For the Healing of the World Official Report

The Lutheran World Federation Tenth Assembly Winnipeg, Canada, 21–31 July 2003

Parallel edition in German, French and Spanish: Zur Heilung der Welt – Offizieller Bericht Pour guérir le monde – Rapport officiel Para la Sanación del Mundo – Informe Official

Published by The Lutheran World Federation Office for Communication Services P.O Box 2100 CH-1211 Geneva 2 Switzerland

Editing, translation, revision, cover design and layout by LWF staff.

Other translation, revision by Elaine Griffiths, Dagmar Otzinger, Margaret Pater

Logo design by Erik Norbraten Additional copies available at cost from and Richard Nostbakken, Canada. The Lutheran World Federation All photos © LWF/D. Zimmermann Office for Communication Services unless otherwise indicated P.O Box 2100 CH-1211 Geneva 2 © 2004 The Lutheran World Federation Switzerland

Printed by SRO-Kundig, Geneva e-mail [email protected] phone +41 22 791 6370 ISBN 3-905676-34-6 Official Report LWF Tenth Assembly

Winnipeg, Canada, 21–31 July 2003

For the Healing of the World 2 The Lutheran World Federation Contents

Foreword ...... 7

The LWF from Hong Kong to Winnipeg...... 11 Address of the President ...... 11 Address of the General Secretary ...... 25 Report of the Treasurer ...... 39

Letter to the Member Churches ...... 47

Message from the Tenth Assembly...... 49 Introduction: The World in Need of Healing ...... 49 I. The Healing Gift of Justification ...... 50 II. The Healing Gift of Communion ...... 51 III. Healing Divisions within the One Church ...... 52 IV. The Mission of the Church in Multifaith Contexts ...... 54 V. Removing Barriers That Exclude ...... 56 VI. The Church’s Ministry of Healing ...... 57 VII. Justice and Healing in Families ...... 58 VIII. Overcoming Violence ...... 59 IX. Transforming Economic globalization...... 60 X. Healing Creation ...... 62 Conclusion ...... 63

Adopted Resolutions...... 65

Statements...... 71

Action Referred to the Council...... 77

Other Action ...... 81

For the Healing of the World ...... 83 Keynote Address – Bishop Dr Dr h.c. Margot Kässmann ...... 83 A Response to the Keynote Address: For the Healing of the World – Bishop Dr Wesley W. Kigasung, Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea ...... 95 A Response to the Keynote Address: For the Healing of the World – A Challenge for Latin America and the Caribbean – Ms Virginia Ivañez de Neyeloff ...... 99

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 3 Open Hearing on Indigenous Issues 29 July 2003 ...... 103 Introductory Remarks...... 103 Statements ...... 104

Message of the Pre-Assembly Youth Conference ...... 113 Executive Summary ...... 113

Report on Status of Visa Difficulties for LWF Tenth Assembly Participants, and Remarks ...... 117 Statement by the Council of the Lutheran World Federation ...... 120 Extraordinary Plenary Session 22 July 2003 ...... 121

Sermons ...... 133 Opening Eucharistic Service ...... 133 Closing Eucharistic Service ...... 141

Expression of Gratitude ...... 145

Governing Bodies of the Lutheran World Federation ...... 151 The Assembly ...... 151 The Executive Committee ...... 151 The Council ...... 152

Ecumenical Greetings ...... 157 Greeting from The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod ...... 157 Greeting from the Mennonite World Conference ...... 158 Greeting from the World Methodist Council ...... 159 Greeting from the Ecumenical Patriarch, His All Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew I ...... 160 Message from the World Council of Churches ...... 161 Greeting from the World Alliance of Reformed Churches ...... 162 Address of Walter Cardinal Kasper to the Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation ...... 163 Greeting from the International Lutheran Council ...... 165 Greeting from the Anglican Communion ...... 166 Greeting from the Lutheran Church – Canada ...... 167 Greeting from the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists ...... 168 Greeting from the Anglican Church of Canada...... 169 Greeting from the Leuenberg Church Fellowship ...... 171 Greeting from the United Church of Canada ...... 171 Greeting from the Union of Utrecht of the Old Catholic Churches ...... 172

4 The Lutheran World Federation Assembly Day-by-Day ...... 173 Opening Day ...... 174 Day 1 ...... 176 Day 2 ...... 178 Day 3 ...... 179 Day 4 ...... 180 Day 5 ...... 181 Day 6 ...... 183 Day 7 ...... 185 Day 8 ...... 186 Day 9 ...... 187 Day 10 ...... 188

Assembly Participants ...... 191 By categories...... 191 Alphabetical List ...... 209

Index...... 231

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 5 6 The Lutheran World Federation LWF Tenth Assembly, Winnipeg. Scarf-waving dancers grace the “LWF Presents Itself” plenary session.

