willing to give up—for heaven’s sake? ertheless, they drew sharp consequences from their limited What do we live and work for to the last? understanding of the movement. In defending the gospel, The witness of Anabaptist and other martyrs challenges the reformers in this case chose strategies that contradicted us today—in our post-Christian or non-Christian socie- this very gospel. Therefore Lutherans who continue to ad- ties—to live as the Body of Christ. They point us to Jesus. here to the foundational insights of Lutheran Reformation He exhorts and encourages us to live in the community fittingly ask Mennonites for forgiveness for the Reformers’ of God’s shalom, to speak prophetically in this world, to misperception, misjudgment and misrepresentation of the be non-violent in our actions, to serve others and to bring Anabaptists and all the harm that originated from them. about reconciliation. And not least to invite others to join us and accompany them as we follow Jesus together. Testimony 3: Larry Miller, General Secretary, Mennonite World Conference, and co- Testimony 2: secretary of the Lutheran – Mennonite Theodor Dieter, Director, Institute for International Study Commission Ecumenical Research Strasbourg, and co- secretary of the Lutheran – Mennonite From the beginning of the movement, as you have heard, International Study Commission Anabaptists interpreted their persecution as a confirmation of faithful Christian discipleship. Over the centuries and Lutherans today recognize and deeply regret that Luther and around the world, stories of faithful suffering became a Melanchthon theologically supported the persecution and vital shaper of Anabaptist-Mennonite identity. even execution of Anabaptists—against their own earlier In 1660 a Dutch Mennonite pastor compiled these insight that conflicts of true and false doctrine had to be accounts into this influential book, the Martyrs Mirror. overcome by the word of God, not by the sword. Lutheran Second only to Christ as example here is Dirk Willems. reformers accused Anabaptists of being seditious since they Imprisoned for his beliefs, Willems escaped and fled across denied that Christians could hold an office of temporal an icy pond. A soldier chasing him fell through the ice authority, even though most of the Anabaptists strictly and called out for help. Willems returned to rescue his refused to use violence. Moreover, Lutheran reformers drowning pursuer. His compassion allowed his recapture, regarded the Anabaptist understanding of baptism, espe- and he was executed. cially their refusal to baptize infants, as blasphemy, which Yet even as we actively treasure these memories as had to be punished by capital punishment according to the models, we acknowledge that such remembering, through

Day Five 24 July

Following the final report of the Credentials and Nominations Committee (Plenary X), the As- sembly proceeded to elect 48 new Council members and Bishop Dr Munib A. Younan as the new LWF President (Plenary XI). Illegitimate debt, and HIV and AIDS were the focus of a two-part public hearing (Public Hearing 2); an outdoor eve- ning meal for Assembly participants in the Schillerplatz underscored the universal right of all people to 52 food security. the centuries and into the present, has come with a price. our wish to ask them for forgiveness for the religious intol- In our conversations with you and others we have come erance of Lutherans in the past, I realized the meaning of to see the costs more clearly. this act of reconciliation between churches in the context At times, our versions of martyr stories have reduced and situation we are living in our country. complex history to simple morality tales of good and evil, in Colombians have long suffered violence, largely due to which historical actors are either Christ-like or violent. the inability of many to tolerate ideological, political or At times, we have remembered Lutheran reformers pri- religious differences. marily for their arguments and actions against Anabaptists, The act of reconciliation of two churches which rec- thereby minimizing the broader theological contributions ognize the importance of healing wounds of the past of these reformers to the Christian church and, indeed, in order to be able to live in peace in the present gives to our own movement. a message of vital importance to our society. In order At times, we have claimed the martyr tradition as a to advance firmly in the construction of a sustainable badge of Christian superiority. We sometimes nurtured peace, we need to reconcile ourselves departing from the an identity rooted in victimization that could foster a recognition of the errors we have made as society in the sense of self-righteousness and arrogance, blinding us to past and in the present. the frailties and failures that are also deeply woven into our tradition. We too are communities in need of healing and forgive- Testimony 2: ness. In this action between us there is, for Anabaptist- Michael Martin, Director, Mennonites also, the promise of release and renewal. Department “Ecumenical Affairs and Lord, help us to remember rightly. Lord, inspire us to Church Life”, Evangelical Lutheran speak truthfully. Lord, enable us to walk humbly. Church in , Germany

Mennonites and Lutherans held intensive conversations from Seeds of reconciliation and peace 1989 to 1992. They came closer theologically and extended a mutual invitation to the Lord’s Supper. A further outcome of the dialogue was a statement by Lutherans “concerning Testimony 1: the condemnations of the Augsburg Confession of 1530 Eduardo Martinéz, Presiding directed against the Anabaptists.” This affirmed that the Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran doctrinal condemnations of the Reformation period against Church of Colombia the Anabaptists are not relevant to today’s Mennonite churches. They then confessed their guilt in two joint services Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, in 1996, and asked for forgiveness—as we are doing here During the Regional Latin American and Caribbean today in Stuttgart for our worldwide communion. LWF Pre-assembly we met with the Mennonite Church It was clear at the time that we could not simply alter brothers and sisters in Colombia, and while we expressed the historical text of the Confessio Augustana of 1530. But

© LWF/Ratna Leak

After stewards had collected elec- tion ballots; in afternoon plenary session, Bishop Dr Solomon Rajah, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia and Mabel Madinga, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malawi. 53 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

the point was to state that the condemnations knew this would be an important agenda for contained in the Augsburg Confession do not both our churches in the coming years. apply to today’s partners in dialogue. Last year a 3,000 Canadian dollars sur- This affected the inclusion of the Augsburg plus in a small rural Canadian Mennonite Confession when we were re-editing the hymnal congregation resulted in an invitation to the of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria. local Lutheran congregation to plant a field of The introduction to it now reads: “Thanks grain together. The project grew, and received to the doctrinal dialogues held between the matching funding, and 130,000 Canadian dol- different churches up until the present, the lars were donated collaboratively to help the condemnations no longer reflect the current hungry in the world, to share daily bread. state of relations among the churches and faith communities.“ Susan: Our churches have worked together We do not intend to play down the histori- for many years through ecumenical forums cal wrongdoing. However, this interpretative in the areas of advocacy for peace and justice comment on our Augsburg Confession is meant and in relief and development. Now we feel to reflect the change in relations between our a call to deepen this relationship. churches. In face of the suffering of the past, In anticipation of this day, we have begun we can now go our way together in reconcili- joint work on a congregational resource to be ation—praising God and testifying to God’s used by both our church families. This will good message of peace, hope and love. help us learn about our shared history and this apology, and most importantly, begin to forge new ways of collaboration as a reconciled part Testimony 3: of the body of Christ. Susan C. Johnson, National Bishop, Evangelical Lutheran Janet: In Canada, we will host a series of Church in Canada and Janet regional events for joint study and worship. Plenert, Executive Secretary The first will be hosted by Conrad Grebel (Witness), Mennonite Church University and Waterloo Lutheran Seminary Canada, and Vice President this November. of the Mennonite World God is giving us a new heart and a new Conference Executive Committee spirit.

Janet: When I heard Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko Susan: We are confident that we will be blessed, speak in front of 7,000 Mennonites at our and we pray that we may be a blessing to oth- global Assembly in Paraguay last summer, I ers. Thanks be to God!

54 © LWF/J. Latva-Hakuni Adopted Resolutions The Assembly and denounce the sinful effects of pervasive patriarchal culture and to challenge all forms VOTED: to adopt the resolution of domination. It is only through men and regarding gender justice women working together in this way that the perspectives and gifts of women may be fully Text of the resolution as adopted: embraced in all levels of the church. Women’s leadership in churches and society, human trafficking, and unequal food distribu- Background tion are the issues on which we all cry out for righteousness. Let us raise our voices, seeking “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righ- solidarity, respect, companionship and change teousness, for they will be filled” (Matthew 5:6). in order to bring justice. Consistent with the biblical message of In their pre-Assembly [p. 91] and in meet- being created in the image of God (Gen 1:27) ings prior to regional pre-assemblies, women and taking into consideration the previous members of the Lutheran World Federation declarations of the Lutheran World Federation reflected on issues related to living out the (especially at the Seventh Assembly, Budapest; gospel. Now it is time for the full body of 1984; the Eighth Assembly, Curitiba, 1990; Christ, the full communion, to stand together the communiqué “The ongoing reformation 55 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

of the church: the witness of ordained women ops and presidents, as vital members of the today,” Geneva, March 2008; the LWF Coun- communion. cil meeting of October 2009, “Resolutions and actions”; and Lutheran World Information We call for the LWF and its member churches 12/2009) we call for change in the world and, to make a clear stand against domestic vio- in particular, within our own churches. lence, acknowledging every person’s right to We lift up the positive contributions in feel safe and respectfully treated, also when ministry and ecclesiology that women, in in their own homes. ordained ministry, offer. The full integration of ordained women into the life of the church We ask the Council to have the issue of gender implies shared power and service based on a justice as a standing item on its agenda. Be- theological understanding of ministry and cause there is an imbalance between male and the establishment of structures which are female youth at this Assembly, the Council accessible and hospitable. should pay special attention to this. We recognize that the lack of full partici- pation of women in churches and the LWF communion is a theological issue which The Assembly must be addressed by the communion and its member churches. VOTED: to adopt the resolution re- garding human trafficking

Assembly Action Text of the resolution as adopted:

We call on the Assembly to urge member The church is called to engage in advocacy and churches to re-commit to genuine, practical awareness programs, including appropriate self- and effective implementation of LWF policies awareness about human sexuality, to develop and decisions regarding the full participation strategies in order to overcome ignorance and of women in the life of the church—and of the to denounce the sin of human trafficking. LWF communion—as well as in society.

We call on member churches to set appropriate Assembly Action legislation and regulatory policies that enable and ensure women in leadership positions—or- We ask the LWF and its member churches dained and lay—and the opportunities to pursue to support and provide comprehensive sex theological education. We ask that churches who education in order to empower all women do not ordain women prayerfully consider the and men to take responsibility for their own effect that inaction and refusal on this matter bodies and sexuality. has on those who are precluded from exercising their God-given calling because they are women. We ask the communion to provide leader- The pain of exclusion and the loss of God-given ship, in preaching, teaching and other forms gifts are experienced by the whole church. of public witness against the commercial exploitation of human beings. We call on member churches and the LWF secretariat to include gender analyses, as bibli- We ask the communion to counter the nega- cal and theological tools, in all aspects of the tive devaluation of female bodies, developing life of member churches in the communion, resources and materials in local languages. including diaconal and advocacy work. We ask the LWF to expressly denounce the We ask for a clear action plan for the develop- commercialization of the human body, par- ment of contextualized gender policies that ticularly the bodies of women and children, may be implemented on all levels in the mem- in the media. ber churches and be mandatory for the LWF secretariat. We call on the Council to develop We ask the communion to facilitate the and approve such a guiding process. construction of partnerships and coopera- tion between church and society working for We call for the support of women leaders, legislation that will protect persons liberated 56 lay and ordained, particularly women bish- from being trafficked, and playing roles in bringing about cultural transformation and It reframes the challenge of disarmament by the elimination of trafficking. connecting cuts in nuclear weaponry to the well-being of the world’s children, thereby redoubling global efforts to address child The Assembly hunger, health and education. The 2010 Review Conference of the Par- VOTED: to adopt the resolution on ties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation priority for liberation and of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) in New York the restoration of human underscored the need to create a global com- dignity for Dalits pact reaching across political divisions and involving civil society. Deep cuts in nuclear Text of the resolution as adopted: arsenals offer an opportunity to create ad- ditional funding at this time of economic uncertainty to address needs that have been Background neglected over many years. These cuts must be pursued both to enhance international security We gratefully acknowledge the President of and to improve global child survival and the the Lutheran World Federation, Presiding well-being of future generations. Bishop Mark Hanson, for his solidarity and For the past twenty-five years, political support for us, the Dalits, in our hopes and leaders have urged drastic reductions in the aspirations for a new tomorrow. nuclear arsenals of the US and the Russian We are indebted to the Rev. Dr Ishmael Federation, starting in 1986 when presidents Noko for his clarion call to the Eleventh Reagan and Gorbachev came close to agreeing Assembly to strive together to make the life- on the elimination of nuclear arms. A current changing prayer “Give today our daily bread” bipartisan US Congressional measure, H. Res. a reality in its fullness. 278, the Global Security Priorities Resolution, This historic Eleventh Assembly of the Lu- introduced by Democratic representative Jim theran World Federation is taking the bold ini- McGovern and Republican representative Dan tiative of breaking down the walls of separation, Lungren, argues for an intermediate reduction and thereby transforming Mennonite-Lutheran in US and Russian arsenals to 1,000 deployed relations into streams of harmony. nuclear warheads and a total of no more than 3,000 weapons on each side, to be achieved in the near future. Equally important, H. Res. 278 Assembly Action addresses the purposeful use of savings created by reductions in the nuclear arsenals. We request that the LWF make the liberation and restoration of human dignity of the 250 After World War II, the Marshall Plan, an million oppressed and discriminated Dalits economic recovery initiative of the USA, not in India, Nepal and southeast Asia one of the only rebuilt the lands of European allies but priorities of the mission, work and witness of was extended to former enemies as well. In the Gospel of Jesus, the liberator. the pattern set by these efforts, H. Res. 278 and similar measures give us an opportunity to shift national and international priorities. The Assembly Unmet human needs can be addressed with savings from the reduction of nuclear weapon VOTED: to adopt the resolution on inventories of the US, the Russian Federation global priorities and other nuclear powers. This can mitigate some of the root causes of violence and reduce Text of the resolution as adopted: the reliance on nuclear weapons. The annual costs of maintaining the US nu- clear arsenal alone at present levels are estimated Background to be close to USD 50 billion. Even if a saving of only ten percent of that were to be achieved in Global Priorities Initiative the early years of reductions, this would create A new international initiative, global a significant source of income for child survival priorities, links nuclear disarmament and and human development programs. Connecting non-proliferation to a wider set of objectives. nuclear weapon reductions to the well-being of 57 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

children throughout the world could help combat The first of a series of international petitions sympathy for terrorism while facilitating broader is currently underway, developed by eminent international collaboration among nuclear and experts and based in part on US House of non-nuclear nations. In poor nations, such as Representatives Resolution 278, the Global Somalia, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Security Priorities Resolution, introduced on the Congo, Yemen and Afghanistan, poverty a bipartisan basis on 24 March 2009, calling and hunger are a scourge on human develop- for deep reductions in US and Russian nuclear ment. A program directed at poor communities arsenals, saving at least USD 13 billion an- and fragile states, derived directly from savings nually in the US alone, with some of the brought about by deep cuts in nuclear inventories, savings from these reductions directed toward would have a salutary impact on international a well-targeted international effort aimed at ad- peace and security. dressing the Millennium Development Goals A United Nations resolution, to be intro- of reducing child mortality and eradicating duced later this year, would help set the stage extreme poverty and hunger. for specific international measures of this na- This international petition and related in- ture in the years ahead. The resolution would struments are to be endorsed by religious, arms establish a firm link between the reduction control and humanitarian leaders to help create of nuclear arsenals and humanitarian efforts the basis for a United Nations resolution to help worldwide. Utilizing funds made available set the stage for a concrete international process through disarmament, programs could be and measures to greatly reduce nuclear arsenals conducted through UNICEF and agencies with savings directed toward addressing child doing similar work to address global child mortality, child poverty and hunger. survival and related nutritional, health and International defense experts agree that educational needs of children. such international measures would enhance global security by reducing the nuclear threat Furthermore: as well as address vital issues of the well-be- Approximately 25,000 children around the ing of children living in poverty at a time of world die every day from preventable causes. global economic crisis. The USA and the Russian Federation in April More than two dozen churches and other 2010 signed the New Strategic Arms Reduc- religious organizations endorsed the Global tion Treaty agreement, are aiming to extend Security Priorities Resolution in 2010. strategic arms reduction agreements and aim The Global Priorities Campaign, an interna- to consider paths to further reductions as well tional, interreligious initiative that developed as strengthening verification measures. this international petition, is facilitating A study by the Carnegie Endowment for practical ways to reduce military spending International Peace cited a US Department and increase spending to meet human needs, of Defense estimate that at least USD 52 bil- was bestowed a “Blessed Are the Peacemakers” lion was spent in 2008 on nuclear weapons award in December 2008 by the US Confer- and weapons-related programs in the United ence of the World Council of Churches for States alone.1 its efforts to promote these objectives. The USA and the Russian Federation pos- sess ninety-five percent of the world’s nuclear weapons. Assembly Action International health experts estimated in 2005 that an additional USD 5.1 billion a year Therefore, be it RESOLVED that, the in global assistance for proven child survival Eleventh Assembly of the Lutheran World interventions could save the lives of 6 million Federation, young children each year.2 Practical ways must be found to reduce • Commend the bold leadership shown unproductive military spending and increase by the Global Priorities Campaign, effective spending on human needs. • Call upon its member churches to co- sponsor and otherwise assist the Global 1 Stephen I. Schwartz with Deepti Choubey, Nuclear Secu- rity Spending Assessing Costs, Examining Priorities, Carnegie Priorities Campaign international peti- Endowment for International Peace, 2009. tion effort and to support subsequent 2 Jennifer Bryce, Robert E. Black, et al., “Can the world afford international processes and measures to save the lives of 6 million children each year?,” The Lancet, 58 365 (9478): 2193-2200. of this nature, • Call upon its member churches to con- The Assembly sider additional ways it may sustain the efforts of the Global Priorities Cam- VOTED: to adopt the resolution paign toward these ends, and regarding the mining in- dustry • Call upon the general secretary of the Lutheran World Federation to transmit Text of the resolution as adopted: this message to the member churches. Many countries that remain dependent on foreign aid are rich in natural resources such The Assembly as petroleum, gas, minerals, forests and water. The extractive industries are pivotal for de- VOTED: to adopt the resolution on velopment since two-thirds of the poorest in poverty and food justice the world live in countries rich in resources. Nevertheless, revenues from those resources Text of the resolution as adopted: are often not invested in the fight against poverty and sustainable development. Only a Poverty has a woman’s face. We acknowledge small portion of the profits of these national the chasm that separates those who suffer resources are mobilized in order to reduce from famine and deprivation, and those who poverty and promote development. Member consume too much. When we pray, we ac- churches of the LWF likewise witness people knowledge that food is a gift from God, and in the mining areas who barely benefit from ask that it continues to sustain our daily life. these natural resources and who are indeed becoming even poorer. In many countries, in- dustry is subject to minimal governmental and Assembly Action popular democratic scrutiny and regulation. A fair tax system can contribute positively to We encourage member churches to engage reducing a government’s dependency on aid in advocacy campaigns directed toward gov- and strengthen accountability to its citizens. ernments that their actions, commitments The impact of large scale mining on the local and attitudes on poverty and food justice as environment is a further concern because the it relates to women and children might be health-related quality of land and water is critical strengthened. We ask the LWF to assist in for the local population to flourish. Mining is information sharing and in the formulated destructive to the natural environment around targeting of these strategic partnerships. mines, creates waste rock disposal problems, and uses harsh chemicals, all of which can be We firmly ask the LWF to work for poverty significant sources of waste and cause harm to alleviation, food justice and economic justice both workers and nature. When water and soil in and to connect member churches with one the mining areas are polluted, people are affected another and with civil society efforts on many and lose their livelihood. The situation in many levels, particularly in common acts toward areas of the mining industry today causes serious long-term sustainable change, for worldwide harm to human life and human dignity. improvement in livelihood and increase the right to food for all. Assembly Action Overall, we call for the raising up of gender justice in church and society, food justice, In line with this assessment the LWF As- economic justice and the struggle against sembly calls upon: human trafficking from this point onward, and particularly during the 2017 Reforma- • The LWF General Secretariat to ac- tion commemorations as a sign of the ongoing company member churches to support reformation we are called to today. and encourage one another to seek national legislation in order to secure We regard all of these issues to be issues for public revenues, good environmental all members of the communion and the body standards, ensure public participation of Christ. by stakeholders, and fair access to and fair distribution of resources. 59 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

• The member churches to strengthen The LWF has had a long history of including and expand their advocacy for greater women and young people in its work and structures. accountability and corporate social re- In 1984, landmark decisions on the participation of sponsibility of corporations in natural women and lay persons were made by the Seventh resources and in those industries which Assembly at Budapest, Hungary. utilize natural resources. On the participation of women, • The member churches to support efforts to fight corruption and ensure greater The Seventh Assembly RESOLVED: transparency in extractive industry and 6.1 To request the LWF Executive Committee: in those industries which utilize natural 6.1.1. To develop a plan that would, with the co- resources. operation of the member churches and the national committees, become effective at the Eighth As- • The member churches to advocate for a fair, sembly and provide that 40 per cent of the delegates democratic and transparent global financial at the Eighth LWF Assembly be women, and that system, and new international accounting 50 per cent of the delegates at the Ninth and all standards, which would require companies subsequent LWF Assemblies be women. to report on their profits, expenditures, 6.1.2 To give consideration to preparing a taxes, fees and community grants paid in representation formula that will provide: each financial year on a country-by-country 6.1.2.1 That the membership of the LWF basis in order to avoid improper internal Executive Committee, the commissions, and the pricing and tax evasion. appointed advisory/governing committees, each and separately, be comprised of at least 40 per cent • The LWF to engage in capacity develop- women and at least 40 per cent men. ment of member churches on resources 6.1.2.2 That of the Officers as a group at least 40 and finance, in order to strengthen their percent be women and at least 40 per cent be men, role as advocates for transparency and and that regional representation be considered in accountability on revenues and national their selection. resources. 6.1.2.3 That the membership of the LWF Ex- ecutive Committee be at least 40 percent lay and at least 40 percent clergy. 4 The Assembly On the participation of young people, VOTED: to adopt the resolution regarding inclusiveness The Seventh Assembly RESOLVED, in the Lutheran World 7.1.5 That a balanced key be utilized to decide Federation upon delegates for the next Assembly and that at least 20 per cent of the delegates be youth. Text of the resolution as adopted: Of particular concern is the regional balance of delegates under 30 years of age. Staff of the Youth Desk are to be involved in the discussion of and Background decision making on the new guidelines. 7.1.6 That a young person at LWF meetings and In 2009, the LWF Council, meeting in Geneva, Assemblies normally be under the age of 30. adopted the following resolution: 7.1.7. That there be one young person as a full To ask the General Secretary to prepare a draft member of each of the LWF commissions; that for a document on gender and youth participation these young people be experienced in Lutheran in the LWF structures for appropriate action by youth work; and that geographical factors be taken the Assembly in order to fulfill the resolution into account.” 5 adopted by the LWF Assembly in Winnipeg 2003 that reads: “to request the new Council As standing resolutions, these texts are con- to clearly define the policy on gender balance sidered governing documents of the Lutheran in order to secure a common understanding in World Federation (cf. Bylaws 10.3). all regions for future assemblies.”3 4 Carl H. Mau (ed.), Budapest 1984. In Christ–Hope for the 3 The Lutheran World Federation, Minutes of the Meeting of World. Proceedings of the Seventh Assembly, LWF Report 19/20 the LWF Council, Geneva, Switzerland, 22-27 October 2009, (Geneva: The Lutheran World Federation, 1985), 224. 60 13.5, p. 34, para. 225. 5 Ibid., 229. Twenty-six years after implementing the making bodies, bringing the diversity which Budapest resolutions, further clarifications are enriches our communion. needed. Following discussions with the LWF general secretary and Cabinet, the following The Assembly requests the general secre- text will be submitted to the Constitution tary to: evaluate the quota system since its Committee, for recommendation to the introduction; review commitment to and Eleventh Assembly for its action: implementation of the quota system (youth, lay and ordained, male and female, etc.) on all levels (governing bodies and its elected Standing resolution officers); report on the quota system to the on inclusiveness LWF Council about the implementation of the principles of inclusive representation by On the occasion of the birth of the church at the LWF as well as the member churches. Pentecost, Peter quotes from the prophet Joel, “In the last days it will be, God declares, that This resolution is adopted as a governing docu- I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and ment of the Federation (cf. Bylaws 10.3). your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams.” (Acts 2:17). The Assembly Both males and females, both young and old are fully included in the church already (cf. VOTED: to adopt the resolution also Gal 3:28), yet measures are needed to regarding LWF principles ensure that their voices and perspectives are of inclusivity fully represented, heard and included in the church and its decision-making processes. Text of the resolution as adopted: Since its inception, but especially since the 1984 Budapest Assembly, the Lutheran World Federation and its member churches have been 1. Gender balance committed to witness to this new reality in Christ by reflecting this in their decision-making bod- The LWF Assembly, Council, Officers, and all ies and programs. Inclusiveness has become a other committees and task forces, including at Lutheran expression of what it means to be the all regional levels shall be composed of at least church. Yet ongoing processes of critical ecclesial forty percent women and at least forty percent formation are necessary if we are to live out this men. And that the gender quota is respected inclusiveness. Through numerical goals, we hold also among youth representatives. ourselves accountable to the inclusiveness we In all activities that it organizes at all re- seek. Numerical representation is not an end gional levels, the LWF shall respect this basic in itself, but a means for helping us to become principle, and LWF staff shall encourage those a more inclusive communion. Besides numbers, with whom it cooperates to do likewise.6 The the quality of the participation of women and basic principle also applies to executive staff youth and lay people continually needs to be in the LWF communion office. developed and enhanced. The quality of our life together and the perspectives of the whole communion are enriched when the body becomes 2. Generational balance more inclusive of all its parts (1 Cor 12). The LWF Assembly, Council, Officers and all other committees and taskforces, including Assembly Action at all regional levels shall be composed of at least twenty percent young people under the As a further step in this ongoing journey, age of thirty at the time of the first meeting of the Eleventh Assembly adopts the following the body to which they have been appointed. principles of inclusive representation, and Regional balance shall be respected. encourages member churches to adopt similar

measures to ensure full participation in their 6 Acknowledging the existing challenges, meetings and activi- respective contexts. The current quota system ties in which the basic principle has not been applied are not has proven to be an important tool that enables to be declared invalid, but their non-compliance with the basic principle shall be formally recognized and actions to participation of women in all the decision- improve need to be planned. 61 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

If there is more than one youth represen- Text of the resolution as adopted: tative on a governing body, gender balance among the youth representatives shall be respected on all regional levels. Assembly Action This basic principle shall apply to all activi- ties of the LWF communion office.7 The Eleventh Assembly requests the new Council shall develop bylaws which would permit it to reject those proposed delegate 3. Balance of laity and clergy lists from the regions for the LWF Assembly which are not in keeping with the established The LWF Assembly, Council, Officers and all inclusivity principles of this communion. other committees and taskforces, including at all regional levels shall be composed of at least forty percent lay persons. Gender and The Assembly regional balance among the non-ordained members shall be respected. VOTED: to adopt the resolution re- garding climate change

The Assembly Text of the resolution as adopted:

VOTED: to adopt the resolution regarding promoting sus- Climate Change tainable practices The LWF Eleventh Assembly: Text of the resolution as adopted: • recognizes that a) climate change is an increasingly urgent challenge requiring an Assembly Action effective global response within an inexo- rably diminishing window of opportunity, In light of the commitment of the LWF to bearing in mind that global emissions must environmental sustainability, it is requested peak no later than 2015 if potentially cata- that the LWF adopt a full environmental strophic global warming is to be avoided; policy for its work and meetings. That the and b) disasters, such as the oil spill in the LWF prepare for certification under an in- Gulf of Mexico, demonstrate that safety ternational ecocertification system and audit and clean-up technologies have not kept scheme (EMAS), by 2012. In the environ- pace with the increasing environmental mentally friendly planning of the meetings risks associated with the extraction and and assemblies to revert to the experiences exploitation of fossil fuels; of the German Evangelical Kirchentag. This policy will incorporate the measures already • highlights the grave impacts on food se- taken regarding the reduction of the carbon curity that are already being felt in many

footprint of the LWF, such as the CO2 emis- parts of the world as a result of changing sion compensation system and the reduction climatic patterns, to which the LWF and of the number of printed documents. its member churches are witnesses;

• endorses the relevant resolutions adopted The Assembly by the LWF Council in 2008 and 2009, and calls for the directions outlined VOTED: to adopt the resolution therein to continue to be pursued by the regarding inclusivity and LWF and its member churches; proposed delegate lists for future assemblies • deeply regrets the failure of the 2009 United Nations Copenhagen Climate

7 Acknowledging the existing challenges, meetings and activi- Change Conference in December 2009 ties in which the basic principle has not been applied are not to establish a fair, equitable, legally-bind- to be declared invalid, but their non-compliance with the ing and verifiable agreement to succeed basic principle shall be formally recognized and actions to 62 improve need to be planned. the Kyoto Protocol, and calls on the international community to commit whose members suffer from food insecurity, lack to achieving such an agreement at the of resources, unsupportive structures and mar- 2010 UN Climate Change Conference in ginalization. The social tensions resulting from Mexico (November–December 2010); this situation have the potential of destabilizing the whole continent. We see it as the role of • calls on all governments to show more the churches to contribute to the empowerment decisive leadership in responding to and integration of socially disadvantaged ethnic climate change and in moving beyond groups as well as to the development of socially reliance on fossil fuels for energy needs, inclusive practices. Ministry among the Roma and regrets the failure of the Senate of people has already been established and some the USA to take the needed urgent action projects are being carried out. Nevertheless, on the pending bill on climate change; much more effort is needed if the problem is to be effectively addressed. • urges all LWF member churches advo- cate with their governments for: - Measures to ensure that global green- Assembly Action house gas emissions peak no later than 2015 and then decline rapidly We, therefore, ask the LWF to consider the toward a target of less than 350 ppm inclusion of socially disadvantaged groups

atmospheric CO2 concentration and ethnic minorities (especially the Roma - Urgent action by developed coun- people) in society and the church as a priority tries to reduce their carbon emis- and initiate social and educational programs sions by forty percent of the 1990 aimed at the development and facilitation of levels by 2020 such groups at the regional level. - The establishment of a just and ad- equate means of financing climate change mitigation and adaptation The Assembly in the countries of the developing world; and VOTED: to adopt the resolution regarding the indigenous • Asks the LWF general secretary, member people churches and LWF country programs to consolidate and enhance their efforts to Text of the resolution as adopted: address the impacts of climate change on development and poverty in the most A great majority of indigenous people live in vulnerable communities, and to raise up the ancestral lands, mostly rural, but a series of voices of indigenous communities and their factors—such as poverty, soil degradation, perspectives on environmental ethics. colonization, and the interests of national and international companies—are resulting in the loss of their lands, languages and traditions The Assembly and their right to a dignified life. Despite all of this, native peoples have VOTED: to adopt the resolution resisted until today, and the nations of the regarding the inclusion whole world recognize their existence, the of socially disadvantaged environmental wisdom, social harmony and groups in central eastern their resistance against oppression. Europe The Lutheran World Federation has al- ready, at its Assembly in Winnipeg in 2003, Text of the resolution as adopted: recognized the contribution of the native people—adopting a resolution on indigenous In light of the theme of the Eleventh Assembly peoples. And the LWF has agreed to take of the Lutheran World Federation—A Com- relevant actions. The LWF arranged a consul- munion of Churches—the delegates from tation in Karasjok, Norway, September 2006, the Central Eastern European region would under the theme “An Indigenous Communion.” like to direct special attention to the socially A series of supporting actions were decided disadvantaged groups and ethnic minorities in to be developed in the upcoming years. Since our context. It is especially the Roma minority that time, no specific indigenous program has 63 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

been established, as foreseen at the Tenth As- World Council of Churches and the Ecumeni- sembly and the Karasjok consultation. cal Disabilities Advocates Network (EDAN) to strengthen advocacy for the inclusion, participation and involvement of persons with Assembly Action disabilities in spiritual, social and develop- ment life, both in the church and society. Therefore, the Eleventh Assembly reaffirms the commitments made to the indigenous peoples at the Tenth Assembly in 2003 and The Assembly the LWF’s consultation on indigenous people in Norway in September 2006. The Assembly VOTED: to adopt the resolution re- asks the secretariat and the member churches garding a virtual resource to follow up on these proposals. center

Text of the resolution as adopted: The Assembly In light of the LWF’s commitment to sharing VOTED: to adopt the resolution resources, talents and abilities to empower its regarding advocacy for member churches all over the world to grow and people with disabilities prosper and to educate leaders and their congre- gations, especially children and young people, Text of the resolution as adopted: a need for inspiration and new ideas as well as ready-to-use materials has been encountered.

Background Assembly Action True fellowship, both in society and church, consists of all kinds of people. This is not only The Assembly recommends that a virtual a matter of theology, but also human rights. resource center or bank be set up by the LWF, accessible to all through the Internet, to al- leviate the needs that exist in many churches. Assembly Action Many churches have educational materials (educational in its broadest sense) which, by The Lutheran World Federation renews its sharing them with one another, can be of commitment to the cooperation with the inspiration and thus be helpful for others.

64 © LWF/J. Latva-Hakuni

Statements

The Assembly As a communion, we must engage the false ideology of neoliberal economic globalization … VOTED: to adopt the Public State- (which is) grounded in the assumption that the ment on “Daily Bread” market, built on private property, unrestrained instead of Greed: an LWF competition and the centrality of contracts, is Call for Economic and the absolute law governing human life, society Climate Justice and the natural environment. This is idolatry and leads to the systematic exclusion of those who own Text of the public statement as adopted: no property, the destruction of cultural diversity, the dismantling of fragile democracies and the destruction of the earth. Public Statement on “Daily Bread” Instead of Greed: Since 2003, many have lost their means of an LWF Call for Economic livelihood, their life savings and their sense of a and Climate Justice viable future. Promises of unlimited economic growth, fueled especially by carbon consump- tion, are jeopardizing the planet’s future and the Introduction future of life as we have known it—especially The 2003 LWF Assembly declared that: the lives and lands of those who are the most 65 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

vulnerable in the world. Climate change is We glimpse many persons, including youth, accelerating, as made evident through increas- who are hidden in our communities who, in the ingly severe and frequent storms, rising seas hope of getting the “daily bread” they need to and devastating droughts. It also contributes survive, feel compelled to submit their labor to more severe food shortages, the increased and their bodies to being exploited by those spread of diseases, conflicts over scarce land greedy for profit and pleasure. and water, and the forced migration of people. We hear the complaints of young people As a communion, we have already addressed who face a future without jobs that can sup- many manifestations of these crises, locally and port them and their families, and the laments globally, and in collaboration with ecumenical of older workers who cannot leave their jobs and civil society partners. Over the past year, because without them they would be deprived the member churches of the LWF have been of what they require in order to live. on a pilgrimage in many places: We witnessed We see many people who lack the basics the dramatic effects of climate change from to sustain life—food, health, shelter or se- the time of the encounter in Puri, India to the curity—while some leaders reap big bonuses African consultation on climate change, food and live in luxury, and seem unable to break security and poverty in Nairobi, Kenya. At the political gridlocks needed to implement various pre-assemblies in preparation for the policies and provide resources needed to ensure 2010 LWF Assembly, we heard how especially “daily bread for all.” women and children, bear the burden of food We feel people’s sense of panic when financial shortages, and of the many ways in which markets and banks collapse, undermining the an unjust economic system impoverishes the economic security people have counted on, but most vulnerable parts of the suffering creation. also the false hopes generated as these institu- Recently, global financial crises and envi- tions are rescued, even while the economy that ronmental disasters have dramatically exposed provides jobs and livelihoods still falters. the underlying scandalous greed—of seeking We are alarmed that in most countries, a profit through any means, and at the cost of small percentage of the population owns nearly our fundamental humanity. As a faith-based all the financial assets, such that financial gain organization, it is crucial that the LWF com- becomes a form of idolatry instead of God’s munion speak to greed, which at its root is a will of “daily bread for all.” deeply spiritual matter (cf., Luther’s discussion We deplore the fact that billions can be of the First Commandment in the Small Cat- found to rescue big banks and financial echism). Systemic greed dominates, enslaves institutions, but not the financial resources and distorts God’s intentions for human needed to sustain those around the world who communities and for all of creation. This is in continually lack “daily bread.” direct contradiction to the petition “Give us We deplore the global speculation on food today our daily bread,” which is based on the commodities that sharply raises the cost of conviction that there will be “enough for all.” food, making it more insecure for at least a billion people. Thus, at this 2010 Assembly, we testify to We see how the land, animals and people what we see and hear in light of biblical and are dying as drought conditions become more theological perspectives, we name the central severe, accelerated by the fossil fuel emissions theological convictions at stake, and we com- of distant companies that pursue ever-greater mit ourselves to work for the changes needed profit at the cost of the common good. in our lives, churches, societies and the world. We experience increasingly unpredictable As churches, we may feel powerless to con- weather patterns, altering the planned grow- front or challenge these contradictions, but ing seasons essential for cultivating the food if we succumb to this domination of sin and that we need. hopelessness, we betray the faith we confess. We hear people telling us of how their villages have been washed into the rising As a global communion, we bear witness sea, proof that climate change, accelerated to how “daily bread” and “greed” clash by greedy deforesting and mining practices, We hear the cries of those who are desperate is very real. for enough “bread” so that they might live for We observe that large business interests, yet another day, as well as the silent cries of whose practices are harming communities those who are “dying” spiritually from having and creation, often have undue influence over 66 accumulated “too much bread.” governments. We decry that ever more advanced technolo- those that draw the attention of the media. Such gies plunge into previously unknown depths or tragedies are driven by quests for ever-higher heights for the sake of ever greater profits, without profit and economic growth, fueled by greed. adequately accounting for risky ethical conse- Greed has led to practices such as deforestation quences, and lead to tragedies of catastrophic and the extraction and burning of fossil fuels proportions that devastate natural habitats and against which nature is revolting. human livelihoods for many years. To a large extent, economic crises are evoked We deplore that, instead of church leaders by practices of inordinate greed in quest of speaking out to challenge and change the way ever-greater financial gain. In a reversal of in which systemic patterns and policies of biblical values, greed has become acceptable, greed are ruling our world, often proclaim and taken for granted and encouraged as necessary model a gospel of prosperity or are complicit for economic recovery or prosperity. with the ways of empire, especially in pursu- We must name and denounce the practices, ing gain at the expense of others, rather than systems, assumptions and logic underlying and being consistent advocates of “daily bread for perpetuating these contradictions or injustices. all,” as Jesus himself modeled and taught. In doing so, we are inspired and emboldened by the biblical witness, by Jesus and by our forebears such as Luther. Systemic greed is a spiritual The Old Testament prophet Jeremiah cried matter of idolatry out, “From the least to the greatest of them, While there are complex factors and analyses everyone is greedy for unjust gain; and from involved in each of the above examples, the prophet to priest, everyone deals falsely. They underlying issue is excessive, personal, sys- have treated the wound of my people carelessly, temic and structural greed, which is not only saying ‘Peace, peace,’ where there is not peace” a social, economic, and political scandal but (Jer 6:13). According to the prophet Ezekiel, the also a deeply spiritual problem. great sin of the people of Sodom was that they Greed haunts each of our societies, as well were arrogant, overfed and unconcerned, and as our churches, when decisions are made and “did not aid the poor and needy” (Ezek 16:49). actions are taken that benefit a few at the expense In the gospels, Jesus drew a stark contrast of the many. The systemic greed built into the between the logic of God who provides “daily logic and practices that permeate our lives and bread” and that of humans seeking economic world is in direct contradiction with the heart of gain at the expense of others: “You cannot the prayer—“Give us today our daily bread.” serve God and wealth (mammon)” (Mt 6:24; As Christians, we cannot pray this petition Lk 16:13). The early Christians were urged to without protesting the many ways in which be on their guard against all kinds of greed (Lk greed prevails over the generosity for all which 12:15), to flee from it (1 Tim 6:11) or to kill it this prayer affirms. The dominant economic (Col 3:5). In the early church, Basil the Great model today is based on assumptions of scar- referred to the greedy as those not satisfied city—in opposition to the biblical view of with what suffices for their needs, and who do enough for all. The overexploitation of natural not share what they have with others. resources is based on assumptions of endless Martin Luther spoke out against sinful plentitude—in opposition to the biblical view systems and practices that oppressed and impov- that human beings are to be the stewards or erished people. He clearly said “No” to practices caretakers of God’s creation. The interrelated of the banking and trading companies of his crises we face today have come about because time: “ ... they will not change. If the trading human beings have reversed and thus violated companies are to stay, right and honesty must both of these divine mandates in Genesis. perish. If right and honesty are to survive, the Instead of a sense that “God will provide trading companies must perish” (WA 15, 313: what we need,” what prevails today is a perverse LW 45, 272.). He was referring not only to a sense that nature will provide according to the few greedy individuals, but to the system and dictates of boundless human greed. Nature assumptions upon which it was based, which today is protesting this. Tragically, the people divorced making money from meeting human and lands most dramatically affected usually are need and required some to acquire ever more. less at fault than are wider forces, policies and As a Lutheran communion, we are called to developments to which the people and lands speak out against similar systemic injustices in most vulnerable to climate change are captive. our day, because related crises of faith still are The lands and peoples most devastated are not at stake. In the sixteenth century, the crisis was 67 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

over the gospel that frees people from the fear Assembly Action and bondage of sin, which became embedded in systems needing to be challenged. Today, Responding as churches people are in fear and bondage over the greed embedded in the economic system and over As churches we confess that we too are caught what the future will hold, unless dramatic up in these realities. We too live in the grip of changes are made for the sake of global eco- a relentless pursuit of unlimited progress and nomic and environmental justice. prosperity that all too often is fueled by greed. While greed has been prevalent throughout Church leaders sometimes lack transparency human history, under modern neoliberal capi- and obfuscate unjust practices. We too seek talism, the virus of insatiability (never having advantages for ourselves at the expense of enough) has turned into a general epidemic. others. We too live under the reign of sin. All aspects of life tend to be valued in terms of their monetary worth or potential financial Yet at the same time, we also live under the gain. Greed often hides under a mask of good reign of God’s grace, compassion, justice and intentions and practices of respectable people. generosity. Instead of remaining captive to In fact, a certain amount of greed is consid- the principalities and powers reigning in this ered “good”—necessary for a market economy world, we are liberated by Christ and empow- to function. In this sense, greed has become ered by the Holy Spirit to resist the inner logic systemic—built into the reigning reality which of personal and structural greed. Living out people go along with. In order to function within of this Christian freedom rather than out of this system, individuals are socialized to become fear, we are able to lift the veil from our eyes greedy. Although some individuals may seem to see, unblock our ears to hear, and unleash particularly greedy, focusing only on them can our wills to act. We face these crises with a keep us from seeing how the various systems in sense of God’s indwelling, abiding presence, which we all participate are what perpetuate and which empowers us to speak and act. legitimize patterns and practices of greed. Greed is a part of us; it is not just “out there.” We recognize that negotiating the tension be- Systemic greed is an expression of the domina- tween the two reigns—of grace (“daily bread”) vs. tion or bondage of sin that is expressed through greed— is the ongoing struggle of discipleship. the theology of Paul (e.g., Rom 6) and Luther. In our churches we call for teaching and preach- It becomes the idol, for which persons, com- ing that clearly names the tensions operating munities and the rest of creation are sacrificed. in their respective contexts, and for ongoing Money and financial markets take on a life of spiritual formation that enables people to deal their own—with the creation of an endless with these tensions in their own lives. variety of new financial instruments for making quick, hyper-profits. More than just a medium We will name, analyze and publicly denounce of exchange, money has become a commodity the domination of capital accumulation over from which ever larger profits are promised and people and earth in the present economic and expected. When these promises are betrayed—as political system as well as blatantly greedy when the system collapses—the undergirding practices of large businesses and financial idolatry is exposed. institutions, and call them to account for Operating within this system, frantic attempts the consequences of their actions, including to rescue financial systems and ecosystems turn to through the inter-relationships we share with tools, technologies or approaches consistent with others in the communion. the logic, which in some cases make matters worse. Language is used to obfuscate the greed involved, We will advocate with governments and inter- in ever increasingly sophisticated ways that even governmental organizations for the develop- experts cannot understand, much less responsi- ment and enforcement of adequate regulations bly regulate. If politicians propose measures to of financial transactions, trade and investment, regulate or rein in the craftily devised means for which—if unrestrained—expedite greed at the achieving greater profit over others, they may be expense of the most vulnerable. punished by declines in the stock market. The real economy of jobs and what is needed for daily life We recognize and will speak out against the ways has increasingly become captive to the gyrations in which economic and environmental injustices of the virtual economy of finance and trading, are inter-related. For example, there must be 68 the reigning god in our world today. drastic reductions in carbon-based consumption for the sake of reducing global warming trends, rent crisis, not only block the development through measures that share the responsibility potential of millions of human beings, but globally. Those who have contributed most to their very survival: the bread that we ask for the problem should bear most of the cost for all humanity in the prayer Jesus taught us is adaptation and mitigation, especially for the a reality for fewer and fewer people. This is a sake of those in the world who are most vulner- matter of ethic and moral condemnation and able to the effects of climate change. The world’s as churches we cannot remain indifferent. wealthiest nations must assume responsibility for However, over the last years, we have seen the ecological debt they have created, and for the many signs which encourage us to continue our disasters that perpetuate carbon colonialism in efforts and help foster the necessary changes the developing world. to overcome the current situation and make progress toward a new international financial We will engage with those of other faiths, and architecture based on justice and law. with the rest of civil society in efforts to subvert Among these encouraging signs it is im- structural greed and develop alternatives that portant to mention: are life-giving and sustaining for all. • The Norwegian government’s initiative unilaterally and unconditionally to cancel The Assembly the debt of five countries on the basis of its co-responsibility; VOTED: to adopt the Public State- ment on Illegitimate Debt • The sovereign decision of the Govern- and the International Fi- ment of Ecuador to conduct a compre- nancial Crisis hensive audit of the public debt;

Text of the Public Statement as adopted: • The International Symposium on Ille- gitimate Debt (Oslo, October 2008). It was organized by the LWF, Norwegian Public Statement on Church Aid (NCA) and the Church of Illegitimate Debt and the Sweden, and brought together representa- International Financial Crisis tives of governments, churches and United Nations agencies along with university Gathered at the Eleventh Assembly and seven professors and prominent movement years after the Tenth Assembly in Winnipeg leaders and civil society organizations; where a Public Statement on Illegitimate Debt was issued, we note that debt, now • The debate at the UNCTAD and its aggravated by the crisis originated in the proposal for responsible lending and wealthier industrialized countries, remains a illegitimate debt; and major obstacle to the eradication of poverty and the achievement of fundamental human • The progress in social and political ac- rights for all people. The debt burden has had ceptance of the concept of illegitimacy a significant impact in parts of Latin America, and the growing awareness that sovereign Africa, Eastern Europe and Asia. borrowing and debt are not just a matter The results of the instruments by which the of finance and economics, but of politics, international financial institutions (IFIs) have law, justice, and ethics. faced the issue of debt have been wrong or lim- ited. Relief initiatives for poor countries, while In this context it is necessary to: benefiting a few, in most cases have had meager or even negative effects, as these initiatives have • Continue to develop the concept of been linked to harmful economic conditionalities illegitimate debt in the light of useful and to asymmetrical power relations. Moreover, criteria that can be found, along with beyond their technical weakness, these instru- other sources, in the academic scientific ments are mistaken in their approach, as they production and the work of UNCTAD concentrate exclusively on the sustainability of and other organizations. debt and not on its legitimacy. Debt, and the financial system on which • With the vision to start a new financial it is based, the same that caused the cur- structure that serves human beings and not 69 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

be served by them, encourage the creation of legal interventions related to the il- of international legislation to control the legitimate debt; conditions of loans and credits. This legisla- tion should include the principle of shared • Promote, by all means available, the request responsibility of borrower and lender to for an advisory opinion from the Interna- ensure that all credit and loan operations tional Court of Justice about debt and its will benefit the host population. regulatory framework in international law. This is a necessary action that will help • Ensure an efficient system of audit of all establish legal frameworks to govern credit sovereign credit transactions. and debt both past and future; and

• Implement a full and active participa- • Undertake the essential task of advocating tion of the population of the borrowing for the construction of a new international countries in every contract of indebted- financial architecture developed on the ness. This must be done through legal basis of justice, respect for human rights mechanisms in each country, ensuring and the environment. the right to free and full information on contracts and obligations. The Assembly

Assembly Action VOTED: to adopt the Public State- ment on the Deaths at Therefore the Eleventh Assembly urges all Duisburg ‘Love Parade’ the churches of the Lutheran Communion as well as the LWF to: Text of the Public Statement as adopted:

• Assume, with courage and decision, the role that the churches should have about the Public Statement on the ethical and moral guidance on issues such Deaths at the Duisburg as foreign debt and economic governance; “Love Parade”

• Sustain and deepen the commitment made with reference to illegitimate debt Assembly Action incorporating reflection and analysis on the effects of the current international The Eleventh Assembly of The Lutheran World financial crisis and the causes that mo- Federation, meeting in Stuttgart, expresses tivated it; its profound sympathy to the families of those who died on the 24th of July in Duisburg at • Promote and give impetus to, both ecu- the entrance to the “Love Parade” dance menically and with other civil society music festival. This terrible incident, which actors, the conduct of audits, verification resulted in 19 deaths and left more than 340 of contracts, censuses of creditors, and people injured, has shocked and saddened the all the necessary mechanisms to help church leaders attending the LWF Assembly expose and obtain the annulment of all from 79 countries around the world. illegal or illegitimate debts; As we prayed in our Sunday services in dif- • Challenge all governments and all ferent congregations around Stuttgart, we public and private lenders to accept continue to pray for the consolation of the and implement the principle of shared bereaved families of those who died, and responsibility as a fundamental issue for the swift recovery of those who were of justice and to express this in their injured—physically and psychologically—in regulatory frameworks; Duisburg. We hold up those who responded to the emergency, saving lives and helping the • Promote the right to information together injured. And we pray that the tragic lessons of with the recognition of the indispensable that day will be studied and learned, so that role of civil society in mobilizing political future tragedies might be avoided. We pray 70 will, and in the proposal and supporting for all the victims worldwide. In an afternoon plenary, Bishop Naison Shava, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe, proposes an amendment to an Assembly resolution on food justice. © LWF/ J. Latvia-Hakuni Eleventh Assembly Matters Referred to the LWF Council

The Assembly in order to explore the feasibility of using virtual meetings, thereby saving economical VOTED: to refer to the Council and environmental resources. We ask the Council to make recommendations that Text of the resolution as referred: would ensure that profound efforts are made to hold future assemblies in an ecologically and economically sustainable manner. Promoting Sustainable Practices • the Communion purchase and promote fair In light of the commitment of the LWF to envi- trade and sustainable products. Likewise, we ronmental sustainability, it is requested that: request that the LWF be certain to use food, snacks, coffee, gifts and so forth, whenever • the LWF commit further in its efforts possible, which have been produced under and actions in a number of areas, in order fair conditions—often associated with the for the LWF to live up to its stands on Fair Trade Certification. environmental sustainability; • tap water be served instead of bottled • the LWF hold an experimental, virtual meet- water whenever the quality of the tap ing of executives during the next four years water allows it; 71 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

• locally and organically produced food be • the Council ensure that the environmen- served during meetings and assemblies; tal policy of the LWF covers other nec- essary areas in order to be extensive. • during meetings and assemblies that ex- tend over multiple days, wholly vegetarian meals be served; Furthermore, the LWF The Assembly encourage all participants to choose the vegetarian alternative as a way to con- VOTED: to refer to the Council tribute to environmental sustainability. Text of the resolution as referred: Regarding recycling and the distribution of materials it is requested that: LWF Visibility and the • recycling at the LWF secretariat as well Role of Youth as during meetings and assemblies be promoted and employed; The Eleventh Assembly asks that the LWF implement regional committees for translation • packaging food and gifts be avoided of all documents into the official languages. To when possible; accomplish this goal, the LWF shall identify and utilize the services of professional and • material in written form only be dis- volunteer translators chosen by the regions. tributed when necessary, and books and The Eleventh Assembly asks that the LWF pamphlets not be handed out liberally, consider creating permanent regional or sub- but rather offered to those who choose regional youth committees within each of to receive them. the LWF regions. These committees should organize regular youth conferences on the Regarding the venues of meetings it is re- regional level to help build a stronger youth quested that: constituency for the LWF, and to enhance the engagement of youth with the LWF. • possible ecological and sustainable alter- Furthermore, all Assembly plenaries should natives to the proposed meeting and As- report on the gender balance within the youth sembly venues always be investigated; delegate representation.

• preferential option be given to hotels and meeting halls with an ecological The Assembly awareness and profile. It also implies investigating the possibility of conduct- VOTED: to refer to the Council ing meetings online. Text of the resolution as referred: That member churches only invest in ethi- cal and environmentally-friendly funds and investments. Renewing the Current The Assembly further requests that: Form of the Assembly

• the LWF and its member churches inves- The Eleventh Assembly of the Lutheran World tigate new banking options, specifically Federation requests the Council to organize a focusing on ethical practices (e.g. low committee (according to the established quotas) corporate bonuses and not rewarding that will investigate the possibilities to renew greed) and sustainability practices (e.g. the current form of the LWF Assembly with not contributing to the financial crisis); the aim to increase the democratic influence of the participating delegates. • the Council formulate a public statement addressing greed and social, economic and environmental sustainability, food security The Assembly in the context of climate change, and agro- ecological approaches to food production, VOTED: to refer to the Council 72 distribution and consumption. Text of the resolution as referred: The Eleventh Assembly requests that the LWF Council place theological formation as a central priority and assess this on a regular Ecumenical Conciliar basis for the sake of the entire communion. Cooperation

The Eleventh Assembly took note of the re- The Assembly port of the Renewal Committee, particularly paragraph 12. VOTED: to refer to the Council Radical changes in the global ecumenical land- scape are happening very fast. Some ecumenical Text of the resolution as referred: bodies are suffering and some have to deal with problems related to their continuation. In the future it will be important for the A Meeting of Assembly LWF to strengthen its relationship to the Youth Delegates World Council of Churches (WCC). Therefore the Council is requested to explore In their powerful presentation the youth the possibility that the next assemblies of the delegates and participants at this Assembly LWF take place within the expanded space offered their enthusiasm and know-how to of the WCC assembly, together with other serve not only their churches, but also the confessional bodies. LWF in general. Several times questions were In light of declining financial resources, it raised to learn about ways to help the LWF will become more urgent in the near future to to achieve a greater visibility in the respective strive for a more concise definition and distri- home churches and local contexts. bution of the tasks and responsibilities among Many of the youth delegates are still in the different ecumenical bodies. This process training. They will have moved and changed will need to reflect the richness of the different their responsibilities long before the next identities of these bodies in order to be fruitful Assembly and their experiences and achieve- for the entire ecumenical community. ments might be lost. The Assembly therefore asks the LWF to plan a meeting of the youth delegates in The Assembly two or three years’ time. Such a meeting should prepare a report about what has been VOTED: to refer to the Council achieved in the past two–three years, namely how decisions made in Stuttgart have been Text of the resolution as referred: implemented. This report will provide useful feedback for the Council while collaboration will establish Theological Formation a network that contributes to create future leadership. This youth meeting, if carefully With regard to the report of the Renewal Com- prepared, will also give considerable visibil- mittee, particularly Exhibit II, Annex II, it is ity to the LWF at a worldwide level during recognized that the theological formation of lead- the rather long period between this and the ers throughout the Lutheran World Federation is next LWF Assembly (similar to the German necessary to all members of the communion. Kirchentag or the “Papa-boys“).

73 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

74 Keynote Address Give Us Today Our Daily Bread His Grace Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Canterbury

Jesus speaks in the gospel (Mt 7:9) of how the “Give us this day our daily bread” thus human parent will not give a child a stone becomes a prayer that asks God to sustain in when the child asks for bread. If we ask for us the sense of our humanity in its fullness bread, one thing that will persuade us that and its richness; to give us those relations the response is satisfactory is the knowledge with other human beings that will keep us that our own declaration of what we need has human, aware of our mortality and our need, been heard. Part of the nourishment we need yet confident that we are loved. It is a prayer is knowing that our sisters and brothers in to be reminded of our need: let us never forget, faith see and hear our needs as they are, not as we pray, that we have to be fed, and that we others imagine them to be. The bread that is cannot generate for ourselves all we need to shared among Christians is not only a material live and flourish. And at the same time, it is resource but the recognition of dignity. One of a prayer that we shall not be ashamed of our our great Welsh Christian poets, R. S. Thomas, mortality, our physical and vulnerable being. published a collection of poems in 1963 called We start from need—where else can we start? The Bread of Truth; and to recognize human But that is a way into understanding how and dignity in one another is indeed to share the why we matter, why we are valuable. The truth of what humanity is in the eyes of God. prayer poses a critical question to anyone who We feed each other by honoring the truth of imagines that they can begin from a position the divine image in each other. of self-sufficiency; it affirms that to be in need 75 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

of this “bread of truth,” in need of material or spiritual has renounced the privilege of being right or safe; she has nurture, is in no way a failure but, on the contrary, a place acknowledged that she is hungry for healing, for the bread of dignity. The prayer both challenges the arrogance of of acceptance and restoration to relationship. But equally those who think they are not in need and establishes that the person who forgives has renounced the safety of being the needy are fully possessed of a treasure that needs to locked into the position of the offended victim; she has be uncovered and released, the humanity that draws them decided to take the risk of creating afresh a relationship into mutual relation. known to be dangerous, known to be capable of causing Part of what we are praying for in these words is the hurt. Both the giver and the receiver of forgiveness have grace to receive our own humanity as a gift. We ask moved out of the safety zone; they have begun to ask how for openness and gratefulness to whoever and whatever to receive their humanity as a gift. awakens us to our dignity and helps us realize that, while Forgiveness is one of the most radical ways in which our dignity is essentially and primarily given in our cre- we are able to nourish one another’s humanity. When ation, it is always in need of being called into active life offence is given and hurt is done, the customary human by relation, by the gift of others. And the implication is response is withdrawal, the reinforcing of the walls of the clear that we should, in doing this, pray to be kept awake private self, with all that this implies about asserting one’s to what we owe to the neighbor in terms of gift; their own humanity as a possession rather than receiving it as humanity depends on ours as ours does on theirs. Many a gift. The unforgiven and the unforgiving cannot see the commentators on the Lord’s Prayer, such as Gregory of other as someone who is part of God’s work of bestow- Nyssa, underline the irrationality of praying for our daily ing humanity on them. To forgive and to be forgiven is bread while then seeking to hold on to it at the expense to allow yourself to be humanized by those whom you of others in one way or another. And in the framework I may least want to receive as signs of God’s gift; but this have been outlining, this can be by way of a concern for process is intrinsically connected with the prayer for daily defending my own dignity rather than being willing to bread. To deny the possibilities of forgiveness would be receive it in love. to say that there are those I have no need of because they Praying for our daily bread is praying to be reacquainted have offended me or because they have refused to extend with our vulnerability, to learn how to approach each other, a hand to me. not only to approach God, with our hands open. So to pray To forgive is clearly the mark of a humanity touched by this prayer with integrity, we need to be thinking about God—free from anxiety about identity and safety, free to the various ways in which we defend ourselves. We can- reach out into what is other, as God does in Jesus Christ. not fully and freely pray for our daily bread when we are But it may be that willingness to be forgiven is no less wedded inseparably to our own rightness or righteousness, the mark of a humanity touched by God. It is a matter any more than we can when we are wedded to our own of being prepared to acknowledge that I cannot grow or security or prosperity. And perhaps this explains why the flourish without restored relationship, even when this Lord’s Prayer at once goes on to pray for forgiveness, or means admitting the ways I have tried to avoid it. When rather for the gift of being forgiven as we have learned to I am forgiven by the one I have injured, I both accept that forgive. The person who asks forgiveness is a person who I have damaged a relationship, and accept that change is

After his election, President-elect Younan introduced his wife, Suad Younan, to the Assembly and par- ticipants use wheat stalks during 76 the Eucharistic service. possible. And if the logic of the Lord’s Prayer is correct, ing. Sharing the bread of truth means also attending to that acceptance arises from and is strengthened by our the truth of the other’s actual condition. And much of own freedom to bring about the change that forgiveness what we European Christians ask forgiveness for is always entails. going to be those moments in our history when we have Forgiveness is the exchange of the bread of life and offered a gift in a way that cannot be received—perhaps the bread of truth; it is the way in which those who have because it is bound to alien cultural assumptions, or more damaged each other’s humanity and denied its dignity seriously because it is associated with practices of oppres- are brought back into a relation where each feeds the sion and exploitation. In the Body of Christ, sooner or other and nurtures their dignity. It is a gross distortion later, we cannot avoid the moment when we make our of forgiveness that sees it as a sort of claim to power over peace by recognizing that we need each other; that we the other—being a patron or a benefactor toward someone must learn to open our hands for the rice that our Asian less secure. We should rather think of those extraordi- neighbor offers. nary words in the prophecy of Hosea (11:8-9) about the In contrast to what the secular culture sometime seems mercy of God: “How can I give you up, O Ephraim? For to think, this turning to one another in recognition of I am God and not a mortal.” To forgive is to share in the mistakes and hurts is not a futile indulgence in meaningless helplessness of God, who cannot turn from God’s own collective guilt or an attempt to settle scores. It is rather nature: not to forgive would be for God a wound in the that we come to see how our history together has often divine life itself. Not power but the powerlessness of the made us less and not more human, and acknowledge that God whose nature is love is what is shown in the act of the effects of that are still powerful in our lives now. So forgiving. The believer rooted in Christ shares that pow- we begin to ask one another for nourishment, including erlessness, and the deeper the roots go the less possible the not always easy or welcome nourishment that comes it is not to forgive. And to be forgiven is another kind of from hearing the truth. powerlessness—recognizing that I cannot live without One other crucial focus today is, of course, the act of the word of mercy, that I cannot complete the task of be- reconciliation with Christians of the Mennonite/Anabap- ing myself without the healing of what I have wounded. tist tradition. It is in relation to this tradition that all the Neither the forgiver nor the forgiven acquires the power “historic” confessional churches have perhaps most to repent, that simply cuts off the past and leaves us alone to face given the commitment of the Mennonite communities to the future: both have discovered that their past, with all non-violence. For these churches to receive the penitence its shadows and injuries, is now what makes it imperative of our communities is a particularly grace-filled acknowl- to be reconciled so that they may live more fully from edgement that they still believe in the Body of Christ, and with each other. that they have need of us; and we have good reason to see This Assembly is today focusing on the gifts and needs of how much need we have of them, as we look at a world Asia—which means, ironically, that the imagery of bread in which centuries of Christian collusion with violence is less apt and immediate than that of rice. That in itself has left so much unchallenged in the practices of power. reminds us that so often we try to give to the other what Neither family of believers will be simply capitulating to they do not want or need, what is not familiar or nourish- the other; no-one is saying we should forget our history

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or abandon our confession. But in the global Christian on real events) which explored the cost of reconciliation community in which we are called to feed one another, in the setting of Northern Ireland. If forgiveness is the to make one another human by the exchange of Christ’s most demanding instance of learning to offer one’s own good news, we can still be grateful for each other’s dif- resources for the sake of the dignity of another, if it is in ference and pray to be fed by it. so many ways the least “natural” or most counter-cultural Scholars at least since the time of St Jerome have worried form of service to each other, it is surely right to see it as over the odd Greek word that is used in the gospels for a gift from the future, as God’s undefeated purpose for “daily bread”—epiousios, whose exact meaning has proved us draws us forward. elusive. Jerome rendered it with grim literalism as “super- “Give us this day our daily bread” is, then, a prayer that substantial”—not a very helpful translation, and not one inevitably looks beyond the present moment and the settling that has survived in liturgical Latin, but it has prompted of immediate needs—though at the same time, it forbids a good many fanciful speculations. It probably means being anxious about tomorrow. It is as if in order to live in simply “the food on which we subsist.” But Jerome himself peace and hope today, we have to ask for that foretaste or refers to an ancient Aramaic version which presented the “advance payment” of God’s future which Paul identifies prayer as “Give us today the bread of tomorrow.” If that as the Holy Spirit (II Cor 5:5, cf. Eph 1:14). It has been represents what Jesus said, then he was telling us to pray said that every petition in the Lord’s Prayer is implicitly for the gifts of the coming Kingdom to be received in the a prayer for the coming of the Spirit (several of the early present. And if so, all that has been said so far is cast in a Fathers noted the ancient variant of “Thy Kingdom come” new light. The need, the hunger, we must learn to express as “May thy Holy Spirit come”), and this is no exception. is a need not simply for sustenance but for God’s future. Praying for the Spirit is indeed praying for the grace to What we need is the new creation, the bread that comes receive our humanity from God at each other’s hands in down from heaven and gives life to the world. the reality of communion—with all the struggle that this This suggests a still closer connection between the involves in turning toward the reality of the other, not prayer for daily bread and that for forgiveness. Mutual remaining content with our images of each other. Becom- reconciliation is one of the marks of the work of the ing bread for each other means breaking the stony idols Spirit, a radically new possibility opened up through the of ourselves and the other. Body of Christ: it is itself a sign of God’s future at work, But to speak in these terms of bread and forgiveness and so an instance of “tomorrow’s bread.” To put it more and the future presses us toward thinking more about the fully, the unveiling of our mutual need and the shared act in which Christians most clearly set forth these reali- recognition of human dignity as something realized in ties as the governing marks of Christian existence: the communion are dimensions of our human experience in Lord’s Supper, the Eucharist. We celebrate this Supper which God’s future is visible. And where these things until Christ comes, invoking the Spirit of the coming age happen, whether or not they are named in the context of to transform the matter of this world into the sheer gift Christ and his Spirit, there is something of the sacramental of Christ to us and so invoking the promise of a whole reality of “tomorrow’s bread”—“five minutes of heaven,” world renewed, perceived and received as gift. This is, to borrow the title of an English television drama (based supremely, tomorrow’s bread.

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Rev. Klaus Rieth, a delegate from the Evangelical Lutheran church in Württemberg, and outgoing LWF President Bishop Mark Hanson and delegates enjoy the view of balloons sailing above the buildings during the “Evening of 78 Encounter” at Schiller Square. But it is so, of course, not as an object fallen from out in justice and generosity, no proper veneration for the heaven, but precisely as the bread that is actively shared sacramental Body and Blood that is not correspondingly by Christ’s friends; and it is eaten both as an anticipation fleshed out in veneration for the neighbor. of the communion of the world to come and as a memorial If, then, we are called to feed the world—recalling Jesus’ of the betrayal and death of Jesus. That is to say, it is also brisk instruction to his disciples to give the multitudes a sacrament of forgiveness; it is the risen Jesus returning something to eat (Mk 6:37)—the challenge is to become to his unfaithful disciples to create afresh in them this a community that nourishes humanity, a humanity on the communion of the new world. The bread that comes down one hand open and undefended, on the other creatively from heaven is bread that is being handled, broken and engaged with making the neighbor more human. “Give distributed by a certain kind of community, the com- us our daily bread” must also be a prayer that we may be munity where people recognize their need of absolution transformed into homo eucharisticus, that we may become a and reconciliation with each other. The community that nourishing Body. Our internal church debates might look eats this bread and drinks this cup is one where human a little different if in each case we asked how this or that beings are learning to accept their vulnerability and need issue relates to two fundamental things—our recognition as well as their vocation to feed one another. that we need one another for our own nourishment and So we can connect the prayer for daily bread directly our readiness to offer all we have and are for the feeding, to what goes before it as well as after it in the Lord’s material and spiritual, of a hungry world. Prayer. We ask for the Kingdom to come and for God’s As things are, we are liable to fall into a variety of traps. purpose to be realized as it is in the liturgy of heaven, in We may conduct our interchurch quarrels in a spirit that the heavenly Temple, where our basic calling to love and sends out a clear message of unwillingness to live with the praise is fulfilled. And in the light of that, we pray for other and be fed by them. We may consume our time and today’s and tomorrow’s bread, for the signs among us of energy in what we like to think of as service to the needy, the future of justice and reconciliation, above all as this while ignoring our own need and poverty, especially our is shown in mutual forgiveness. need of silence and receptivity to God. We may imagine The Lord’s Supper is bread for the world—not simply that by faithfully performing the liturgy we embody the in virtue of the sacramental bread that is literally shared reality of the Kingdom, whether or not we are being and consumed, but because it is the sign of a humanity transformed into a community of mutual nourishment. set free for mutual gift and service. The church’s mission We may focus so closely on the rights of human persons in God’s world is inseparably bound up with the reality of that we lose sight of their beauty and dignity, the beauty the common life around Christ’s table, the life of what a and dignity that help to feed us. The list could go on. But great Anglican scholar called homo eucharisticus, the new the point is that the intimate connection between our “species” of humanity that is created and sustained by the mission and the prayer for our daily bread impacts at so eucharistic gathering and its food and drink. Here is many levels on the life of discipleship that the range of proclaimed the possibility of reconciled life and the im- possible areas of failure is correspondingly broad. perative of living so as to nourish the humanity of others. The worst reaction to this would be simple anxiety. The There is no transforming eucharistic life if it is not fleshed best is to recognize that our liability to failure is itself a

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reminder of our basic hunger, our need for each with confidence to each other so that the need other. The bread of truth is also the bread of may be met; in the desire for the freedom to for- honesty about ourselves, and a church that is give and be forgiven; in the fuller understanding genuinely growing up into Christ will be one of the Eucharist as the centre of our Christian that is prepared to hear its judgment on these identity—not purely as a ritual act but as a and other matters with patience and gratitude. foundation for community, a sharing of bread So when we pray for our daily bread, we pray embedded in a practice of shared life, flowing too for awareness of our failure, and—hard as out into the service of the world’s hunger. It is this always is—for the grace to hear the truth a prayer, simply, for Christ to be our food and about it from one another, and also from the sustenance, so that all self-sufficient pride, all wider world. For God can also act to nourish individual anxiety and defensiveness, all greedy our humanity by the challenges and questions effort to live at the expense of the neighbor are and rebukes that the rest of the human race overcome; and the church declares with clarity puts to the church. and conviction that there is indeed bread for the “Give us this day our daily bread” is thus a world’s hunger to be found in the Body of the prayer for the fullness of the church to be made Lord. May that clarity and conviction—and the manifest: in a pattern of recognizing our own repentant self-awareness that goes with it—be need and the neighbor’s, and being able to turn always ours.

80 A Response to the Keynote Address Ms Inga Marie Nordstrand, Church of Norway

First of all, I wish to express my appreciation lands, because growing crops is not a genuine for being invited to give a response to the possibility. Survival depends more directly on keynote address. I wish also thank Archbishop the gifts of nature through fishing, hunting, Rowan Williams for his very inspiring and and gathering, and also reindeer herding, thought-provoking reflections on our Assembly which is practiced by over 20 peoples, rang- theme. I have prepared a reflection on the main ing from the Sámi in the West to populations theme from a Sámi perspective, and the chal- throughout Siberia. lenge of climate change generally as it affects Indigenous communities in the far North indigenous communities in the North. are already being affected by climate change, The extreme northern part of the world—Alas- so it is becoming a growing concern for them. ka, northern Canada, Greenland, Siberia, as well The circumpolar region is today the region of as northern Scandinavia, where I live—is often earth where the temperature increase is highest. referred to as the circumpolar region. Most people Scientific climate models estimate an average consider this region a vast wilderness; in fact, it temperature increase in the Arctic region has for thousands of years been the homeland for over the next 100 years of at least 6-8 degrees a great number of Indigenous Peoples with related Celsius. This is not only true with regard to, cultures, one of which is the Sámi people. for example, Greenland and the North Pole. In our cultures, “daily bread” is not tradi- Even in my home county, Finnmark, in the tionally associated with so-called cultivated northernmost part of Norway, it is estimated 81 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

that temperatures will increase by 6 degrees changing. Waterfowl populations are declining. within 100 years. Entire lakes are emptying due to permafrost But climate change is not only about the thawing underneath the lake. This is bad future. Many communities in the North are news, because the permafrost throughout already adversely affected today. The hunting the Arctic region stores enormous amounts culture of the Inuit, which depends on sea ice, of methane gas, a greenhouse gas many times

is threatened. more potent than CO2. Even in my home region, we already see What should we do to confront this crisis? changes taking place. Seafish are moving to The Gwitch’in woman said that the young different locations due to changes in the wa- people in her community, faced with the ter temperature. Our elders say they can no great changes in their environment, went to longer rely on the traditional weather signs their elders, asking what to do. The answer by which they used to predict the weather. In of the elders was: “Be spiritual! You need to mid-winter we can suddenly get freezing rain, be spiritual!” So now young people have re- which covers the land and, more importantly, kindled their spiritual relationship to the land, the food sources of reindeer and other animals. greeting the land when they are out harvesting Our winters are getting shorter. The spring and affirming the gifts of food from the land migration of the reindeer is affected by bad as fundamental spiritual gifts. snow conditions and unsafe ice for the cross- This brings to mind reflections I read in ing of rivers and lakes. The warmer climate is the preparatory material and heard during causing expansion of forests into Arctic tundra. this Assembly: the affirmation that daily Over the last decade we have experienced an bread is not only a “commodity” or a product explosion of caterpillar attacks on our birch of human production, but rather a spiritual forests. This is because winters with frosts of gift, a sacrament of the earth that affirms our -37 degrees Celsius, which normally kill the fundamental connectedness with all created caterpillar eggs, are becoming rarer. life, a gift of God’s mercy that connects us In December last year, I attended a confer- with the Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer ence which focused on Indigenous Peoples of all life. and climate change. There a Gwitch’in So, faced with the emerging effects of woman from northern Alaska showed slides climate change, what does it mean to pray and told stories about what is going on in her “Give us today our daily bread”? Maybe it is community. Her people live on the Alaskan an invitation to be spiritual, in a way that tundra, in one of the greatest wetlands in embraces our connectedness with all creation, North America, encompassing thousands of and to humbly receive and affirm daily bread lakes. Due to thawing permafrost things are as a merciful gift to be shared.

82 A Response to the Keynote Address Ms Jeannette Ada, Evangelical Lutheran Church of Cameroon

LWF President, LWF General Secretary, Your to symbolize eating and drinking. It stands Excellency the Archbishop of Canterbury, for basic human needs, for elementary re- ladies and gentlemen, guests and delegates to quirements that remain unsatisfied for certain the Eleventh Assembly of the LWF, peoples and children of God. Representing the Evangelical Lutheran “Give us today our daily bread” is also the prayer Church of Cameroon, I am greatly honored of Africa’s sons and daughters to God, the Father to have been invited to make a few comments of humanity, who is also their Father. It is also a following the brilliant presentation by our prayer that expresses recognition of God’s sover- keynote speaker, the Archbishop of Canterbury, eignty over everything. As creator of the universe on the main theme, “Give Us Today Our Daily and all that is therein, God gave Africa the land Bread.” We thank him for having tackled the that procures life by bread and the rain that makes subject in its ecumenical and global dimension. the earth fruitful so it can produce bread. Land In my response, I would like to share with you and water are freely given and constitute the basic some experiences from my context. capital for the development of the whole of society, In Cameroon and in many countries in Af- but what stops that happening? Why does the rica, when we speak of bread, we see different earth not feed its children fairly, those in Africa, elements of our traditional food, consisting of in general, and Cameroon, in particular? plantains, macabos (cabbages), maize, cassava Let us examine some huge, indeed crucial or millet. Today many people consider bread problems that prevent us from getting our 83 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

daily bread: poverty, climate change and difficulty in producing bread. The earth gender justice. contributes to our survival and this makes us realize how ruthless we are in our relations with the environment. It also shows us how we Poverty Christians can work together to preserve our earth and make it productive. As a communion Africa is rich in resources, both natural and of churches, we cannot therefore ignore envi- human, and it has great cultural diversity. ronmental problems nor remain silent when Taking account of the considerable resources populations are dispossessed of their land to available in our continent, it is scandalous to the benefit of big foreign companies. see so many people still suffering from hun- ger there. Hundreds of thousands of logs are transported through Cameroon’s ports and Gender Justice railways, impoverishing our country, our vil- lages and our populations. The uncontrolled We cannot dissociate the question of daily bread exploitation of forests for economic purposes from that of gender justice. In some societies, has a disturbing impact on the environment, this question is an obstacle to obtaining daily climate and ecosystem. The race for wealth and bread. In Cameroon, for example, there are the self-centeredness of certain African leaders several negative practices that crush human reinforce the injustice of the economic systems beings (women, men and children), trampling and continue to have deleterious effects, crush- on their humanity and depriving them of their ing and dehumanizing whole populations. daily bread. Furthermore, when speaking of The prayer “Give us today our daily bread” gender justice in Cameroon, it is important to presupposes a life of sharing in love. However, highlight the question of human trafficking, because of the poor distribution and manage- which is a violation of justice and human rights. ment of our God-given resources and wealth, Women are the object of bargaining and export the children of God suffer hunger and thirst. for profit by individuals or organizations that use Speeches about good governance only go to them to make money. Girls from the northern conceal bad governance, bad leaders, corruption, region of Cameroon may be given in marriage injustice, the lack of political will, violations from the age of 12. These marriages sometimes of basic human rights and gender inequality. come from alliances between two families want- These questions are important because they ing to strengthen their bonds of friendship. So concern the people of God and cannot be left a male may be given, or choose, a girl still in in the hands of politicians alone. So we must the womb of her mother as his wife, or one who review our doctrine of the two kingdoms if has just been born. In addition, employers also we want to understand the implications of exploit working children (boys and girls) by ensuring that each and everyone has their daily giving their wages to the respective guardians bread. The churches as a whole must take their or those who procured the children, rather than responsibilities in the face of these challenges. to the children themselves. A whole system is Consequently we really must revise and develop organized around trafficking in minors, who are our understanding of mission and diakonia in also exported to other countries in Africa and the context of our setting today. Europe. This situation dehumanizes children, who lose their dignity from a very early age and are deprived of their daily bread. Climate Change and Fortunately for us Christians, the prayer the Environment “Give us today our daily bread” raises the idea of forgiveness, which permits us to look African countries are the hardest hit by climate others in the eye and, in doing so, to see love, change. They are also unable to cope with the friendship and reconciliation. It is only in this consequences of climate change—food inse- context that the children of Cameroon—and curity and hunger, internal displacements and those of other parts of the world living in conflicts about daily bread. The consequences the same situations—can regain their rights of environmental destruction, in Cameroon as and their humanity in order to obtain, with everywhere else, include the disappearance of dignity, the daily bread freely given by God vegetation and desertification which dry and our Father to all. impoverish the soil, which then has extreme Thank you for listening. 84 Michael Windfuhr [right], Germany, listens as Sindisiwe Ndelu [left], South Africa, moderates the hearing on “Daily Bread, Climate Change and Food Security.” Public Hearings Call to Action on Climate Change and Food Security

Addressing climate change is a kairos moment Assembly in the form of a motion that would in the life of The Lutheran World Federation impress upon member churches the urgency of (LWF), calling for immediate action because climate change and “step up the focus.” “God’s world is suffering,” Prof. Dr Barbara Delegates heard stories from different parts Rossing, a delegate from the Evangelical Lu- of the world on the impact of climate change theran Church in America, told the Assembly. on the environment and how this leads to “God is calling us to hope and have life in the human suffering, food insecurity, disparity, midst of this urgent issue.” division, poverty and violence. The call to action, from Rossing and from many other delegates at the LWF’s Eleventh Assembly, came during a public hearing ses- Global Warming sion on climate change and food security on 23 July. A common theme throughout the “Global warming is proceeding as predicted,” said presentations and testimonies focused on the Dr Stefan Rahmstof, climatologist at the Pots- need for urgent action and for this to be done dam Institute for Climate Impact Research, who in unity among LWF members. connected via Web conference and shared stark “We will all be helped if we can see this statistics on the rapid pace of climate change. as a communion issue,” said Rossing, who “The first six months this year have been spoke of the need for visible action during the the hottest first half of a year ever recorded,” 85 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

he said. “And the last 18 months have been Following major flooding in the region, the hottest 18 months.” an effect of climate change, the region has “In the last century, there have been 28 experienced widespread unemployment. mega droughts [in Northern Kenya], four of “Work and school is something people can them in just the last decade,” said Rev. John only start after they have had something to Halkano Halahke, Evangelical Lutheran eat,” said Kalit, speaking about the catalyst Church in Kenya. These conditions have led for a project involving the building of an oven to significant losses of livestock and, as a result, and founding of a bakery. “many environmental livelihood consequences In return, the result of the actions has been as people are just surviving to live.” twofold, she said. “Food is produced, and a The lack of resources in the region has lead to safe and legal livelihood is produced.” violence and even death. “One hundred people “We have learned that much is possible,” said have lost their lives as a result of fighting for Michael Windfuhr, human rights director for resources,” said Halahke, noting that some the German Protestant agency Brot für die have resorted to raiding in order to restock Welt (Bread for the World) and co-moderator livestock lost to drought. of the public hearing, in summarizing the Amid the devastating consequences of hearing. While the effects and impacts of climate change and food security, several climate change are increasingly dangerous, delegates spoke of finding hope through the Windfuhr noted there was a feeling among response of member churches. participants that the LWF must be involved in “encouraging communities and helping them become active,” so as to understand Responding Locally their critical role. It is important to act in solidarity, he said. Ms Eszter Kalit, Evangelical Lutheran Church “The nature of God is challenging us, de- in Hungary, told of how congregations within manding us, and now it is our task to listen and the church are working together, within their ask what is our responsibility as individuals, as local communities and through the LWF, to member churches and as a global organization provide opportunity for a new future for those as the LWF,” added Windhur. affected by climate change.