Foreword

Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko

As we live through an Assembly of the ing, sharing and strengthening of the many Lutheran World Federation (LWF) we are spiritual bonds that exist among the people mindful of the fact that the church, by its of God. very nature, is an assembly (ekklesia). The The LWF brings churches from differ- LWF is a communion of churches, which ent nations into fellowship—some with are themselves assembled—primarily in fresh memories of wounds and scars from worship and in many other ways—in their combat or discord with one another. own localities. As an ecclesial commun- Through God’s grace and the sharing of a ion, the LWF also requires representative common faith in Christ, they are consti- assemblies at various levels, including at tuted into one body. the global level. Assemblies are necessary One of the very concrete and evident for joint counsel and action. They antici- aspects of an Assembly is the travelling pate the unity of the church that we seek. involved—the temporary taking leave of They provide a setting for eucharistic fel- one’s own setting to be with others in an- lowship—a place and opportunity for heal- other place chosen specifically for that

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 7 purpose. Freedom to travel and cross bor- of brokenness in our world showed its deep ders is essential to enable people from dif- need for healing. Nonetheless, it was impres- ferent countries and regions to meet and sive to see hundreds upon hundreds of par- build relations. But, as the Assembly ex- ticipants from over seventy countries gather perienced, such freedom of movement at the St Boniface Cathedral in Winnipeg for within the global village has become seri- the opening eucharistic service. The pres- ously hampered during the past two years. ence of so many people from different cul-

The Assembly plenary sessions took place in the Winnipeg Convention Centre. © Winnipeg Convention Centre

“The Forks” in downtown Winnipeg has been an important meeting place for more than 6,000 years. © Tourism Winnipeg/ D. Reede

tures, church environments and nationali- ties was in itself a strong expression of the conciliar dimension of such an assembly. The greetings brought by ecumenical guests were an affirmation of the LWF as a partial expression of the church universal. Delegates and official guests commit- ted themselves to a future marked by joint action in many spheres of church life. Careful reading of this report will provide a picture of the broad range of commit- ments made by this Assembly, giving di- rection to the kinds of programs that the LWF and its member churches are likely to prioritize in the next period. As in earlier Assemblies, daily busi- ness began with worship and Bible stud- Particularly painful for the LWF global ies organized on a regional basis: Africa, communion was to learn that as many as Asia, Central Western Europe, Central fifty delegates, all from developing coun- Eastern Europe, the Nordic Countries, tries—including some of the world’s poor- Latin America and the Caribbean, and est—would be denied visas and excluded North America. Each region presented a from our Assembly. This small but direct sign Bible study to illustrate how the selected

8 The Lutheran World Federation passage was experienced in that particu- lar region; so the Assembly could experi- ence the cultural diversity and flavor of the Lutheran communion. As was the case at the LWF Ninth As- sembly, the many topical issues of content were discussed in ten “Village Groups.” Every official participant was assigned to a “Village.” Each village provided its par- ticipants with a base from which they had an opportunity to effect the outcome of the Assembly. At the village level, participants could share with one another the life sto- ries of their church, nation, and more. They reflected together on the theme, on presen- tations made in the plenaries, and on spe- cific issues of common interest. This official Assembly Report provides a formal record of the Assembly message, resolutions, commitments and public statements, and of the spoken addresses and sermons preached. Minutes of the As- sembly will appear as a separate docu- ment. This report and the minutes are a vital aide-memoire for the LWF Council and member churches as they seek to de- fine areas of joint action in God’s mission. Future generations will review what we did on the basis of these records. Let me thank each and everyone who contributed to this Assembly—the member churches, the outgoing President, Council in Canada, its National Bishop Raymond 1997 LWF Ninth Assembly, Hong Kong. members, advisers to the committees, the L. Schultz and other bishops, the church Candles are lit at the former general secretaries of the LWF, ecu- staff and, not least, the large number of beginning of the Sunday menical guests, media representatives, the volunteers in yellow event bibs, who came Festival eucharistic service marking the 50th staff of the Federation, and the many oth- to Winnipeg mainly from all over Canada, Anniversary of the LWF. ers who assumed leadership roles. as well as from the United States, to do © LWF/P. Williams Very special thanks go to the host everything possible to lay the groundwork church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church for a good Assembly.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 9 10 The Lutheran World Federation LWF President Bishop em. Dr Christian Krause