86 Members of the Betseranai Choir perform during the public hearing on HIV and AIDS. © LWF/J. Latva-Hakuni

Churches Urged to Intensify Efforts in Global Response to HIV and AIDS

“Injustice, poverty, gender violence, stigma Munyika called on member churches to join and discrimination continue the suffering in intensifying efforts toward AIDS awareness and vulnerability of the poor and powerless, and advocacy. “We call on you, brothers and especially girls, youth and women,” said Rev. sisters, especially church leaders, to join us Dr Veikko Munyika, coordinator of the LWF in intensifying efforts.” HIV and AIDS desk. Even as the global response to HIV and AIDS is beginning to “bear some fruit,” daily bread is out of reach “Keep the Promise” for many, he told delegates at the Eleventh Assembly during a public hearing on this Members of the Betseranai Choir of the Evangelical topic, 25 July 2010. Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe used their voices Munyika called for more focused action by to bring messages about HIV and AIDS to the LWF member churches, and shared startling Assembly. In the song “Stop AIDS, Keep the statistics about the continued rise of HIV and Promise,” composed by director Paul Maphosa, AIDS. For every person beginning to receive the choir highlighted the promises community and life-saving treatments, there are five new HIV church leaders have made to fight AIDS, asking infections, he said. “Our churches have some them to “keep the promise.” The song laments that beautiful programs but it seems we need to do people are still suffering and asks when deliverance more, especially in the area of prevention.” from this deadly affliction would come. 87 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

The 20-voice choir is composed of persons Love and Affection living with HIV. They sing about the problems and challenges of living with the illness, and When Joseph Anthony Samy from India was remind church and community groups, the diagnosed with HIV in 1990 there was little government of Zimbabwe, the media, employ- awareness about AIDS, let alone counseling ers and employees to honor their declarations services, available for him or his family. “Many of commitment to work toward the prevention people, including doctors, advised my wife of HIV and AIDS. to leave me and get a separation.” “We are here to give a face to the HIV infec- Twenty years later, Samy and his wife tion,” said one member of the choir. “Through remain committed to their marriage and our music, the choir wants to raise awareness have two grown children. He lends his time about HIV and AIDS. In rural areas the sick- to assisting with counseling people about ness leads to injustice, poverty, stigmatization HIV risks and helping those who have tested and gender-based violence. Women and girls positive with employment, reuniting broken are especially affected.” families and admitting orphaned children in homes where they receive care. Samy called on delegates to avoid stigmatiz- An HIV-Free Generation ing and discriminating against HIV-positive people. “Show your love and affection,” he Speaking on behalf of the many millions of urged. “If possible, give care and support to people affected by HIV and AIDS, several them in all ways and kindly see the Christ individuals—many of whom are HIV-posi- in them as well.” tive—shared their personal stories with the Manfred Weber, who lives near Ulm, Ger- Assembly. They told of signs of hope and dem- many, said he discovered he was infected when onstrated that while being HIV-positive, they donating blood in 1989. Married and with three were alive, productive and should be allowed children, the 60-year-old said he initially kept to enjoy human rights like everyone else. it secret, even from his own family, but he now Sukhulile Mhere said his greatest wish was lives openly with the illness and is committed “to see the creation of an HIV-free generation.” to obtaining better care for people who are HIV He shared with the Assembly how he and his positive. “At that time I lost a lot but I also gained wife were living with HIV. Diagnosed when a lot.” In 2011 he hopes to organize a “positive he was single and in his early 30s, Mhere was pilgrimage” with other persons affected. told by many, including his own parents, that Rosemarie Rincon from Colombia criticized he should never consider marriage as “he was the “macho” society in her country. “I was about to die.” Through counseling he came to infected in my own home,” she said. That was understand that he had a right to love and to 12 years ago and after that she lost her husband be loved and “even have a family.” and two children. Now, in her own words, “I met and fell in love with someone who she is experiencing “a new springtime.” She [is] also HIV-positive,” said Mhere, now 40. is able “to live anew with God, reconciliation His wife recently gave birth to a “bubbling and forgiveness.” She has a daughter aged 18 baby girl,” he boasted. months and a husband. Each day, she accepts Mhere and his wife have to wait for their the challenge of living with the illness. At the daughter to turn nine months before she can have same time, she is taking further training in HIV testing, but in the meantime, the experience psychology in order to be able to accompany of having a child has shown him “that being HIV- sick persons. “HIV and AIDS are not syn- positive is not the end but only the beginning.” onymous with death,” she emphasized.

88 Presenters at the panel on illegitimate debt © LWF/J. Latva-Hakuni

Lutherans Ponder Illegitimate Foreign Debt as a Justice Issue

Some financial institutions consider only profits For example, “when we ask for our daily instead of also taking people’s needs into ac- bread in Latin America, there is always an count, “which causes many people to be deprived element of external debt,” said Rev Dr Gloria of their daily bread,” Rev. Ángel F. Furlan of Rojas Vargas, president of the Evangelical Argentina’s United Evangelical Lutheran Church Lutheran Church in Chile. Hunger, social told delegates at the Eleventh Assembly. Debt justice and lack of opportunity are all related plays a fundamental part in excluding people to debt, which affects young and old, women from food, education and health services in and men, and every level of society. countries where accumulated debt has become an overwhelming burden, he said. Furlan, who was among presenters during the Co-responsibility 24 July 2010 public hearing on illegitimate debt, reported that over the years developing countries An example of illegitimate debt was provided had accumulated debt to international creditors, by Bishop Sumoward Harris of the Lutheran often in times of dictatorships or when financial Church in Liberia (LCL) and Ms Margareta organizations considered only profits. For over Grape, . three decades this external debt servicing had Liberia has accumulated a USD 4.6 billion forced millions of people into poverty by reducing debt under dictatorships since 1846, said LCL their access to food and opportunity. Bishop Sumoward Harris. “How can such a 89 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

poor country possibly pay for this when the Jürgen Kaiser of Erlassjahr (a coalition of 700 people have so little money, and many have churches and non-governmental organizations no food, no education?” working on illegitimate debt) in Germany. Up until 1980, the Liberian government “We need to look for a new financial architec- had bought from Sweden warships worth USD ture”—one that includes taking care of people 6.44 million plus USD 1.8 million in interest. and safeguarding creation. Ethically speaking, In 2008, the churches from the two countries debts should be paid, but fraud and extortion demanded that the Swedish government ac- need not be a part of debt. cept co-responsibility for the debt, declare the “Trillions of accumulated debts have become Liberian debt to be illegitimate, and cancel the an overwhelming burden for many countries, debt, which by that time had reached nearly including northern countries,” said Kaiser. USD 30 million with interest. “Institutions don’t want to discuss loans to This initiative was partly successful. The dictatorships; or those transformed into public Swedish government cancelled the debt but debt, usury or corruption; or power inequities it did not accept co-responsibility. Instead the when debts are renegotiated.” They do not want amount of the debt cancellation was subtracted to talk about rapacious lending practices or from Sweden’s development aid budget. second-hand debt packaging. Ms Cristina Mora of the Lutheran Costa These debts have left too many people be- Rican Church and Ms Tuula Siljanen, Evan- hind, and the image of God in so many has gelical Lutheran Church of , explained been injured. “We in the church must talk how churches in their respective countries about these things. […] We must be actors, documented the advancing of credit that was not spectators,” Kaiser added. connected with corruption. Using so-called “export credit,” the Finnish government enabled the sale of machines to Costa Rican hospitals, Ethical Issue but only if they were purchased from a particular Finnish company. Furthermore, the machines’ Rev. Atle Sommerfeldt of Norwegian Church operation was complicated and they could not Aid said, “We need to say that this is a simple be used by the Costa Rican hospitals. ethical issue. If the person taking the loan is a The churches supported changing the un- crook, a dictator, and you have a vested interest derstanding of debt from a very narrow legal in selling to them, you are responsible. […] We interpretation to a more comprehensive, moral must have the courage to say that, even though, and ethical one, explained Siljanen. In this technically, it can be quite complicated.” process the churches are demanding more In a recorded message, Bishop Karl Sig- transparency from government and in the urbjörnsson of The Evangelical Lutheran practices of business enterprises. said, “When works and achievements, profit and productivity are put first, the Lutheran doctrine of grace becomes A New Financial very important. ‘Forgive us our debts.’ We Architecture are all indebted to one another. This is the context of community.” Mr Peter Prove, executive director of the The issue of illegitimate debt has been Ecumenical Advocacy Alliance, called on pursued actively for three decades through Lutherans to provide a communio response to the LWF Illegitimate Debt Program. It has debt relief and responsible lending. resulted in a publication Not Just Numbers: The church has a long experience with Examining the Legitimacy of Foreign Debts diakonia to alleviate poverty and now also (Minneapolis, MN: Lutheran University must move toward “prophetic diakonia,” said Press, 2008).

90 Heidrun Tobler, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa, during the women’s message presentation

Message from the Women’s Pre-Assembly Bossey, Switzerland, 27–31 October 2009

On Reformation and women and children, are seen as expendable; Transformation we see ourselves, the LWF, as less than a full communion when women are barred from God calls us to be community in the world. leadership; we grieve that people around As the world God made changes, so our the world have less than what they need. reformation continues. God calls us to a life What can we do? of change, reformation, and transformation. We call on the LWF to be an inclusive Nurtured by God’s grace, we are empowered communion: to act with others to end hu- to advocate for justice; fed by God’s Word, man trafficking; to witness the transforma- we are empowered to share the bread of life tive power of the gospel and fully embrace with others. women’s perspectives and gifts; to insist God empowers us to make change, par- within our societies that all peoples have a ticularly when we are dismayed by the chaos basic right to food. and evil in the world around us. To share The need is immediate and we urge the the bread of justice is our sacred call. As LWF in Assembly to set right actions in participants of the LWF Women’s Pre-As- motion—“to proclaim release to the captives sembly, we cry for justice in the world. We and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the yearn for cultural transformation because we oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the are shocked that human lives, particularly Lord’s favor” (Lk 4:18b–19). 91 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

The following are our joys and struggles, hopes and dreams. • Vocational leadership. We deplore the existence The ongoing growth, life, and energy in the communion on of the “stained glass ceiling,” which ensures that the topic of gender justice may be symbolized by a tree, with women—who can see the heights of their voca- deep roots anchoring the structure. The leaves denote our tion—cannot ascend to the higher leadership levels budding recommendations to the Lutheran community. to which they may know themselves to be called.

Identify a process for naming female candidates to Women in Leadership LWF President, LWF Council, and other LWF positions. “There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female, for all of you are one in • Modeling. We recognize the importance of model- Christ Jesus” (Gal 3:28). ing and encourage churches worldwide to experience women in the pulpit, at the altar, and in decision- Vocation: The call to lead, serve, and teach is a manifesta- making bodies. tion of the vocation that God has named for us. In consid- ering women’s ministry, we think anew about leadership Create opportunities for member churches to see and partnership, service and diakonia. visible change in the Lutheran family, for instance through church-to-church visits. Image of God: Men and women are made in God’s im- age. The wholeness of the church requires both men and • Theology.We uplift women’s contributions to theol- women to be included. To denigrate women is to leave a ogy—including feminist, womanist, mujerista—and wound on the Body of Christ. advocate for their inclusion in all normative, Lutheran, theological discourse. • Ordination. We strongly affirm the LWF commit- ment to the ordination of women made first by the Create an LWF task force to organize theological 1984 assembly. discussion and look for guiding gender justice prin- ciples so that member churches can contextualize Encourage member churches to set up appropriate and promote gender policies. legislation and regulations that enable women to take positions of leadership—ordained and lay—and to Teach theology from women’s perspectives to pursue theological education. students, pastors, and church leaders, through re- gional consultations and feminist theology courses • Vocational gifts. We believe that women bring an at seminaries. essential perspective to all types of ministry—or- dained and lay—in an increasingly fractured and fractious world.

© LWF/Luis E. Ramírez Day Six 25 July

Delegates joined local congrega- tions in Sunday worship; among them, LWF President-elect You- nan preached at Uhlbach’s An- dreaskirche, and Bishop Frank O. July of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Württemberg preached in the Stiftskirche.

92 Human Trafficking • Wholeness for victims. We express our deepest compassion and sorrow for all those who have been “For freedom Christ has set us free, stand firm, therefore, and victims of trafficking and call for them to be as do not submit again to a yoke of slavery” (Gal 5:1). “And the honored and respected as ourselves. king will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you Facilitate the construction of partnerships and coop- did it to me’” (Mt 25:40). eration between church and society, which both play roles in bringing about cultural transformation and the The Covenanted Community: God calls us as a community elimination of trafficking, through law and gospel. gathered around the promise of a new covenant to care for all , the orphans, widows, poor and marginalized; we • Commodification as sin. We believe that the com- are to see Christ in our neighbor. modification of human beings is sinful. In some places women sell themselves to put food on the table for The Two Kingdoms: Creation is God’s kingdom. God uses their families. The church must combat the sale of the Law to ensure peace and good government, to punish women’s and children’s bodies, particularly at this evil and promote good. God uses the Gospel through time of global financial crisis. Word and Sacrament to forgive sins, comfort the weary and build up the church and her people. Combat consumerism and commodification that encourages the perception that women and children • Public rejection of human trafficking. We join are dispensable and saleable. with the LWF Council in absolutely rejecting “the turning of human beings into commodities, espe- Counter the negative valuation of female bodies cially for the purposes of forced or exploitative labor, by strengthening our understanding that female sexual exploitation, forced marriage, armed conflict bodies belong to the body of Christ and encourag- or ‘organ harvesting,’” (2009). ing rites and liturgies for female bodies and lives, which need to be written in local languages and Create resources, especially theological reflection, local paradigms. to help churches speak about human trafficking. The resources must challenge the view that trafficking happens elsewhere, as well as contextualize the Food Justice reality. “[A capable wife] considers a field and buys it, with the fruit of Fund a summit involving theologians, pastors, ser- her hands she plants a vineyard, She girds herself with strength vice providers, and those who have been trafficked and makes her arms strong, She perceives that her merchandise to develop strategies, sharing best practices and is profitable, She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out experiences. her hands to the needy” (Prov 31:16–18a, 20).

A symbolic action during the Sun- day 25 July worship at Stuttgart’s historic Stifskirche and congre- gants share greetings after the Sunday service. The liturgical ser- vice was broadcast live in Germany and Norway. 93 © LWF/Luis E. Ramírez LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

Faith and Works: In faith, and through the grace • Naming the disparity. We acknowledge of God, we receive the good news of salvation the chasm that separates those who suffer and the Kingdom of God. Knowing ourselves from famine and deprivation, and those loved and saved by God turns us back to this who consume too much. When we pray, world, and to service of our neighbor. We hear we acknowledge that food is a gift from the call of Christ in the call of our neighbor. God, and ask that it continues to sustain our daily life. The Call to Serve: The Christian church has, since its very beginnings, placed diakonia For a worldwide increase in food sov- alongside the ministry of Word and Sacrament ereignty, our transformation needs to as fundamental to our shared life. “Waiting contribute to gender justice. We in the on tables” includes ensuring that the tables LWF need to connect the churches and are spread with food for all. the world in our acts of transformation for long-term, sustainable change. • Right to land and food. We deplore the fact that many women suffer from lack • Food production, distribution, and of access to land, especially where laws consumption. We lament that while forbid women to inherit property. We women worldwide remain the major affirm their right to safe nutritious food producers of food, they are often the and clean water. Everyone should be free last to receive what they have produced. from hunger, eating food that is available, Food justice demands just production, accessible, affordable and acceptable. distribution, and consumption.

Encourage churches to engage in cam- Encourage active member church par- paigns to insist upon their governments’ ticipation in the fight for food justice, for actions, commitments, and attitudes to instance through ecumenical campaigns food justice, especially as they relate to such as Ecumenical Advocacy Alliance women and children, to gain informa- “Churches’ Week of Action on Food” tion and formulate targeted action. with focus on gender disparities.

94 Youth message presentation: Lutheran youth destroy labels in their call for greater gender justice and sustainability. Message of the Pre-Assembly Youth Conference Dresden, Germany, 10–17 July 2010

We are 120 participants—including delegates, our selfishness and break down the walls of stewards and LWF staff from six continents ignorance that are built between us. and 45 countries, representing the youth of the As full members of the Lutheran Commu- Lutheran World Federation (LWF) member nion in the present, we are also conscious of churches—who are attending the Pre-As- our responsibility in connecting this generation sembly Youth Conference (PAYC), 10-17 July with the future, which is why we seek the full 2010 in Dresden, Germany, organized by the inclusion of youth and their concerns in the LWF and hosted by the Evangelical Lutheran life of the whole church and society. We are Church of , Germany. committed to taking part in facing our shared We come as youth representatives from all challenges within and through the Lutheran over the world from different cultures, tradi- Communion. We are committed to respect- tions and spiritual vocations. Though we may be ing each other despite different theological citizens coming from countries with different positions on the same issue, and not only to socioeconomic and political situations, we all respect the position of the majority, but also live in a globally connected world and are united to respect minority positions. by faith in our Savior Jesus Christ who taught During our conference we discussed many us to pray “Give us Today our Daily Bread.” issues, but among the most important and We understand that sharing is the core of this urgent from our point of view are (i) sustain- petition, calling us to open our eyes, repent of ability (especially focusing on climate change 95 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

and food security), (ii) gender justice and (iii) the role of connected, and are able to experience and learn from youth in enhancing the visibility of the LWF. each others’ reality. This expression of communion is a powerful tool for advocating globally. We ask the LWF to hold an experimental, virtual meeting Sustainability of executives during the next four years in order to explore the feasibility of using virtual meetings, thereby As young Christians, we are acutely aware of the environ- saving economic and environmental resources. mental, social and economic unsustainability of current patterns of behavior and practices in our global village. • LWF member churches: Churches are responsible The context in which we live today fails to provide a bal- for raising awareness and for the education of their ance between these three pillars of sustainability. The still congregations in their own specific contexts. This ongoing global financial and economic crisis has shown includes materials with practical advice on how to us that there are serious concerns regarding the uncon- change lifestyles as well as theological reinterpreta- strained accumulation of wealth of the few at the expense tions in support of more sustainable and eco-friendly of the many. Greed is a challenge which lies behind the patterns. Churches also have a responsibility to unsustainability of current practices and systems, and advocate with governments, corporations and other therefore must be confronted. Injustice between rich and relevant actors for social, economic and environ- poor, between developed and developing countries, has mental sustainability in policy and practice. We its origins in this source. We look for a future in which ask members of the Communion to purchase and we all finally share our daily bread. promote fair-trade and sustainable products. We Because of unsustainable methods of production, not strongly recommend that member churches only only humans are suffering from economic injustice but also invest in ethical and environmentally-friendly funds God’s precious creation. We have to find a new paradigm in and investments. We encourage active share hold- which all three pillars of sustainability—society, economy ing advocacy. In addition, we desire the LWF and and the environment—are fully integrated, and in which its member churches to investigate new banking the needs of today can be met without compromising the options specifically focusing on ethical practices capacity of future generations to meet their own needs. (such as paying lower corporate bonuses and not Therefore as young Christians, with a personal as well as rewarding greed) and sustainability practices (by ethical concern for the future, we are challenged to promote not contributing to the financial crisis). sustainable development in its economic, environmental and social aspects. • LWF Eleventh Assembly: We recommend that the We address ourselves to the following different expres- Assembly adopt a public statement addressing greed sions of the global Lutheran communion: and social, economic and environmental sustainabil- ity, food security in the context of climate change, • The Lutheran World Federation: Through the LWF, and agro-ecological approaches to food production, the different Lutheran churches all over the world are distribution and consumption.

© LWF/Martin Eisele-Remppis

96 With regard to climate change and environmental sus- Many women and men around the world lack the op- tainability, the proportional responsibility of nations must portunity to obtain an education. One example of that be taken into account, assuring that national investments are women and girls who have to stay home to take care in environmental protection and preservation should be of their families. Women and girls have an equal right according to the amount of pollution produced, recognizing to education. When women and girls are denied access also that the people of the developing nations are suffering to education, the whole society is deprived of the poten- the most from the impacts of global climate change. tials with which God has blessed them. We believe that women, men and young people should also be entitled to comprehensive sex education, in order to empower them Gender Justice for responsibility for their own bodies and sexuality. We believe that in order to be a legitimate and cred- “Give us today our daily bread.” To us this means seeing all ible voice for gender justice in society, the church must human beings as equals and not tolerating the denigration first and foremost achieve gender justice within its own of anyone’s human dignity. We call upon the Communion structures and practices. This is also a matter of a faith to challenge systems and practices that limit the choices for commitment to respecting the God-given dignity of all men and women on the basis of gender. We young Lutheran people regardless of gender. We wish also to encourage people from many different geographical and cultural further theological study on gender equality. contexts believe that cultures and practices within both Therefore we strongly agree with the outcomes of the society and church that diminish the God-given dignity women’s Pre-Assembly, especially on the subjects of vo- of women must be transformed. This includes traditional cational leadership, vocational gifts and ordination. As patriarchal systems and practices that prevent the eman- was stated in the women’s Pre-Assembly, men and women cipation of women. We recognize that in many such cases are both made in God’s image, and the wholeness of the these systems and practices are sustained not only by the church requires both men and women to be included and men who practice them, but also by women. We ask that to be enabled to fully live out their respective callings. the LWF calls on member churches to act on regional and We affirm the LWF’s longstanding policy for a minimum individual, personal level to break this chain of habits. participation of 40 percent women in all LWF events and We believe that the body is given by God and is sacred, structures. But we are aware of an implementation gap, and and no one should be able to break that sanctity. We consider that this quota should not be responded to in a merely therefore think that it is important to help both women tokenistic way, but out of a genuine commitment to gender and men know their legal rights, to empower them in daily justice within the church on the part of all member churches. life and to challenge especially domestic violence and the We ask the Council to have the issue of gender justice as a objectification of women’s, children’s and men’s bodies. standing item on the agenda. We call on the Assembly to urge We ask the LWF to continue and strengthen its work to member churches to re-commit to genuine, practical and effec- empower young women and to expressly denounce the tive implementation of LWF policies and decisions regarding commercialization of the human body, particularly the the full participation of women in the life of the church—and bodies of women and children, in the media. of the LWF communion—as well as in society.

© LWF/J.Latva-Hakuni

Younan delivered his first sermon as president- elect in Uhlbach’s Andreaskirche, and Rev. Rainer Kiefer asked worshippers to consider the meaning of “daily bread” for a person living with HIV or amidst war in his 25 July 2010 sermon at the Church of the Resurrection Waldrems-Heiningen. 97 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

LWF visibility and the established within the churches. We do not role of youth wish to be mere numbers in a quota, but to be valuable and valued contributors to the We recognize and appreciate the opportuni- life and work of this church family. Member ties afforded by the LWF through the Pre- churches should provide their designated Assembly Youth Conferences, through the representatives with the information and policy for 20 percent participation of youth in perspectives necessary to enable them to truly all LWF events and structures, and through represent their churches in LWF contexts, other affirmative action and empowerment and afford them the opportunity to provide measures. We are excited by the possibilities feedback to the church governance structures and potential of being active participants in and congregations. the global LWF communion of churches. But The LWF renewal process envisages the we are dismayed by the lack of knowledge and establishment of regional conferences within awareness of the LWF, its role and its work in the seven geographic areas. In order to help our own churches and communities. solve current and future challenges within Among the strategic communication objec- our globalized and fast moving world, it be- tives, visibility has been identified as an important comes necessary to provide an effective and issue. Communication structures and practices efficient platform of interaction. We ask LWF for the broader and more effective sharing of to consider creating permanent regional or information concerning the LWF and its work subregional youth committees within each of have been highlighted by youth as essential. In the LWF regions. These committees should order to be active and constructive participants organize regular youth conferences on a in the life of this communion, young Lutherans regional level to help build a stronger youth must be given the opportunities, resources and constituency for the LWF, and to enhance information to better understand the LWF the engagement of youth with the LWF. structures and processes. We ask the LWF to encourage its member Lack of language diversity in the documents churches to use their former youth delegates produced by the LWF is one of the major ob- and stewards in future preparation of their stacles to greater visibility. We understand the youth representatives. budgetary constraints regarding translation. We ask that the Federation implement regional committees for translation of all documents Conclusion into the official languages. Therefore the LWF shall implement official and volunteer Youth represent the most important poten- translators chosen by the regions. tial for change in society. Young people are We young people offer our enthusiasm, generally the first ones to challenge injustice energy and networking skills, to assist in and oppression and to envisage a different raising the profile and visibility of the LWF. future—we should not forget that Jesus was We want to be part of a better two-way about 30 years old. Young people have the communication between the LWF and the skills that church structures and institutions churches, the congregations and the wider may lack for communication and networking society. We ask only for the opportunity and for change. Let us take the leadership that we the forums to do this. are capable of taking, not only in the future, In order to ensure the legitimacy and ac- but here and now. Let us be the gifts to this countability of youth representatives in the life communion that we know we can be. of the LWF, more democratic and transpar- ent processes for choosing youth delegates to “The earth is the Lord´s and all that is in it, the LWF assemblies and conferences should be world, and those who live in it.” Psalm 24:1

98 Acceptance Speech of LWF President-Elect Bishop Dr Munib A. Younan

Dear sisters and brothers in Christ: I believe it is a sign of the health of our On behalf of all the Lutheran churches in Asia, communion that the new LWF general I would like to thank you for this honor. I would secretary and the president are elected from also like to thank all the women in Africa and two of the smallest churches in the world. Asia who spent the day in fasting and prayer. The We are strong in you and you are strong in love of these churches, all the member churches us. In our communion, there is no large or and from the LWF—starting with that first cup small, no majority or minority, for we are all of chocolate milk—has been overwhelming. servants, sharing the resources and gifts that That this election took place in Germany God has given us. is especially meaningful and emotional for I am honored by your vote of confidence me, since my church grew out of the German and accept the job of serving as your president, mission to the Holy Land. It is a clear sign of knowing that your prayers and support follow our strong relations with German churches. me to the enormous tasks ahead. My election is also a clear sign of the success On behalf of the Asian churches, we thank of mission efforts in Asia, the Middle East, you for your trust. I promise to be the ser- and Africa. It points to the success of our vant of the entire communion, “for I am not work for justice and our efforts for mission and ashamed of the gospel; it is the power of God prophetic diakonia. It will be a great encour- for salvation to everyone” (Rom 1:16a). agement to and will hearten May God bless you. churches serving in Muslim contexts. 99 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

100 Address of LWF General Secretary-Elect Rev. Martin Junge

Dear sisters, dear brothers in Christ, depth of his heart and making use of all At the LWF Council meeting, during available resources and art. Actually, he was which I was elected the LWF general sec- convinced that it was because of his crowing retary, I addressed the Council with a little that the sun rose every morning. When he story. Those of you that were at that Council had finished his daily job and went back to may still recall it. Today, I want to begin my the farm, he would look around with a sense address repeating that story. I do so, because of paternalistic pride at the hens. “There you I continue believing that it describes in a very go, darlings, I’ve made the sun rise for you,” meaningful way our journey as the LWF he even said once. communion. The story is about a rooster in One morning the sunrise was really won- a chicken farm. derful. The rooster got so enthusiastic that he couldn’t stop crowing. The sun had long risen, but he continued crowing, just wanting to The sun rises without make the whole scene even more perfect. our doing When he went back to the chicken farm, he noticed that he had crowed too long. His Every morning when it was still dark the throat was aching. He was only able to produce rooster went out to crow. He did so with a weak croaking noise. The rooster panicked. amazing commitment, crowing from the What will happen tomorrow, if I can’t crow 101 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

anymore? What will happen to the chicken farm and sun. It is there, just because God wants grace to be there. As to all these chickens and hens, who depend so much on nobody can prevent the sun from rising, nobody can stop God my power to make the sun rise...? He went to sleep very from being gracious either. That was—in a nutshell—what early, hoping that the next morning he would be in good Jesus revealed about God. That is in all its powerful simplicity health again. the Good News of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! But he was not! The pain had worsened over night, and I often tell this story as a way of understanding good he could not even croak, but only make a ridiculously weak works as an expression of faith. Good works are a response squeak. Yet, he went out, like every morning, pushed by to God’s grace. This is how we Lutherans understand the the awareness of his plight and the panic that otherwise relationship between justification by grace and sanctifica- the sun wouldn’t rise and they would all perish. tion of our lives. Sanctification arises from hearts overflow- He tried his best, he tried hard, yet there was nothing ing with joy and love because of God’s wonderful gifts. resembling real crowing coming out of his throat. It is out of the gift of freedom, which God has acquired Great was his surprise when he suddenly realized that for us, that we respond with good works. the sun seemed to be rising anyway! Slowly but surely it The story has also served me many times as a discussion came up behind the hills, like every morning. Actually, starter for a reflection on gender roles: the rooster—why it was again one of those wonderful mornings, but this does he have to think that he is the provider? And the time, it came without his doing! He turned slowly and hens—so silent for ages, although knowing—for ages as looked back toward the chicken farm. He couldn’t believe well—what was going on? All this untapped wisdom and what he saw there: the chickens and hens had come out potential on one side, and these cruelly heavy role models like every morning as well! on the other! What is the origin? Is it nature? Is it the Terribly depressed he went back to the chicken farm. culture of the chicken farm? What shapes that culture? What could be his place there? Hadn’t he lost his role and Are there alternatives? reason to be? And why should he go out the next morning, if the sun rose anyway, even without his help? Oh, and he felt so embarrassed and ashamed. He didn’t even dare The journey of the LWF: a response to look into the hens’ eyes. to God’s gift of communion. “Hey, don’t worry,” said one of the hens. “You can continue crowing,” she said. “Go out tomorrow as usual. Today, I am sharing this story with you as I reflect on our But don’t crow in order to make the sun rise. Just crow common journey as the LWF communion of churches. because the sun rises!” I understand the gift of communion like this rising sun. Communion is just there, right in our midst, by God’s grace! Not because of our doing, but because of God’s doing! LWF Our point of departure: God’s grace member churches have recognized this gift and have wanted to accept it as the key that shapes their understanding of I have often told this story. I tell it when I want to explain being the church and of their mutual relationships. Our how we Lutherans understand grace. Grace is like the rising gathering here, the Eleventh Assembly, is not intended to

Day Seven 26 July

The Assembly discussed reports from its Policy and Reference Committee, adopting resolutions and public statements on issues of concern for the global Lutheran communion (Plenary XII and XIII). After a first reading of the Assembly Message, General Secretary-elect Rev. Martin Junge spoke on future tasks for the LWF, and participants continued their discussion on resolutions and the Assembly Message (Plenary 102 XIV). © LWF/J. Latva-Hakuni be the gathering in order to make communion happen—we to become established there and to contextualize. Diversity should not repeat the mistake of the rooster. We are gathered is not a problem. As an expression of God’s powerful action as an Assembly because of our vocation to give praiseful through the Holy Spirit, diversity is a precious gift. response to God’s gift of communion! What about our dissonances? Celebrating the gift of diversity Yet, it is also true that this diversity becomes both a task Of course, this is a difficult enough task. Who will set and a challenge. It calls us as a communion of churches the tune for our praiseful response? Who is going to lead to identify and to name our basic agreements and our our singing? Does it have to be in unison—like Gregorian common understanding. Thus, although we participate singing in days of old, where everybody had to follow by singing different parts of a same doxology, our diverse the same melody? Or are we ready for polyphony, where singing is still recognizable as praise and witness to the different sections blend their individual voices to create same God. The shape of our doxology will be configured a richer, but more complex song? by the way in which we as Lutheran churches understand I believe it has to be a polyphonic tune! Because we our Christian faith. This spiral of relating our context read in the Bible that, while there is one body, there are to Scripture through the perspective of our confessional many members (1 Cor 12) and that these many members identity is one of the important theological tasks ahead give expression to a variety of gifts. We also know that the of us. Although challenging, I regard it as an extraordi- central gift, which explains all others, is love (1 Cor 13). nary opportunity to mature our understanding of being Based on these fundamental texts, we recognize ourselves a communion of churches and become stronger witnesses as a communion united in faith and committed to love. of God in a world longing for the spiritual and material At the same time, we have to face the reality of our ex- gifts of bread, justice, and peace. periences; they vary so much! Our contexts are substantially Within this theological conversation, we will indeed different. Our way of being the church in these differing have to face this other question as well: what about the contexts, as well as the way we describe how Christ speaks dissonances that again and again become audible? to us through the Scriptures—all this varies and takes on Let me go back to musical theory. According to it, there differing forms, flavors and expressions. The voices in the is no harmony without dissonance. Actually, one can only choir, they are diverse; sometimes very diverse. build harmony on the basis of dissonance. Otherwise, no But there should not be space for worry or concern among tune, no choir, no polyphony is possible. us because of our diversity. It is deep gratitude to God that I think that this basic insight from musical theory should prevail. Because, in this diversity, we can recognize also applies to our life as communion, to our praising God nurturing the LWF member churches in an ongoing response and grateful witness to the gift of communion. way. Our diversity is a sign that the Triune God is indeed Dissonances are needed, as they are needed in music, so alive and powerful! LWF member churches are today that our tune evolves and becomes increasingly refined rooted in all regions of this globe. God has allowed them and remains both relevant and powerful in today’s world.

Morning plenary session; par- ticipants listening to Rev. Martin Junge’s address. 103 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

Dissonances, though sometimes difficult to accept, carry ing mutual understanding and relationships of trust. As the promise of transformative power. They will help us we continue discerning what it means to be churches in to find these “new songs” which the Psalm invites us to communion, we are committed to do so with a sense of sing to our Lord. (Ps 149). ecumenical responsibility—never turning our backs on It is with this basic conviction that the LWF can ap- others. On the contrary, we will seek to strengthen our proach its task of finding and rehearsing the tunes that will contribution to unity in reconciled diversity. give witness to the gift of communion in today’s world! Let me move on now and leave my initial story behind. While journeying into unknown land, let us develop our Instead, I thought it worthwhile that I share with you a doxology joyfully and confidently. Let’s do so with a few details about my own personal story. profoundly spiritual attitude, in coherence with the fact that the LWF is fundamentally a spiritual journey. I’m convinced that we will find those new songs. Not in order On a personal note: the context to make communion happen, but because communion and the church that shaped me happens just as the sun rises every day. I was born and grew up in Chile. Like many people in the country of my own generation, I was profoundly shaped by Remaining deeply committed to the period of great political difficulties in my country. We ecumenical dialogue and cooperation suffered the loss of democracy and freedoms and lived 17 years under the rule of military dictatorship. During that During my time in the LWF Secretariat in Geneva, I have period of time, I learned how little it takes to lose democ- learned a sentence from our general secretary the Rev. Dr racy, and how much it takes to regain it. And I learned to Ishmael Noko that fully reflects my own experience and appreciate the tremendous value of participatory democracy. practice as a Lutheran Christian: “to be Lutheran is to be During that period of time, which was not easy for my ecumenical.” I fully subscribe to this sentence. There should family either, the Lord came into my life and I discovered be no doubt that our vocation is to continue contributing the church for me. It became so important! My home and participating ecumenically. Not as an option, but as church became a space of protection, of mutual consola- an expression of who we are as Lutheran churches. We tion and support. I learned to hold on to values—justice, are part of this one Body of Christ. It is because of this human dignity, non-violence, tolerance—which the that we will continue working together with the World political and social context was contradicting almost Council of Churches, with other Christian World Com- daily. I heard words from the pulpit that affirmed us in munions, as well as with other organizations such as the these values. They inspired us to have hope, but also to ACT-Alliance and the Global Christian Forum. These develop that evangelical stubbornness that leads to creative are all relevant spaces and organizations to translate resistance. I experienced how the words from the pulpit our ecumenical vocation into practice. And we will also liberated many of us in order to turn to our neighbor and continue our commitment to dialogue with our many serve those suffering the loss of their rights, persecution, ecumenical partners in bilateral conversations, promot- hunger and illness. I learned to appreciate the power of

Mauritanian solar engineer Bowba Mint Brahim presented a Bare- foot College Assembly exhibit. Assembly participants applaud LWF General Secretary-elect Rev. 104 Martin Junge. © LWF/J. Latva-Hakuni the table of the Holy Communion, which nurtured our God’s solidarity and compassion, if this gospel doesn’t faith, hope and love during those difficult days. move us to solidarity and compassion with others? We From my experience in my own church, I still want to would be moving counter to God’s powerful tide toward share another important detail: I grew up in a church where humanity and creation, and thus fail to be witnesses of there have always been women pastors. I belong to a church who the Triune God actually is. which will soon have more female than male pastors. I’m There needs to be coherence between the three dimen- neither nervous nor concerned about it. I’m simply grateful sions of holistic mission. And there needs to be sound to God for these developments. I actually was mentored balance between them as well. To get at this coherence and during my internship by a female pastor, Rev. Gloria Rojas, to find this balance, I believe, is going to be a task for the who is sitting at this Assembly representing my church as its LWF in the years to come. Therein, the understanding of first female President. If you want, I learned from a woman the evangelizing church needs to be addressed as well. pastor how to serve as a congregational pastor. The LWF has many centers The mission is holistic I move on now with my address, knowing that I’m just From the brief explanation of my faith journey you will touching on issues that deserve a much deeper develop- probably recognize that I understand the mission of the ment, to share with you some of the key concepts that I church holistically. would like to retain as important orientation points for I believe that proclamation, diakonia and prophetic my service as general secretary of the LWF. presence in society (advocacy) belong intrinsically together. One of these key concepts is for me the notion of the They all influence each other in a process of mutual trans- polycentric nature of the LWF. The LWF does not have formation. Friends, what sense would it make to engage one center, but many. The LWF is globally present. There actively in advocacy, defending the rights of people, if at are LWF member churches in all regions of the world, and the same time the main message from our pulpits ham- specific identities begin to evolve in those different centers. mers people with the bad news that they are dirty sinners, What it is to be the church is defined in a polycentric way, worth nothing but harsh punishment? We ourselves would giving space to different ways of being the church. Each be undermining the dignity of people that we want others of these churches will bring something valuable to the to uphold! What sense would it make, if we feed people in table. Dear brothers and sisters, as I prepare to take on my need through diakonia, but build fences around the table service as general secretary, I’m determined to approach of the Lord and around our congregational life, making the entire LWF in its polycentricity, and with the basic it the exclusive event for a few? We would be deepening conviction that each of these centers is a contribution a divide between spiritual and material needs, which to and an enrichment of our communion. Regardless of holistic mission precisely wants to overcome! And what the age, size, wealth and theological and spiritual pro- sense would it make to proclaim the liberating gospel files of our member churches, there is no church in this of Jesus Christ, who became one of us in order to show communion that doesn’t have something to give; there is

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no church within this communion that doesn’t need to I have the perception that this difficulty also applies receive. Resources and capacities, experiences, instruments to some extent to us as the LWF. Let me put this into and knowledge—let us leave behind the old idea that all theological language. As the LWF, we have been insist- this needs to be brought from one corner of the world to ing—rightly so—on the notion of the contextual church. the other. Let us move beyond the idea that, within this This is indeed the direction to go and is coherent with communion of churches, there will be some on the giving the notion of incarnation, which is so central to Lutheran end and some others on the receiving end. Let us instead theology. Churches need to be contextual, responding to acknowledge that each church has resources, each church conversations, challenges, needs and questions that are has capacities, each church has experience and knowledge identified locally. Yet, within this contextual approach, that we need to circulate and share. which I want to strongly affirm, there is also a risk. I see the LWF moving much more strongly in this direc- Because we may also withdraw into own contexts. We tion in the future, thus becoming a space and a process where may use our context as a refuge and even as an excuse for mutual learning and mutual transformation happens. communication breakdown, for self-exclusion, or for the exclusion of others. Let me use in a provocative way some more Lutheran terminology here: if we are not careful, Our opportunity: dialogue we may end up with a fourth “solus”: next to solus Christus, across and between contexts sola gratia and sola scriptura: the solus contextus! I see it as one of our most challenging tasks for the A second concept, which has become extremely important future, that, while affirming the contextuality of churches, to me during these last years is the notion of transcontex- we affirm also their universality and engage therefore in tual dialogue. My computer underlines in red the word dialogue, cooperation and collaborative work across con- transcontextual, signaling that this word does not exist. texts. Here I see us not only maturing as a communion of Actually it does. But the fact that the computer doesn’t churches, but also contributing to the wider question of recognize it because it doesn’t seem to be a word that is our neighborhood in this one world in which we are living being used, explains many of the problems we face today together. Here I see also an excellent entry point for our as a global village. The human race has learned to connect interreligious engagement, with our particular focus on people around the globe through travel and communication. diapraxis and which Asian LWF member churches have The human race has learned to transfer resources with a brought to our common table of the LWF as their gift. mouse click. The human race has learned to become deeply interconnected through various forms of media. However, the human race has not yet learned to live as The LWF’s passion for inclusion neighbors. Issues of neighborhood are becoming extremely complex and sometimes even highly explosive—at all lev- The third concept that will shape the way in which I will els: in villages and cities, among tribes and ethnic groups, be serving the communion as its general secretary is in- among nations, and in the global village. We often simply clusiveness. During the last months I have been reading don’t know how to be neighbors. the history of the LWF. I have found out that the word