The LWF from Hong Kong to Winnipeg

Address of the President on that common path. Others will stay be- (Translated from the original German text.) hind when the caravan moves on. The Bishop emeritus president is one of the latter. Dr Christian Krause At the end of our meeting, I shall un- doubtedly still have plenty of opportunity Ladies and Gentlemen, to say the farewells. Nevertheless, I do not Sisters and Brothers, wish to begin my last “President’s Ad- dress” without expressing what moves me This Assembly is both taking leave and personally most at this moment between making a new start. Those who were en- taking leave and making a new start, trusted six years ago in Hong Kong with namely a deep sense of gratitude to God the leadership of the Lutheran World Fed- for the gift of communion in Christ which eration (LWF), and with accompanying transcends all borders and divisions. And and advising on its various programs, will also my heart-felt thanks to the many come to the end of their term of office here people who have given me—and, when we in Winnipeg. Some will be setting out again traveled together, my wife and me—their

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 11 trust and overwhelming hospitality reach- I was five years old at that time and ing out to us like brothers and sisters be- experienced the consequences of capitu- cause of this communion. I then had the lation in a refugee family, as did hundreds strength to persevere even when the strain of thousands of other German, Russian, was great. That gave me the resolve to also Polish, Czech and Jewish children. We re- stand up for our cause before governments ceived the famous “Care” parcels from and the powerful of this world. In short, North America. The LWF, which was just right at the beginning, my cordial thanks! coming into existence, saw it as one of its Another word of thanks, which I abso- most important tasks to alleviate the suf- lutely must express at the start, is addressed fering of refugees in Europe. At the time, to all those who have prepared for this As- one in seven members of the Lutheran sembly and made it possible. I thank our host community was a refugee. church, its national bishop, Raymond That is an indelible part of our found- Schultz, the church leadership, the congre- ing history and for many of us it became gations and the many preparatory groups of the stimulus and leitmotif for an interna- the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada; tional church commitment to refugees and I thank the staff in Geneva with the general the poor—everywhere, in our member secretary, Ishmael Noko; I thank our mem- churches and beyond, in regions of crisis, ber churches and the many individuals who hunger and war worldwide. I have the im- have contributed to preparing the content pression that in all these decades the real and, not least, to financing this enterprise concern has always been to be able, out of which is so important for us. fervent concern and desire, to make a tan- gible contribution to the healing of the world. And a lot has been achieved. Year ... to make a tangible contribution in, year out, thousands of our sisters and to the healing of the world brothers work in the crisis regions of the world, often at risk of their own lives, build- ing huts and digging wells, caring for the When the LWF and, shortly afterward, the starving and sick, and demonstrating that World Council of Churches (WCC) were they are mediators and peacemakers: help founded in the middle of the twentieth cen- where help is needed irrespective of the tury following the inferno of the Second victim’s background. Thus, today, the LWF World War, there was a great yearning for a has become one of the major partners of new beginning in an atmosphere of peace the UN’s refugee agency, the United Na- and reconciliation. Even the enemies of yes- tions High Commissioner for Refugees. terday were included in the new ecumeni- There are so many stories I could tell cal fellowship that was evolving, when they about my visits to our member churches: opened their hearts, confessed their abys- stories of healing, stories of reconciliation, mal sin and asked their sisters and brothers stories of people who had reached rock for forgiveness. In the words of the Stuttgart bottom but were helped back onto their confession of guilt, at the end of the Second feet by the solidarity of sisters and broth- World War the German Protestant churches ers. There are so many signs of hope among faced up to their share of responsibility for us, lesser and greater miracles resulting dictatorship, war and the holocaust: “We ac- from trust in God’s mercy. And I am pro- cuse ourselves for not witnessing more cou- foundly grateful to be able to pass on the rageously, for not praying more faithfully, for stories, to be an ambassador of the recon- not believing more joyously and for not lov- ciliation that we experience in Christ. At ing more ardently.” That was the start of a this point, I am happy to express my re- new ecumenical dawn in the middle of the spect and appreciation to our more than twentieth century. 5,000 field staff of LWF World Service.

12 The Lutheran World Federation Yet here we are today, bewildered, help- Christian tradition. Hunger, poverty, dis- less, shocked, and we cannot believe our ease, underdevelopment, political depen- eyes: the world is falling apart. In the after- dency and refugee movements are prima- math of the revolution of 1989/90, we have rily characteristics of the part of the world been incapable of taking advantage of the in which other religions and cultures pre- new freedoms that accompanied the libera- dominate, or where Christian inculturation tion from the all-pervasive East-West con- has been experienced relatively late and flict, so as to enable justice, peace and the not infrequently only as a consequence of integrity of creation to become the global an imperialist policy of expansion. How- criteria for action in a global community. ever well meaning we may be, as Chris- On the contrary, from the very beginning of tians we have no solutions and are first and the new millennium there has been evi- foremost part of the problem. dence that humankind is afraid of itself, is In 1932, Dietrich Bonhoeffer gave an not sure of itself and is prepared to inflict answer which I wish to recall today because violence upon itself at any moment. it points us to the heart of our being church and to the place where conversion begins. “Are not all our conferences perhaps He said, “What are all so-called attempts at really born of an abysmal anxiety that international reconciliation, all the attempts it is in fact already too late to make at mutual understanding, all so-called inter- good from the despair what can no national friendships—necessary as they are longer be made good? Does not each of in themselves—in the light of this reality? us who is a serious member of this Such organizations are nothing, nothing, conference live through hours in which blown down like a house of cards… a feeling comes over him and will not leave him, that it is too late, that it is all “…Christ must become present to us in up with the church of Christ…? ...my preaching and in the sacraments just as friends, in all honesty, which of you has in being the crucified one he has made not known that anxiety that everything peace with God and with men. The which we undertake here as church crucified Christ is our peace. He alone action could be too late, superfluous, exorcises the idols and the demons. The even trivial?”1 world trembles only before the cross, not before us. On 29 August 1932, Dietrich Bonhoeffer asked these self-critical, penetrating ques- “And now the cross enters this world tions as youth secretary at a conference out of joint. Christ is not far from the of the World Alliance for Promoting Inter- world…his cross is in the midst of the national Friendship Through the Churches, world. And this cross of Christ now calls gathered at Gland near the lake of Geneva wrath and judgment over the world of in Switzerland. hate and proclaims peace. Today there I believe we cannot avoid asking the must be no more war—the cross will same questions; we cannot and must not not have it.”2 just get on with our agenda without first fac- ing up to our own real situation in an equally Set up the cross in a world that is falling self-critical way. It is impossible to ignore apart? If we take that seriously, it means that we, as part of worldwide Christianity, that we ourselves will be standing beneath are caught up in profound contradictions: the cross with our own lives that are fall- military and economic power, affluence ing apart, with our own unwillingness to and civil liberties, have accumulated to an be reconciled, and all the petty disputes unprecedented degree in the one third of which rob us of the energy for common humankind which has been marked by the witness and action. The cross is the place