© LWF/Luis E. Ramírez Day Eight 27 July

The Assembly adopted its Mes- sage to the 145 churches in 79 countries that are members of the global Lutheran communion (Plenary XV). At a closing midday press conference and in reference to the Assembly theme, outgoing LWF President Bishop Mark S. Hanson said, “We are praying for everything that people need to sustain life each day.” The Elev- enth Assembly concluded in joyful worship in the Stiftskirche. 106 inclusiveness or inclusion is rather new in the vocabulary of women and youth. It is becoming clear that there is of the LWF. The longing for an inclusive church and LWF, homework left for us. and the effort to translate that into practice, however, We are recognizing deficiencies in the life of the LWF has been there from the very beginning. Bishop Hanson regarding our vocation to be inclusive. We have quotas, quoted in his address Dr Noko’s speech at the ELCA but, often, we have difficulties to reach them. There seem convention in 2009, reminding the Assembly about the to be “disconnects” between what we decide globally in prophetic action to include in the emerging LWF churches an Assembly and what happens locally. But even when we in countries that only a few years earlier had been at war! fulfill quotas we are recognizing that this is not sufficient. All were included. Despite suspicion and hesitation! They may ensure presence, but not necessarily participation. Despite profoundly different approaches and roles taken In order to be faithful to our previous Assembly commit- during the war. From a political and human perspective, ments and achieve our goals we need to allow ourselves to Lund 1947 was an extremely risky step. From a spiritual be transformed as churches and as a global communion perspective and out of theological conviction, it was an by the power that women and youth bring to us. And it extremely coherent step. It may not have been the right is indeed time for us men to get involved in making our time in human categories to come together as the LWF, churches and the communion more inclusive. Youth dur- but it was the right time in God’s timing of history. It ing this Assembly have shown us that they are ready for was simply the kairos. this step and want to lead us! Will their leadership have Some of you present here were witnesses of the painful space among us? struggle in the life of the LWF because of the practices of racial segregation in church life in South Africa. It was a struggle that influenced various Assemblies. But The LWF is all of us! the outcome is very clear: exclusion on the basis of racial issues does not have space in the life of the LWF. And I thought it was important to share with you some of these it was precisely because of this vocation for inclusion that key concepts that will most surely shape my way of serv- member churches who could not distance themselves ing the LWF as its general secretary. But I need to move from apartheid were not harshly dismissed either. Their on now, because I know that you want to hear something membership was suspended, and later on they were again about my priorities as well. Actually, many people have fully included in the life of the LWF. been asking me during these days about that. Budapest 1984 reaffirmed our commitment toward -in My response has been consistent: it is not about my clusion with a resolution regarding women’s participation; priorities! Because the LWF doesn’t belong to me. The Curitiba 1990 reaffirmed this commitment and focused LWF belongs to you, the member churches. And it is with on youth participation; Winnipeg 2003 brought into the you, through the Council, that we will have to reach the visual field of the communion the reality of indigenous point of identifying those priorities which give direction people and the need to include them as well. for the time ahead. Indeed, I have my own ideas. You may I have observed during this Eleventh Assembly how have even heard some of these ideas in what I’ve been we are struggling still with inclusion issues, particularly saying today. I understand that I will have to bring these

Steward Sergio Eloy Rios Carrillo from the Nicaraguan Lutheran Church of Faith and Hope played the drums and the bread and the wine prepared for the closing eucharistic service. 107 © LWF/Luis Eduardo Ramírez LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

ideas to the Council, which you have elected here as the This is also true for the story that I used at the beginning. body that governs the LWF and represents all member Because it dealt too much with the vertical perspective. churches. I intend to exert leadership, but I want to do There is nothing wrong in it. We receive grace from God; so in a participatory manner. it comes to us as a gift, similar to the rising sun. But we Out of this principle, my immediate task in the months know as well that grace has a horizontal dimension as well. of September and October, when I will be acting as gen- Grace doesn’t tolerate to live enshrined in individual lives. eral secretary, is to establish the contacts and the working Grace will always want to find its way to the neighbor. relationships with the president, and with the Council. A self-confined grace, a grace that is egoistically stocked Bishop Younan: it will be a privilege to work together and jealously fenced off from others, will vanish like the with you. All your experiences in Jerusalem and the Holy manna in the desert. Land, your exposure to such different religious and politi- In our identity, we have this strong theological perspec- cal and social hermeneutics that encounter each other in tive on grace as it is revealed to us in Jesus Christ. And as a few square kilometers, and your ability to understand Lutherans, we follow this strong theological emphasis on each of them and remain strong and prophetic in your incarnation. I always understand us as the church caught determination to mediate, dialogue and work for peace by this incarnational tide. Jesus Christ came right into with justice—all this is a witness that we have been ad- the midst of this world. He touched its joys and beauties, miring around the world. Through your election as LWF but also its pains and sufferings. Jesus Christ came into President, these experiences, abilities and witness are now its midst to redeem it from its deep complexities and called upon for the entire communion. I look forward to contradictions, from its sinfulness. And we are caught by excellent cooperation and mutual support, as we take on God’s movement toward the world. Because God through our respective roles of servant leadership in the LWF. Jesus Christ gives such a strong witness to God’s love for the entire world and the neighbor, we too understand that we are called to not only live in this world, but to love it Caught by God’s tide toward and to love our neighbor. humanity: Diakonia That is the origin of our diaconal commitment. Dur- ing the LWF Seventh Assembly in Curitiba, it was even Dear brothers and sisters, let me now come to some con- stated that our communion was a deeply diaconal com- cluding remarks. I will do so by going back to the little munion—because of grace, and because of God’s love story that I put at the beginning of my presentation. The incarnated in Jesus Christ. The LWF captured this diaconal story of the proud rooster. During my theological studies, dimension right from the beginning and has developed a I remember that while we were learning about the parables strong profile among struggling, suffering and persecuted in the New Testament, our teacher said something very communities. In his address before this Assembly, Bishop important to us students. He cautioned us against a too Younan talked about the milk that he received as a child extensive use of parables. “They will always fall short of from the LWF. I could tell you more stories. For instance, what they actually want to explain. There will always been from the Arauca province in Colombia, where there are misleading aspects in a parable, or even missing ones.” tremendous levels of violence and poverty. “Lutherans

Distribution of the bread and the wine at a 26 July eucharistic 108 service. © LWF/Ratna Leak have given us the opportunity to get organized and to There continues to be hunger outside. There are child protect our lives.” This is how people in Arauca got to soldiers today. There is HIV. know Lutherans. Or I could tell you about a minister There is the huge challenge of climate change, with of the government of Mozambique who approached the a clear indication that without a strong reaction on the World Service director after a meeting and said to him: part of the human race, it is going to erode the basis of “I know you guys. I was a refugee in one of your camps.” survival for billions of people. And there is the painful This is the memory that thousands of people have about incapacity of governments to adopt a global perspective Lutherans. We are known as people with a profound in order to tackle the challenge. Can we be a voice that passion for our neighbor. And this is good so, and this contributes to this discussion? Will we have the strength should remain so. Because in this compassion we express to adopt a communion perspective and contribute to how we have been reached by God’s grace, and who we tackling the challenge? have become because of it. Global challenges A dialogical communion, —what do we bring in? a responsive communion Some months ago I read a very wise word of a North Let me again come with a theological concept. Bishop American poet, written back in the 1950s: Hanson referred in his address before the Assembly to Luther’s definition of sin. Using the Augustine definition Man has survived hitherto in Latin “cor incorvatus in se ipsum” Luther spoke about Because he was too ignorant to know the “person curved in on him or herself.” How to realize his wishes. Yes, it is true. We have to discuss some internal issues Now that he can realize them, which are influencing our understanding, but also the qual- He must either change them ity of our relationships as churches in communion. As we Or perish. move on in our journey as a communion of churches, we (W.C. Williams) will continue strengthening our regional expressions and engage in transcontextual dialogue. But: we don’t want all In my view, these lines capture the real challenge behind the of this resulting in a “communion incorvata in se ipsa,” that question of climate change. Friends, it is about the wishes, is, in a communion that is curved in on itself, busy with our wishes. It is the wishes, and how they have been develop- internal dialogues, concerned about internal relationships, ing, that is affecting creation. Changing them is ultimately self-centered and horribly indifferent to the joys and pains a profoundly spiritual matter. The way we live, the sort of of the world, in which the communion is placed and which things we strive for, what we want to be and have: all this the communion is called to serve. Such a communion in- carries a strong spiritual dimension. Don’t we have something corvata in se ipsa would indeed become a communion that there to contribute, joining hands with other churches, other has been touched by the deadly sting of sin. religions and organizations to tackle the challenge?

© LWF/J. Latva-Hakuni

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There is an economic order that is absolutely Lutheran Reformation. This anniversary unfair, unjust and a deep expression of sin, will shape quite importantly the work of the depriving millions of human beings of their LWF in the years to come. The LWF needs rights and even their lives. Did you know that to mark this anniversary and it will do so, the G20 spent USD 816 billion to bail out its because of what the Reformation means for banks? All of a sudden the money was there, our theological self-understanding. It will do overnight, to save banks. Why has this money so with ecumenical openness—the Lutheran never been available to save people needing Reformation is not the exclusive property of antiretroviral treatment or to cancel debts Lutheran churches; it belongs to many other of clearly illegal or illegitimate origin? Are churches. It was actually never meant to be human beings of less value? Isn’t this a moral the exclusive property of Lutheran churches. question that a communion like the LWF, Rather, it was meant to be a contribution to with its global structure, should be raising, the entire Body of Christ, and as such we hopefully together with other denominations, should be commemorating it. religions, and organizations? I want to express my deep appreciation for Did you know that in the year 2006, the the leadership of Rev. Dr Noko, the incumbent global South transferred altogether USD 657 general secretary, particularly also for the con- billion to the North? This means that, after siderable time which he has been giving me in adding up all financial flows of all natures— these last months in order to share information. commercial, loans, gifts and so on—the global His insights, his memory of so many details, North had a surplus of USD 657 billion. And stories and background, have all helped me to that in the year 2009, the “best” year regarding feel very well prepared to take on my leadership development aid, only USD 123 billion were role for the years ahead of us. offered as development aid to countries needing support? Where is the morality in that picture? Shouldn’t the LWF take an active role in this Leaving as empowered people discussion as well, raising its prophetic voice on behalf of those people, who are not abstract We have come to Stuttgart inspired by a numbers, but are an important part of its 70 prayer—the first time ever that we gather as million members? We would even know the an Assembly under a theme that is actually a names of those on whose behalf we would be prayer. In a few days, we will be leaving this speaking! What a tremendous advantage: to be place, enriched by our common worship life, so firmly rooted locally and so well positioned by discussions, but also new contacts and globally. Are we making use of it? relationships. We will go to our own contexts, affirmed in our conviction that Jesus Christ is the Bread of Life, but also encouraged by Five hundred years his words: “you give them to eat”! of Reformation: Let us go with joy and with confidence. focusing on 2017 God’s grace rises every day like the sun, bring- ing light and warmth into our lives and into Let me conclude by mentioning what I this world. Let us be a voice and a mirror of will propose to our next Council, that we this light and join again in 2017 to continue should hold our next Assembly in the year telling the story of a God who has given us 2017, thus making our Assembly one of the the gift of communion, a gift given to us for events marking the 500th anniversary of the our loving and caring stewardship.

110 Sermons Opening Eucharistic Service

Ruth 1:8–9, 14b–16, 22; 2:1–3 Shall that become the clearest word spoken Luke 9:10–17 by this Assembly? Shall our response to all that unsettles the church and threatens to Grace to you and peace in the name of Jesus. divide humanity and destroy God’s creation Amen. be, “Go back? Go back and find your security, “Go back.” The words of Naomi to her daugh- your hope, and promise in what is familiar to ters-in-law Orpah and Ruth seem a strange you.” Shall that be our message? way to welcome you to this Eleventh Assembly “Send the crowd away.” Jesus’ disciples reached a of the Lutheran World Federation. conclusion similar to Naomi’s as they came to the “Go back.” Naomi’s plea was as understand- end of a day near Bethsaida. Yes, the crowd had able then as it is for us now. As deep as the experienced blessing in the presence of Jesus—in affection was between them, Naomi believed his announcement of God’s Kingdom arriving, the bonds of kinship, custom, language, nation manifest in acts of compassionate healing. Yet and tradition seemed to be more promising now the disciples thought it best to separate the for their security and their future. crowd. It was understandable—even commend- “Go back each of you to your mother’s house. able. There was an obvious lack of resources to The Lord grant that you may find security, feed such a large, hungry crowd. each of you in the house of your husband.” “Send the crowd away.” We do understand (Ruth 1:8 NRSV) the disciples’ request, don’t we? They were just 111 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

thinking responsibly about capacity. Given other that haunts so much of our lives today. the number of hungry people and the meager They would eat as one body. No one would resources, the most generous thing they could be excluded on account of ritual impurity, ask Jesus to do was disperse the crowd. “Jesus, gender, social class, HIV and AIDS, poverty scatter the people so they might find their own or wealth, language or race. food, their own security and hope.” What had earlier sounded like a command So will that be our plea coming out of this from Jesus to his disciples, “You give them Assembly? Shall we assess our capacity as the something to eat,” became the fulfillment of LWF to respond to the migration of people, Jesus’ promise as he took the bread, looked up to the hunger for food and justice, for hope to heaven, broke it and gave it to his disciples and salvation, and say, “Send the crowd away, to distribute. Lord?” Shall our petition become “Give me And all ate and were filled. All were satis- this day my daily bread and help those who fied. Even God was satisfied, I believe. For the are hungry to find theirs?” people were not simply fed. This is more than I find it very interesting that the disciples an example of just and equitable distribution described being in a crowd of 5,000 people of resources. In this meal, Jesus brought them as a “deserted place.” How can that be? Was into communion, into the life of one body… it only a reference to the lack of food? Some into communio. insightful students of scriptures have observed It was no one-time event. Before Jesus that it is unlikely that no one in a crowd of died, he assembled his disciples once again 5,000 packed a meal. At least the religiously- for a shared meal, giving them his last will minded Jews in Jesus’ audience would have and testament, a new testament in bread and taken the precaution of bringing a supply of cup, the promise of his life, the forgiveness ritually clean food. But now their problem was that frees them to be one body. eating that food in the company of others of Because God provides the communio we uncertain moral and religious character who can say, as Ruth did, “Your people shall be also had begun to follow Jesus. my people.” Stuttgart is not a deserted place. One scholar wonders if it was not knowing This is a joyful place where God is filling us the moral and religious status of those sitting and all will be satisfied. nearby that made many reluctant to bring out Sisters and brothers, this is the center of this whatever food they had with them.1 Will that Assembly and the LWF—Jesus Christ through be what we want said of this Assembly? That Word and bread and wine bringing us into we have gathered on behalf of 70 million communion, into the life of one body. In this Lutheran Christians all over the world, but Assembly Jesus, the Bread of Life sent from Stuttgart became for us a “deserted place?” heaven, is present for you, making you a new Ah, but did you hear Jesus’ command? creation in Christ, forgiving you, reconciling Could it be that it is also spoken to us gathered us to God and to one another, giving us the for this Assembly? “Make them sit down,” message and ministry of reconciliation. said Jesus. “Make them sit down in groups Because “[Jesus] is our peace,” we will of about 50 each.” repent and ask for forgiveness from God and In other words Jesus, is saying, “Do not from our Mennonite sisters and brothers, go into your familiar retreating. Do not flee trusting the promise that “in his flesh he has one another for your private enclaves, for made both groups into one and has broken the security of familiarity. Do not retreat to down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility separated places that are impoverished by your between us.” (Eph 2:14 NRSV) fears, your resentments, your preoccupation May the witness of this Assembly be a joyful with what you do not have and your lack of confidence that God answers our prayer “Give faith in what God promises.” us today our daily bread,” by giving abundantly, Jesus’ command is to “Sit down, stay here generously, and mercifully all that we and the and commune.” Jesus gathered them, as- world need. From this Assembly let us not sembled them, and crowded them together retreat into places of familiarity and security. in one community. There would be no private Rather let us go courageously and confidently dining, no separating and sending to satisfy in the power of the Holy Spirit to be the Body one’s own hunger, no fearful fleeing one an- of Christ, given for the life of the world.

Mark S. Hanson, President, 1 Gil Bailie, Violence Unveiled (New York: The Crossroad 112 Publishing Company, 1995), 214. The Lutheran World Federation © LWF/Luis E. Ramírez

Celebratory Worship Service

(Bible texts: Luke 14:16–23 and Psalm 145, The worldwide community of Lutheran Chris- various verses) tians who have gathered here in Stuttgart, wants to share this generous invitation. To those present here in the Stuttgart Stiftskirche In view of global challenges such as the for this celebration and to those worshipping with climate crisis and the money crisis, we might us by way of television and radio, welcome, be quick to say, “We are all in the same boat.” ... so that my house may be filled. Because of globalization, we as church have become conscious of ourselves as a worldwide This short phrase, which we heard at the end of our community with a common destiny. But we are reading from Luke’s gospel, lingers in our ears! also united by the feeling of being at the mercy ... so that my house may be filled. of alien, apparently uncontrollable powers. The phrase “We are in the same boat,” does It is a passionate statement from a very gener- have a community feeling about it. But it re- ous host; a host who never tires of inviting mains imprecise and sometimes obscure. This guests to his table, even when he receives a community feeling is deceptive. The phrase few cancellations. He opens his door wide can quickly be given a new twist. “We are in for all who want to come to him. No one is the same boat” can become “the boat is full.” checking invitations at the entrance. Today’s sermon text offers us another image: ... so that my house may be filled. “We are at the same table!” Because God is the 113 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

Host, there is always room at this table! Because the suffering to which the Anabaptists had been we know about this generous invitation, we cannot subjected at the time of the Reformation. tolerate that for some people in this world there Now we have acknowledged with deep is much room and for others no room at all. regret that leading theologians from our tradi- Martin Luther taught us how we can make tion theologically supported the persecution new beginnings through God’s grace and of Anabaptists in the 16th century. loving kindness. From such a new beginning The re-thinking process began about 30 comes good fruit. years ago. Our dialogue partners were the ... so that my house may be filled. Mennonites, who share a part of the Anabaptist tradition. Many issues were addressed. The generous invitation, the great gift, applies One of the things that became clear was that to us all and we would like to respond. We want Johannes Brenz, who worked here in Stuttgart to make three responses here in Stuttgart: as a reformer, disagreed with Luther’s judg- ment and even spoke out against the violent persecution of the Anabaptists. We are grateful Joy in the Community in Faith for his theological witness in this matter. It is simply wonderful, when Lutheran We have expressed our repentance. The gen- Christians from East and West, North and eral secretary of the Lutheran World Federation South gather together. There are differences has asked God and our Mennonite sisters and in culture and language, even on a few ques- brothers for forgiveness for the injustice that tions of faith today. But our unity in common was directed against their forebears. With an confession carries us. I feel a deep joy when historical wooden tub for the washing of feet, I think about this Assembly of the Lutheran with olive branches that the Mennonite rep- World Federation here in Stuttgart. resentatives had brought to the altar from all ... so that my house may be filled. regions of the world, they visibly demonstrated that they want to walk the path of reconcili- ation with us. With olive oil, we have signed Hunger for Justice the hand of one another with a cross. The Assembly theme is: “Give Us Today Our ... so that my house may be filled. Daily Bread.” In many groups, food security was discussed and what we as a church body could Jesus Christ, the most generous Host, invites do to fight hunger and economic exploitation. us. He renews our fellowship. Jesus Christ Hunger and malnutrition constitute a violation prepares his table for us. This is why we must of fundamental human rights. But they also not allow the tables of this world to remain disfigure the face of Christ whose image is in bare, why we must stand up for justice each person. The LWF World Service through Jesus Christ is the foundation and goal of its projects is working so that people can live in our reconciliation. This is why we, Christians dignity, an inalienable gift from God. of different confessions and despite past suf- However, within the church there is hunger ferings endured, are able to journey together for justice; hunger that women and youth may along new paths. take part in shaping the church too. It is about It was here in Stuttgart that the first “Ves- everyone having a share! People, who are living perkirche” was founded many years ago. For in unjust structures, whose “eyes look to you” several weeks people—the homeless, those as Psalm 145 says. We need visible changes, who have stumbled on their way, those whom if we are to make visible the abundance that life has left on the fringes—come to a church God gives. Each person needs a place at the to receive a meal and medical advice. table—at the dinner table, but also the ne- In front are the dinner tables, in the back, gotiations table. candles burn on the altar. An opportunity for ... so that my house may be filled. prayer and confession is given. On Sundays, worship is celebrated. In that place it is easy to understand God’s invitation. Repentance and Asking ... so that my house may be filled. for Forgiveness For the first time in the history of LWF, a Amen. service of repentance was celebrated during the Assembly. In their representation of Reformation Bishop Frank O. July, Evangelical 114 history, Lutherans have ignored for centuries Lutheran Church in Württemberg © LWF/Luis E. Ramírez

Closing Eucharistic Service

Grace, peace and love of our Lord and Savior Every family would prepare extra rice in case Jesus Christ be with you. It seems that we have unexpected guests arrived, which was often only just had our opening worship and now we the case. “Are you full?” means “people need are already seated in the closing worship of to be fed.” Food feeds people, but it does not the Assembly. It is normally a time to reflect stop there. Through food, people feel accepted, and to look for ways forward in order to deal loved and protected. Food is not just something with the challenging tasks this Assembly has we eat. Food is love, joy, peace and sharing. identified. We have a wonderful text to reflect For us as Christians food is a sign of God’s on this evening: a closing text crowning all the presence among us. When the Israelites were worships. It speaks of the manna which our wandering in the desert without food, God forebears ate. What is this manna and what provided manna for them. It was a miracle does it represent? To me it describes the simple to the Israelites wandering in the desert. A relationship between God, creation and humans. daily miracle! They had eaten manna for many God gave the manna and people were able to years until they arrived in Canaan and ate sustain themselves without exploiting others food from that land. God provided the manna or depriving them of their basic food. faithfully and asked people to trust in God. Today’s text tells us “Jesus is the bread of God commanded that each one gather only life.” In earlier times in Taiwan, people would according to their need and nothing was to greet one another with the words “Are you full?” be kept until the morning. This is a stern test 115 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

of needs versus the aspiration to have more bread that I will give for the life of the world than is required. This in itself is a radical is my flesh” (Jn 6:51). philosophy and points to the realities around We have it. We have Jesus. But Jesus is not the globe, of plenty and nothing. We have only for us. Jesus is for the life of the world. heard about and discussed these disparities That is what he calls us Christians to do in during the Assembly. Can there be even rich the world, for the world. We share what we Christians in the face of abject poverty and get from our faithful, graceful God. We do starvation? What is the gospel then? Wealth not hold onto all the resources in our hands. and poverty seem to coexist very peacefully We share our gifts from God, given by his with some morsels falling from the table to grace, with everybody. I wonder what will the needy. At times this is also called aid. Do be the situation of this world when we meet we give from our needs or plenty! in seven years. Would our actions from now The Israelites gathered manna every day make a little difference! except on the Sabbath. “So they put it aside During this Assembly we elected our new until morning, as Moses commanded them; president and our new council members. You and it did not become foul, and there were no have been called to serve the world through the worms in it” (Exodus 16:24). Every day they communion. You are called to take the leadership experienced God’s faithful mercy and grace. and to share the bread of life with the world. Do That is what God has done also in our daily not worry about what you have now. Look to our lives. God has provides us our daily bread Lord Jesus Christ, the bread of life. God will give and asks us to live in trust, not to worry about us today our daily bread. We all pray that God tomorrow. But we do not like to do this! We gives you wisdom and courage to serve on the try to keep more in our hands. We gather, we council for the whole communion. The prophetic store and we hoard. Then, what we hold on voices of the people and of the churches would to so tightly often begins to fester. I do not be heard through your leadership. want to discuss the global financial meltdown And for the rest of us, we are going back caused by the greed of a few. We waste food, home with the message from this Assembly. we over-consume resources. We hold more and We go back to our contexts, our challenges more while others get less and less of what and our people with this message! The table they need. So there is this global saga of more needs be set for everyone. May the bread of and less, resulting in the gross contradictions life, the real food, be shared with the world we have learned to live with. through all of us. This world does not only Dear sisters and brothers: Jesus says, “I am the need food for the body, but also for the soul bread of life.” He is our abundant God. He wants and the spirit. Jesus is the bread of life, the us to share the abundance we have with those real food which can fulfill all the needs people who are in need. He wants us to trust him in his have. Let us be good stewards, sharing the table faithfulness. Grace therefore is to be shared and with everyone around us. Let us open our eyes God’s grace is both universal and contextual. to see, open our ears to listen, stretch out our Look at our world! So many people are hands to care for the needs of the world. The in difficulties. They are hungry, oppressed, book of Galatians 6:2 says, “Bear one another’s hopeless, excluded and unemployed. Many burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the are homeless without even the basic necessi- law of Christ.” May God bless us as we carry ties such as clean water, land, access to basic one another’s burdens until we meet again at health, and education, and are deprived of the Twelfth Assembly in 2017. their fundamental rights. Many are deprived The Lutheran World Federation is a wonder- of their voice—particularly women and young ful communion through which we can carry people. Surely everyone needs space to share each other’s burdens and work with the passion their call and gifts from God. The freedom in our faith of justice, peace and life. Let us of expression is a right and a gift. We need to continue to uphold the work of the communion work for daily bread such as for justice, educa- offices all over the world and in Geneva. Let us tion, health, freedom of expression, etc. go with courage to love and serve the Lord. With our faithful, abundant God we can The Grace of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ, make this world a different one. A world with the love of God and the passionate fellowship more justice, more life. We shall do what God of the Holy Spirit be with us all, Amen. has called us to do. Jesus said: “I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever Rev. Shu-Chen Chen, Lutheran Church 116 eats of this bread will live forever; and the of Taiwan (Republic of China) Ecumenical and Other Greetings Message from the Ecumenical Patriarch

Read by H.E. Metropolitan Prof. Dr of your member churches. It is a celebration, an Gennadios of Sassima (photo) experience of togetherness, an opportunity for a genuine encounter of one another and a moment To the beloved participants of the Eleventh for prayer to Almighty God. It is an occasion for Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation: a sober assessment of your churches’ common Grace, mercy and peace from our Triune God, journey on their way to the service (diakonia) Father, Son and Holy Spirit. of the Church of Jesus Christ. It is an encounter From the historic throne of Constantinople, during which delegates from your member we extend cordial wishes to the leadership and the churches are called to search for a new vision participants of this major inter-ecclesial Lutheran for the future, for new ways of dialogue with gathering, marking the beginning of a new era other Christian churches, among them with in the history of your member churches and in the Orthodox Church, and for ways of being the ecumenical movement in general. On the in cooperation and interaction with the entire occasion of this auspicious encounter, we greet ecumenical movement. It is also an exercise of you with the words of St Paul: “Rejoice in God spiritual discernment in the search to redefine through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we and reappropriate your common commitment have received reconciliation” (Rom 5:10-12). on the long path to Christian unity. An assembly of the LWF is always an excep- It was with great joy and warm interest tional event for the communion and fellowship that our church, the Ecumenical Patriarchate, 117 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

received your kind invitation to participate in God’s people. St Paul, the great Apostle of your Eleventh Assembly in Stuttgart, Germany the Nations, has fervently stressed that “… our from 20 to 27 July 2010. And it was with an Lord Jesus Christ, though he was rich, yet for equal interest that we noticed that the Assem- our sakes he became poor, that you through his bly theme for discussion and contemplation poverty might be rich… not that other men be is the very important petition of the Lord’s eased, and others burdened” (2 Cor 8:9-14). Prayer, “Give us today our daily bread.” The Orthodox Church continues its theo- Indeed, this most well-known important logical dialogue with the Lutheran churches fourth petition of the Lord’s Prayer is excep- through the Lutheran World Federation with tionally timely today in view of the tragic situ- responsibility and commitment. We celebrate ation affecting such a large part of humanity. next year the completion of thirty years since This is particularly true for so many living in this dialogue was initiated and we acknowledge the southern hemisphere of our globe, who with sincerity that the path ahead of us will face the phenomenon of hunger on a daily be long and difficult toward the hoped-for basis. Unfortunately, technological progress, and expected unity. Orthodoxy understands which provides all kinds of facilities, comfort that such a dialogue exists only to reach the and prosperity to the people of Western so- goal of communion and that there should be cieties has not yet reached the people of this no deviation from this task until the goal is hemisphere who suffer from such terrible reached. The unity of the Church is a gift from maladies such as hunger, lack of water, poverty, God and its fulfillment could be realized only famine, sickness, HIV and AIDS, injustice, with a return to the common historical and the violation of human rights, lack of religious theological sources of the Undivided Church, freedom, interreligious conflicts and wars, the to the period of the Apostolic teaching, of the absence of peace and reconciliation between Church Fathers and of the Synodical Ecu- people and nations, which all unfortunately menical Councils of the Church, and in the can lead to death. participation of the sacraments and mysteries Today, everywhere, the respect for human in the life of the Church. dignity has been lost in people’s minds and We wholeheartedly greet and send to each hearts. Such an absolute lack of equality and one of you, dear brothers and sisters, our injustice in the world is absolutely contrary warmest greetings in our Lord Jesus Christ to the fact that every human person has been from our See of the Ecumenical Patriarchate created in “God’s image” and is, on principle, of Constantinople, wishing you a successful an heir to His Creation. This situation is totally progress in your most important work for the inhuman and unacceptable, and constitutes a glory of His Holy Name and His Church. spiritual and social challenge for all Christians At the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the 20th to create prophetic responses to humanity and of July 2010 to the entire world. No doubt, without any Yours fervent supplicant before God delay, this lack of respect must come to an end because in the Church of Christ the principles Bartholomew, Archbishop of Constantinople, of equality and oneness must prevail for all of New Rome and Ecumenical Patriarch

118 Greeting from the Roman Catholic Church

Reverend Bishop Mark Hanson, dear Ishmael the highest percentage of people of immigrant Noko, dear friends, origin and a city, therefore, with a vast cultural It is with great joy and with all my heart plurality. And, not the least, we are here in that I express the most cordial greetings of Stuttgart in my own homeland and my own the Catholic Church, of Pope Benedict XVI, home diocese. You are very welcome! of the Catholic delegation here present and of Addressing you today after 11 years as myself personally to this Eleventh Assembly president of the Pontifical Council for Pro- of the Lutheran World Federation. Peace and moting Christian Unity, I reflect with great joy be with you all! emotion and deep gratitude to God, giver of We are assembled here in Stuttgart, which all good things, when I look back on these is the city of the Bible and the place of im- years of such rich and enriching cooperation portant worldwide biblical associations. Here with the Lutheran World Federation. These in Stuttgart, where today Catholics and Prot- were years in which I found so many friends estants are represented in more or less equal among you. Thank you for this. Thank you numbers and where they, together with the Bishop Mark Hanson; thank you Ishmael members of other churches, are in excellent Noko—you have been good friends. ecumenical relations; where they live, work We started in 1999 in Augsburg with the and pray together; here in Stuttgart which, as signing of the Joint Declaration on the Doctrine you heard, is one of the German cities with of Justification, which remains for me and for the 119 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

Catholic Church a milestone of the ecumenical do not have access to work, who do not live movement. It brought very good fruits. In most in situations of freedom, justice and peace. recent times, the report Justification in the Life There are also millions who are lacking the of the Church of the Roman Catholic–Lutheran daily bread of spiritual orientation for their Dialogue Group for Sweden and Finland is a lives, who do not have the daily bread of faith very valuable result, to be taken into account in and for whom hope is in short supply. These further international dialogues. millions are our brothers and sisters. And in Many of these shared endeavors marked our this situation we, as Christians, regardless of friendship over the years up to my participation whether we are Lutherans or Catholics, share in the last Assembly in Winnipeg, where we common responsibility. envisioned already a common commemoration In this situation, we can no longer afford of 1517 in 2017. Last year, together with my our differences. Yet, we cannot and we must co-workers, I published a book Harvesting not jump over serious different convictions on the Fruits—a harvesting of more than 40 church, church ministry and sacraments. We years of common dialogue. I was more than have to continue our dialogues in truth and surprised to see that it has been such a rich love. But at the same time, we should reflect harvest, and we have achieved more than we on how we could give more common witness could even dream before. There has been no of the faith we already share—the faith, as St ecumenical winter! Paul tells us, that expresses itself through love. Lutheran–Catholic relations have, since We have to speak the truth in love. the beginning of our international dialogue Again, our theological dialogues must in the year 1967—some of you were perhaps continue. There is no communion and there not even born at that time—been in my heart, is no peace but in truth. But at the same time, and they will remain in my heart, because I am we have to reflect on how to engage more in convinced that the ecumenical movement is common cultural, social and environmental God’s own movement and we are only simple projects. We have to reflect on how to heal instruments in his hands, in order to bring us memories of the past, for example, with our together and to reconcile us. Mennonite brothers and sisters. We have to Our Lord himself prayed on the eve of his pray for forgiveness and become peace-makers. death that all may be one. Today, more than 40 And here in Western Europe, unfortunately, years since the start of our international dia- we have to reflect on how to defend and how logues, these dialogues are still an unfinished to promote our common Christian roots and agenda. We have every reason to continue and our common Christian heritage. even to intensify and to deepen our dialogues Dear friends, I leave my office, but I do in truth and in love. The Catholic Church is not leave you, and I do not leave our common determined to continue. ecumenical commitment. So I am here not to The theme of your Assembly, “Give us today say goodbye. In our , we say our daily bread,” gives strong expression to Auf Wiedersehen. Au revoir, arrividerci, hasta la this urgency. There are millions of people in vista. So, not goodbye, but farewell. All the the world who are not as well off as the over- best, and God bless you all! whelming majority here in Stuttgart: millions who do not have their daily bread and all that Walter Cardinal Kasper, former it implies; millions who do not have access president of the Pontifical Council to pure water, who do not have shelter, who for Promoting Christian Unity

120 Greeting from the World Council of Churches

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, Therefore, the theme chosen to guide this “Because there is one bread, we who are many are Assembly in prayer and action is a theme that one body, for we all partake of the one bread.” These touches the heart of the gospel and therefore also words from St Paul’s first letter to the Corinthi- the heart of our being one in Christ. It speaks ans (10:17) remind us that praying for the daily to all people who share the one prayer that Jesus bread is also to pray for the sharing of the one Christ gave us to pray. The supplication “Give bread. The communion you share as the Lutheran us today our daily bread” is a reminder that we World Federation is given in the sharing of the are utterly dependent upon God’s gifts, the one Christ. We need in the ecumenical movement undeserved grace, for our whole life, physically more than ever the Lutheran, insisting that we and spiritually. When we pray for daily bread, we are one because we are sharing the one and same acknowledge the body of Christ, the bread of life, Christ, because we receive the same gift. Whatever given for our salvation, and we experience the happens in discussions about your communion hunger of justice that calls us into communion or in our wider struggles for unity, let us never for actions of sharing. Thus, our call to be one is forget why we ourselves are in this fellowship of always both a gift and a calling, but as a Lutheran the church at all. Whoever we are. Wherever we you know what comes first. We share because are. Whatever we are. Though we are many, we we have got a share in the one bread. are one through the life, death and resurrection There are several reasons given for why of Jesus Christ, the bread of life. churches are not fully sharing the one bread 121 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

in the Eucharist. In the light of your theme We are called to be one in God’s mission in and the affirmation of the one bread, there are the world. It is as important today as it was to the even more important theological and moral churches gathered in Edinburgh one hundred reasons why we continue to do anything we years ago. The Lutheran World Federation has can to be able to come to the same table and been a faithful partner in God’s mission for have a common sharing of the one bread. unity and peace under the outgoing leadership It is indeed an honor and a privilege for of the general secretary Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko. me to bring to this Assembly of the Lutheran I trust that it will be so also in the next years, World Federation greetings on behalf of the and I look forward to work with my friend, World Council of Churches (WCC). The the general secretary-elect Rev. Dr Martin WCC is a fellowship of 349 Orthodox, An- Junge. I trust that we will together steward glican, Protestant and United churches in over our resources in collaboration and willingness 120 countries. It provides the largest and most to work together with the wider ecumenical inclusive space in which we search daily for family. Among other things I look forward to visible expressions of being one, in our com- a common celebration of the gospel in 2017. mon faith, life and witness in Christ. Many Here in Stuttgart there will be an historic of you represent here members of the WCC moment of reconciliation between two families fellowship. We give thanks for the Lutheran of churches that have been separated by the churches’ contribution to the fellowship of most painful of divisions—that of persecution. the World Council of Churches both today The Lutheran and Mennonite churches have and in decades past. been quietly fostering a dialogue that is rooted The Lutheran World Federation has of- in the vision of transforming relations through fered many gifts. You have offered profound the love of Christ, the source of our salvation theological work. You have offered a deep, and the promise of forgiveness. The World practical understanding of communion in Council of Churches shares in celebrating Christ as a global, mutually accountable, just this act of reconciliation; it is an inspiration and caring fellowship—not focusing on size for the whole church. and power but on your common gift and the We pray that God will bless this Assembly, shared prophetic call. You are known for your so that it empowers you to receive, to share commitment to peace with justice, to mission, and to give the bread you have received. diakonia and to ecumenical dialogue and The ecumenical movement is a movement interreligious cooperation. Let it be so also of the cross, based on our common belief in in the future. We need you. As a son of the Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. We are par- Church of Norway and an ordained pastor in ticipating in this movement when we do as this church, it is also a personal joy for me Christ does, stretching out our arms to give, to stand here before you knowing that I also to give the bread of life to all. represent you and your gifts in my ministry in the wider ecumenical context. Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit, general secretary

122 Message from the World Communion of Reformed Churches

I greet you in the name of our Lord and Savior a few things from how this self-understanding Jesus Christ on behalf of your sisters and broth- informs your witness and actions. ers in the one-month old baby—the World We thank God for the ways in which, Communion of Reformed Churches. Yes, we through our Lutheran–Reformed Joint have an old history dating back to our coming Commission, we have affirmed our closeness into being in 1875, but we have a young life and and continue to see ways of deepening our fresh energy dating from June 2010, when we relationships. The opportunities we have had became the World Communion of Reformed to enter into conversation at grassroots levels Churches. We thank you for praying along on how best our two communions can deepen with us and accompanying us in our journey relationships at each venue of our meetings toward communion in the Reformed churches in the last meetings of the Joint Commission worldwide. We are thankful for the presence have made a significant impact. of the LWF delegation led by your general As you gather under the theme “Give us secretary and other representatives among today our daily bread,” we share with you the us. We were encouraged and strengthened by urgency, the anguish and the expectation that your presence. accompanies this prayer line. The anguish of We thank you for setting the example of so many hungry and homeless people, and your self-understanding as communio. In the the pain of millions who do not have access closeness of our relationship, we have learned to life’s basic resources, in most cases because 123 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

of injustice in the world, is simply difficult to of our working group, Professor Anna Case understand when God has already made pro- Winters and Dr Priscille Djomhoue. Together vision for giving us. It is by no accident that we bring the greetings of our president, Dr this prayer line is followed in both Matthew Jerry Pillay and the entire WCRC family. and Luke by the lines of seeking forgiveness I take this opportunity to thank God for and asking not to be led into temptation. I the impact of the ministry of my friend and hope our reflections in this Assembly lead colleague Dr Ishmael Noko which comes to to repentance and seeking forgiveness for an end shortly after this Assembly. And we the inaction of churches. I hope we can truly welcome Rev. Martin Junge and look forward search for ways of how God will deliver us to our working together. from the evil of injustice into being instru- May God bless you. ments through which many more will have access to their daily bread. Rev. Dr Setri Nyomi, general secretary I am joined in this Assembly by two dear friends and colleagues who have been key parts

124 Photo courtesy of the General Conference of the Seventh-day Adventists

Greeting from the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists

Mr President, General Secretary, Distin- Adventists, we have our roots in the Anabaptist guished Guests, movement, and we appreciate very much your On behalf of the General Conference of the honesty and your sincerity. Seventh-day Adventists and the nearly 30 mil- On behalf of my Church, I want to thank lion people who are members of the Adventist you very much, Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko, for family living in 205 countries around the world, being a great ambassador of the Lutheran I am very pleased and honored to bring greetings family around the world and before govern- from your brothers and sisters in Jesus. ments and international institutions. You have Adventists have always seen themselves been a friend of all, a mediator, and a voice as part of the movement of the reformation of wisdom, faith, peace, and reconciliation. of the 16th century, and Martin Luther has May God bless you and your successor, Rev. a very special place in their vision of history Martin Junge. and in their theology. Thank you very much, and may God bless This is the third Assembly I have attended, your Eleventh Assembly. and I would like to congratulate you for your courage in revisiting your history about your Dr John Graz, director, Department of relations with Mennonites and Anabaptists. As Public Affairs and Religious Liberty

125 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

126 Greeting from the LWF German National Committee

President, In order to be able to show you more of General Secretary, the rich variety of German , the Distinguished delegates and guests of the German National Committee and its member Assembly, churches organized the pre-Assembly visita- Sisters and brothers, tion program. Many of you took the oppor- It is a privilege to welcome you here to tunity to visit congregations in villages and Stuttgart on behalf of the German National cities, diaconal organizations and monastic Committee of the Lutheran World Federation. communities. We are delighted that the Eleventh Assembly We have also compiled a book entitled Lu- is taking place in Germany because the LWF therisch in Deutschland (Lutheran in Germany) has been of great significance for our churches that we would like to present to you today so since its foundation. After the Second World that you may become familiar with the whole War we received not only material, but also spectrum of church life in Germany. spiritual support. Our National Committee brings together To this day we are grateful that through 13 churches, numbering about 13 million the LWF we can be part of the world-em- Christians. We are in close church fellow- bracing communion of Lutheran churches, ship with other Protestant churches and have which enriches our theological and, especially, special ecumenical ties with the Old Catholic ecumenical work. and Roman Catholic churches. 127 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