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 13 of transformation from which we go colony to the People’s Republic of China— through death to life and see life through when we set out on a new stage as a Fed- death. This glimpse which hope has of life, eration, we did so with the relatively cer- this glimpse of “the dawn from on high,” tain conviction that the revolution of 1989/ opens our eyes to reality as it really is. 90, with the collapse of the vast Soviet em- “The believer sees reality not in a certain pire, had substantially changed the inter- light, but he sees it as it is and believes national system of coordinates and would only in God and his power towards all and continue to do so. In the accelerating pro- over all that he sees.”3 cesses of economic interchange with the What has that to do with our Assem- related crises and crashes in South East bly? We are not here as individuals inter- Asia and Argentina, we recognized new ested in this or that problem, nor to repre- threats to political stability. Our member sent the interests of our churches and coun- churches in the southern hemisphere tries; not to promote what we believe to be spoke very critically about neoliberalism. best for the world and also not as a church Against that background, my first ad- organization with an international pur- dress to the Council as president in 1998 in pose. Rather we have gathered as the Geneva was titled “Life Is More – Concern- worldwide church of Jesus Christ re- ing God’s Justice amidst Humankind.” My sponding to his call. We come together to concern was to identify the social and po- hear Christ. And we have gathered in the litical implications of the doctrine of justi- confidence that in the voices of brothers fication as they had become clear to me and sisters we can hear the voice of Christ especially during my first continental jour- himself, that we shall not escape this voice ney visiting our Lutheran churches in Cen- but take it most seriously, listen to it and tral and Latin America. There can be no love others precisely in their otherness. peace without justice. And there can be no Solus christus, Christ alone, as we con- justice as long as human life is reduced to fessed together with the Roman Catholic food and clothing, the market, business, Church in the Joint Declaration on the achievement and success. Therefore, Doctrine of Justification (JDDJ), is the only “…strive first for the kingdom of God and reliable source from which healing flows his righteousness, and all these things will to us, and which first enables us to experi- be given to you as well”(Mt 6:33). ence salvation ourselves in the midst of In order for this “added value,” to which our contradictions. the gospel points, to go on influencing the shaping of human life, we shall have to continue the battle resolutely in the future Solus christus, Christ alone ... is the as well. We have been pursuing this theo- logical and—inseparably from it—this only reliable source from which socio-ethical line in the past years, and healing flows to us the JDDJ was also able to demonstrate its relevance precisely in this connection. After nearly 500 years of bitter conflict In light of these fundamental reflec- which divided Europe and caused wars, tions, I shall again review some of my ex- persecution and displacement, Lutherans periences during the six years of our time and Roman Catholics have been able to together. In so doing, I shall limit myself, state together that the doctrine of justifi- above all, to the main themes of our an- cation by grace alone through faith is the nual Council meetings. central Christian message also for the twenty-first century. It is a great joy for In 1997 in Hong Kong—immediately fol- me that we were able to reach this under- lowing the return of the former crown standing; it is also the most significant

14 The Lutheran World Federation theological outcome of the years during invited leading representatives of the Or- which I was allowed to lead the LWF. thodox churches, the WCC and many The doctrine of justification is cer- Christian world communions including the tainly not some distant theological dis- Anglicans and Lutherans. That was a hope- pute, far removed from the reality of our ful ecumenical beginning. lives; it concerns the decisive experience A few months later, at the 2000 Council of faith. Whatever we do as Christians and meeting in Turku, Finland, we analyzed and churches, and wherever we may do it in acknowledged the new quality of relations this shrinking world, the salvation of the between Lutherans and Roman Catholics. world, like the salvation of our own lives, Even the appearance of the declaration does not depend on us. It is the result of Dominus Iesus did not change that. Domi- God’s grace alone. Without God’s grace nus Iesus was not intended as a document there can be no justice. That is true for all against the Lutheran churches but, rather, of us: for the affluent societies of the North defines for the Roman Catholic Church in- as well as for the poor in the South. ternally the Roman Catholic understand- At the 1999 meeting of the LWF Coun- ing of the Church which it feels must es- cil in Bratislava, Slovak Republic, we dis- sentially be maintained. Indeed, we have cussed the right to cultural identity and all become somewhat more sensitive when integrity. For me, the starting point for the core areas of our faith are concerned. question of culture was the experience following 1989/90 that, even for the post- So, at what point do we say, “That is some- communist societies of Central and East- thing we cannot give up.” For us as ern Europe in which, with the exception of Lutherans it is the “fourfold solus”: Christ Poland, Christians had normally become alone, the Holy Scriptures alone, by grace minorities, the Bible had nevertheless re- alone, through faith alone. That alone is mained or was again to become the key to what we cannot renounce because it is the understanding their own culture and val- foundation of our church. Concentrating ues. So I was able to observe on many vis- on this core gives us the freedom to be- its to our churches in Central and Eastern lieve that unity is still possible even where Europe how strongly the churches had others close doors for the sake of tradi- been involved in the process of European tions. That is the reason why we can talk re-cultivation and that they serve as pil- with everyone. Therefore we know we are lars on which bridges could be laid to a called to the table of the Lord with all the new, united Europe. baptized in the worldwide “community of As Europe comes closer together after communities,” to celebrate Holy Commun- all the years of profound political and ideo- ion where he is the host for us all. He alone! logical division, it remains a key question We also wish that our Roman Catholic sis- how, in view of the challenges we face in ters and brothers will be able to keep this our time, a community of values and ac- invitation open ecumenically, and we go tion can develop which has roots in the on repeating this wish for the sake of com- Christian tradition and is open at the same munion in Christ. time to other religious cultures. In this con- It is important for us to preserve this text, the statement of a leading represen- openness and commitment which has a tative of the Hungarian government dur- theological basis—and to do so both inter- ing a conversation when I was visiting nally and outwardly. Confessional igno- Budapest is of relevance: “One cannot be rance or relativization leads to arbitrari- a European without knowing the Bible.” ness. Ecumenism is not a question of We welcomed the new millennium in shades of gray. On the other hand, January 2000 in Rome with an ecumeni- confessionalist exclusiveness, which is cal worship service to which the Pope had primarily interested in drawing moral or

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 15 other kinds of lines against others, leads us the figure has almost tripled with 136 into an anti-ecumenical ghetto. In fact, member churches from seventy-six coun- openness and binding commitment are tries. And we can observe that this consid- equally constitutive for the ecumenical di- erable extension of the global network of mension of the Lutheran confession and the the LWF essentially comprises churches clear stand of the communio lutherana. and countries in the southern hemisphere. This tendency is growing year by year. The next two meetings of the Council, 2001 Behind these bare figures, there is a shift and 2002, had each been planned for in emphasis from the North to the South Jerusalem but were held in Geneva, the city which has considerable consequences of Calvin, and in Wittenberg, the city of theologically, ecclesiologically and sub- Luther, because the unending spiral of vio- stantially that go far beyond size as such. lence made it inadvisable to hold an inter- I should like to try and illustrate that national meeting in the Holy Land. But we briefly on two levels. took up the theme of our Palestinian sister church and it became one of our central In the North Atlantic region, there is grow- concerns: “The Church – Called to a Minis- ing interest in strengthening the Christian try of Reconciliation.” We have invested world communions and in developing forms much time and effort and money in the min- of ecumenical cooperation and community istry in the Holy Land. For this I should like between them. With the exception of the to thank all those who have been prepared JDDJ between the worldwide Roman to postpone their requests for support so Catholic Church and the LWF, the most im- that, for example, the Augusta Victoria Hos- portant agreements along these lines have pital, the schools, educational institutions been based exclusively in the North Atlan- and, above all, the congregations have been tic area and their validity is limited to that able to continue their vitally important min- region—be it Leuenberg, Porvoo or istry. I shall be coming back to this later, Meissen for Europe, or the developments but at this juncture I wish to express my in Canada and the USA. Naturally, we must great respect for our church there under welcome the fact that the churches of the the committed leadership of our brother, Reformation have found the way to new Bishop Munib Younan, and to assure him forms of communion among themselves and his church of our unfailing solidarity. and with the Anglican Church and others. These few comments on the Council But all of that seems only marginally to af- meetings during our period in office must fect the reality and life of the churches in suffice as “spotlights” for now. The whole the South. It rather seems to mean dealing breadth of the programs and plans will be with the European history of theology and spelled out further in the general the church in order to improve and extend secretary’s report later on. the ecumenical capacity of the North. The To get an impression of where we stand same applies to the often painstaking today and of the decisive prospects for to- struggle to find forms of spiritual commun- morrow, allow me now to broaden our dis- ion with the Orthodox churches. It is hard cussion still further and take a look at the to tell at present what consequences these condition and development processes of ecumenical processes will have at the North Christianity on a global scale. Atlantic level for the historical churches If I start by looking at our Lutheran com- and confessional families. Will there be a munion, there have been major, far-reach- missionary upsurge? The massive effects ing changes. When the LWF was estab- of secularization and of the religious and lished in 1947, it had forty-seven member ideological vacuums left after the political churches almost exclusively from coun- changes of 1989/90 call urgently for a re- tries of the North Atlantic region. Today, shaping of the church at all levels. But some