This was one of the reasons why the German a tangible symbol of the worldwide presence National Committee participated intensively and ecumenical fellowship of the church. in drawing up the Joint Declaration on the The German National Committee has Doctrine of Justification and why it is now resolved to celebrate the year 2017 in a spirit accompanying the LWF’s other ecumenical of universality and ecumenism—as an event dialogues with great attention. of significance extending far beyond Germany It was also important for us to contribute to and far beyond Lutheranism. This is because the study Mission in Context and the LWF’s the Reformation has left its mark on all document on Diakonia in Context.” churches and has caused them to change. And We press for the production and dissemina- so in celebrating 1517, we cannot just celebrate tion of these texts so that they can be taken up “ourselves.” We want to celebrate the fact that and discussed in congregations and diaconal God loves us and God’s church, and constantly institutions. gives us the courage to change. In welcoming the LWF Assembly in Ger- So, allow me today to invite you to take many at present we are also taking an important advantage of the programs of the LWF Center step forward in preparations for the 500th in Wittenberg. Please help to make the Ref- anniversary of the Reformation in 2017. ormation anniversary in 2017 an ecumenical Together with the LWF, we have founded event celebrated in worldwide fellowship. the LWF Center in Wittenberg. The Center I would like to conclude with the words of holds regular seminars on the theology of the apostle Paul in his letter to the Galatians: Martin Luther, and invites participants from “May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the all regions of the LWF. love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit Furthermore, we have created a Luther be with you all” (Galatians 1:13). Amen. Garden, in which churches from all over the world can plant a tree at the site of the 1517 Bishop Dr. Johannes Friedrich, Chairperson Reformation. The churches are likewise asked of the LWF German National Committee to plant a tree in their own congregations as

128 Greeting from the Evangelical Church in Germany

“The preaching of the churches gains in cred- practical steps to ensure that all people may ibility in the world when they are at one in receive “all the necessities and nourishment for their witness to the gospel. The gospel liber- this body and life” (Small Catechism, the Creed, ates and binds together the churches to render First Article), as part of our mission to be “at one common service” (IV, 36). With this quotation in (…) witness to the gospel.” The Leuenberg from the Leuenberg Agreement of 16 March Agreement constitutes a firm theological basis 1973, I greet you, sisters and brothers from for the Evangelical Church in Germany with all over the world. I do so in a triple capacity: its Lutheran, United and Reformed member on behalf of the Evangelical Church in Ger- churches. We are witnessing how we have grown many and its Council chair, church president closer together spiritually and theologically in Nikolaus Schneider, on behalf of the Union pulpit and altar fellowship. The Evangelical of Evangelical Churches as chair of its execu- Church in Germany regards itself as a church tive committee, and as bishop of the nearby in which the differing perspectives of Reforma- Evangelical Church in Baden. tion theology are seen as enriching to its unity. The quote from the Leuenberg Agreement Since 2006 the United Evangelical Lutheran has a direct connection with the theme of your Church in Germany (VELKD) and the Union Assembly. Our mission includes the fact that, of Evangelical Churches (UEK) have become in the fellowship of Christian churches, we even more closely linked to the EKD through ask God credibly for our daily bread and take agreements. Their aim is to 129 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

• achieve as much oneness between member lowship of the worldwide church of Jesus Christ churches as possible; and inspires us to bear common witness. Precisely in view of the Reformation anni- • strengthen the unity of our witness; versary of 2017, we note that the understand- ing of ecumenism in “reconciled diversity” • enable a distinctive Protestant presence developed in the Leuenberg Agreement points in society and the general public; and beyond itself. Gong beyond the European sphere, it can promote an understanding of • deepen intra-Protestant ecumenism. ecumenism in which the fellowship of churches does not just grudgingly accept theological In our closer cooperation we are currently differences, but perceives them as enlivening discovering the spiritual power emanating elements of a common quest for truth. The from the preparations for the Reformation point is to discover the wealth and beauty of quincentenary in 2017. Preparing for this great the church in all its diversity as God’s work. event has brought out the central dimensions Can we put it more aptly than Martin Lu- of the Reformation in terms of education, ther himself: “I believe that by my own reason freedom, music, tolerance, politics, image or strength, I cannot believe in Jesus Christ, and the Bible, and “one world.” These are key my Lord, or come to him; but instead the themes for the years leading up to 2017. The Holy Spirit has called me through the gospel, ecumenical dimension of this Reformation enlightened me with his gifts, made me holy anniversary is looming ever larger. We are and kept me in the true faith; just as he calls, only part of a Reformation remembrance that gathers, enlightens, and makes holy the whole links us with you, the member churches of the Christian church on earth and keeps it with Lutheran World Federation, in a special way. Jesus Christ in the one common, true faith.” But the ecumenical context of remembering (Small Catechism, the Creed, Third Article) the Reformation reaches much further, seeing Sisters and brothers, in bonds of “reconciled that the Reformation profoundly changed the diversity,” I wish you many enriching experi- face of the church all over the world. That ences of unity in witnessing to the gospel at particularly applies to our Roman Catholic this Assembly. sisters and brothers. The anniversary of the Reformation is a worldwide ecumenical event Bishop Dr Ulrich Fischer on behalf of that contains enormous potential for the fel- the Evangelical Church in Germany

130 Greeting from the International Lutheran Council

[…] The constitutions of the International in the proclamation of the Word of God and Lutheran Council (ILC) and the LWF are are united in pulpit and altar fellowship. quite similar in [some respects;] the LWF Since its inception, the ILC has been confess[es] the holy scriptures of the Old and served by Dr Samuel Nafzger as executive New Testaments to be the only source and secretary. He is known by many around the norm of its doctrine, life and service, and world for his churchmanship and focus on the see[s] in the three ecumenical creeds and in basic tenets of our faith. Dr Nafzger, would the confessions of the Lutheran Church, es- you please rise to be acknowledged by this pecially in the unaltered Augsburg Confession Assembly. On behalf of the ILC, I express and the Small Catechism of Martin Luther, a sincere thanks to Dr Nafzger for his faithful pure exposition of the Word of God. service, and I express the same thanks to Dr As previously indicated, the ILC does not Ishmael Noko, whose ministry we joyfully consider itself a communio, as does the LWF, but recognized last night. The two of them have as an association of churches. That distinguish- developed a more than cordial and collegial ing characteristic did not always exist, since relationship over the years, meeting together the LWF began in 1947 as a free association of to discuss matters of importance between the Lutheran churches, becoming, through a 1990 two organizations they represent. I know they change in its constitution, a communion of join me in expressing a desire for continued churches which confess the Triune God, agree communication between leaders of the LWF 131 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

and the ILC—the two most significant Lu- internal strife, serious spiritual conflict and theran alliances in the world. even organic schism can and does result from In such communication, I pray that ongoing such disagreement regarding matters of faith attention will be given to the deep concern of and life that until recently have withstood many that the sacred scriptural truths which the test of thousands of years. And while I precipitated the Reformation are in danger of have witnessed and experienced unmistakable being lost. In today’s pluralistic, post-modern expressions of love and acceptance in this As- society, challenges to the truth have first been sembly, I grieve the different understanding of tolerated, then accepted, and now affirmed. The the authority of Holy Scripture that threatens result is that many people no longer know or to fracture our unity in Christ. speak the truth regarding even basic values that Bishop Hanson, brother Mark, you are have been an integral part of what Christians completing your term as president of the LWF have believed, taught and confessed since, and and I am transitioning from my roles as chair- even before, the time of the Reformation. man of the ILC and president of the Lutheran Even after millennia of acceptance of basic Church Missouri . I express to you, my facts of life and principles of faith, we no longer, brother in Christ, my appreciation for your for example, have general consensus or broad friendship over the past nine years. While we concurrence, not to mention complete agreement, do not agree on numerous matters of faith and on what constitutes marriage in the eyes of God life, I have genuinely appreciated your fraternal or what is acceptable or non-acceptable sexual collegiality and gentle spirit, and pray God’s behavior. This reality precipitated the drafting blessings on your future endeavors. and unanimous acceptance of a statement last Finally, it is my sincere hope and fervent year by the International Lutheran Council titled prayer that in the years ahead, the witness of “Same-gender relationships and the Church.” the churches comprising the LWF and the Available on the ILC Web site, it speaks of the ILC will reflect the words of the Apostle Bible’s witness and Christian teaching through Paul: “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, 2000 years regarding the practice of homo- urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the sexuality as a violation of the will of God. Yet calling to which you have been called, with it also declares our resolve to approach those all humility and gentleness, with patience, with homosexual inclinations with the deepest bearing with one another in love, eager to possible Christian love and pastoral concern in maintain the unity of the spirit in the bond of whatever situation they may be living. peace. There is one body and one spirit. Just as Though we affirm the demands of God’s you were called to the one hope to which you law without reservation, we Christians confess were called, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, that the sins of the world have been forgiven one God and father of all, who is over all and through Christ’s suffering and death on the through all and in all.” cross. I share these words with this Assembly Thank you, and may God richly bless each neither to stand in judgment nor ignoring the and every one of you. logs in my own eye, but with a heavy heart, for I know what you know, namely, that significant Rev. Dr Gerald B. Kieschnik, ILC chairperson

132 Greeting from the Pentecostal Churches

Dear delegates, guests and visitors, esteemed of- This wish for dialogue was inaugurated ficers: greetings in the name of Jesus Christ. at the Winnipeg Assembly in 2003. It was It is a great honor to address you as a Pen- in 2004 that the Institute for Ecumenical tecostal with a word of greeting. The reason I Research in Strasbourg took the initiative and have been invited as a guest to this Assembly convened a meeting with four Pentecostals and goes back to a series of informal dialogues that four Lutherans to discuss the possibilities of have taken place between Lutherans and Pen- future meetings. tecostals during the past six years. Allow me to It became clear that if this dialogue were to tell you the story how these conversations came be effective, it should develop its own agenda about, what came of it and why we believe with and methodology, taking into account the all our heart that the formal dialogue between ecclesial, theological and cultural diversity the two traditions should be initiated. within . It was in the 1990s that various officers of As the participants got acquainted and the LWF felt that the dialogue with classical shared their histories and ecumenical vi- Pentecostals would be desirable, as they became sions, they realized that instead of focusing aware of the increasing importance of that on a set of particular doctrines, they would global movement. They were also very much rather begin to talk about experiential issues. interested in order to better relate to charis- The overarching theme that was chosen was matic believers among their own ranks How do we encounter Christ? 133 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

It also seemed important that we would Indeed, this is a very valuable book; make visit each other’s worship services and reflect sure you get a copy. And you may have noticed on these visits. the small print, but you know, what is written At the same time, burning issues, for in- in small print is important. stance, the problem of proselytism or sheep If you are interested, go to the booth of the stealing, were put on the table. Ecumenical Institute in the foyer and after As the conversations progressed, bonds lunch at 1:30 you will be able to talk to people of trust were established and things came who have been part of these conversations. together in a very encouraging way. Now, let me close my greeting on a biblical During the past years both teams were note. We read in the fourth chapter of the positively surprised. They were pushed forward first epistle of Peter the following instruction: beyond original assumptions and expectations. “Like good stewards of the manifold grace of This ecumenical enterprise and the methodol- God, serve one another with whatever gift ogy it used found a fruitful expression. each of you has received.” Due to this encouraging development, the This is the beauty of the worldwide body Ecumenical Institute of Strasbourg has pushed of Christ—that we have been given different forward with the publication of a booklet gifts. There is diversity, but one God. It is by giving an account of the progress achieved grace, by the grace of our Lord, that we can and making the case why it is desirable that be good stewards precisely where we have formal dialogue between Lutherans and been placed. We can learn from one another Pentecostals be established by the Lutheran and we can encourage one another. World Federation. It must be added at this There may be difficulties and challenges point that for us Pentecostals, too, there is ahead. Certainly, mistakes have been made the wish to engage in further discussions and there is poverty and injustice, but God with Lutherans as we recognize ourselves as is not finished with us yet. It is through, in children of the Reformation. and with Jesus Christ that we can minister The report entitled Lutherans and Pentecostals to this world in the power of the Holy Spirit. in Dialogue sets out with a list of goals that This power wants to transform us; this power such a dialogue should keep in mind: to think reunites families and brings people together and speak appropriately about the other, not in the bond of love. We’ve seen it happen all bearing false witness against each other; to be across the globe. And one day the power of mutually enriched by each other’s tradition; to God will bring us together and make us one provide opportunities for mutual correction; in Christ. to enable cooperation in ministry, mission and Yes, let us be good stewards and serve each social outreach; to resolve and avoid conflicts other with the particular gifts that we have between our churches. received. Let us do this to honor God and to Then, the booklet contains an analysis of be a blessing to humankind and to the whole insights gleaned. And finally there is a larger of creation. section in this booklet with chapters intro- Thank you ducing Lutheranism to Pentecostals and vice versa. There is also a case study on Lutheran Dr Jean-Daniel Plüss, co-chairperson of reactions to Pentecostalism. the Lutheran–Pentecostal Study Group

134 © LWF/J. Latva-Hakuni

Greeting from the Organization of African Instituted Churches

Thank you so much for the kind welcome and thank It is our prayer that we shall continue to work you, Mr President. I greet you all in the name of together to engage and transform this order our Lord Jesus Christ, and I bring greetings from which is to a great extent selfish and uncaring. the Organization of African Instituted Churches. The Lord told us to pray for our daily bread, The leadership sends fraternal greetings. not my daily bread and that is what is important The theme of this Assembly is relevant not about the theme of this Assembly. We should only to the work of The Lutheran World Fed- remind ourselves that “give us today daily bread” eration as a communion of churches, but to all is beyond charity, compassion, and relief efforts; Christian communions, that is “Give us today all these are acceptable to God, but they do not our daily bread.” We also congratulate you for replace what the scriptures demand of us and of the humility you have exhibited in the process every system in place and that is justice for all. of dealing with a difficult past. Your courage to The prophet Amos reminds us “Let justice repent publicly to the Mennonites has not only flow like a river, righteousness like a never started a process of healing between the Luther- failing stream.” ans and the Mennonites, but in the whole body Thank you for inviting us to be part of this of Christ, because we are one in Christ. and may the Lord bless you as you work for Give us today our daily bread is about trans- a better future. forming the values that are holding the global political, economic and social order in captivity. Rev. Nicta M. Lubaale, general secretary 135 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

136 © LWF/J. Latva-Hakuni

Greeting from Aram I, Catholicos of Cilicia

Read by Rev. Rudolf Renfer (photo), Director, in humility: where are we as churches in our LWF Office for Personnel common responsibility to share the bread of the Eucharist? How far are we safeguarding the To the president, the general secretary and the sustainability and integrity of God’s creation as delegates to the Eleventh Assembly of the Lu- the level of consumption of food is increasing theran World Federation, Stuttgart, Germany at an alarming pace? What should we do in As you are praying, celebrating and deliberat- view of increasing food scarcity and its impact ing in Stuttgart, many Christians everywhere in on the daily life of millions of people? Indeed, the world beseech God through the same prayer, the preparatory materials of your Assembly “Give us today our daily bread” (Mt 6:11). touch these basic concerns. Our Lord tells us that the supplication to Beyond reflecting on these issues, passing receive this gift, the bread, should not be for nice resolutions, we must act. We are the our selfish needs, but for the sake of reaching stewards of the Creation; this is a God-given others, sharing with our neighbors. Let us vocation. Hence, we must act together as reflect about the imperative of sharing our churches on the basis of the gospel values resources, our bread, with others. and in obedient response to the call of God in The spiritual act of supplication calls us Jesus Christ. We must also act together with today to look at the bread both as a spiritual other religions on the basis of common values, food and a material end. Let us ask ourselves accepting and respecting our differences. 137 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

We therefore pray that the Eleventh As- In our common Lord Jesus Christ, sembly of the Lutheran World Federation opens new ways to strengthen the God-given Aram I, Catholicos of Cilicia unity in the Lord’s Chalice and safeguard God’s creation.

138 © LWF/J. Latva-Hakuni

Greeting from the World Young Women’s Christian Association

President Bishop Hanson, delegates and are promoted and sustained through women’s guests, leadership. On behalf of the President of the World Founded in 1894, historically, the World Young Women’s Christian Association YWCA has been a midwife of the ecumenical (YWCA) Susan Brennan, myself, the World movement, and many Lutheran women are YWCA board and movement, I bring greetings members of YWCAs all over the world. to this Eleventh Assembly of the Lutheran The World YWCA and the LWF, we both World Federation. I am joined by Ana Vil- live in the same neighborhood not only in lanueva, my colleague, who has been with Geneva, but everywhere. We have very close the Assembly since the beginning and is a and strong links through staff who are working committed co-worker within the Lutheran and have worked in both organizations, such community. as my predecessor Dr Musimbi Kanyoro. We Reaching 25 million women and girls share work for peace with justice as members through 22,000 communities in 125 countries, of different ecumenical and NGO groups. the World YWCA is a global membership We rejoice and are thankful for having the movement of women, based on the Christian privilege of participating in this Assembly as faith, whose vision is that of a fully inclusive ecumenical guests. world where justice, peace, health, human We take this opportunity to recognize the dignity, freedom and care for the environment leadership of Dr Ishmael Noko during his many 139 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

years serving the LWF. We wish Dr Noko all education, leadership and decision-making for God’s blessings in his future. We welcome and girls and boys, women and men, will ensure pray for God’s wisdom and richest blessings more inclusive and just societies, according upon his successor, Rev. Martin Junge, upon to God’s will. president-elect Bishop Munib Younan and the Women and girls are often the most vulner- newly elected leadership of the LWF. able in the face of conflict, war, catastrophes, As you gathered to celebrate, deliberate, economic instability and degradation of the pray and explore together ways of being “God’s environment. As you pray every day “Give us instrument for leading justice and reconcilia- today our daily bread,” may God guide you tion in the midst of brokenness in church and and inspire you to be fully aware every day of society,” the World YWCA urges you, broth- the suffering of many because of the exclusion ers and sisters, to always keep in mind that as and abuse by those who hold the power. women and men, created in God’s image, both Sexism is a sin and it has to be openly together are called to be God’s instruments declared. May your voice be prophetic and of peace and justice for all creation. expose clearly the injustices that still need to We congratulate you all for the Eleventh be overcome in church and society, trusting Assembly’s profound resolutions on gender that God’s love empowers us to deal with even justice, human trafficking and the rights of the most difficult and uncomfortable issues. the Dalit people. These all have a profound May the God of Life, of Mercy and Love impact on the lives of women and their families bless your deliberations so that the outcomes worldwide. of this Assembly will be signs of renewed As the soil is not fertile without water, hope, not only for the Lutheran communion, and as life needs light to exist, so God’s cre- but for the whole of God’s creation. ation, our world, our churches and societies Thank you. need the active and committed participation and leadership of both men and women to Ms Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda, produce fruits of blessing. Equal access to general secretary

140 Stewards display empty ballot boxes before collecting votes for the election of a new LWF president. Expression of Gratitude Text of the Expression Gratitude as adopted by of Germany, for his address and greetings he the Assembly brought from Her Excellency Dr , German chancellor, to the Assembly. This Assembly of the Lutheran World Fed- eration, convened in Stuttgart, expresses To the management and staff of the Liederh- its gratitude to the following persons and alle, in particular project manager Mr Sascha organizations for their part in making this Schmidt, and the Evangelische Medienhaus Assembly a meaningful and important event for video streaming, and for providing meeting in the life of the LWF and the lives of those and technical facilities. In addition, we note who participated in the Assembly. the comfortable accommodations provided to the participants at the Maritim, Royal, Wart- To the Lord Mayor of the City of Stuttgart, Mr burg, Ketterer, Hansa and Kronen hotels as Wolfgang Schuster, who brought greetings to the well as the Diakonissenhaus. We also thank Assembly, and to the officials and their co-work- all of the companies and organizations that ers who welcomed the Assembly participants have provided extraordinary technical and and extended the hospitality of the city. other additional services.

To His Excellency Mr Wolfgang Schäuble, To our generous hosts, the Evangelical Lu- the minister of finance of the Federal Republic theran Church in Württemberg, its bishop, 141 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

Rev. Frank Otfried July, and the congregations of the To the Assembly Planning Committee and its chairper- ELCW for their warm hospitality and hard work. son, Ms Angeline Swart, for their capable leadership in guiding Assembly preparations. To the churches of Germany which prepared the local diaconal visits. We wish to thank Rev. Hans-Wilhelm Kasch and all To Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko, general secretary of the LWF, of the local churches for their hospitality and leadership. particular appreciation is expressed for his wise and effec- tive leadership of the Assembly preparation process and To the churches in Württemberg who welcomed the par- his excellent collaboration with the Evangelical Lutheran ticipants to attend worship services in their congregations Church in Württemberg in this process. We also thank and to share a meal with them. the deputy general secretary, Rev. Chandran Paul Martin, the Assembly content coordinator, Rev. Dr Erwin Buck, To the coordinator of the Local Assembly Planning Com- for the able guidance and direction they provided, and mittee, Kirchenrat Klaus Rieth, the assembly logistics the staff of the Assembly office. coordinator, Mr Christoph Glogger, as well as the hard- working and efficient staff of the local Assembly Planning To the Assembly coordinator for worship, Rev. Per Har- Office and more than 200 dedicated volunteers. ling; communication, Rev. Karin Achtelstetter; finance, Mr Pauli Rantanen; the pre-Assembly consultations To the Stiftskirche of Stuttgart for welcoming the Assembly and Mr Jaap Schep, as well as the minute-takers, other to hold its opening and closing worship services there, those staff, co-opted staff and many others from the member who planned and carried out the morning eucharists and churches who have unselfishly given of their time and midday prayers, all in a moving spirit of collaboration. efforts to the Assembly. Many persons have worked long and hard, but always cheerfully, to assist in making the To those who held exhibitions and displays for our benefit Assembly function efficiently. A special word of thanks and enrichment. goes to the general-secretaries-in-the-making (stewards) for their great service. Particular gratitude is expressed To the member churches, national committees, and in to the language service, the interpreters, the translators, particular the German National Committee, related the editor and staff of the daily Assembly Update and the agencies and mission societies for contributing to the technical service for their continuous efforts to enable Assembly budget, and to Kärcher, Evangelische Kredit- communication among the Assembly participants, the genossenschaft eG, the City of Stuttgart, the State of editors and staff of the Assembly Web site and Lutheran Baden-Württemberg, Deutsche Bank, Wüstenrot Holding World Information for informing the world, and the audio AG and Biblische Reisen. and video news teams.

To the member churches in Germany and their LWF Na- To Rev. Roger Schmidt and the LWF Youth Desk team tional Committee, led by Bishop Johannes Friedrich, which for a professional and patient preparation of the youth prepared the visitation programs prior to the Assembly. delegates and stewards for the Assembly.

Participants celebrated the end of the LWF Eleventh Assembly in a closing Eucharistic service in Stuttgart’s Stiftskirche. LWF Department for World Service director, Rev. Eberhard Hitzler, and three young participants at the altar during the closing service of the 20-27 July 2010 Assembly in 142 Stuttgart, Germany. © LWF/Luis E. Ramírez The Assembly wishes to thank the local worship imple- out those resolutions and statements. The members of the mentation group, Bishop Frank July and Oberkirchenrat Council and its Committees have diligently executed their Dr Ulrich Heckel; the music director, Mr Michael Čulo; tasks, including providing helpful resources and assistance and liturgical leaders and assistants who planned and to the member churches. Our profound appreciation is carried out the spirit-filled worship services. extended to all these persons who have served during the past seven years. The gathering of people from all over the world in the opening service in the dramatic setting of the beautiful This Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, con- and historical Stiftskirche of Stuttgart, made a lasting vened in Stuttgart, expresses its appreciation for the many impression of our unity. We also thank the preachers, greetings extended to the Assembly by representatives Rev. Mark S. Hanson at the opening service and Rev. of other religious communities. We note those provided Shu-Chen Chen at the closing service. by His Eminence Walter Cardinal Kasper, president of the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity, The Assembly expressed its deep gratitude to His Grace Rev. Olav Fykse Tveit, general secretary of the World the Most Rev. Dr Rowan Williams, archbishop of Canter- Council of Churches, Metropolitan Prof. Dr Gennadios bury, the keynote speaker and respondents, Ms Jeanette of Sassima (Limouris) of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Ada and Ms Inga Marie Nordstrand, those who made Constantinople, Rev. Dr Setri Nyomi, general secretary of contributions through the public hearings on daily bread, the World Communion of Reformed Churches, Dr John climate change and food security, as well as on illegitimate Graz, director for public affairs and religious liberty of debt and on HIV and AIDS. the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Rev. Dr Gerald Kieschnick, chairman of the International This Eleventh Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, Lutheran Council, Rev. Dr Larry Miller, general secretary convened in Stuttgart, expresses its profound gratitude of the Mennonite World Conference, Ms Nyaradzayi to presiding bishop Mark S. Hanson of the Evangelical Gumbonzwanda, general secretary of the World Young Lutheran Church in America for his exceptional leader- Women’s Christian Association, Dr Jean-Daniel Plüss, ship and pastoral skill in guiding our deliberations. His co-chairperson of the Lutheran–Pentecostal Study Group, role as pastor of this Assembly was a fitting culmination Bishop Dr Gebhard Fürst, Roman Catholic Church, of his servant leadership of the LWF communion since Diocese of Rottenburg-Stuttgart, Rev. Nicta Lubaale, the Tenth Assembly. general secretary of the Organization of African Insti- tuted Churches and Catholicos Aram I of the Armenian This Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, convened Apostolic Catholicosate of Cilicia. in Stuttgart, expresses its gratitude for the work of the LWF Executive Committee, the Council, and its various This Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, convened committees since the Tenth Assembly. The Assembly at in Stuttgart, expresses its thanks to the large number of Winnipeg took many actions that required the attention and representatives of the press, radio and television who have action of the Council. The Council has faithfully carried extensively covered and reported on the activities of this

143 © LWF/Luis E. Ramírez LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

Assembly. These representatives have assisted not unnoticed, and our hearty thanks are in communicating to the world the role of the extended to them. Lutheran World Federation in the affairs of churches and nations. This Assembly rejoices in having former President Bishop emeritus Dr Christian Krause This Assembly of the Lutheran World Federa- and former general secretary Bishop Gunnar tion, convened in Stuttgart, recognizes that Stålsett among us. there are many other persons and organizations who have been involved in the preparation, Beyond this expression, we thank God for planning and functioning of this Assembly. the many blessings bestowed upon this As- Although unnamed, their contributions are sembly.

144 Church representatives who will serve on the LWF Council. © LWF/J. Latva-Hakuni

Governing Bodies of The Lutheran World Federation

In accordance with current constitutional The Assembly (Art. VII.) provisions, the LWF Eleventh Assembly in July 2010 voted amendments to the LWF The highest decision-making body of the Constitution. The LWF Council meeting im- Lutheran World Federation (LWF) is the mediately after the Assembly voted to amend Assembly, normally held every six years. It the LWF Bylaws as well. Amendments to consists of representatives from each member the LWF Constitution come into force one church. Among its many functions is the elec- year after their adoption (LWF Constitution, tion of the President and the Council. Article XVI, Section 1). Thus the amendments adopted in Stuttgart come into force on 1 August 2011. This means that the decisions The Council (Art. VIII) of the LWF Council at its meeting just after the Assembly were taken on the basis of the The Council shall be composed of the President, existing LWF Constitution and Bylaws. The the Treasurer/the Chairperson of the Finance one-year period before amendments come into Committee and 48 members to be elected by force is a time of transition. This document, the Assembly. It shall elect from among its therefore, uses both the existing and the new members the Executive Committee/the Meeting wordings, with the new written in italics. of Officers, Program Committees and other ad- hoc subcommittees as required. For Program 145 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

Committees, the Council elects for its term of Rev. Frauke EIBEN office up to 21 advisers with voting rights in North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Church the committees. In view of the fact that the (Germany) Council will finalize the apointment of the various committees at its meeting in 2011, the Bishop Geza ERNIŠA Council decided to extend the mandates and Evangelical Church of the Augsburg the membership of the Standing Committee Confession in Slovenia for World Service and the LWF Project Com- mittee for one more year until 2011, at which Bishop Dr Tamás FABINY time all committees will be reviewed. There is a The Evangelical Lutheran Church in desire to reconfigure the Program and Standing Hungary Committees for World Service and hence the need to put in place transitory arrangments Mr Warime GUTI until the 2011 Council meeting. Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua This report therefore includes some actions New Guinea taken at the post-Assembly Council. Bishop Mark S. HANSON Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Members of the Council Bishop Helga HAUGLAND BYFUGLIEN Bishop Niels Henrik ARENDT Church of Norway Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Rev. Dr Wakseyoum IDOSA Ms Mami Brunah ARO The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane SANDANIAINA Yesus (Madagascar) Ms Maria IMMONEN Rev. Naoki ASANO Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church Bishop Antje JACKÉLEN Ms Iwona BARANIEC Church of Sweden Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland Ms Christina JACKSON-SKELTON Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Rev. Martina BERLICH Evangelical Church in Central Germany Rev. Dr A. G. Augustine JEYAKUMAR The (India) Dr Carlos G. BOCK Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Bishop Melvin JIMÉNEZ Confession in Brazil Lutheran Costa Rican Church

Rev. Jenny CHAN Bishop Susan JOHNSON The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hong Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Kong Bishop Frank O. JULY Ms Colleen Elizabeth CUNNINGHAM Evangelical Lutheran Church in Moravian Church in South Africa Württemberg (Germany)

Rev. Dr Samuel DAWAI Bishop Dr Zephania KAMEETA Church of the Lutheran Brethren of The Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Cameroon Republic of Namibia

Ms Rani Bormon DIPTI Rev. Rainer KIEFER Bangladesh Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover (Germany) Ms Danielle DOKMAN 146 Evangelical Lutheran Church in Suriname Bishop Miloš KLÁTIK Rev. Dr Robin STEINKE Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Confession in the Slovak Republic Ms Magnea SVERRISDOTTIR Ms Eun-hae KWON The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland Ms Anna-Maria TETZLAFF Ms Danielle C. LEKER Evangelical Church of Pomerania (Germany) Protestant Church in the Netherlands Archbishop Jānis VANAGS Bishop Oi-Peng (Philip) LOK Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia Lutheran Church in Malaysia and Singapore Bishop Dr Munib A. YOUNAN The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan Bishop Alex MALASUSA and the Holy Land Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Mr A. Elijah ZINA Ms Dagmar MAGOLD Lutheran Church in Liberia Federation of Evangelical Lutheran Churches in Switzerland and in the Principality of Liechtenstein Honorary Members of the Council Ms Titi MALIK Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria Rev. Dr Gottfried BRAKEMEIER Brazil Ms Mikka McCRACKEN Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Bishop em. Dr Christian KRAUSE Germany Dr Bernd OBERDORFER Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria (Germany) The Executive Committee/ Meeting of Officers Ms Pamela Akinyi OYIEYO Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya The Executive Committee/Meeting of Officers is the appointing authority of staff with pro- Bishop Dr Ndanganane Petrus grammatic and supervisory responsibilities, PHASWANA with the exception of Cabinet members, who Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern are appointed by the Council. The Execu- Africa tive Committee/Meeting of Officers serves as the LWF Board of Trustees and Personnel Ms Jenette A. PURBA Committee. The Indonesian Christian Church The committee is composed of the President, Vice Presidents, the Treasurer/Chairperson of Rev. Dr Gloria ROJAS VARGAS the Finance Committee, and the chairpersons Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chile of the Program Committees of the LWF Council including two members at large for Bishop Dr Mangisi SIMORANGKIR gender and generational balance. Christian Protestant Church in Indonesia The President, Vice Presidents and Trea- surer/Chairperson of the Finance Committee Ms Jenny SKUMSNES MOE represent the seven LWF geographical regions Church of Norway defined as: Africa, Asia, Central Eastern Europe, Central Western Europe, Nordic Ms Christina SOREN Countries, Latin America and the Caribbean, Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church and North America. (India) With the new constitution, the President and Treasurer/Chairperson of the Finance Com- mittee will be non-geographical. 147 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

President Chairpersons of Program Committees Bishop Dr Munib A. YOUNAN Jerusalem [Asia] (The following Vice-Presidents are appointed as Chairpersons of Program Committees for a period of one year until 31 July 2011 upon Vice-Presidents which the Council will appoint new members.)

Bishop Alex MALASUSA Bishop Dr Tamás FABINY Tanzania [Africa] Hungary (Communication Services)

Ms Eun-hae KWON Bishop Helga HAUGLAND BYFUGLIEN Korea [Asia] (elect-until 31 July 2011) Norway (Ecumenical Affairs)

Bishop Dr Tamás FABINY Ms Christina JACKSON-SKELTON Hungary [Central Eastern Europe] USA (Finance & Administration)

Bishop Frank O. JULY Bishop Frank O. JULY Germany [Central Western Europe] Germany (Theology and Studies)

Rev. Dr Gloria ROJAS VARGAS Ms Eun-hae KWON Chile [Latin America and the Caribbean] Korea (World Service)

Bishop Helga HAUGLAND Bishop Alex MALASUSA BYFUGLIEN Tanzania (Mission and Development) Norway [Nordic Countries] Rev. Dr Gloria ROJAS VARGAS Bishop Susan JOHNSON Chile (International Affairs and Human Canada [North America] (elect-until 31 July Rights) 2011)

Program Committee for Treasurer/Chairperson of Communication Services the Finance Committee Members of the Council Ms Christina JACKSON-SKELTON USA [North America] (also Vice President of Bishop Dr Tamás FABINY, Hungary the North America Region until 31 July 2011) (chairperson)

Ms Danielle DOKMAN, Suriname Members at large Mr Warime GUTI, Will be full members of the Executive Com- mittee from 1 August 2011 Advisers of the Council

Ms Colleen Elizabeth CUNNINGHAM Still to be appointed South Africa

Ms Anna-Maria TETZLAFF Program Committee for Germany Ecumenical Affairs

Decision taken on the basis of the new Con- Members of the Council stitution which states that “In addition the Council shall elect two members for the purpose of Bishop Helga HAUGLAND ensuring gender and generational representation” BYFUGLIEN, Norway (chairperson) (Article VIII, Section 4) 148 Rev. Naoki ASANO, Japan Bishop Susan JOHNSON, Canada Program Committee for Mission & Development Ms Dagmar MAGOLD, Switzerland Members of the Council Bishop Dr Ndanganane Petrus PHASWANA, South Africa Bishop Alex MALASUSA, Tanzania (chairperson) Ms Anna-Maria TETZLAFF, Germany Bishop Niels Henrik ARENDT, Denmark Archbishop Jānis VANAGS, Latvia Ms Mami Brunah ARO SANDANIAINA, Advisers of the Council Madagascar

Still to be appointed Dr Carlos G. BOCK, Brazil

Ms Colleen Elizabeth CUNNINGHAM, Program Committee for South Africa Finance & Administration Rev. Frauke EIBEN, Germany Members of the Council Bishop Geza ERNIŠA, Slovenia Ms Christina JACKSON-SKELTON, USA (chairperson) Bishop Dr Mangisi SIMORANGKIR, Indonesia Ms Pamela Akinyi OYIEYO, Kenya Ms Christina SOREN, India Ms Jenette A. PURBA, Indonesia Ms Magnea SVERRISDOTTIR, Iceland Advisers of the Council Advisers of the Council Still to be appointed Still to be appointed

Program Committee for International Affairs Program Committee for & Human Rights Theology & Studies

Members of the Council Members of the Council

Rev. Dr Gloria ROJAS VARGAS, Chile Bishop Frank O. JULY, Germany (chairperson) (chairperson) Ms Iwona BARANIEC, Poland Rev. Martina BERLICH, Germany Bishop Antje JACKÉLEN, Sweden Rev. Jenny CHAN, Hong Kong Bishop Miloš KLÁTIK, Slovak Republic Bishop Dr Zephania KAMEETA, Namibia Bishop Oi-Peng (Philip) LOK, Malaysia Ms Danielle C. LEKER, Netherlands Prof. Dr Bernd OBERDORFER, Germany Ms Mikka McCRACKEN,USA Rev. Dr Robin STEINKE, USA Advisers of the Council Advisers of the Council Still to be appointed Still to be appointed 149 LWF Eleventh Assembly Report

Program Committee (The mandates of the two committees listed below for World Service have been extended for one more year by the deci- sion of the Council to be reconfigured at the next Members of the Council meeting of the Council in 2011)

Ms Eun-hae KWON, Korea (chairperson) The LWF Project Committee Bishop Mark S. HANSON, USA Members Rev. Dr Wakseyoum IDOSA, Ethiopia Rev. Rainer KIEFER, Germany (chairperson) Ms Maria IMMONEN, Finland Mr Robert GRANKE, Canada Rev. Dr A.G. Augustine JEYAKUMAR, India Ms Yeonli KIM, South Korea

Bishop Melvin JIMÉNEZ, Costa Rica Deaconess Esther C. MUSAH, Liberia

Rev. Rainer KIEFER, Germany Ms Anne SKJELMERUD, Norway

Ms Jenny SKUMSNES MOE, Norway Rev. Ilo UTECH, Nicaragua

Advisers of the Council Archbishop Jānis VANAGS, Latvia

Still to be appointed Standing Committee for World Service Council members yet to be assigned to the Members Program Committees: Rev. Dr A. G. Augustine JEYAKUMAR, Rev. Dr Samuel DAWAI, Cameroon India (chairperson)

Ms Rani Bormon DIPTI, Bangladesh Mr Christer ÅKESSON, Sweden

Ms Titi MALIK, Nigeria Ms Brenda V. AKPAN, Nigeria

Mr A. Elijah ZINA, Liberia Dr Christian Friis BACH, Denmark

Mr Louis DORVILIER, USA Standing Committee for Constitution Mr Volker GERDESMEIER, Germany

Members of the Council Bishop em. Dr Ambrose MOYO, Zimbabwe

Still to be appointed Ms Marilu NÖRNBERG MENEZES, Brazil

Standing Committee Ms Pauliina PARHIALA, Finland for Membership Mr Peter SCHIRMER, Australia Members of the Council

Still to be appointed

150 List of Participants In alphabetical order

AANO, Kjetil ADORJÁNI, Dezsö-Zoltán ALONSO, Leonor Delegate Delegate Translator Church of Norway Evangelical Lutheran Church in Switzerland Norway Romania Romania ALTMANN, Walter AARSETH, Helge Delegate Ex-Officio ADRIAN, Dorothee Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Church of Norway Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Confession in Brazil Norway Agentur für Privatradio in Württemberg/ Brazil Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH AARSETH, Elen Gilje Germany ANASCO HINOSTROZA, Cristina Accompanying Person Patricia Norway AGØY, Berit Hagen Steward Adviser Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chile ABBETMEIER, Anne Church of Norway Chile Delegate Norway Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover ANDREWS, Jenson Rajan Germany AHLEFELT, Annika Delegate Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Evangelical Lutheran Church in ABDELGHED, Tekhna Ashushai Kyrkans Tidning Myanmar (Lutheran Bethlehem Church) Accompanying Person Sweden Myanmar Eritrea AHOLA, Miika ANDRIAMA RAVALITERA, Jean ABDISA MULETA, Degitu Delegate Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Malagasy Protestant Church in France The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Finland France Mekane Yesus Ethiopia ÅKERLUND, Anders ANGRESS, Sarah-Lisa Delegate Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster ABOKA, Moses Church of Sweden Agentur für Privatradio in Württemberg/ Delegate Sweden Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya Germany Kenya AKPAN, Brenda Ex-Officio ANTHONY SAMY, Joseph ABROMEIT, Hans-Jürgen The Lutheran Church of Nigeria Official Visitor Delegate Nigeria United Evangelical Lutheran Churches Evangelical Church of Pomerania in India Germany ALASTALO, Simo India Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster ACHTELSTETTER, Karin Finnish National Broadcasting ARENDT, Niels Henrik LWF Staff Company/YLE Radio 1 Delegate Switzerland Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark ADA, Jeannette ALAVA, Henni Denmark Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland ARNDT, Christine Cameroon Finland Local Staff Cameroon Evangelical Lutheran Church in ALBRECHT, Peter Württemberg ADAM, Stefan Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Germany Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster ERF-Medien Kirchenfernsehen.de Germany ARNING, Silke Germany Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster ALEJO FERNÁNDEZ, Luis Cristóbal Südwest Rundfunk Radio ADDO, Aynalem Delegate Germany Delegate Bolivian Evangelical Lutheran Church The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Bolivia ARO SANDANIAINA, Mami Brunah Mekane Yesus Delegate Ethiopia ALIGAZ, Achamyelesh Amare Malagasy Lutheran Church Delegate Madagascar ADOMEIT, Thomas The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Delegate Mekane Yesus ASONOV, Aleksandr Evangelical Lutheran Church in Ethiopia Delegate Oldenburg The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Germany ALMQVIST, Ewa Ingria in Russia Adviser Russian Federation Church of Sweden Sweden 151 Appendices

AUGOUSTINOS OF GERMANY BA R NET T-COWA N, Bruce BERGGREN, David Guest Accompanying Person Visitor Ecumenical Patriarchate United Kingdom Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Germany USA BARTEL, Burkhart AUNE, Bella Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster BERGGREN, Susan Delegate Church Media Visitor Church of Sweden Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Sweden USA BARTOLOMEU, Isabel Antonio AUSTIN, Charles Delegate BERLICH, Martina LWF Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church of Angola Delegate USA Angola Evangelical Church in Central Germany Germany AUVINEN, Juha BATTAL, Lelise Adviser Accompanying Person BERNHARDT, Gunther Sanansaattajat/The Messengers USA Visitor Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church in America BATTAL, Robéra USA BABBA, Nemuel Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in America BESNARD, Federico The Lutheran Church of Christ in USA Accompanying Person Nigeria Switzerland Nigeria BAUMANN, Kristin Luana Visitor BIDSTRUP, Ulla Morre BACH, Sandra Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Delegate Visitor USA Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Former LWF Staff Denmark Germany BAUSCH, Rudolf Local Staff BINDER, Steffen BAECHER, Claude Evangelical Lutheran Church in Delegate Guest Württemberg Evangelical Church in Central Germany Mennonite World Conference Germany Germany France BEEBE, Allison BINGENER, Reinhard BAECHER, Elisabeth Steward Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Guest Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung Mennonite World Conference USA Germany France BENESCH, Iris J. BIRMELE, André BALAHURA, Milan LWF Staff Coopted Staff Steward Switzerland France Evangelical Church of Czech Brethren Czech Republic BENGSTON, Diane BITTENDIEBEL, Frédérique Visitor Delegate BALINT, Imola Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Protestant Church of the Augsburg Delegate USA Confession of Alsace and Lorraine Evangelical Lutheran Church in France Romania BENGTSSON, Béatrice Romania LWF Staff BLOOMQUIST, Karen Switzerland LWF Staff BALTRUWEIT, Fritz Switzerland Adviser BENKIE, Joyful International Worship Planning Group Official Visitor BOCK, Carlos Germany Betseranai choir Ex-Officio Zimbabwe Evangelical Church of the Lutheran BAONIZAFIMANANA, Jeannette Confession in Brazil Delegate BENUCHOVA, Jana Brazil Malagasy Lutheran Church Steward Madagascar Evangelical Church of the Augsburg BÓDIS, Lubomír Confession in the Slovak Republic Delegate BARANIEC, Iwona Slovak Republic Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Delegate Confession in the Slovak Republic Evangelical Church of the Augsburg BERGEN, Ernst Slovak Republic Confession in Poland Guest Poland Mennonite World Conference BÖER, Chris Paraguay Delegate BARNETT, Thomas Evangelical Lutheran Church of Delegate BERGEN, Jürgen Schaumburg-Lippe Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sierra Visitor Germany Leone Mennonites Sierra Leone Germany BOHL, Jochen Delegate BARNETT-COWAN, Alyson BERGEN, Maria Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Guest Visitor Germany Anglican Communion Mennonites United Kingdom Germany 152 BOHLEN, Gerd BRYDE, Gwen BYRTUSOVA, Jana Delegate Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Silesian Evangelical Church of the Germany Church Augsburg Confession Germany Czech Republic BOLLER, Frieder Guest BUBERWA, Elisa CAMADDO, Maryssa Association of Mennonite Congregations Delegate LWF Staff in Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Switzerland Germany Tanzania Tanzania CAMPOS GARCIA, Lusmarina BOUKA COULA, Colette Adviser LWF Staff BUBIK, Michael International Worship Planning Group Switzerland Adviser Switzerland Diakonie Eine Welt BOUWMAN, Praxedis Austria CANTELL, Risto Delegate Adviser Protestant Church in the Netherlands BUCHER, Gerhard Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Netherlands Visitor Finland Mennonites BR ANDSTORP, Helen Germany CAPCHA ROJAS, Armando Accompanying Person Delegate Norway BUCHNER, Bernd Peruvian Lutheran Evangelical Church Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Peru BRANDY, Hans Christian Evangelisch.de Delegate Germany CARLANDER, Maria Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Delegate Germany BUCK, Erwin Church of Sweden LWF Staff Sweden BRANNER, Dietmar Canada/Switzerland Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster CARNEGIE, Rachel ERF-Medien BUCK, Gertrude Official Visitor Germany Accompanying person Church of England Canada/Switzerland United Kingdom BRAUN, Wilfried Guest BUENO DE FARIA, Rudelmar CASE-WINTERS, Anna Institute for Ecumenical Research, LWF Staff Guest Strasbourg Switzerland World Communion of Reformed France Churches BUHSE, Jeffrey USA BREITHAUPT, Beate Delegate Local Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada CERNIGLIA, Mark Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Visitor Württemberg Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Germany BUNTZEL, Rudolf USA Adviser BROADBRIDGE, Hanna Church Development Service (EED) CEZANNE, Stephan Delegate Germany Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelischer Presse Dienst Denmark BURKART, Rainer Germany Denmark Guest Mennonite World Conference CHANA, Alfred BROCKMANN, Manfred Germany Delegate Visitor Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zambia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia BURKETT DEARHAMER, Timothy Zambia and Other States Visitor Russian Federation Lutheran Church in Great Britain CHANDRASEKHAR, Samuel United Kingdom Delegate BROWN, Mark South Andhra Lutheran Church LWF Staff BUTTON, Mary India Department for World Service Steward Jerusalem Evangelical Lutheran Church in America CHANG, Wai Cheong USA Delegate The Chinese Rhenish Church Hong BRUCH, Thomas BVUMBWE, Joseph Paul Kong Synod Observer Delegate Hong Kong, China The Lutheran Council of Great Britain Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malawi United Kingdom Malawi CHAPARRO BERMÚDEZ, Guillermina BRUDER, Georg BVUMBWE, Maria Moses Delegate Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Accompanying Person Evangelical Lutheran Church in Venezuela Evangelisches Medienhaus Malawi Venezuela Germany BYFUGLIE, Brita CHEN, Shu-Chen (Selma) BRUVERS, Rita Delegate Delegate Delegate Church of Norway The Lutheran Church of Taiwan Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia Norway (Republic of China) Latvia Taiwan 153 Appendices

COBO, Alfredo DAUTHEVILLE, Joël DJOMHOUE, Priscille Steward Delegate Guest Lutheran Church in Chile Evangelical Lutheran Church of France World Communion of Reformed Churches Chile France Cameroon

COLL GONZÁLEZ, Erick Marcel DAVID RAJU, Bejjam DOBLER, Ursula Coopted Staff Visitor Visitor Cuba Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church Mennonites India Germany COLLANGE, Jean-François Delegate DEBAL, Véronique DOKMAN, Daniëlle Protestant Church of the Augsburg LWF Staff Delegate Confession of Alsace and Lorraine Switzerland Evangelical Lutheran Church in France Suriname DEFFENBAUGH, Ralston Suriname CORTEZ CRISTALES, Katia María Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in America DOLACE, Liga The Nicaraguan Lutheran Church of USA Delegate Faith and Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia Nicaragua DEFFENBAUGH, Miriam Latvia Visitor CORTEZ RODRÍGUEZ, Victoria Evangelical Lutheran Church in America DÖLLING, Claus Ex-Officio USA Adviser The Nicaraguan Lutheran Church of LWF Endowment Fund Board Faith and Hope DEGROOT-NESDAHL, Andrea Switzerland Nicaragua Adviser Evangelical Lutheran Church in America DÖRR, Kilian CORZO GARCIA, Alfonso USA Delegate Ex-Officio Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Evangelical Lutheran Church of DENECKE, Norbert Confession in Romania Colombia Adviser Romania Canada LWF National Committee in Germany Germany DORVILIER, Louis O. COSSA, Zelda Cristina Adviser Steward DENEKE-STOLL, Dorothea Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Lutheran Church in Delegate USA Mozambique Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Mozambique Germany DRAGANESCU, Anca Official visitor COVOLO, Catharina DEPAYSO, Diadem Ecumenical Church Loan Fund Delegate Ex-Officio (ECLOF) Evangelical Lutheran Church in Lutheran Church in the Philippines Switzerland Oldenburg Philippines Germany DREINHÖFER, Beate DEUSS, Kathrin Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster ČULO, Michael Interpreter Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Local Staff France Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Württemberg DEVANESAN, Subramaniam DREISER, Anja Germany Delegate Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Südwest Rundfunk CUMMINGS, Janis Sri Lanka Germany LWF Staff Switzerland DIAZ VELASQUEZ, Martin Ignacio DRIEDGER, Günther Steward Visitor DA SILVA DIEFENTHAELER, Salvadoran Lutheran Church Mennonites Sibeli El Salvador Germany Steward Evangelical Church of the Lutheran DIBISA, Yonas Yegzu DRIEDGER, Hanna Confession in Brazil Delegate Visitor Brazil The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mennonites Mekane Yesus Germany DALLA BARBA, Ricardo Ethiopia Delegate DROBENA, Joshua Evangelical Church of the Lutheran DIETER, Theodor Accompanying Person Confession in Brazil Coopted Staff USA Brazil France DRUVINA, Ilze DANIELSSON, Arni Svanur DITTERS, Christian Visitor Coopted Staff Local Staff Association of Lutheran Women Iceland eGenius IT-Ser v ice Theologians in Latvia Germany Germany DASUHA, Belman P. Delegate DJOBDI, Simon DUBE, Omneti Simalungun Protestant Christian Church Coopted Staff Official Visitor Indonesia Cameroon Betseranai choir Zimbabwe 154 DUCHROW, Ulrich ERIKSSON, Sanna Viktoria Gunilla FILO, Július Official Visitor Steward Ex-Officio Kairos Europa Church of Sweden Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Germany Sweden Confession in the Slovak Republic Slovak Republic DUFENI, Lechisa ERLING, Maria Delegate Delegate FISCHER, Ulrich The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Guest Mekane Yesus USA Plenary Conference, Union of Ethiopia Evangelical Churches (UEK) ERNIŠA, Geza Germany DUNGDUNG, Alice Delegate Delegate Evangelical Church of the Augsburg FONG, Lydia Wai Chung Gossner Evangelical Lutheran Church in Confession in Slovenia Steward Chotanagpur and Assam Slovenia The Evangelical Lutheran Church of India Hong Kong ERTZEID, Sindre Hong Kong, China EDØ Y, Torill Accompanying Person Adviser Norway FORNACON, Frank Ecumenical Disability Advocacy Network Guest Norway ERWIN, Guy Baptist World Alliance Visitor Germany EGGERT, Margit Evangelical Lutheran Church in America LWF Staff USA FRADO, Dennis Switzerland Adviser ETTLIN FREY, Karen Andrea Evangelical Lutheran Church in America EIBEN, Frauke Steward USA Delegate Evangelical Church of the River Plate North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Uruguay FRANK, Helmut Church Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Germany FABIEN, Lotera Sonntagsblatt Bayern Delegate Germany EIDE, Sindre Malagasy Lutheran Church Visitor Madagascar FREY-REININGHAUS, Gerhard Church of Norway Delegate Norway FABIN Y, Tamás Evangelical Church of Czech Brethren Delegate Czech Republic EKONG, Christian The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Delegate Hungary FREYTAG, Susanne The Lutheran Church of Nigeria Hungary Delegate Nigeria Protestant Church in the Netherlands FARNBACHER, Traugott Netherlands EKONG, Offiong Christian Adviser Delegate Mission One World FRIEDRICH, Johannes The Lutheran Church of Nigeria Germany Adviser Nigeria LWF National Committee in Germany FASTENRATH-WESTPHAL, Germany EKSTRAND, Sixten Christel Delegate Visitor FRITZ, Ilona Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Baden Delegate Finland Germany Protestant Church in the Netherlands Netherlands ELDRID, Alan FELLMANN, Rüdiger Delegate Visitor FUDUTA, Jessica Benjamin United Evangelical Lutheran Church Mennonites Delegate Argentina Germany The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria Nigeria ELENZANO, April Praise FELLMANN, Liselotte Delegate Visitor FUNCK SPÄTH, Lennemarie Lutheran Church in the Philippines Mennonites Visitor Philippines Germany Mennonites Germany ELMBERG, Sten FERNANDEZ GARCIA, Eva Delegate Coopted Staff FURLAN, Ángel Church of Sweden Spain Ex-Officio Sweden United Evangelical Lutheran Church FIGUEROA TORRES, Rosa Elisa Argentina EPHRAIM SUWA, Christopher Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chile GABLER, Dorothea The Lutheran Church of Christ in Chile Delegate Nigeria Evangelical Lutheran Church in Nigeria FILIPTSOV, Andrey Württemberg Delegate Germany ERESO, Almaw Gari Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Adviser and Other States GALLAY, Stéphane LWF Endowment Fund Board Russian Federation LWF Staff Ethiopia Switzerland 155 Appendices

GALLOP, Trina GIRÓN ZUNIGA, José Martin GRAPE, Margareta Coopted Staff Delegate Delegate Canada Christian Lutheran Church of Honduras Church of Sweden Honduras Sweden GÁNCS, Péter Ex-Officio GLAESER, Brigitte GRÄPER, Moritz The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Adviser Steward Hungary Evangelical Lutheran Church in (Lutheran Section) Hungary Oldenburg Germany Germany GARBER-CONRAD, Rebecca GRASSE, Klaus-Peter Visitor GLOGGER, Christoph Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Active Voice Local Staff Evangelische Nachrichtenagentur Idea Canada Evangelical Lutheran Church in Germany Württemberg GÅRDER, Nils Germany GRAUMANN, Sybille Delegate LWF Staff Church of Sweden GOBENA, Iteffa Switzerland Sweden Ex-Officio The Ethiopian Evangelical Church GRAZ, John GARGA-ZIZI, Enoch Mekane Yesus Guest Delegate Ethiopia General Conference of Seventh-day Evangelical Lutheran Church of Adventists Cameroon GOHLA, Holger USA Cameroon Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Südwest Rundfunk GREENAWAY, Kristine GARHAMMER-PAUL, Anke Germany Coopted Staff Delegate Switzerland Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover GOLDENBAUM, Sven Germany Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH GREGERSEN, Niels Henrik Local Staff Delegate GARISES, Sophi Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Delegate Denmark Evangelical Lutheran Church in the GOLIKE, André Denmark Republic of Namibia Delegate Namibia Evangelical Lutheran Church of the GRENHOLM, Cristina Central African Republic Delegate GASPARIAN, Ani Central African Republic Church of Sweden LWF Staff Sweden Switzerland GOMEZ CENTENO, Abelina Accompanying Person GRIENINGER, Wolfgang GEA, Fatisochi El Salvador Visitor Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Christian Communion of Indonesia GÓMEZ SOTO, Medardo E. Germany Church in Nias (Gereja AMIN) Delegate Indonesia Salvadoran Lutheran Church GRIFFITHS, Elaine El Salvador Interpreter GEBERT, Werner Germany Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster GONZALEZ, Graciela Pro Oekumene Informationsdienst Visitor GROEBEN, Christiane Germany United Evangelical Lutheran Church Delegate Argentina Evangelical Lutheran Church in Italy GENNADIOS OF SASSIMA Italy Guest GOUDO, Subas Chandra Ecumenical Patriarchate Delegate GRØNNINGSÆTER, Arne Backer Turkey Jeypore Evangelical Lutheran Church Delegate India Church of Norway GERDESMEIER, Volker Norway Adviser GOYEK, Robert Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe Delegate GRÖTZSCH, Dirk-Michael Germany Church of the Lutheran Brethren of Coopted Staff Cameroon Germany GETACHEW, Workinesh Cameroon Delegate GRUNER, Franziska The Ethiopian Evangelical Church GRABER, Anne-Cathy Local Staff Mekane Yesus Guest Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Ethiopia France Germany

GFELLER, Doris GRANKE, Robert GRÜTZMACHER, Dirk LWF Staff Adviser Local Staff Switzerland Canadian Lutheran World Relief Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Württemberg GINGLAS-POULET, Roswitha Germany Interpreter GRANTSON, Emmanuel F. France Ex-Officio GUESE, Sebastian Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Delegate USA Church of Lippe (Lutheran Section) 156 Germany GUESS, Matthew HAMID, David HASIBUAN, Matur Parsaulian Delegate Guest Steward Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Anglican Communion Christian Protestant Angkola Church USA United Kingdom Indonesia

GULO, Eirene Kardiani HAMMELEHLE, Jürgen HAUG, Kari Storstein Delegate Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Delegate The Protestant Christian Church Church Development Service (EED) Church of Norway Indonesia Germany Norway

GUMBONZVANDA, Nyaradzayi H ANAGA, Tsion HAUGLAND BYFUGLIEN, Helga Guest Steward Delegate World YWCA The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Church of Norway Switzerland Mekane Yesus Norway Ethiopia GUNDERT, Ulrich HAURY, Volker Adviser HANAK, Ilse Visitor Brot für die Welt Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Mennonites Germany Die Brücke, Magazin für Mission und Germany Ökumene GUNDERT-HOCK, Sibylle Austria HAVRILLA, John Delegate Visitor Evangelical Lutheran Church of HANAK, Julius Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster USA Germany Die Saat, Evangelische Kirchenzeitung für Österreich HEIENE, Gunnar GÜNTHER, Astrid Austria Delegate Local Staff Church of Norway Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH HANSEN, Magrietha Norway Germany Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in the HELLFRITZ, Andrea GUSE, Imke Republic of Namibia (ELCRN) LWF Staff Delegate Namibia Switzerland Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Germany HANSEN, Reinhard HELMER-PHAM XUAN, Martina Adviser Adviser GUSE, Otto Mission One World Evangelical Lutheran Mission in Lower Delegate Germany Saxony Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Germany Germany HANSON, Mark S. Delegate HERMANN, Brigitta GUTI, Warime Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Delegate USA Südwest Rundfunk Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua Germany New Guinea HANSON, Ione Papua New Guinea Accompanying Person HERTEL, Erich USA Delegate GYAMPO-KUMI, Harriet Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia Delegate HARAHAP, Ginda P. (ELCIN-GELC) Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ghana LWF Staff Namibia Ghana Switzerland HERTEL, Dominik GYSEL, Rahel HARLING, Per Delegate Delegate Adviser Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Lutheran Church in Chile International Worship Planning Group Germany Chile Switzerland HESSELBACH, Ulrike HADEM, Eva HARRIS, Sumoward Delegate Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Lutheran Church in Liberia Brunswick Germany Liberia Germany

HAHN, Udo HARTMANN, Samuel HESSELLUND, Estrid Adviser Delegate Visitor LWF National Committee in Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Church of Norway Germany Württemberg Norway Germany HALAKHE, Halkano John HEYDE DE LÓPEZ, Julia E. Delegate HARTUNG, Johanna Coopted Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya Accompanying Person Germany Kenya Germany HIESCH, Tanja HALLONSTEN, Gunilla HASDAK, Noresh Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Adviser Delegate Südwest Rundfunk Church of Sweden Bangladesh Northern Evangelical Germany Sweden Lutheran Church Bangladesh 157 Appendices

HIETAMÄKI, Minna HOVE, Trywell IMMONEN, Maria Delegate Official Visitor Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Betseranai choir Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Finland Zimbabwe Finland

HILLER, Elke HUBER, Ivo IMPOLS, Aleksandrs Local Staff Adviser Visitor Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church Württemberg Germany Abroad Germany Australia HÜBNER, Florian HILTZ, Fred Coopted Staff INSTEFJORD, Gunstein Guest Germany Delegate Anglican Communion Church of Norway Canada HUDÁKOVÁ, Katarína Norway Delegate HINDRIANTO, Laura Susianty Evangelical Church of the Augsburg ISSLER, Hans Delegate Confession in the Slovak Republic Visitor Christian Church of Malaysia Slovak Republic Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Malaysia Germany HUNKEL, Tim HINZ, Rudolf Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster IVAÑEZ, Virginia Official Visitor Südwest Rundfunk Ex-Officio Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in in Palestine and Israel (EAPPI) Venezuela Germany HUOVINEN, Eero Venezuela Delegate HINZE, Antje Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland JACKELÉN, Antje Delegate Finland Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Church of Sweden Germany HURLING, Fernando Sweden Local Staff HIRAOKA, Hiroko Evangelical Lutheran Church in JACKSON, Mae Helen Adviser Württemberg Delegate International Worship Planning Group Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Japan USA HUTAHAEAN, Ramlan HITZLER, Eberhard Delegate JACKSON-SKELTON, Christina LWF Staff Protestant Christian Batak Church Adviser Switzerland Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA HOEFLE, Nicole HUTASOIT, Abraham L. Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Delegate JACQUEMAIN, Michael Stuttgarter Zeitung Christian Protestant Angkola Church Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Germany Indonesia Katholische Nachrichten-Agentur Germany HOEKEMA, Alle HUTAURUK, Jubil Raplan Guest Ex-Officio JAGUCKI, Walter Mennonites Protestant Christian Batak Church Ex-Officio Netherlands Indonesia Lutheran Church in Great Britain United Kingdom HOFFMANN-DENARIÉ, Claudia HUTTNER, Matthias LWF Staff Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster JAHN, Christine Switzerland Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Visitor Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover HOLSTENKAMP, Lars Germany Adviser HYLDGÅRD, Asbjørn LWF National Committee in Germany Delegate JAHNEL, Claudia Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Adviser Denmark Mission One World HOLSTENKAMP, Artemis Denmark Germany Accompanying Person Germany IDOSA, Wakseyoum JALLAH, JR., Tolbert Thomas Delegate Visitor HORVATH-HEGYI, Dénes The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Lutheran Church in Liberia Steward Mekane Yesus Togo The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Ethiopia Hungary JANGAM, Mary Hungary IJAES, Johannes Delegate Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church HOSPACH, Julia Kotimaa Newspaper India Local Staff Finland Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH JANSSEN, Jan Germany IKKALA, Jussi Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in HOVE, Simangaliso Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Oldenburg LWF Staff Finland Germany 158 Switzerland JANTZEN, Hans-Hermann JOHNSSON, Lars KALAVATHY, Allambra Gajulu Delegate Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Church of Sweden Tamil Evangelical Lutheran Church Germany Sweden India

JARL, Ann-Cathrin JOHNSTON-AELABOUNI, Meghan KALIISA, George Adviser Delegate Delegate Church of Sweden Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Lutheran Church of Rwanda Sweden USA Rwanda

JENSCH, Thomas JONES, Sandy K ALIT, Eszter Ex-Officio Visitor Delegate Evangelical Church in Central Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in America The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Germany USA Hungary Hungary JENSEN, Merete Juel JØRGENSEN, Kirsten Delegate Delegate KAMEETA, Zephania Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Ex-Officio Denmark Denmark Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Denmark Republic of Namibia (ELCRN) JULY, Frank Namibia JEPSEN, Ragnhild Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in KAMILE, Ketema Church of Norway Württemberg Delegate Norway Germany The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus JERUMA-GRINBERGA, Jana JUNGE, Martin Ethiopia Delegate LWF Staff Lutheran Church in Great Britain Switzerland KANYEMBA, Martha United Kingdom Delegate JUNKERMANN, Ilse The Evangelical Lutheran Church in JEYAKUMAR, A.G. Augustine Delegate Namibia (ELCIN) Ex-Officio Evangelical Church in Central Germany Namibia The Arcot Lutheran Church Germany India KAPPLER, Anja JUNTUNEN, Sammeli Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster JIMÉNEZ MARÍN, Melvin Delegate Verlagsgruppe Kreiszeitung Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Germany Lutheran Costa Rican Church Finland Costa Rica KARASCH, Regina JYOTHI, Yerrauguntla Coopted Staff JOACHIM, Angelika Delegate Germany Interpreter Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church Germany India KARLSSON, Hanna Delegate JOHANSEN, Mette Marbaek KABAMBA MUKALA WA Church of Sweden Delegate KASONKU, Daniel Sweden Evangelical Lutheran Church in Delegate Denmark Evangelical Lutheran Church in Congo K ART TU NEN, Tomi Denmark Democratic Republic of Congo Adviser LWF National Committee in Finland JOHN MUSHI, Martha KABANYANA, Rita Finland Adviser Steward International Worship Planning Group Lutheran Church of Rwanda KASCH, Hans W. Tanzania Rwanda Adviser LWF National Committee in Germany JOHNSEN, Tore KAHUTHU WACHIRA, Zachariah Germany Adviser Delegate Church of Norway Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church KASIMALA, Sireesha Norway Kenya Delegate South Andhra Lutheran Church JOHNSEN, Jens-Petter KAISER, Jürgen India Visitor Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Church of Norway Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH KASPER, Walter Norway Germany Guest Roman Catholic Church JOHNSON, Kathryn L. KAISER, Jürgen Vatican City LWF Staff Official Visitor Switzerland erlassjahr.de KATIKITALA, Srikanth James Ratna Germany Raju JOHNSON, Paul Delegate Coopted Staff KAKUSCHKE, Guido Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church Canada Delegate India North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran JOHNSON, Susan Church KAULA, Agnes Delegate Germany Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church Canada Kenya 159 Appendices

KEE, Terry KISTING, Paul Hatani KMETOVA, Marcela Delegate Delegate Delegate Lutheran Church in Singapore Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Singapore Republic of Namibia Confession in the Slovak Republic Namibia Slovak Republic KELTSCH, Gabriele Local Staff KITAHATA, Stacy KNUTH, Anton Evangelical Lutheran Church in Delegate Guest Württemberg Evangelical Lutheran Church in America EMW Association of Protestant Germany USA Churches and Missions in Germany Germany KENDALL, Simon KITUTU, Doris S. Guest Ex-Officio KOCH, Andreas Church of England Evangelical Lutheran Church in Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster United Kingdom Tanzania Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Tanzania Germany KENNY, Peter Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster KIVIMAEKI, Iiris KOCH, Brunke Ecumenical News International Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Delegate Switzerland Church Council Communication Centre Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Mecklenburg KEWAH, David Adobasom Germany Steward KJAER, Mogens Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ghana Delegate KOCH, Heike Ghana Evangelical Lutheran Church in Visitor Denmark Evangelical Church of Westphalia KGATHI, Helnah Denmark Germany Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Botswana KJUS, Kari-Lisbeth KOLLANDER, Kerstin Botswana Delegate Adviser The Evangelical Lutheran Free Church Church of Sweden KHLEIF, Lina of Norway Sweden Steward Norway The Evangelical Lutheran Church in KOLLMAR, Peter Jordan and the Holy Land KLAHR, Detlef Delegate Jerusalem Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Brunswick KHONDPAN, Renuka Germany Germany Delegate Jeypore Evangelical Lutheran Church KLAIBER, Walter KONTOMA, Deed Jaldessa India Guest Delegate The Ethiopian Evangelical Church KIEFER, Rainer Germany Mekane Yesus Adviser Ethiopia LWF National Committee in Germany KLASSEN-HARDER, Karen Germany Guest KOPP, Martin Mennonite World Conference Steward KIEMLE, Volker USA Protestant Church of the Augsburg Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Confession of Alsace and Lorraine Evangelisch-methodistische Kirche KLASSEN-HARDER, Jim France - Zeitschriftenredaktion Guest Germany Mennonite World Conference KÖTTING, Dagmar USA Coopted Staff KIESCHNICK, Gerald B. Germany Guest KLATIK, Milos International Lutheran Council Delegate KOZIEL, Joanna USA Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Steward Confession in the Slovak Republic Evangelical Church of the Augsburg KIIZA, Eliet Slovak Republic Confession in Poland Delegate Poland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania KLEBER, Raquel Helene Tanzania Steward KRAUSE, Christian Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Guest KILLEWA, Brighton Confession in Brazil Evangelical Lutheran Church in Delegate Brazil Brunswick Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Germany Tanzania KLEIN, Christoph Ex-Officio KRAUTGARTNER, Brigitte KINKERT, Carmen Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Confession in Romania Österreichischer Rundfunk Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Romania Austria Germany KLINGENSMITH, Charles KRETSCHMER, Harald KISHIMBO, Freedom Interpreter Delegate Delegate Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Württemberg Tanzania Germany 160 Tanzania KRIEG, Maria KWON, Eun-hae LARSON, Rebecca Delegate Delegate Adviser Evangelical Church in Central Germany Lutheran Church in Korea Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Germany Korea, Republic USA

KRISETYA, Mesach LAAJALAHTI, Paula LARSON, Stephen Guest Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Visitor Mennonite World Conference Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Mission Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Indonesia Finland USA

KRISTENSEN, Vidar LAATS, Annika LASCO, Lydia Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Delegate Delegate Church of Norway Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria Norway Estonia Nigeria

KROSS, Kenneth LAHINIRIKO, Jean LASE, David Delegate Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Suriname Malagasy Lutheran Church The Protestant Christian Church Suriname Madagascar Indonesia

KRÜGER, Marita LAISER, Mary Eliakimu LASSIWE, Benjamin Delegate Delegate Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Evangelical Church in Central Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Rheinischer Merkur, Katholische Germany Tanzania Nachrichten-Agentur Tanzania Germany KRUSE, August Delegate LAKRA, Nelson LATVA-HAKUNI, Jukka Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Delegate LWF Staff and Other States Gossner Evangelical Lutheran Church in Switzerland Russian Federation Chotanagpur and Assam India LATZ, Michael KUBITSCHEK, Judith Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster LAKRA, Sheela Deutsche Depeschendienst Evangelischer Pressedienst Südwest Delegate Germany Germany Gossner Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chotanagpur and Assam LEAK, Ratna KUCHAREK, Wilma India Coopted Staff Delegate Cambodia Evangelical Lutheran Church in America LALL, Subhashini USA Ex-Officio LEE-RIEBEN, Silvia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Madhya Interpreter KÜHNEL, Gertraud Pradesh Switzerland Visitor India Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria LEIN, Valentin Germany LAMPI, Fleming Delegate Local Staff Evangelical Church of the Augsburg KÜHNEL, Hartmut Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Confession in Austria Visitor Germany Austria Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Germany LANDI, Paolo LEKER, Danielle Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Delegate KUKKONEN, Jorma RAIDUE Protestant Church in the Netherlands Delegate Italy Netherlands Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Finland LANG, Rainer LESKELÄ, Maarit Coopted Staff Delegate KUMAR, Aparajita Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Delegate Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Madhya LANGE, Andreas Pradesh Delegate LEUNG, Yim Ni India Church of Lippe (Lutheran Section) Delegate Germany The Chinese Rhenish Church Hong KUMLENG, Joseph Dafiyem Kong Synod Delegate LANGEHEIN, Maurice Hong Kong, China The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria Local Staff Nigeria Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH LEVERI, Mark Germany LWF Staff KUNDLER, Ulf Department for World Service Associate Delegate LANGFORD, Luana Program Church of Sweden Visitor Tanzania Sweden Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA LEYPOLD, Elke KUSS, Cibele Visitor Delegate LANGFORD, Victor Institute for Ecumenical Research Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Visitor France Confession in Brazil Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Brazil USA 161 Appendices

LICHTBLAU, Viola LOHEIDE, Bernward MABHENA, Thandeka Faith Delegate Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Official Visitor Evangelical Lutheran Church in Brunswick Deutsche Presse Agentur GmbH Betseranai choir Germany Germany Zimbabwe

LIEB, Elisabeth LOK, Oi Peng (Philip) MACHABERT, Gérald Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Delegate Coopted Staff Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Lutheran Church in Malaysia and France Germany Singapore Malaysia MACHT Eva LIEB, Heidrun Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster LORENZ, Dieter ARD TV Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Visitor Germany Germany Church of Lippe (Lutheran Section) Germany MACQUEEN, Linda LIENENKÄMPER, Isabel Coopted Staff Interpreter LOSANE, Rudite Australia Germany Visitor Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia MADINGA, Mabel LIKUS, Barbara Latvia Delegate Local Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malawi Evangelical Lutheran Church in LOSS, Stefan Malawi Württemberg Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Germany Evangeliums-Rundfunk e. V. MAGERO, Jared Otieno Germany Steward LILLEAASEN, Marthe Marie Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya Accompanying Person LUBAALE, Nicta M. Kenya Norway Guest African Instituted Churches MAGOLD, Dagmar LIM, Sally S. L. Kenya Delegate LWF Staff Federation of Evangelical Lutheran LWF Regional Office in Asia LÜCK, Renate Churches in Switzerland and the Singapore Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Principality of Liechtenstein Sindelfinger Zeitung/Böblinger Zeitung Switzerland LINDEKLEIV, Heidi Marie Germany Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster MAHENGE, Omega Vårt Land LUDWIG, Débora Delegate Norway Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Tanzania LINDERMAYR, Jochen Confession in Brazil Tanzania Local Staff Brazil Evangelical Lutheran Church in MAHLSTEDE, Sibylle Württemberg LUEDERS, Stephanie Coopted Staff Germany Visitor Germany Evangelical Church of Westphalia LINDNER, Karin Germany MAHN, Käte Local Staff Guest Evangelical Lutheran Church in LUKASSEK, Agathe LWF German National Committee Württemberg Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Germany Germany Katholische Nachrichten-Agentur Germany MALASUSA, Alex LINK-WIECZOREK, Ulrike Delegate Delegate LUMBANTOBING, Dirgos Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Evangelical Lutheran Church in Oldenburg Steward Tanzania Germany Christian Protestant Church in Indonesia Indonesia MALIK, Titi LOBE, Bert Delegate Guest LUNDQUIST LARSSON, Annette The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria Mennonite World Conference Delegate Nigeria Canada Church of Sweden Sweden MALPICA PADILLA, Rafael LOBULU, Elizabeth Ex-Officio Coopted Staff LYNAM, Barry Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Tanzania LWF Staff USA Switzerland LOFALANGA LUNGUDI, Tresor MALUNGA, Gladys Steward MABASSO, José Official Visitor Evangelical Lutheran Church in Congo Delegate Betseranai choir Democratic Republic of Congo Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe Mozambique LOH A, Tadelech Mozambique MANOVA, John Delegate Delegate The Ethiopian Evangelical Church MABHANGE-ZIMUTO, Alexander The Arcot Lutheran Church Mekane Yesus Official Visitor India Ethiopia Betseranai choir Zimbabwe

162 MANURUNG, John Hasiholan MARTINE CHELLAPPA, MEURER, Heitor J. Delegate Marychanthini Premilla Coopted Staff The United Protestant Church Delegate Brazil Indonesia The Arcot Lutheran Church India MHERE, Sikhulile MANZKE, Christine Official Visitor Accompanying Person MARTÍNEZ, Eduardo Betseranai choir Germany Delegate Zimbabwe Evangelical Lutheran Church of Colombia MANZKE, Karl-Hinrich Colombia MICHEL, Juan Carlos Delegate Coopted Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church of MASANDU, Sopirid Switzerland Schaumburg-Lippe Delegate Germany The Protestant Church in Sabah MICHEL, Marine Malaysia LWF Staff MAPHOSA, Simbarashe Switzerland Official Visitor MATENDO, Lokiru Yohana Betseranai choir LWF Staff MIKKELSEN, Thomas Bjerg Zimbabwe Department for World Service Delegate Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark MAPOSA, Paul Denmark Official Visitor MATTAUSCH, Birgit Betseranai choir Local Staff MILKAU, Holger Zimbabwe Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Delegate Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Italy MARAINEN, Johannes Italy Delegate MATUTU, Mitiyavo Church of Sweden Official Visitor MILLER, Eleanor Sweden Betseranai choir Guest Zimbabwe Mennonite World Conference MAREALLE, Aripa France Delegate MAUNEY, James Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Delegate MILLER, Katherine Tanzania Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Accompanying Person USA USA MARI, Francisco Adviser MAUNEY, Lynda Rhyne MILLER, Larry Church Development Service (EED) Accompanying Person Guest Germany USA Mennonite World Conference France MARKERT, Ludwig MCCOID, Donald Delegate Adviser MILLER, Marcus Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Delegate Germany USA Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA MARTEN, Nicole McCRACKEN, Mikka Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Delegate MILLER, Naomi Mondayma Pressestelle der Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Steward Württemberg USA Lutheran Church in Liberia Germany Liberia MDEGELLA, Owdenburg MARTIN, Chandran P. Adviser MILLER, Terri LWF Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania LWF Staff Switzerland Tanzania Switzerland

MARTIN, Mercy MEHARI, Asfaha MILLOY, Miller Accompanying Person Delegate Guest India The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Eritrea United Bible Studies Eritrea United Kingdom MARTIN, Michael Delegate MEHLO, Marvelous MINT BRAHIM, Bowbe Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Official Visitor Official Visitor Germany Betseranai choir Department for World Service Zimbabwe Mauritania MÄRTIN, Oliver Adviser MEJIA PORRAS, Israel Alejandro MINT MAISSARA, Salka Church Development Service (EED) Steward Official Visitor Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church of Colombia Department for World Service Colombia Mauritania MARTIN SCHIEDEL, Karen Guest MELV Y N, Timothy MIRON, Constantin Mennonite World Conference Coopted Staff Guest Canada India Ecumenical Patriarchate Germany MENGON, Ruth Delegate Lutheran Church in Liberia Liberia 163 Appendices

MOCHA, Simeon MPOFU, Sarudzai MUSTAKALLIO, Antti Delegate Official Visitor Adviser The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Betseranai choir Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Mekane Yesus Zimbabwe Finland Ethiopia MTATA, Kenneth MUTAMBA, Jean Lumpungu MOCKLER, Marcus LWF Staff LWF Staff Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Switzerland Department for World Service Evangelischer Pressedienst Südwest Mozambique Germany MTEMBA, Shambadzirai Official Visitor MUTAMBA, Piroska MOENGA, Cosmos Betseranai choir Accompanying Person Delegate Zimbabwe Mozambique Evangelical Lutheran Church in Botswana Botswana MÜHLSTEDT, Corinna MÜTZ, Gregor Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster MOGAJANE, Raato Nathaniel Rundfunksender Bayrischer Rundfunk Südwest Rundfunk Delegate Germany Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa MÜLLER, Gerhard Ludwig MWAIPOPO, Ambele South Africa Guest Adviser Roman Catholic Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania MOLANDER, Kristin Germany Tanzania Adviser Church of Sweden MÜLLER, Horst MWAKABANA, Hance Sweden Delegate Visitor Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania MÖLKNER-KAPPL, Axel Southern Africa (Natal-Transvaal) Tanzania Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster South Africa Evangelisches Fernsehen in Bayern MWAMBA, Musonda Trevor S. Germany MÜLLER, Karlheinz Guest Accompanying Person Anglican Communion MØLLER-STRAY, Anders Austria Botswana Delegate Church of Norway MÜLLER, Luise MWOMBEKI, Fidon Norway Delegate Adviser Evangelical Church of the Augsburg United Evangelical Mission MÖNNINGHOFF, Uwe Confession in Austria Germany Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Austria Südwestrundfunk - Stuttgart MYLLYS, Riikka Germany MÜLLER, Susanne Ex-Officio Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland MORA RAMÍREZ, María Cristina Evangelischer Presse Dienst - Südwest Finland Delegate Germany Lutheran Costa Rican Church NAFZGER, Samuel H. Costa Rica MUNARETTO, Pedro Guest Steward International Lutheran Council MORENO, Magali United Evangelical Lutheran Church USA Guest Argentina Mennonite World Conference NAG, Godwin France MUNGA, Stephen Delegate Adviser Evangelical Lutheran Church in the MORTHA, Sunitha Lutheran Mission Cooperation Himalayan States Adviser Tanzania India Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA MUNGURE, Elieshi Ayo NAGY, Françoise Coopted Staff Translator MOSES KATSABOLA, Agnes Tanzania Switzerland Steward Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malawi MUNYIK A, Veikko NAMHINDO, Loide Malawi LWF Staff Delegate Switzerland The Evangelical Lutheran Church in MOYO, Elitha Namibia (ELCIN) Delegate MURGIA EGGERT POTIN, Sheila Namibia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Delegate Zimbabwe Evangelical Church of the Lutheran NAPITUPULU, Rohana Zimbabwe Confession in Brazil Delegate Brazil Protestant Christian Batak Church MOYO, Enos Indonesia LWF Staff MUSA, Panti Filibus Department for World Service LWF Staff NATHANIEL, Leslie Zambia Switzerland Guest Church of England MOYO, Modina MUSAH, Esther C. United Kingdom Official Visitor Ex-Officio Betseranai choir Lutheran Church in Liberia Zimbabwe Liberia 164 NAVR ÁTILOVÁ, Olga NISSEN, Karsten OPITZ, Stephanie Delegate Delegate Delegate Evangelical Church of Czech Brethren Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Czech Republic Denmark Germany

NDAWA NAPO, Tomás NKOMO, Shumirai OPPEGAARD, Sven Delegate Official Visitor Adviser Evangelical Lutheran Church of Angola Betseranai choir Church of Norway Angola Zimbabwe Norway

NDELU, Sindisiwe NKULU NSENGA, Marie OPPERMANN, Wulf Delegate Delegate Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Congo Pressbüro Oppermann Southern Africa Democratic Republic of Congo Germany South Africa NOKO, Ishmael ÖSTERREICHER, Sabine NDLOVU, Danisa LWF Staff Delegate Guest Switzerland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mennonite World Conference Württemberg Zimbabwe NOKO, Gladys Germany Accompanying person NDUNA, John Switzerland OTTO, Neville Guest Visitor ACT Alliance NOKO, William Lutheran Church of Australia Switzerland Accompanying person Australia Zimbabwe NEETZ, Norbert OTTO, Petra Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster NORDSTRAND, Inga Marie Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Evangelischer Presse Dienst Delegate Zweites Deutsches Fernsehen Germany Church of Norway Germany Norway NEIKE, Helga OVERLAND, Marianne Delegate NTENGA, Victoria Visitor Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Delegate Norwegian Church Aid Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Norway Tanzania NESDAHL, Gary PANCHOO, Emmanuel Visitor NÜSSEL, Friederike Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Guest Evangelical Lutheran Church in Madhya USA University of Heidelberg Pradesh Germany India NESSAN, Craig Delegate NYABARO, Mary PÁNGYÁNSZKY, Agnes Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Delegate Delegate USA Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya Hungary NEUENFELDT, Elaine Hungary LWF Staff NYIWE, Thomas Switzerland Delegate PASARIBU, Risna Evangelical Lutheran Church of Delegate NGOY MULUNDA, Michel Cameroon The Indonesian Christian Church (HKI) Ex-Officio Cameroon Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Congo Democratic Republic of Congo NYOMI, Setri PATER, Margaret A. Guest Interpreter NIEDERER, Sonja World Communion of Reformed Churches Germany Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Switzerland Südwest Rundfunk PEDERSEN, Inge Lise Germany OBERDORFER, Bernd Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark NIEPER, Jens Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Denmark Visitor Germany Evangelical Church in Germany PEL, William Germany OJIE, Abuo Delegate Coopted Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua NIKOLAISEN, Hermine Nigeria New Guinea LWF Staff Papua New Guinea Department for World Service OKON, Glory Rwanda Delegate PERSENIUS, Ragnar The Lutheran Church of Nigeria Delegate NILSSON, Jan Nigeria Church of Sweden Adviser Sweden Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark OLE-LALTAIKA, Elifuraha Denmark Delegate PESONEN, Marja Evangelical Lutheran Church in Delegate Tanzania Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Tanzania Finland 165 Appendices