16 The Lutheran World Federation of the old churches have become tired and church leadership for their great mission- are revolving around their shrinking size. ary success, I also found myself looking into The developments at present in our worried faces among my Ethiopian broth- member churches and among Christians ers and sisters. “We are growing beyond in general in the southern part of the world control.” Things are getting out of hand. Nor- are totally different. Instead of shrinking mal administrative structures are not suffi- membership like in many parts of the cient to manage, and funds are running out North, here we can often observe consid- on all fronts, while they are badly needed to erable growth. The explosion of numbers create an organizational structure that relates first and foremost to charismatic, reaches everyone, and to have enough theo- spirit-filled congregations and communi- logically trained workers. ties. In the place of a parochial focus with its institutions and organizational struc- tures, they comprise very diverse expres- Whether it be in the favelas of Latin sions of spiritual movements. Whether it America or the townships of South be in the favelas of Latin America or the townships of South Africa, among the Africa ... people are celebrating their nearly 200 million Dalits, those without communion in Christ... caste or rights throughout India, or among the so-called “shepherds” in the impover- ished urban and rural areas of Madagas- One thing seems clear to me: the future car—everywhere, and usually in situations of the Christian community in the world and of abject poverty, people are celebrating its effect on the destiny of humankind will their communion in Christ, allowing them- mainly depend on whether and how the his- selves to be carried by the power of God’s torical confessional churches can be suc- spirit into dimensions of hope and salva- cessfully integrated with the diverse char- tion in places where otherwise hopeless- ismatic congregations and movements, or ness and brokenness set the tone. if it is at least possible to hold them together Expressions of spirituality lived out in in an ecumenical alliance. In this, the WCC, this way have long since also reached the above all, will have a key role. Do we al- historical churches in the regions of the ready know how and whether we are able South. That also applies to the Lutherans. to pray and work together at all? Shall we The tremendous growth of the Lutheran stand up together for common concerns? church in Madagascar would be unthink- And who will integrate whom? Finally, what able without its considerable success in does charismatic expression here and well- integrating the “shepherds,” the popular ordered establishment there imply for the charismatic movement. cohesion of a Christian world communion My last visit abroad before this Assem- which believes itself on the way to a bly was to the Ethiopian Evangelical Church communio, to a committed global com- Mekane Yesus (EECMY). I have had close munion? Will the theological heart in the contacts with this church since the early proclamation of the gospel dry up here in 1970s. At that time, it had about 700,000 the face of indifference and individual ar- members and was thus approximately as big bitrariness or a non-committal discourse as the Evangelical Lutheran Church in about general values, and will it be swept Brunswick where I was bishop until recently. away there by speaking in tongues, spirit- Whereas the latter now has close to 420,000 filled healing worship and ecstasy? members, meaning it has shrunk by about These questions are still absolutely open. 40 percent, since that time the EECMY has They are extremely serious because, at the just topped four million. When I emphasized same time, they raise the question of how the that full of admiration, and praised the Christians in the world, and with them the

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 17 international Lutheran community, will be parts of the world, the population is growing able to meet the special challenges of the more quickly than the economy, and envi- twenty-first century. In what follows, I should ronmental resources are becoming scarcer. like in all brevity to try and take this up in In many countries, political instability pre- order, as I hope also to contribute a few ideas dominates and can even lead to anarchy and to the discussions of the next few days on the civil war, and sometimes—like at present in future shape of the LWF and its programs. northeast Congo—even to genocide. And then, in addition to all this suffer- At the beginning of the twenty-first cen- ing, there is also AIDS, the modern scourge tury, the world’s appearance has changed of humanity. More than 40 million people dramatically. For almost half a century it worldwide have been infected with the HIV was divided into two major power blocs: virus and more than 20 million have already the West and the East, NATO [North Atlan- died of AIDS—most of them in the poor tic Treaty Organization] and the Warsaw countries of the world. In those countries— Pact. Each had an enormous arsenal of according to UN predictions—half of nuclear armaments at its disposal. This today’s 15-year-olds will finally die of this mutual, mortal deterrent for decades safe- disease, even if the rate of infection de- guarded a peace which was in fact always creases in the next few years. If it does not, threatened. Under the surface, innumer- then two thirds of the young people will die able “proxy wars” were taking place. of AIDS. Beneath this East-West conflict there Those are unbelievable, shocking fig- was a new, constantly growing conflict, ures. We can hardly imagine the human namely, that between the North and South, catastrophes hidden behind the figures. At between the rich and poor parts of the the same time, this disease implies a ter- world. Anyone who knew not only the North rible economic disaster for these coun- (as was always the case in the LWF) was tries. Indeed, very often the developmen- aware that the North-South conflict was tal successes achieved with great diffi- certainly less dangerous in a military culty again will be destroyed by the con- sense (simply because the South never sequences of AIDS. was capable of posing a military threat to Poverty and AIDS are the first great chal- the North) but seen in the long term, knew lenge for the international community in that politically it was more important for the twenty-first century. The second chal- the survival of humankind. lenge is peace. When the Soviet Union van- ished from the face of the earth, and with it the East-West conflict, many political Poverty and AIDS are the first great prophets thought this was the start of an age of eternal peace. They were mistaken. challenge for the international community in the twenty-first century. I do not know how many wars are being fought in the world at present. Each one is one too many. We all remember one war That is exactly how it turned out. The which has only just come to an end—the East-West conflict is now history. The So- war in Iraq. It has taught us three things: viet Union has disappeared. Europe has surmounted its division. The USA and Rus- - The only remaining superpower, the sia are no longer enemies but partners. USA, is now militarily so superior that But the North-South conflict is still going it does not need to fear any military on or, rather, it is becoming more acute each opponent in the world. And it has re- year. The gap between rich and poor coun- solved to use war as a political means tries is getting wider and wider. In the poor when that serves its own interests.