PESONEN, Tuomo PRANZAS, Werner RAKOTO, Endor Modeste Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Klinik TV Malagasy Lutheran Church - Communications Germany Madagascar Finland PRILUTSKY, Alexander RAKOTO, Tsiritsimihena Endor PFRIMMER, David Ex-Officio Coopted Staff Ex-Officio The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Madagascar Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Ingria in Russia Canada Russian Federation RAMADHANI, Rachel Delegate PHASWANA, Ndanganeni PROVE, Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church in Delegate LWF Staff Tanzania Evangelical Lutheran Church in Switzerland Tanzania Southern Africa South Africa PRYSE, Heather RAMAHEFARIVO, Marina LWF Staff Accompanying Person PIDDYBSKA, Anastasiya Switzerland France Steward Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia PRYSE, Michael RAMAHEFARIVO, Stéphennette and Other States Delegate Delegate Ukraine Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Malagasy Lutheran Church Canada France PIETAK, Stanislav Delegate PUKERT, Christina-Maria RAMASHAPA, Johannes Silesian Evangelical Church of the Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Coopted Staff Augsburg Confession Westdeutscher Rundfunk South Africa Czech Republic Germany RAMIREZ, Luis Eduardo PIHKALA, Panu PUNNAIAH, Gadhla Saibu Coopted Staff Delegate Visitor Colombia Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Good Shepherd Evangelical Lutheran Finland Church RANARA, Nicolas India Delegate PIRKER-PARTAJ, Hedwig S. Lutheran Church in the Philippines Ex-Officio PURBA, Burju Philippines Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Delegate Confession in Austria The Indonesian Christian Church RANDRIANARIVELO, Miantsa Austria Indonesia Arivony Delegate PISO, Barbara PURBA, Darwita Malagasy Lutheran Church Delegate Delegate Madagascar Simalungun Protestant Christian Church Papua New Guinea Indonesia RANDRIANIRINA, Dieu-donné Delegate PISO, David PURBA, Elizabeth Malagasy Lutheran Church Delegate Delegate Madagascar Gutnius Lutheran Church Simalungun Protestant Christian Church Papua New Guinea Indonesia RANI, Turram Esther Visitor PLAISIER, Arjan PURBA, Jenette Good Shepherd Evangelical Lutheran Delegate Ex-Officio Church Protestant Church in the Netherlands The Indonesian Christian Church India Netherlands Indonesia RANTANEN, Pauli PLENERT, Janet PURBA, Mika LWF Staff Guest Delegate Switzerland Mennonite World Conference Protestant Christian Batak Church Canada Indonesia RATZ, Edmund Ex-Officio PLÜSS, Jean-Daniel RADTKE, Simone Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Guest Delegate and Other States European Pentecostal Charismatic Evangelical Church of Pomerania Russian Federation Research Association, Germany Switzerland RATZ, Dorothea RAHARIVAO, Jeannette Accompanying Person POPPE, Duane Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia LWF Staff Malagasy Lutheran Church and Other States Switzerland Madagascar Germany

PORVARI, Markku RAJAH, Solomon RAUER, Stefan Adviser Delegate Local Staff Finn Church Aid Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia Germany Finland Malaysia RAZIVELO, Mariette POULET, Pierre Ex-Officio Coopted Staff Malagasy Lutheran Church 166 France Madagascar REBSTOCK, Karin RISCH, Wolfgang RYTKÖNEN, Aaro Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Adviser Evangelisches Gemeindeblatt für Württemberg Südwest Presse (Ulm) Finn Church Aid Germany Germany Finland

REES-ROHRBACHER, Darhon RISSANEN, Seppo SAARINEN, Risto Visitor Adviser Ex-Officio USA Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Mission Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Finland Finland REES-ROHRBACHER, Paul Delegate ROBERT, Marie-France SABA, Angel Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Delegate Delegate USA Evangelical Lutheran Church of France The Evangelical Lutheran Church in France Jordan and the Holy Land REHREN, Olaf Jerusalem Adviser ROBRA, Martin EMW Association of Protestant Guest SABUTIS, Mindaugas Churches and Missions in Germany World Council of Churches Delegate Germany Switzerland Evangelical Lutheran Church of Lithuania REICHEL, Juergen RODE, Julia Lithuania Guest Official Visitor Church Development Service (EED) Church Development Service (EED) SADLER, Margaret Germany Germany Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada REIDY PROST, Miriam ROHWER, Nils Canada Coopted Staff Delegate Switzerland Evangelical Lutheran Church in SAKETA, Abebe Yohannes Southern Africa (Cape Church) LWF Staff REIN-, Ines South Africa Switzerland Coopted Staff Germany ROJAS VARGAS, Gloria SALAZAR, Bertha Delegate Observer REMPEL BURKHOLDER, Byron Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chile Evangelical Lutheran Church in Ecuador Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Chile Ecuador Courier, a quarterly publication of Mennonite World Conference ROSENBAUM, Monique SALZMANN, Reinhilde Canada Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Visitor Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Mennonites RENFER, Rudolf Germany Germany LWF Staff Switzerland ROSSING, Barbara SAMIEC, Jerzy Delegate Delegate REUTER, Christa Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Visitor USA Confession in Poland Lutherische Konferenz in und Nassau Poland Germany ROTHERMUNDT, Gottfried Visitor SAMOELA, Georges RIETH, Klaus Evangelical Lutheran Church in Delegate Delegate Württemberg Malagasy Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Germany Madagascar Württemberg Germany ROY, Komol SAMUEL, Sofia Miriam Delegate Delegate RIETH, Paul Bangladesh Lutheran Church India Evangelical Lutheran Church LWF Staff Bangladesh India Switzerland ROZARIO, Marceline P. SANDER, Siegfried RINCON HERNANDEZ, Ros Mary LWF Staff Delegate Official Visitor Department for World Service Lutheran Church in Chile Evangelical Lutheran Church of Colombia Nepal Chile Colombia ROZITIS, Elmars E. SANDER, Herwig RIOS CARRILLO, Hellen Javiera Delegate Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Delegate Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church Freelance The Nicaraguan Lutheran Church of Abroad Germany Faith and Hope Germany Nicaragua SANDVAND, Leif Gunnar RUDE, Brian Adviser RIOS CARRILLO, Sergio Eloy Visitor The Evangelical Lutheran Free Church Steward Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada of Norway The Nicaraguan Lutheran Church of Canada Norway Faith and Hope Nicaragua RUHLAND, Marietta SANDVIK, Erik Siguard Accompanying Person Accompanying Person Switzerland Norway

167 Appendices

SCHAAD, Juan Pedro SCHRITT, Sigi SEMMLER, Christine Visitor Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Visitor Evangelical Church of the River Plate Verlagsgruppe Kreiszeitung Syke Lutheran Church of Australia Argentina Germany Australia

SCHAEFER, Kathrin SCHUBERT, Claudia SEMMLER, Margrit Delegate Coopted Staff Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Germany North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Church Germany Germany SCHUEGRAF, Oliver SCHÄFER, Federico Hugo Adviser SEMMLER, Michael Delegate United Evangelical Lutheran Church of Representative Evangelical Church of the River Plate Germany Lutheran Church of Australia Argentina Germany Australia

SCHÄFFLER, Christian Bernhard SCHULTZ, Hansjoerg SÈNE, Pierre Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Delegate Adventistischer Pressedienst - Schweiz Schweizer Radio DRS The Lutheran Church of Senegal Switzerland Switzerland Senegal

SCHEP, Jacob Koos SCHULTZ, Raymond SERFONTEIN, Anli LWF Staff Ex-Officio Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Switzerland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Ecumenical News International Canada Germany SCHINDEHÜTTE, Martin Official Visitor SCHULZE, Peter SERGEL-KOHLS, Anika Evangelical Church in Germany Local Staff Delegate Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Württemberg Germany SCHLAGENHAFT, Frederick Germany LWF Staff SHAVA, Naison Switzerland SCHÜRMANN, Sascha Delegate Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe SCHLOTT, Roland Deutsche Depeschendienst Zimbabwe LWF Staff Germany Switzerland SHAVA, Dainah SCHWANECKE, Roland Official Visitor SCHMIDT, Roger Peter Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Betseranai choir LWF Staff Idea E.V. Zimbabwe Switzerland Germany SHIVUTE, Thomas SCHMIDT PETER, Daniele SCHWEDA, Alexander Delegate LWF Staff Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Switzerland Evangelisches Gemeindeblatt für Namibia (ELCIN) Württemberg Namibia SCHMITT, Allison Germany Coopted Staff SHOKO, Davidzo Jerusalem SCHWEIZER, Christoph Official Visitor Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Betseranai choir SCHMITTHENNER, Ulrich Evangelisches Medienpfarramt Zimbabwe Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Germany Ökumenischer Informationsdienst SHUMIRAI, Moyo Germany SCHWINGHAMMER, Jasper Official Visitor Local Staff Betseranai choir SCHNEIDER, Silvio eGenius IT-Ser v ice Zimbabwe LWF Staff Germany Department for World Service SIBIYA, Dakalani Selina Colombia SEFAKO, Dorcus Mamorathi Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in SCHNEIDER, Ulrich Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa Local Staff Southern Africa South Africa Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Africa Württemberg SIBOYANA, Gloria Germany SEKINO, Kazuhiro Delegate Ex-Officio Moravian Church in South Africa SCHORLING, Christof Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church South Africa Delegate Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church in Baden SIHOTANG, Eleven Germany SELLE, Esther Steward Ex-Officio Protestant Christian Batak Church SCHORPP, Geneviève Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Hong Kong, China LWF Staff Germany Switzerland SIHOTANG, Fernando SELVARAJ, Arul Manuel LWF Staff SCHREIBER, Claudia Delegate Switzerland Ex-Officio The Tamil Evangelical Lutheran Church Church of Lippe (Lutheran Section) India 168 Germany SILALAHI, Roswita SIRAIT, Jamilin SOLOMON RAJAN BABU, Delegate Delegate Asirvatham Protestant Christian Batak Church Protestant Christian Batak Church Visitor Indonesia Indonesia The Arcot Lutheran Church India SILJANEN, Tuula SIREESHA, Chevala Delegate Delegate SOMMERFELDT, Atle Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church Adviser Finland India Norwegian Church Aid Norway SILJANEN, Esko SITORUS, Sentiria Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Delegate SOREN, Christina Uusi Tie Christian Newspaper Protestant Christian Batak Church Delegate Finland Indonesia Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church India SILOI, Nakei SITUMORANG, Rianor Delegate Delegate SOREN, Shiblal Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua Christian Protestant Angkola Church Delegate New Guinea Indonesia Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church Papua New Guinea India SIWELA, Norah SIMAMORA, Friska Official Visitor SPANGLER, John Delegate Betseranai choir Accompanying Person Protestant Christian Church in Mentawai Zimbabwe USA Indonesia SKAERVED, Paul SPRING, Paull SIMANJUNTAK, Kartini Delegate Visitor Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Christian Protestant Church in Indonesia Denmark USA Indonesia SKOV SORENSEN, Jorgen SPRING, Barbara SIMANJUNTAK, Parsaoran Adviser Visitor Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Protestant Christian Church in Denmark USA Mentawai Indonesia SKUMSNES MOE, Jenny STADELMAIER, Achim Delegate Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster SIMANJUNTAK, Plasthon Church of Norway Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Delegate France Germany Protestant Christian Batak Church Indonesia SKUPCH, Sonia STAHL, Rainer Delegate Guest SIMORANGKIR, Mangisi S. E. Evangelical Church of the River Plate Martin Luther Federation Delegate Argentina Germany Christian Protestant Church in Indonesia Indonesia SLIWKA, Ewa STÅLSETT, Gunnar Delegate Guest SINAGA, Martin L. Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Church of Norway LWF Staff Confession in Poland Norway Switzerland Poland STASIUS, Margret SINAGA, Sahala SMIERZEWSKI, Igor Visitor Delegate Local Staff Evangelische-Lutherische Kirche in Indonesian Christian Lutheran Church Germany Genf Indonesia Switzerland SMITH, Heidi Maree SINDANO, Johannes Representative STEEBER, Mary Delegate Lutheran Church of Australia Visitor The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Australia Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Namibia (ELCIN) USA Namibia SOLBERG, Terje Adviser STEGMAIER, Herbert SINN, Simone The Evangelical Lutheran Free Church Visitor Delegate of Norway Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Evangelical Lutheran Church in Norway Germany Württemberg Germany SOLIN, Elias STEIDEL, Andreas Delegate Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster SIPAHUTAR, Donald A. Pakpak Dairi Christian Protestant Evangelisches Gemeindeblatt für Delegate Church Württemberg Protestant Christian Batak Church Indonesia Germany Indonesia SOLIN, Sri Juliana STEIN, Roberto SIRAH, Dawa Delegate Adviser Delegate Pakpak Dairi Christian Protestant LWF Endowment Fund Board Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua Church Argentina New Guinea Indonesia Papua New Guinea 169 Appendices

STEINBACHER, Tanja TAKEMORI, Yoko THÖNISSEN, Wolfgang Local Staff Adviser Guest Evangelical Lutheran Church in LWF Endowment Fund Board Roman Catholic Church Württemberg Japan Germany Germany TALL, Houleye THORÉN, Anna STEINKE, Robin LWF Staff Delegate Visitor Department for World Service Church of Sweden Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Mauritania Sweden USA TAMBUNAN, Gloria TILLIE, Myriam STEINWACHS, Marius Delegate LWF Staff Delegate The Indonesian Christian Church (HKI) Switzerland Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Indonesia Germany TIN, Pui Ching TANNOUS, Ashraf Delegate STELTER, Dirk Official Visitor The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Delegate Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme Hong Kong Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover in Palestine and Israel (EAPPI) Hong Kong, China Germany Israel TOBING, Pitonggam STETTNER, Maria TATU, Evelyne Delegate Delegate Interpreter Batak Christian Community Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Switzerland Indonesia Germany TCHIBINDA MAVOUNGOU, Joseph TOBING, Yenny STOLL, Peter Delegate Delegate Ex-Officio Evangelical Lutheran Church of Congo Christian Protestant Church in Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Congo, Republic Indonesia Württemberg Germany TECHELO, Tagessech TOBLER, Heidrun Delegate Steward STRAUB, Judith The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Delegate Mekane Yesus Southern Africa (Natal-Transvaal) Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Ethiopia South Africa Germany TELAUMBANUA, Tuhoni TÓMASDOTTIR, Kristín STREHLOW, Bill Delegate Delegate Accompanying Person The Protestant Christian Church The Evangelical Lutheran Church of USA Indonesia Iceland Iceland STRIEBEL, Karin TETZLAFF, Anna-Maria LWF Staff Adviser TØNNESEN, Aud Switzerland Evangelical Church of Pomerania Delegate Germany Church of Norway SUEOKA, Shigeo Norway Delegate TEUBERT, Holger Kinki Evangelical Lutheran Church Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster TOPNO, Mahima Japan Adventistischer Pressedienst Delegate Germany Gossner Evangelical Lutheran Church in SUNEEL BHANU, Busi Chotanagpur and Assam Delegate THEIDING, Stefan India Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church Local Staff India eGenius IT-Ser v ice TÖRNELL, Marcus Germany Delegate SVERRISDOTTIR, Magnea Church of Sweden Delegate THEIL, Johannes Sweden The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Guest Iceland TRACK, Joachim Iceland Germany Ex-Officio Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria SWART, Angelene THEUNISSEN, Elise Germany Ex-Officio Delegate Moravian Church in South Africa Moravian Church in South Africa TRAUTHIG, Michael South Africa South Africa Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Stuttgarter Zeitung SYLLA, Jeannette THEUNISSEN, Andrew Germany LWF Staff Accompanying Person Switzerland South Africa TREFZ, Werner Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster TAI, Nicholas Ho-fai THILBY-CHAO, Margarita Südwest Rundfunk – Fernsehen Delegate LWF Staff Germany The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Switzerland Hong Kong TREJO HAAGER, Roberto Hong Kong, China THOMAS, Helga Delegate Steward Mexican Lutheran Church Jeypore Evangelical Lutheran Church Mexico 170 India TRICE, Michael VALERIANO, Teresita Clemente VON DEWITZ, Wolf Adviser LWF Staff Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Evangelical Lutheran Church in America LWF Regional Office in North America Deutsche Presse Agentur GmbH USA USA Germany

TSALOS, Christian VAN LEERDAM, Martijn VON HEYDEN, Wichard Local Staff Delegate Adviser Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Protestant Church in the Netherlands LWF Endowment Fund Board Germany Netherlands Germany

TSCHERNEK, Alexander VANAGS, Janis VON MALTZAHN, Andreas Official Visitor Delegate Delegate Betseranai Choir Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia Evangelical Lutheran Church of Germany Latvia Mecklenburg Germany TSEN, Thomas Lip Tet VASANTHA RUBY, Jennifer Delegate Delegate VRBOVSKÝ, Samuel Basel Christian Church of Malaysia The Arcot Lutheran Church Delegate Malaysia India Slovak Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Serbia TSURO, Simbarashe VETTER, Rose Serbia Official Visitor Delegate Betseranai choir Evangelical Lutheran Church in WADDELL, Robert Zimbabwe Württemberg LWF Staff Germany Switzerland TUCKER, Anthony Mustapha Steward VICTORIA GRACE, Nakka WADENKA, Caroline Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sierra Visitor Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Leone Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church Deutsche Depeschendienst USA India Germany

TÜRK, Matthias VIEWEGER, Hans-Joachim WAGNER-BALICZA, Klára Guest Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Ex-Officio Roman Catholic Church Bayerischer Rundfunk The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Vatican City Germany Hungary Hungary TURREY, Christian VIILMA, Urmas Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Delegate WAGNER-PINGGERA, Andrea Katolische Kirche im Privatfunk (KKP) Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church Adviser Germany Estonia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Germany TVEIT, Anna VILLANUEVA, Ana Margarita Accompanying Person Guest WAHL, Ernst Switzerland World YWCA Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Switzerland Evangelisches Gemeindeblatt für Württemberg TVEIT, Olav Fykse Germany Guest VILLWOCK, Marc World Council of Churches Delegate WAJANATHAWORNCHAI, Wandee Switzerland Evangelical Church in Central Germany Delegate Germany The Evangelical Lutheran Church in UHLMANN, Lana Thailand Local Staff VIVAS ACOSTA, Roger Marino Thailand Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Steward Germany Christian Lutheran Church of Honduras WALDVOGEL, Barbara Honduras Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster UM, Hyun Sub Tageszeitung Delegate VOGELMANN, Wolfgang Germany Lutheran Church in Korea Delegate Korea, Republic North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran WALK, Thomas Church Local Staff UNGER, Wilhelm Germany eGenius IT-Ser v ice Guest Germany Regensburg Mennonite Congregation VOGT, Leonie Germany Delegate WALTER, Eva Evangelical Lutheran Church in Baden Local Staff UNGER, Liesa Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Guest Württemberg Regensburg Mennonite Congregation VOHRALIK, Wenzel Germany Germany Local Staff Germany WANDEL, Jürgen UPAMA, Visanukorn Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Delegate VOIGT, Hans-Jörg Evangelische Zeitschrift The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Guest Germany Thailand Independent Evangelical-Lutheran Thailand Church (SELK) WARNING, Claudia Germany Adviser Church Development Service (EED) Germany 171 Appendices

WATANABE, Sumiyuki WIEGER, Madeleine WREMER, Inger Johanne Delegate Delegate Adviser Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church Protestant Church of the Augsburg LWF Endowment Fund Board Japan Confession of Alsace and Lorraine Norway France WEBER, Friedrich WU, Lai-Yung Delegate WIEMERS, Marie Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Local Staff The Chinese Rhenish Church Hong Brunswick Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kong Synod Germany Württemberg Hong Kong, China Germany WEIDLER, Scott YAMATO, Yuki Adviser WILLIAMS, Rowan Delegate International Worship Planning Group Guest Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church USA Church of England Japan United Kingdom WEIGAND, Peter YOUNAN, Munib Adviser WILMS, Harald Delegate Mission One World Adviser The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Jordan and the Holy Land Tanzania Jerusalem WEISE, Andreas Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster WILSON, Sarah YOUNAN, Suad Evangelisches Gemeindeblatt für Württemberg Coopted Staff Accompanying Person Germany France The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land WEISS, Ellen WINKLER, Jenny Jerusalem Visitor Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Evangelische Kreditgenossenschaft eG Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH ZANG HOFFMAN, Abigail Germany Germany Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in America WEJRYD, Anders WOEHLBRAND, Inken USA Delegate Adviser Church of Sweden LWF National Committee in Germany ZAPLETAL, Günther Sweden Germany Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Südwest Rundfunk WENGE, Giegere WOEHLE, Andreas Germany Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua Protestant Church in the Netherlands ZELLER, Hans New Guinea Netherlands Observer Papua New Guinea Mission One World WOLFINGER, Gesine Germany WENNER, Rosemarie Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Guest welt-sichten ZIEGLER, Petra Evangelisch-methodistische Kirche Germany Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Germany Evangelisches Gemeindeblatt für Württemberg WONG, Fook-yee Germany WERHAHN, Dirk Delegate Local Staff Tsung Tsin Mission of Hong Kong ZINA, A. Elijah Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hong Kong, China Delegate Württemberg Lutheran Church in Liberia Germany WONG, Linda Har Lian Liberia Delegate WERNER, Johanna Lutheran Church in Malaysia and Singapore ZOLL, Elisabeth Local Staff Malaysia Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Evangelical Lutheran Church in Südwest Presse Württemberg WONG, Zi Yun Clarice Germany Germany Coopted Staff Malaysia ZUSEVICS, Lauma WESTPHAL, Hans Adviser Visitor WOOD, Susan K. Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Guest Abroad Württemberg Marquette University USA Germany USA ZWECK, Wayne WETZEL, Maria WOYTSCHAK, Kai-Uwe Adviser Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Accredited Journalist/Broadcaster Assembly Planning Committee Stuttgarter Nachrichten ERF Medien Australia Germany Germany

172 Participants List By category

Accompanying MÜLLER, Karlheinz ALASTALO, Simo Austria Finnish National Broadcasting Persons Company/YLE Radio 1 MUTAMBA, Piroska Finland include spouses, children, and others, Mozambique who accompany persons accredited in ALBRECHT, Peter other categories. NOKO, Gladys ERF-Medien Switzerland Germany They have neiter the right to speak nor to vote. NOKO, William ANGRESS, Sarah-Lisa Zimbabwe Agentur für Privatradio in Württemberg/ AARSETH, Elen Gilje Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Norway RAMAHEFARIVO, Marina Germany France ABDELGHED, Tekhna Ashushai ARNING, Silke Eritrea RATZ, Dorothea Südwest Rundfunk Radio Germany Germany BA R NET T-COWA N, Bruce United Kingdom RUHLAND, Marietta BARTEL, Burkhart Switzerland Church Media BATTAL, Lelise Germany USA SANDVIK, Erik Siguard Norway BINGENER, Reinhard BESNARD, Federico Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung Switzerland SPANGLER, John Germany USA BR ANDSTORP, Helen BRANNER, Dietmar Norway STREHLOW, Bill ERF-Medien USA Germany BUCK, Gertrude Canada THEUNISSEN, Andrew BRUDER, Georg South Africa Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH BVUMBWE, Maria Moses Germany Malawi TVEIT, Anna Switzerland BUCHNER, Bernd DROBENA, Joshua Evangelisch.de USA YOUNAN, Suad Germany The Evangelical Lutheran Church in ERTZEID, Sindre Jordan and the Holy Land CEZANNE, Stephan Norway Jerusalem Evangelischer Presse Dienst Germany GOMEZ CENTENO, Abelina El Salvador DREINHÖFER, Beate Accredited Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH HANSON, Ione Journalists/ Germany USA roadcasters B DREISER, Anja HARTUNG, Johanna Südwest Rundfunk Germany include media persons invited from Germany the member churches and secular press HOLSTENKAMP, Artemis to cover the Assembly. FRANK, Helmut Germany Sonntagsblatt Bayern They are accredited through the Office Germany LILLEAASEN, Marthe Marie for Communication Services. They Norway have neither the right to speak nor to GEBERT, Werner vote. Pro Oekumene Informationsdienst MANZKE, Christine Germany Germany ADAM, Stefan Kirchenfernsehen.de GOHLA, Holger MARTIN, Mercy Germany Südwest Rundfunk India Germany ADRIAN, Dorothee MAUNEY, Lynda Rhyne Agentur für Privatradio in Württemberg/ GRASSE, Klaus-Peter USA Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Evangelische Nachrichtenagentur Idea Germany Germany MILLER, Katherine USA AHLEFELT, Annika HAMMELEHLE, Jürgen Kyrkans Tidning Church Development Service (EED) Sweden Germany 173 Appendices

HANAK, Ilse LAAJALAHTI, Paula NEETZ, Norbert Die Brücke, Magazin für Mission und Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Mission Evangelischer Presse Dienst Ökumene Finland Germany Austria LANDI, Paolo NIEDERER, Sonja HANAK, Julius RAIDUE Südwest Rundfunk Die Saat, Evangelische Kirchenzeitung für Italy Germany Österreich Austria LASSIWE, Benjamin OPPERMANN, Wulf Rheinischer Merkur, Katholische Pressbüro Oppermann HERMANN, Brigitta Nachrichten-Agentur Germany Südwest Rundfunk Germany Germany OTTO, Petra LATZ, Michael Zweites Deutsches Fernsehen HIESCH, Tanja Deutsche Depeschendienst Germany Südwest Rundfunk Germany Germany PESONEN, Tuomo LIEB, Elisabeth Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland HOEFLE, Nicole Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH - Communications Stuttgarter Zeitung Germany Finland Germany LIEB, Heidrun PRANZAS, Werner HUNKEL, Tim Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Klinik TV Südwest Rundfunk Germany Germany Germany LINDEKLEIV, Heidi Marie PUKERT, Christina-Maria HUTTNER, Matthias Vårt Land Westdeutscher Rundfunk Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Norway Germany Germany LOHEIDE, Bernward REBSTOCK, Karin IJAES, Johannes Deutsche Presse Agentur GmbH Evangelisches Gemeindeblatt für Kotimaa Newspaper Germany Württemberg Finland Germany LOSS, Stefan JACQUEMAIN, Michael Evangeliums-Rundfunk e. V. REMPEL BURKHOLDER, Byron Katholische Nachrichten-Agentur Germany Courier, a quarterly publication of Germany Mennonite World Conference LÜCK, Renate Canada KAISER, Jürgen Sindelfinger Zeitung/Böblinger Zeitung Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Germany RISCH, Wolfgang Germany Südwest Presse (Ulm) LUKASSEK, Agathe Germany KAPPLER, Anja Katholische Nachrichten-Agentur Verlagsgruppe Kreiszeitung Germany ROSENBAUM, Monique Germany Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH MACHT Eva Germany KENNY, Peter ARD TV Ecumenical News International Germany SANDER, Herwig Switzerland Freelance MARTEN, Nicole Germany KIEMLE, Volker Pressestelle der Landeskirche Evangelisch-methodistische Kirche Wuerttemberg SCHÄFFLER, Christian Bernhard - Zeitschriftenredaktion Germany Adventistischer Pressedienst - Schweiz Germany Switzerland MOCKLER, Marcus KINKERT, Carmen Evangelischer Pressedienst Südwest SCHMITTHENNER, Ulrich Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Germany Ökumenischer Informationsdienst Germany Germany MÖLKNER-KAPPL, Axel KIVIMAEKI, Iiris Evangelisches Fernsehen in Bayern SCHRITT, Sigi Church Council Communication Centre Germany Verlagsgruppe Kreiszeitung Syke Finland Germany MÖNNINGHOFF, Uwe KOCH, Andreas Südwestrundfunk SCHULTZ, Hansjoerg Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Germany Schweizer Radio DRS Germany Switzerland MÜHLSTEDT, Corinna KRAUTGARTNER, Brigitte Rundfunksender Bayrischer Rundfunk SCHÜRMANN, Sascha Österreichischer Rundfunk Germany Deutsche Depeschendienst Austria Germany MÜLLER, Susanne KRISTENSEN, Vidar Evangelischer Presse Dienst - Südwest SCHWANECKE, Roland Church of Norway Germany Idea E.V. Norway Germany MÜTZ, Gregor KUBITSCHEK, Judith Südwest Rundfunk SCHWEDA, Alexander Evangelischer Pressedienst Südwest Germany Evangelisches Gemeindeblatt für Württemberg 174 Germany Germany SCHWEIZER, Christoph WOYTSCHAK, Kai-Uwe ERESO, Almaw Gari Evangelisches Medienpfarramt ERF Medien LWF Endowment Fund Board Germany Germany Ethiopia

SERFONTEIN, Anli ZAPLETAL, Günther FARNBACHER, Traugott Ecumenical News International Südwest Rundfunk Mission One World Germany Germany Germany

SILJANEN, Esko ZIEGLER, Petra FRADO, Dennis Uusi Tie Evangelisches Gemeindeblatt für Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Finland Württemberg USA Germany STADELMAIER, Achim FRIEDRICH, Johannes Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH ZOLL, Elisabeth LWF National Committee in Germany Germany Südwest Presse Germany Germany STEIDEL, Andreas GERDESMEIER, Volker Evangelisches Gemeindeblatt für Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe Württemberg Germany Germany Advisers GLAESER, Brigitte TEUBERT, Holger include representatives of LWF Evangelical Lutheran Church in Adventistischer Pressedienst national committees, related agencies, Oldenburg Germany invited experts and consultants Germany

TRAUTHIG, Michael AGØY, Berit Hagen GRANKE, Robert Stuttgarter Zeitung Church of Norway Canadian Lutheran World Relief Germany Norway Canada

TREFZ, Werner ALMQVIST, Ewa GUNDERT, Ulrich Südwest Rundfunk – Fernsehen Church of Sweden Brot für die Welt Germany Sweden Germany

TURREY, Christian AUVINEN, Juha HAHN, Udo Katolische Kirche im Privatfunk (KKP) Sanansaattajat LWF National Committee in Germany Germany Finland Germany

VIEWEGER, Hans-Joachim BALTRUWEIT, Fritz HALLONSTEN, Gunilla Bayerischer Rundfunk International Worship Planning Group Church of Sweden Germany Germany Sweden

VON DEWITZ, Wolf BUBIK, Michael HANSEN, Reinhard Deutsche Presse Agentur GmbH Diakonie Eine Welt Mission One World Germany Austria Germany

WADENKA, Caroline BUNTZEL, Rudolf HARLING, Per Deutsche Depeschendienst Church Development Service (EED) International Worship Planning Group Germany Germany Switzerland

WAHL, Ernst CAMPOS GARCIA, Lusmarina HELMER-PHAM XUAN, Martina Evangelisches Gemeindeblatt für International Worship Planning Group Evangelical Lutheran Mission in Lower Württemberg Switzerland Saxony Germany Germany CANTELL, Risto WALDVOGEL, Barbara Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland HIRAOKA, Hiroko Tageszeitung Finland International Worship Planning Group Germany Japan DEGROOT-NESDAHL, Andrea WANDEL, Jürgen Evangelical Lutheran Church in America HOLSTENKAMP, Lars Evangelische Zeitschrift USA LWF National Committee in Germany Germany Germany DENECKE, Norbert WEISE, Andreas LWF National Committee in Germany HUBER, Ivo Evangelisches Gemeindeblatt für Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Württemberg Germany Germany DÖLLING, Claus LWF Endowment Fund Board JACKSON-SKELTON, Christina WETZEL, Maria Switzerland Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Stuttgarter Nachrichten USA Germany DORVILIER, Louis O. Evangelical Lutheran Church in America JAHNEL, Claudia WINKLER, Jenny USA Mission One World Germany Germany Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH EDØ Y, Torill Ecumenical Disability Advocacy JARL, Ann-Cathrin WOLFINGER, Gesine Network Church of Sweden welt-sichten Norway Sweden Germany 175 Appendices

JOHN MUSHI, Martha PORVARI, Markku WILMS, Harald International Worship Planning Group Finn Church Aid Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Finland Tanzania Tanzania JOHNSEN, Tore REHREN, Olaf Church of Norway EMW Association of Protestant WOEHLBRAND, Inken Norway Churches and Missions in Germany LWF National Committee in Germany Germany Germany K ART TU NEN, Tomi LWF National Committee in Finland RISSANEN, Seppo WREMER, Inger Johanne Finland Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Mission LWF Endowment Fund Board Finland Norway KASCH, Hans W. LWF National Committee in Germany RYTKÖNEN, Aaro ZUSEVICS, Lauma Germany Finn Church Aid Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church Finland Abroad KIEFER, Rainer USA LWF National Committee in Germany SANDVAND, Leif Gunnar Germany The Evangelical Lutheran Free Church ZWECK, Wayne of Norway Assembly Planning Committee KOLLANDER, Kerstin Norway Australia Church of Sweden Sweden SCHUEGRAF, Oliver United Evangelical Lutheran Church of LARSON, Rebecca Germany Coopted Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Germany USA are persons other than paid staff who SKOV SORENSEN, Jorgen are invited to render certain specific MARI, Francisco Evangelical Lutheran Church in staff tasks at the Assembly. Church Development Service (EED) Denmark Germany Denmark In some cases, the right to speak is granted, but not to vote. MÄRTIN, Oliver SOLBERG, Terje Church Development Service (EED) The Evangelical Lutheran Free Church BIRMELE, André Germany of Norway France Norway MCCOID, Donald COLL GONZÁLEZ, Erick Marcel Evangelical Lutheran Church in America SOMMERFELDT, Atle Cuba USA Norwegian Church Aid Norway DANIELSSON, Arni Svanur MDEGELLA, Owdenburg Iceland Evangelical Lutheran Church in STEIN, Roberto Tanzania LWF Endowment Fund Board DIETER, Theodor Tanzania Argentina France

MOLANDER, Kristin TAKEMORI, Yoko DJOBDI, Simon Church of Sweden LWF Endowment Fund Board Cameroon Sweden Japan FERNANDEZ GARCIA, Eva MORTHA, Sunitha TETZLAFF, Anna-Maria Spain Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Church of Pomerania USA Germany GALLOP, Trina Canada MUNGA, Stephen TRICE, Michael Lutheran Mission Cooperation Evangelical Lutheran Church in America GREENAWAY, Kristine Tanzania USA Switzerland

MUSTAKALLIO, Antti VON HEYDEN, Wichard GRÖTZSCH, Dirk-Michael Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland LWF Endowment Fund Board Germany Finland Germany HEYDE DE LÓPEZ, Julia E. MWAIPOPO, Ambele WAGNER-PINGGERA, Andrea Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Tanzania Germany HÜBNER, Florian Tanzania Germany WARNING, Claudia MWOMBEKI, Fidon Church Development Service (EED) JOHNSON, Paul United Evangelical Mission Germany Canada Germany WEIDLER, Scott KARASCH, Regina NILSSON, Jan International Worship Planning Group Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in USA Denmark KÖTTING, Dagmar Denmark WEIGAND, Peter Germany Mission One World OPPEGAARD, Sven Germany LANG, Rainer Church of Norway Germany 176 Norway LOBULU, Elizabeth ABDISA MULETA, Degitu ASONOV, Aleksandr Tanzania The Ethiopian Evangelical Church The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Mekane Yesus Ingria in Russia MACHABERT, Gérald Ethiopia Russian Federation France ABOKA, Moses AUNE, Bella MACQUEEN, Linda Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya Church of Sweden Australia Kenya Sweden

MAHLSTEDE, Sibylle ABROMEIT, Hans-Jürgen BABBA, Nemuel Germany Evangelical Church of Pomerania The Lutheran Church of Christ in Germany Nigeria MELV Y N, Timothy Nigeria India ADA, Jeannette Evangelical Lutheran Church of BALINT, Imola MEURER, Heitor J. Cameroon Evangelical Lutheran Church in Brazil Cameroon Romania Romania MICHEL, Juan Carlos ADDO, Aynalem Switzerland The Ethiopian Evangelical Church BAONIZAFIMANANA, Jeannette Mekane Yesus Malagasy Lutheran Church MUNGURE, Elieshi Ayo Ethiopia Madagascar Tanzania ADOMEIT, Thomas BARANIEC, Iwona OJIE, Abuo Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Nigeria Oldenburg Confession in Poland Germany Poland POULET, Pierre France ADORJÁNI, Dezsö-Zoltán BARNETT, Thomas Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sierra RAKOTO, Tsiritsimihena Endor Romania Leone Madagascar Romania Sierra Leone

RAMASHAPA, Johannes AHOLA, Miika BARTOLOMEU, Isabel Antonio South Africa Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church of Angola Finland Angola RAMIREZ, Luis Eduardo Colombia ÅKERLUND, Anders BATTAL, Robéra Church of Sweden Evangelical Lutheran Church in America REIDY PROST, Miriam Sweden USA Switzerland ALAVA, Henni BERLICH, Martina REIN-BRANDENBURG, Ines Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Evangelical Church in Central Germany Germany Finland Germany

SCHMITT, Allison ALEJO FERNÁNDEZ, Luis Cristóbal BIDSTRUP, Ulla Morre Jerusalem Bolivian Evangelical Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bolivia Denmark SCHUBERT, Claudia Denmark Germany ALIGAZ, Achamyelesh Amare The Ethiopian Evangelical Church BINDER, Steffen WILSON, Sarah Mekane Yesus Evangelical Church in Central Germany France Ethiopia Germany

WONG, Zi Yun Clarice ALTMANN, Walter BITTENDIEBEL, Frédérique Malaysia Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Protestant Church of the Augsburg Confession in Brazil Confession of Alsace and Lorraine Brazil France

Delegates ANDREWS, Jenson Rajan BÓDIS, Lubomír Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Church of the Augsburg are nominees from member churches Myanmar (Lutheran Bethlehem Church) Confession in the Slovak Republic as provided for in the LWF Myanmar Slovak Republic Constitution. ANDRIAMA RAVALITERA, Jean BÖER, Chris Delegates have the right to speak and Malagasy Protestant Church in France Evangelical Lutheran Church of to vote at the Assembly. France Schaumburg-Lippe Germany AANO, Kjetil ARENDT, Niels Henrik Church of Norway Evangelical Lutheran Church in BOHL, Jochen Norway Denmark Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Denmark Germany ABBETMEIER, Anne Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover ARO SANDANIAINA, Mami Brunah BOHLEN, Gerd Germany Malagasy Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Madagascar Germany

177 Appendices

BOUWMAN, Praxedis COLLANGE, Jean-François EKONG, Offiong Christian Protestant Church in the Netherlands Protestant Church of the Augsburg The Lutheran Church of Nigeria Netherlands Confession of Alsace and Lorraine Nigeria France BRANDY, Hans Christian EKSTRAND, Sixten Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover CORTEZ CRISTALES, Katia María Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Germany The Nicaraguan Lutheran Church of Finland Faith and Hope BROADBRIDGE, Hanna Nicaragua ELDRID, Alan Evangelical Lutheran Church in United Evangelical Lutheran Church Denmark COVOLO, Catharina Argentina Denmark Evangelical Lutheran Church in Oldenburg ELENZANO, April Praise BRUVERS, Rita Germany Lutheran Church in the Philippines Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia Philippines Latvia DALLA BARBA, Ricardo Evangelical Church of the Lutheran ELMBERG, Sten BRYDE, Gwen Confession in Brazil Church of Sweden North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Brazil Sweden Church Germany DASUHA, Belman P. EPHRAIM SUWA, Christopher Simalungun Protestant Christian The Lutheran Church of Christ in BUBERWA, Elisa Church Nigeria Evangelical Lutheran Church in Indonesia Nigeria Tanzania Tanzania DAUTHEVILLE, Joël ERLING, Maria Evangelical Lutheran Church of France Evangelical Lutheran Church in America BUHSE, Jeffrey France USA Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Canada DEFFENBAUGH, Ralston ERNIŠA, Geza Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Church of the Augsburg BVUMBWE, Joseph Paul USA Confession in Slovenia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malawi Slovenia Malawi DENEKE-STOLL, Dorothea Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria FABIEN, Lotera BYFUGLIE, Brita Germany Malagasy Lutheran Church Church of Norway Madagascar Norway DEVANESAN, Subramaniam Lanka Lutheran Church FABIN Y, Tamás BYRTUSOVA, Jana Sri Lanka The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Silesian Evangelical Church of the Hungary Augsburg Confession DIBISA, Yonas Yegzu Hungary Czech Republic The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus FIGUEROA TORRES, Rosa Elisa CAPCHA ROJAS, Armando Ethiopia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chile Peruvian Lutheran Evangelical Church Chile Peru DOKMAN, Daniëlle Evangelical Lutheran Church in FILIPTSOV, Andrey CARLANDER, Maria Suriname Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Church of Sweden Suriname and Other States Sweden Russian Federation DOLACE, Liga CHANA, Alfred Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia FREY-REININGHAUS, Gerhard Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zambia Latvia Evangelical Church of Czech Brethren Zambia Czech Republic DÖRR, Kilian CHANDRASEKHAR, Samuel Evangelical Church of the Augsburg FREYTAG, Susanne South Andhra Lutheran Church Confession in Romania Protestant Church in the Netherlands India Romania Netherlands

CHANG, Wai Cheong DUFENI, Lechisa FRITZ, Ilona The Chinese Rhenish Church Hong The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Protestant Church in the Netherlands Kong Synod Mekane Yesus Netherlands Hong Kong, China Ethiopia FUDUTA, Jessica Benjamin CHAPARRO BERMÚDEZ, DUNGDUNG, Alice The Lutheran Church of Christ in Guillermina Gossner Evangelical Lutheran Church in Nigeria Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chotanagpur and Assam Nigeria Venezuela India Venezuela GABLER, Dorothea EIBEN, Frauke Evangelical Lutheran Church in CHEN, Shu-Chen (Selma) North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Württemberg The Lutheran Church of Taiwan Church Germany (Republic of China) Germany Taiwan GÅRDER, Nils EKONG, Christian Church of Sweden The Lutheran Church of Nigeria Sweden 178 Nigeria GARGA-ZIZI, Enoch GUNDERT-HOCK, Sibylle HESSELBACH, Ulrike Evangelical Lutheran Church of Evangelical Lutheran Church of Evangelical Lutheran Church in Cameroon Mecklenburg Brunswick Cameroon Germany Germany

GARHAMMER-PAUL, Anke GUSE, Imke HIETAMÄKI, Minna Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Germany Germany Finland

GARISES, Sophi GUSE, Otto HINDRIANTO, Laura Susianty Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Basel Christian Church of Malaysia Republic of Namibia Germany Malaysia Namibia GUTI, Warime HINZE, Antje GEA, Fatisochi Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Christian Communion of Indonesia New Guinea Germany Church in Nias (Gereja AMIN) Papua New Guinea Indonesia HUDÁKOVÁ, Katarína GYAMPO-KUMI, Harriet Evangelical Church of the Augsburg GETACHEW, Workinesh Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ghana Confession in the Slovak Republic The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Ghana Slovak Republic Mekane Yesus Ethiopia GYSEL, Rahel HUOVINEN, Eero Lutheran Church in Chile Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland GIRÓN ZUNIGA, José Martin Chile Finland Christian Lutheran Church of Honduras Honduras HADEM, Eva HUTAHAEAN, Ramlan Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Protestant Christian Batak Church GOLIKE, André Germany Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Central African Republic HALAKHE, Halkano John HUTASOIT, Abraham L. Central African Republic Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya Christian Protestant Angkola Church Kenya Indonesia GÓMEZ SOTO, Medardo E. Salvadoran Lutheran Church HANSEN, Magrietha HYLDGÅRD, Asbjørn El Salvador Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Republic of Namibia Denmark GOUDO, Subas Chandra Namibia Denmark Jeypore Evangelical Lutheran Church India HANSON, Mark S. IDOSA, Wakseyoum Evangelical Lutheran Church in America The Ethiopian Evangelical Church GOYEK, Robert USA Mekane Yesus Church of the Lutheran Brethren of Ethiopia Cameroon HARRIS, Sumoward Cameroon Lutheran Church in Liberia IKKALA, Jussi Liberia Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland GRAPE, Margareta Finland Church of Sweden HARTMANN, Samuel Sweden Evangelical Lutheran Church in IMMONEN, Maria Württemberg Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland GREGERSEN, Niels Henrik Germany Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark HASDAK, Noresh INSTEFJORD, Gunstein Denmark Bangladesh Northern Evangelical Church of Norway Lutheran Church Norway GRENHOLM, Cristina Bangladesh Church of Sweden JACKELÉN, Antje Sweden HAUG, Kari Storstein Church of Sweden Church of Norway Sweden GROEBEN, Christiane Norway Evangelical Lutheran Church in Italy JACKSON, Mae Helen Italy HAUGLAND BYFUGLIEN, Helga Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Church of Norway USA GRØNNINGSÆTER, Arne Backer Norway Church of Norway JANGAM, Mary Norway HEIENE, Gunnar Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church Church of Norway India GUESE Sebastian Norway Church of Lippe (Lutheran Section) JANSSEN, Jan Germany HERTEL, Erich Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Oldenburg GUESS, Matthew Namibia (ELCIN-GELC) Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Namibia USA JANTZEN, Hans-Hermann HERTEL, Dominik Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover GULO, Eirene Kardiani Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Germany The Protestant Christian Church Germany Indonesia 179 Appendices

JENSEN, Merete Juel K ALIT, Eszter KLAHR, Detlef Evangelical Lutheran Church in The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Denmark Hungary Germany Denmark Hungary KLATIK, Milos JEPSEN, Ragnhild KAMILE, Ketema Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Church of Norway The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Confession in the Slovak Republic Norway Mekane Yesus Slovak Republic Ethiopia JERUMA-GRINBERGA, Jana KMETOVA, Marcela Lutheran Church in Great Britain KANYEMBA, Martha Evangelical Church of the Augsburg United Kingdom The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Confession in the Slovak Republic Namibia (ELCIN) Slovak Republic JIMÉNEZ MARÍN, Melvin Namibia Lutheran Costa Rican Church KOCH, Brunke Costa Rica KARLSSON, Hanna Evangelical Lutheran Church of Church of Sweden Mecklenburg JOHANSEN, Mette Marbaek Sweden Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark KASIMALA, Sireesha KOLLMAR, Peter Denmark South Andhra Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in India Brunswick JOHNSON, Susan Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada KATIKITALA, Srikanth James Ratna Canada Raju KONTOMA, Deed Jaldessa Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church The Ethiopian Evangelical Church JOHNSSON, Lars India Mekane Yesus Church of Sweden Ethiopia Sweden KAULA, Agnes Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church KRETSCHMER, Harald JOHNSTON-AELABOUNI, Meghan Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Württemberg USA KEE, Terry Germany Lutheran Church in Singapore JØRGENSEN, Kirsten Singapore KRIEG, Maria Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Church in Central Germany Denmark KGATHI, Helnah Germany Denmark Evangelical Lutheran Church in Botswana KROSS, Kenneth JULY, Frank Botswana Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Suriname Württemberg KHONDPAN, Renuka Suriname Germany Jeypore Evangelical Lutheran Church India KRÜGER, Marita JUNKERMANN, Ilse Evangelical Church in Central Germany Evangelical Church in Central Germany KIIZA, Eliet Germany Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania KRUSE, August JUNTUNEN, Sammeli Tanzania Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland and Other States Finland KILLEWA, Brighton Russian Federation Evangelical Lutheran Church in JYOTHI, Yerrauguntla Tanzania KUCHAREK, Wilma Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church Tanzania Evangelical Lutheran Church in America India USA KISHIMBO, Freedom KABAMBA MUKALA WA Evangelical Lutheran Church in KUKKONEN, Jorma KASONKU, Daniel Tanzania Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Congo Tanzania Finland Democratic Republic of Congo KISTING, Paul Hatani KUMAR, Aparajita KAHUTHU WACHIRA, Zachariah Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Madhya Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church Republic of Namibia Pradesh Kenya Namibia India

KAKUSCHKE, Guido KITAHATA, Stacy KUMLENG, Joseph Dafiyem North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Evangelical Lutheran Church in America The Lutheran Church of Christ in Church USA Nigeria Germany Nigeria KJAER, Mogens KALAVATHY, Allambra Gajulu Evangelical Lutheran Church in KUNDLER, Ulf The Tamil Evangelical Lutheran Church Denmark Church of Sweden India Denmark Sweden

KALIISA, George KJUS, Kari-Lisbeth KUSS, Cibele Lutheran Church of Rwanda The Evangelical Lutheran Free Church Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Rwanda of Norway Confession in Brazil 180 Norway Brazil KWON, Eun-hae LUDWIG, Débora MASANDU, Sopirid Lutheran Church in Korea Evangelical Church of the Lutheran The Protestant Church in Sabah Korea, Republic Confession in Brazil Malaysia Brazil LAATS, Annika MAUNEY, James Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church LUNDQUIST LARSSON, Annette Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Estonia Church of Sweden USA Sweden LAHINIRIKO, Jean McCRACKEN, Mikka Malagasy Lutheran Church MABASSO, José Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Madagascar Evangelical Lutheran Church in USA Mozambique LAISER, Mary Eliakimu Mozambique MEHARI, Asfaha Evangelical Lutheran Church in The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania MADINGA, Mabel Eritrea Tanzania Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malawi Eritrea Malawi LAKRA, Nelson MENGON, Ruth Gossner Evangelical Lutheran Church in MAGOLD, Dagmar Lutheran Church in Liberia Chotanagpur and Assam Federation of Evangelical Lutheran Liberia India Churches in Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein MIKKELSEN, Thomas Bjerg LAKRA, Sheela Switzerland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Gossner Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Chotanagpur and Assam MAHENGE, Omega Denmark India Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania MILKAU, Holger LANGE, Andreas Tanzania Evangelical Lutheran Church in Italy Church of Lippe (Lutheran Section) Italy Germany MALASUSA, Alex Evangelical Lutheran Church in MILLER, Marcus LASCO, Lydia Tanzania Evangelical Lutheran Church in America The Lutheran Church of Christ in Tanzania USA Nigeria Nigeria MALIK, Titi MOCHA, Simeon The Lutheran Church of Christ in The Ethiopian Evangelical Church LASE, David Nigeria Mekane Yesus The Protestant Christian Church Nigeria Ethiopia Indonesia MANOVA, John MOENGA, Cosmos LEIN, Valentin The Arcot Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Church of the Augsburg India Botswana Confession in Austria Botswana Austria MANURUNG, John Hasiholan The United Protestant Church MOGAJANE, Raato Nathaniel LEKER, Danielle Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Protestant Church in the Netherlands Southern Africa Netherlands MANZKE, Karl-Hinrich South Africa Evangelical Lutheran Church of LESKELÄ, Maarit Schaumburg-Lippe MØLLER-STRAY, Anders Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Germany Church of Norway Finland Norway MARAINEN, Johannes LEUNG, Yim Ni Church of Sweden MORA RAMÍREZ, María Cristina The Chinese Rhenish Church Hong Sweden Lutheran Costa Rican Church Kong Synod Costa Rica Hong Kong, China MAREALLE, Aripa Evangelical Lutheran Church in MOYO, Elitha LICHTBLAU, Viola Tanzania Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Zimbabwe Brunswick Zimbabwe Germany MARKERT, Ludwig Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria MÜLLER, Horst LINK-WIECZOREK, Ulrike Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa (Natal-Transvaal) Oldenburg MARTIN, Michael South Africa Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Germany MÜLLER, Luise LOH A, Tadelech Evangelical Church of the Augsburg The Ethiopian Evangelical Church MARTINE CHELLAPPA, Confession in Austria Mekane Yesus Marychanthini Premilla Austria Ethiopia The Arcot Lutheran Church India MURGIA EGGERT POTIN, Sheila LOK, Oi Peng (Philip) Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Lutheran Church in Malaysia and MARTÍNEZ, Eduardo Confession in Brazil Singapore Evangelical Lutheran Church of Brazil Malaysia Colombia Colombia 181 Appendices

NAG, Godwin ÖSTERREICHER, Sabine PURBA, Elizabeth Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Simalungun Protestant Christian Himalayan States Württemberg Church India Germany Indonesia

NAMHINDO, Loide PANCHOO, Emmanuel PURBA, Mika The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Madhya Protestant Christian Batak Church Namibia (ELCIN) Pradesh Indonesia Namibia India RADTKE, Simone NAPITUPULU, Rohana PÁNGYÁNSZKY, Agnes Evangelical Church of Pomerania Protestant Christian Batak Church The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Germany Indonesia Hungary Hungary RAHARIVAO, Jeannette NAVR ÁTILOVÁ, Olga Malagasy Lutheran Church Evangelical Church of Czech Brethren PASARIBU, Risna Madagascar Czech Republic The Indonesian Christian Church (HKI) Indonesia RAJAH, Solomon NDAWA NAPO, Tomás Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church of Angola PEDERSEN, Inge Lise Malaysia Angola Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia Denmark NDELU, Sindisiwe Denmark RAKOTO, Endor Modeste Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malagasy Lutheran Church Southern Africa PEL, William Madagascar South Africa Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea RAMADHANI, Rachel NEIKE, Helga Papua New Guinea Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Tanzania Germany PERSENIUS, Ragnar Tanzania Church of Sweden NESSAN, Craig Sweden RAMAHEFARIVO, Stéphennette Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Malagasy Lutheran Church USA PESONEN, Marja France Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland NISSEN, Karsten Finland RANARA, Nicolas Evangelical Lutheran Church in Lutheran Church in the Philippines Denmark PHASWANA, Ndanganeni Philippines Denmark Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Africa RANDRIANARIVELO, Miantsa NKULU NSENGA, Marie South Africa Arivony Evangelical Lutheran Church in Congo Malagasy Lutheran Church Democratic Republic of Congo PIETAK, Stanislav Madagascar Silesian Evangelical Church of the NORDSTRAND, Inga Marie Augsburg Confession RANDRIANIRINA, Dieu-donné Church of Norway Czech Republic Malagasy Lutheran Church Norway Madagascar PIHKALA, Panu NTENGA, Victoria Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland REES-ROHRBACHER, Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Tanzania USA Tanzania PISO, Barbara Gutnius Lutheran Church RIETH, Klaus NYABARO, Mary Papua New Guinea Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya Württemberg Kenya PISO, David Germany Gutnius Lutheran Church NYIWE, Thomas Papua New Guinea RIOS CARRILLO, Hellen Javiera Evangelical Lutheran Church of The Nicaraguan Lutheran Church of Cameroon PLAISIER, Arjan Faith and Hope Cameroon Protestant Church in the Netherlands Nicaragua Netherlands OBERDORFER, Bernd ROBERT, Marie-France Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria PRYSE, Michael Evangelical Lutheran Church of France Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada France Canada OKON, Glory ROHWER, Nils The Lutheran Church of Nigeria PURBA, Burju Evangelical Lutheran Church in Nigeria The Indonesian Christian Church Southern Africa (Cape Church) Indonesia South Africa OLE-LALTAIKA, Elifuraha Evangelical Lutheran Church in PURBA, Darwita ROJAS VARGAS, Gloria Tanzania Simalungun Protestant Christian Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chile Tanzania Church Chile Indonesia OPITZ, Stephanie ROSSING, Barbara Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Evangelical Lutheran Church in America 182 Germany USA ROY, Komol SHIVUTE, Thomas SIREESHA, Chevala Bangladesh Lutheran Church The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church Bangladesh Namibia (ELCIN) India Namibia ROZITIS, Elmars E. SITORUS, Sentiria Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church SIBIYA, Dakalani Selina Protestant Christian Batak Church Abroad Evangelical Lutheran Church in Indonesia Germany Southern Africa South Africa SITUMORANG, Rianor SABA, Angel Christian Protestant Angkola Church The Evangelical Lutheran Church in SIBOYANA, Gloria Indonesia Jordan and the Holy Land Moravian Church in South Africa Jerusalem South Africa SKAERVED, Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in SABUTIS, Mindaugas SILALAHI, Roswita Denmark Evangelical Lutheran Church of Protestant Christian Batak Church Denmark Lithuania Indonesia Lithuania SKUMSNES MOE, Jenny SILJANEN, Tuula Church of Norway SADLER, Margaret Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland France Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Finland Canada SKUPCH, Sonia SILOI, Nakei Evangelical Church of the River Plate SAMIEC, Jerzy Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua Argentina Evangelical Church of the Augsburg New Guinea Confession in Poland Papua New Guinea SLIWKA, Ewa Poland Evangelical Church of the Augsburg SIMAMORA, Friska Confession in Poland SAMOELA, Georges Protestant Christian Church in Poland Malagasy Lutheran Church Mentawai Madagascar Indonesia SOLIN, Elias Pakpak Dairi Christian Protestant SAMUEL, Sofia Miriam SIMANJUNTAK, Kartini Church India Evangelical Lutheran Church Christian Protestant Church in Indonesia India Indonesia Indonesia SOLIN, Sri Juliana SANDER, Siegfried Pakpak Dairi Christian Protestant Lutheran Church in Chile SIMANJUNTAK, Parsaoran Church Chile Protestant Christian Church in Indonesia Mentawai SCHAEFER, Kathrin Indonesia SOREN, Christina Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church Germany SIMANJUNTAK, Plasthon India Protestant Christian Batak Church SCHÄFER, Federico Hugo Indonesia SOREN, Shiblal Evangelical Church of the River Plate Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church Argentina SIMORANGKIR, Mangisi S. E. India Christian Protestant Church in SCHORLING, Christof Indonesia STEINWACHS, Marius Evangelical Lutheran Church in Baden Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Germany Germany SINAGA, Sahala SEFAKO, Dorcus Mamorathi Indonesian Christian Lutheran Church STELTER, Dirk Evangelical Lutheran Church in Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Southern Africa Germany South Africa SINDANO, Johannes The Evangelical Lutheran Church in STETTNER, Maria SELVARAJ, Arul Manuel Namibia (ELCIN) Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria The Tamil Evangelical Lutheran Church Namibia Germany India SINN, Simone STRAUB, Judith SEMMLER, Margrit Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Württemberg Germany Church Germany Germany SUEOKA, Shigeo SIPAHUTAR, Donald A. Kinki Evangelical Lutheran Church SÈNE, Pierre Protestant Christian Batak Church Japan The Lutheran Church of Senegal Indonesia Senegal SUNEEL BHANU, Busi SIRAH, Dawa Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church SERGEL-KOHLS, Anika Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua India Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria New Guinea Germany Papua New Guinea SVERRISDOTTIR, Magnea The Evangelical Lutheran Church of SHAVA, Naison SIRAIT, Jamilin Iceland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Protestant Christian Batak Church Iceland Zimbabwe Indonesia Zimbabwe 183 Appendices

TAI, Nicholas Ho-fai VAN LEERDAM, Martijn WONG, Linda Har Lian The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Protestant Church in the Netherlands Lutheran Church in Malaysia and Hong Kong Netherlands Singapore Hong Kong, China Malaysia VANAGS, Janis TAMBUNAN, Gloria Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia WU, Lai-Yung The Indonesian Christian Church (HKI) Latvia The Chinese Rhenish Church Hong Indonesia Kong Synod VASANTHA RUBY, Jennifer Hong Kong, China TCHIBINDA MAVOUNGOU, Joseph The Arcot Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church of Congo India YAMATO, Yuki Congo, Republic Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church VETTER, Rose Japan TECHELO, Tagessech Evangelical Lutheran Church in The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Württemberg YOUNAN, Munib Mekane Yesus Germany The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Ethiopia Jordan and the Holy Land VIILMA, Urmas Jerusalem TELAUMBANUA, Tuhoni Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church The Protestant Christian Church Estonia ZANG HOFFMAN, Abigail Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church in America VILLWOCK, Marc USA THEUNISSEN, Elise Evangelical Church in Central Germany Moravian Church in South Africa Germany ZINA, A. Elijah South Africa Lutheran Church in Liberia VOGELMANN, Wolfgang Liberia THORÉN, Anna North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Church of Sweden Church Sweden Germany Ex-Officio Participants TIN, Pui Ching VOGT, Leonie The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Evangelical Lutheran Church in Baden are members of the Council (voting Hong Kong Germany and Advisers) who are not otherwise Hong Kong, China delegates from their churches. VON MALTZAHN, Andreas TOBING, Pitonggam Evangelical Lutheran Church of They have the right to speak, but not Batak Christian Community Church Mecklenburg to vote at the Assembly. Indonesia Germany AARSETH, Helge TOBING, Yenny VRBOVSKÝ, Samuel Church of Norway Christian Protestant Church in Slovak Evangelical Church of the Norway Indonesia Augsburg Confession in Serbia Indonesia Serbia AKPAN, Brenda The Lutheran Church of Nigeria TÓMASDOTTIR, Kristín WAJANATHAWORNCHAI, Wandee Nigeria The Evangelical Lutheran Church of The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Iceland Thailand BOCK, Carlos Iceland Thailand Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Confession in Brazil TØNNESEN, Aud WATANABE, Sumiyuki Brazil Church of Norway Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church Norway Japan CORTEZ RODRÍGUEZ, Victoria The Nicaraguan Lutheran Church of TOPNO, Mahima WEBER, Friedrich Faith and Hope Gossner Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Brunswick Nicaragua Chotanagpur and Assam Germany India CORZO GARCIA, Alfonso WEJRYD, Anders Evangelical Lutheran Church of Colombia TÖRNELL, Marcus Church of Sweden Canada Church of Sweden Sweden Sweden DEPAYSO, Diadem WENGE, Giegere Lutheran Church in the Philippines TREJO HAAGER, Roberto Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua Philippines Mexican Lutheran Church New Guinea Mexico Papua New Guinea FILO, Július Evangelical Church of the Augsburg TSEN, Thomas Lip Tet WIEGER, Madeleine Confession in the Slovak Republic Basel Christian Church of Malaysia Protestant Church of the Augsburg Slovak Republic Malaysia Confession of Alsace and Lorraine France FURLAN, Ángel UM, Hyun Sub United Evangelical Lutheran Church Lutheran Church in Korea WOEHLE, Andreas Argentina Korea, Republic Protestant Church in the Netherlands Netherlands GÁNCS, Péter UPAMA, Visanukorn The Evangelical Lutheran Church in The Evangelical Lutheran Church in WONG, Fook-yee Hungary Thailand Tsung Tsin Mission of Hong Kong Hungary 184 Thailand Hong Kong, China GOBENA, Iteffa PURBA, Jenette BAECHER, Claude The Ethiopian Evangelical Church The Indonesian Christian Church Mennonite World Conference Mekane Yesus Indonesia France Ethiopia RATZ, Edmund BAECHER, Elisabeth GRANTSON, Emmanuel F. Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Mennonite World Conference Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and Other States France USA Russian Federation BARNETT-COWAN, Alyson HUTAURUK, Jubil Raplan RAZIVELO, Mariette Anglican Communion Protestant Christian Batak Church Malagasy Lutheran Church United Kingdom Indonesia Madagascar BERGEN, Ernst IVAÑEZ, Virginia SAARINEN, Risto Mennonite World Conference Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Paraguay Venezuela Finland Venezuela BOLLER, Frieder SCHREIBER, Claudia Association of Mennonite Congregations JAGUCKI, Walter Church of Lippe (Lutheran Section) in Germany Lutheran Church in Great Britain Germany Germany United Kingdom SCHULTZ, Raymond BRAUN, Wilfried JENSCH, Thomas Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Institute for Ecumenical Research, Evangelical Church in Central Germany Canada Strasbourg Germany France SEKINO, Kazuhiro JEYAKUMAR, A.G. Augustine Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church BURKART, Rainer The Arcot Lutheran Church Japan Mennonite World Conference India Germany SELLE, Esther KAMEETA, Zephania Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony CASE-WINTERS, Anna Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Germany World Communion of Reformed Republic of Namibia (ELCRN) Churches Namibia STOLL, Peter USA Evangelical Lutheran Church in KITUTU, Doris S. Württemberg DJOMHOUE, Priscille Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Germany World Communion of Reformed Tanzania Churches SWART, Angelene Cameroon KLEIN, Christoph Moravian Church in South Africa Evangelical Church of the Augsburg South Africa FISCHER, Ulrich Confession in Romania Plenary Conference, Union of Romania TRACK, Joachim Evangelical Churches (UEK) Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Germany LALL, Subhashini Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Madhya FORNACON, Frank Pradesh WAGNER-BALICZA, Klára Baptist World Alliance India The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Germany Hungary MALPICA PADILLA, Rafael Hungary GENNADIOS OF SASSIMA, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Ecumenical Patriarchate USA Turkey

MUSAH, Esther C. Guests GRABER, Anne-Cathy Lutheran Church in Liberia Mennonite Church of France Liberia are persons invited by the LWF France to participate in the Assembly MYLLYS, Riikka part of the time or full time, i.e. GRAZ, John Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland former LWF presidents, general General Conference of Seventh-day Finland secretaries, representatives from Adventists other faith communities, host church USA NGOY MULUNDA, Michel guests, officials of the government Evangelical Lutheran Church in Congo in the host country or international GUMBONZVANDA, Nyaradzayi Democratic Republic of Congo organizations (e.g. United Nations). World YWCA Switzerland PFRIMMER, David Normally, they have neither the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada right to speak nor to vote, except if HAMID, David Canada requested to address the Assembly Anglican Communion with a greeting or such. Former LWF United Kingdom PIRKER-PARTAJ, Hedwig S. presidents and general secretaries may Evangelical Church of the Augsburg be granted the right to speak during HILTZ, Fred Confession in Austria the entire Assembly. Anglican Communion Austria Canada AUGOUSTINOS OF GERMANY PRILUTSKY, Alexander Ecumenical Patriarchate HOEKEMA, Alle The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Germany Mennonites Ingria in Russia Netherlands Russian Federation 185 Appendices

KASPER, Walter MWAMBA, Musonda Trevor S. VILLANUEVA, Ana Margarita Roman Catholic Church Anglican Communion World YWCA Vatican City Botswana Switzerland

KENDALL, Simon NAFZGER, Samuel H. VOIGT, Hans-Jörg Church of England International Lutheran Council Independent Evangelical-Lutheran United Kingdom USA Church (SELK) Germany KIESCHNICK, Gerald B. NATHANIEL, Leslie International Lutheran Council Church of England WENNER, Rosemarie USA United Kingdom Evangelisch-methodistische Kirche Germany KLAIBER, Walter NDLOVU, Danisa World Methodist Council Mennonite World Conference WILLIAMS, Rowan Germany Zimbabwe Church of England United Kingdom KLASSEN-HARDER, Karen NDUNA, John Mennonite World Conference ACT Alliance WOOD, Susan K. USA Switzerland Marquette University USA KLASSEN-HARDER, Jim NÜSSEL, Friederike Mennonite World Conference University of Heidelberg USA Germany Interpreters / KNUTH, Anton NYOMI, Setri Translators EMW Association of Protestant World Communion of Reformed Churches and Missions in Germany Churches are persons invited by the LWF Germany Switzerland to facilitate discussion at the Assembly through interpretation and KRAUSE, Christian PLENERT, Janet translation. Evangelical Lutheran Church in Brunswick Mennonite World Conference Germany Canada ALONSO, Leonor Switzerland KRISETYA, Mesach PLÜSS, Jean-Daniel Mennonite World Conference European Pentecostal Charismatic DEUSS, Kathrin Indonesia Research Association France Switzerland LOBE, Bert GINGLAS-POULET, Roswitha Mennonite World Conference REICHEL, Juergen France Canada Church Development Service (EED) Germany GRIFFITHS, Elaine LUBAALE, Nicta M. Germany African Instituted Churches ROBRA, Martin Kenya World Council of Churches JOACHIM, Angelika Switzerland Germany MAHN, Käte LWF German National Committee STAHL, Rainer KLINGENSMITH, Charles Germany Martin Luther Federation Japan Germany MARTIN SCHIEDEL, Karen LEE-RIEBEN, Silvia Mennonite World Conference STÅLSETT, Gunnar Switzerland Canada Church of Norway Norway LIENENKÄMPER, Isabel MILLER, Eleanor Germany Mennonite World Conference THEIL, Johannes France Old Catholic Church NAGY, Françoise Germany Switzerland MILLER, Larry Mennonite World Conference THÖNISSEN, Wolfgang PATER, Margaret A. France Roman Catholic Church Germany Germany MILLOY, Miller TATU, Evelyne United Bible Studies TÜRK, Matthias Switzerland United Kingdom Roman Catholic Church Vatican City MIRON, Constantin Ecumenical Patriarchate TVEIT, Olav Fykse Local Staff Germany World Council of Churches Switzerland MORENO, Magali are persons invited from the host Mennonite World Conference UNGER, Liesa church, the Evangelical Lutheran France Regensburg Mennonite Congregation Church in Württemberg, to provide Germany staff work at the Assembly. MÜLLER, Gerhard Ludwig Roman Catholic Church UNGER, Wilhelm ARNDT, Christine Germany Regensburg Mennonite Congregation Evangelical Lutheran Church in Germany Württemberg 186 Germany BAUSCH, Rudolf LINDNER, Karin In some cases, the right to speak is Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in granted, but not to vote. Württemberg Württemberg Germany Germany The following are headquarters staff, unless otherwise indicated: BREITHAUPT, Beate MATTAUSCH, Birgit Evangelical Lutheran Church in Germany ACHTELSTETTER, Karin Württemberg Germany RAUER, Stefan AUSTIN, Charles Germany ČULO, Michael BENESCH, Iris J. Evangelical Lutheran Church in SCHNEIDER, Ulrich Württemberg Evangelical Lutheran Church in BENGTSSON, Béatrice Germany Württemberg Germany BLOOMQUIST, Karen DITTERS, Christian eGenius IT-Ser v ice SCHULZE, Peter BOUKA COULA, Colette Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Württemberg BROWN, Mark GLOGGER, Christoph Germany Department for World Service Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jerusalem Württemberg SCHWINGHAMMER, Jasper Germany eGenius IT-Ser v ice BUCK, Erwin Germany GOLDENBAUM, Sven BUENO DE FARIA, Rudelmar Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH SMIERZEWSKI, Igor Germany Germany CAMADDO, Maryssa

GRUNER, Franziska STEINBACHER, Tanja CUMMINGS, Janis Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Württemberg DEBAL, Véronique GRÜTZMACHER, Dirk Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in EGGERT, Margit Württemberg THEIDING, Stefan Germany eGenius IT-Ser v ice GALLAY, Stéphane Germany GÜNTHER, Astrid GASPARIAN, Ani Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH TSALOS, Christian Germany Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH GFELLER, Doris Germany HILLER, Elke GRAUMANN, Sybille Volunteers Team ELCW UHLMANN, Lana Germany Germany HARAHAP, Ginda P.

HOSPACH, Julia VOHRALIK, Wenzel HELLFRITZ, Andrea Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Germany Germany HITZLER, Eberhard WALK, Thomas HURLING, Fernando eGenius IT-Ser v ice HOFFMANN-DENARIÉ, Claudia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Germany Württemberg HOVE, Simangaliso Germany WALTER, Eva Evangelical Lutheran Church in JOHNSON, Kathryn L. KELTSCH, Gabriele Württemberg Evangelical Lutheran Church in Germany JUNGE, Martin Württemberg Germany WERHAHN, Dirk LATVA-HAKUNI, Jukka Evangelical Lutheran Church in LAMPI, Fleming Württemberg LEAK, Ratna Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Germany Department for World Service Germany Cambodia WERNER, Johanna LANGEHEIN, Maurice Evangelical Lutheran Church in LEVERI, Mark Evangelisches Medienhaus GmbH Württemberg Department for World Service Associate Germany Germany Program Tanzania LIKUS, Barbara WIEMERS, Marie Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in LIM, Sally S. L. Württemberg Württemberg LWF Regional Office in Asia Germany Germany Singapore

LINDERMAYR, Jochen LYNAM, Barry Evangelical Lutheran Church in Württemberg LWF Staff MARTIN, Chandran P. Germany are staff at headquarters or in the field MATENDO, Lokiru Yohana who are needed for specific tasks. Department for World Service Kenya 187 Appendices

MICHEL, Marine WADDELL, Robert MABHANGE-ZIMUTO, Alexander Betseranai choir MILLER, Terri Zimbabwe

MOYO, Enos Observers MABHENA, Thandeka Faith Department for World Service Betseranai choir Zambia are representatives of LWF Recognized Zimbabwe Congregations and Councils as MUNYIK A, Veikko provided for in the LWF Constitution. MALUNGA, Gladys Betseranai choir MUSA, Panti Filibus They have neither the right to speak Zimbabwe nor to vote. MUTAMBA, Jean Lumpungu MAPHOSA, Simbarashe Department for World Service BRUCH, Thomas Betseranai choir Mozambique The Lutheran Council of Great Britain Zimbabwe United Kingdom NEUENFELDT, Elaine MAPOSA, Paul SALAZAR, Bertha Betseranai choir NIKOLAISEN, Hermine Evangelical Lutheran Church in Ecuador Zimbabwe Department for World Service Ecuador Rwanda MATUTU, Mitiyavo ZELLER, Hans Betseranai choir NOKO, Ishmael Mission One World Zimbabwe Germany POPPE, Duane MEHLO, Marvelous Betseranai choir PROVE, Peter Zimbabwe Official Visitors PRYSE, Heather MHERE, Sikhulile are persons invited by the LWF Betseranai choir RANTANEN, Pauli to perform certain tasks, and Zimbabwe ecumenical representatives from world RENFER, Rudolf communions with which the LWF has MINT BRAHIM, Bowbe engaged in close relationships. Department for World Service RIETH, Paul Mauritania They have the right to speak, but not ROZARIO, Marceline P. to vote. MINT MAISSARA, Salka Department for World Service Department for World Service Nepal ANTHONY SAMY, Joseph Mauritania United Evangelical Lutheran Churches SAKETA, Abebe Yohannes in India MOYO, Modina India Betseranai choir SCHEP, Jacob Koos Zimbabwe BENKIE, Joyful SCHLAGENHAFT, Frederick Betseranai choir MPOFU, Sarudzai Zimbabwe Betseranai choir SCHLOTT, Roland Zimbabwe CARNEGIE, Rachel SCHMIDT, Roger Peter Church of England MTEMBA, Shambadzirai United Kingdom Betseranai choir SCHMIDT PETER, Daniele Zimbabwe DRAGANESCU, Anca SCHNEIDER, Silvio Ecumenical Church Loan Fund NKOMO, Shumirai Department for World Service (ECLOF) Betseranai choir Colombia Switzerland Zimbabwe

SCHORPP, Geneviève DUBE, Omneti RINCON HERNANDEZ, Ros Mary Betseranai choir Evangelical Lutheran Church of SIHOTANG, Fernando Zimbabwe Colombia Colombia DUCHROW, Ulrich SINAGA, Martin L. Kairos Europa RODE, Julia Germany Church Development Service (EED) STRIEBEL, Karin Germany HINZ, Rudolf SYLLA, Jeannette Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme SCHINDEHÜTTE, Martin in Palestine and Israel (EAPPI) Evangelical Church in Germany TALL, Houleye Germany Germany Department for World Service Mauritania HOVE, Trywell SHAVA, Dainah Betseranai choir Betseranai choir THILBY-CHAO, Margarita Zimbabwe Zimbabwe

TILLIE, Myriam KAISER, Jürgen SHOKO, Davidzo erlassjahr.de Betseranai choir VALERIANO, Teresita Clemente Germany Zimbabwe LWF Regional Office in North America 188 USA SHUMIRAI, Moyo COSSA, Zelda Cristina LUMBANTOBING, Dirgos Betseranai choir Evangelical Lutheran Church in Christian Protestant Church in Zimbabwe Mozambique Indonesia Mozambique Indonesia SIWELA, Norah Betseranai choir DA SILVA DIEFENTHAELER, Sibeli MAGERO, Jared Otieno Zimbabwe Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya Confession in Brazil Kenya TANNOUS, Ashraf Brazil Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme MEJIA PORRAS, Israel Alejandro in Palestine and Israel (EAPPI) DIAZ VELASQUEZ, Martin Ignacio Evangelical Lutheran Church of Israel Salvadoran Lutheran Church Colombia El Salvador Colombia TSCHERNEK, Alexander Betseranai Choir ERIKSSON, Sanna Viktoria Gunilla MILLER, Naomi Mondayma Germany Church of Sweden Lutheran Church in Liberia Sweden Liberia TSURO, Simbarashe Betseranai choir ETTLIN FREY, Karen Andrea MOSES KATSABOLA, Agnes Zimbabwe Evangelical Church of the River Plate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malawi Uruguay Malawi

Representatives FONG, Lydia Wai Chung MUNARETTO, Pedro The Evangelical Lutheran Church of United Evangelical Lutheran Church are representatives from associate Hong Kong Argentina member churches as provided for in Hong Kong, China the LWF Constitution. PIDDYBSKA, Anastasiya GRÄPER, Moritz Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Representatives have the right to Church of Lippe (Lutheran Section) and Other States speak, but not to vote at the Assembly, Germany Ukraine and cannot hold elective office in the LWF. H ANAGA, Tsion RIOS CARRILLO, Sergio Eloy The Ethiopian Evangelical Church The Nicaraguan Lutheran Church of SEMMLER, Michael Mekane Yesus Faith and Hope Lutheran Church of Australia Ethiopia Nicaragua Australia HASIBUAN, Matur Parsaulian SIHOTANG, Eleven SMITH, Heidi Maree Christian Protestant Angkola Church Protestant Christian Batak Church Lutheran Church of Australia Indonesia Hong Kong, China Australia HORVATH-HEGYI, Dénes THOMAS, Helga The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jeypore Evangelical Lutheran Church Hungary India Stewards Hungary TOBLER, Heidrun are persons invited by the LWF from KABANYANA, Rita Evangelical Lutheran Church in member churches, which appointed Lutheran Church of Rwanda Southern Africa (Natal-Transvaal) them, to serve as stewards at the Rwanda South Africa Assembly. KEWAH, David Adobasom TUCKER, Anthony Mustapha ANASCO HINOSTROZA, Cristina Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ghana Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sierra Patricia Ghana Leone Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chile USA Chile KHLEIF, Lina The Evangelical Lutheran Church in VIVAS ACOSTA, Roger Marino BALAHURA, Milan Jordan and the Holy Land Christian Lutheran Church of Honduras Evangelical Church of Czech Brethren Jerusalem Honduras Czech Republic KLEBER, Raquel Helene BEEBE, Allison Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Confession in Brazil Visitors USA Brazil are persons attending the Assembly BENUCHOVA, Jana KOPP, Martin part of the time or full time. Normally, Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Protestant Church of the Augsburg these pesons are invividual members Confession in the Slovak Republic Confession of Alsace and Lorraine of a member church, from which an Slovak Republic France endorsement is requested.

BUTTON, Mary KOZIEL, Joanna They have neither the right to speak Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Church of the Augsburg nor to vote. USA Confession in Poland Poland BACH, Sandra COBO, Alfredo Former LWF Staff Member Lutheran Church in Chile LOFALANGA LUNGUDI, Tresor Germany Chile Evangelical Lutheran Church in Congo Democratic Republic of Congo BAUMANN, Kristin Luana Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA 189 Appendices

BENGSTON, Diane FELLMANN, Rüdiger LANGFORD, Victor Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Mennonites Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA Germany USA

BERGEN, Jürgen FELLMANN, Liselotte LARSON, Stephen Mennonites Mennonites Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Germany Germany USA

BERGEN, Maria FUNCK SPÄTH, Lennemarie LEYPOLD, Elke Mennonites Mennonites Institute for Ecumenical Research Germany Germany France

BERGGREN, David GARBER-CONRAD, Rebecca LORENZ, Dieter Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Active Voice Church of Lippe (Lutheran Section) USA Canada Germany

BERGGREN, Susan GONZALEZ, Graciela LOSANE, Rudite Evangelical Lutheran Church in America United Evangelical Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia USA Argentina Latvia

BERNHARDT, Gunther GRIENINGER, Wolfgang LUEDERS, Stephanie Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Evangelical Church of Westphalia USA Germany Germany

BROCKMANN, Manfred HAURY, Volker MTATA, Kenneth Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Mennonites Switzerland and Other States Germany Russian Federation MWAKABANA, Hance HAVRILLA, John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania BUCHER, Gerhard Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Tanzania Mennonites USA Germany NESDAHL, Gary HESSELLUND, Estrid Evangelical Lutheran Church in America BURKETT DEARHAMER, Timothy Church of Norway USA Lutheran Church in Great Britain Norway United Kingdom NIEPER, Jens IMPOLS, Aleksandrs Evangelical Church in Germany CERNIGLIA, Mark Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Abroad USA Australia OTTO, Neville Lutheran Church of Australia DAVID RAJU, Bejjam ISSLER, Hans Australia Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria India Germany OVERLAND, Marianne Norwegian Church Aid DEFFENBAUGH, Miriam JAHN, Christine Norway Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover USA Germany PUNNAIAH, Gadhla Saibu Good Shepherd Evangelical Lutheran DOBLER, Ursula JALLAH, JR., Tolbert Thomas Church Mennonites Lutheran Church in Liberia India Germany Togo RANI, Turram Esther DRIEDGER, Günther JOHNSEN, Jens-Petter Good Shepherd Evangelical Lutheran Mennonites Church of Norway Church Germany Norway India

DRIEDGER, Hanna JONES, Sandy REES-ROHRBACHER, Darhon Mennonites Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Germany USA USA

DRUVINA, Ilze KOCH, Heike REUTER, Christa Association of Lutheran Women Evangelical Church of Westphalia Lutherische Konferenz in Hessen und Theologians of Latvia Germany Nassau Germany Germany KÜHNEL, Gertraud EIDE, Sindre Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria ROTHERMUNDT, Gottfried Church of Norway Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Norway Württemberg KÜHNEL, Hartmut Germany ERWIN, Guy Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Germany RUDE, Brian USA Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada LANGFORD, Luana Canada FASTENRATH-WESTPHAL, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Christel USA SALZMANN, Reinhilde Evangelical Lutheran Church in Baden Mennonites 190 Germany Germany SCHAAD, Juan Pedro STASIUS, Margret WEISS, Ellen Evangelical Church of the River Plate Evangelische-Lutherische Kirche in Evangelische Kreditgenossenschaft eG Argentina Genf Germany Switzerland SEMMLER, Christine WESTPHAL, Hans Lutheran Church of Australia STEEBER, Mary Evangelical Lutheran Church in Australia Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Württemberg USA Germany SOLOMON RAJAN BABU, Asirvatham STEGMAIER, Herbert The Arcot Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover India Germany

SPRING, Paull STEINKE, Robin Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA USA

SPRING, Barbara VICTORIA GRACE, Nakka Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church USA India

191 Appendices

192

ISBN 978-3-905676-74-7