18 The Lutheran World Federation - The UN did reject this war by a ma- of international terrorism in recent times jority in the Security Council but have had a primarily Islamic background. were too weak to prevent it. And the The assassins of 11 September 2001 were protests by millions of people right all fanatical Muslims. Osama bin Laden’s around the globe had no effect. al Qaeda proclaims its “Holy War” in the name of Allah. That was behind the terror - International law cannot safeguard attacks in various parts of the world. peace if the USA do not respect this But, precisely because this is the case, international law and prefer to re- what really matters is that we should not place it by the right of the mighty one. equate Islam or any other religion per se with terrorism. Some 1.2 billion people in But in the twenty-first century peace is not the world are Muslims. Only a minute num- only threatened by wars which states ber of them sympathize with terrorism. Fun- wage against one another. That danger, in damentalism can be found equally in other my view, will probably decline. Instead, religions, including Christianity and Juda- there is a new threat to world peace. ism. All three Abrahamic religions have the Namely, private violence unrelated to the potential on the one hand, for violent fa- state. It occurs in two forms: where na- naticism and, on the other, for enlighten- tional order disintegrates it takes the form ment and tolerance or, politically speak- of anarchy and “warlords” take control ing, for the rule of law and separation be- (often engaging child soldiers to fight for tween church and state. The struggle them, as presently in Liberia). The other against terrorism must embrace all coun- form of privatized violence is terrorism. tries of the world as far as possible, also As a rule, it is not the product of mere de- and especially those with a predominantly light in violence. It is used rather as a last Muslim population. But it must never be- weapon by people who feel humiliated come a clash of civilizations or even of re- and express their hopeless inferiority by ligions. What is imperative for the twenty- hatred and destruction. first century is not a crusade against Islam That does not make this violence more but peace among religions and a common attractive because its victims are almost struggle of the religions against terrorism always innocent civilians, whether on Bali and its contempt for human beings. or in Jerusalem, in Nairobi or Dar es Sa- laam, in Washington or New York. For the twenty-first century, it is no longer suffi- What is imperative for the twenty-first cient for states to commit themselves to century is not a crusade against Islam resolve their mutual conflicts by peaceful means. They need to form global alliances but peace among religions... to combat terrorism together and to guar- antee their citizens civilized life in soci- ety. But it has also become clear that the In these major challenges of the twenty- fight against terrorism cannot be sepa- first century, what is the role of Christians rated from the struggle for justice and hu- and especially of Lutherans? Are we still man dignity. needed at all? Did the Christian voice play In the process, a major new challenge an important part in the major disagree- has arisen, namely, the question of how ments that preceded the Iraq war? Of the world community deals with religious course, Pope John Paul II spoke out with communities and their radical fringes. Un- unusual intensity. That was also registered fortunately, this question is closely related worldwide. And the LWF took a clear stand to the fight against terrorism. There is no in statements by the Council and Execu- doubt that the most dangerous expressions tive Committee. In this connection, I want

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 19 to express my respect and thanks espe- did not want to prescribe things for the cially to the representatives of our mem- churches in the South but rather to listen ber church in the USA which emphatically when they said what they needed. But be- supported our appeals. But at the same hind this there was the hidden assumption: time we must ask self-critically: What You will tell us the problem and we will were we really able to achieve? tell you the solution. Today we are aware, Or we can look at the Palestinian con- not only that we frequently did not know flict where there is a life-threatening con- the solution, but also that we ourselves frontation between Judaism and Islam. Are have been part of the problem which needs there any expectations toward Christians solving. Indeed, our wealth would be un- in view of this conflict? Does anyone be- thinkable without the poverty of the poor. lieve they can work convincingly for a de- We Christians also have experience escalation of violence and to restart the with peace. In the course of decades of peace process, or are they perceived like ecumenical community, we have learnt to the rival confessions in the Church of the stand up for peace on a global scale. We Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem: noisy, di- have banned war as a means for states to vided, incapable of peace among them- deal with their conflicts. We do not believe selves and therefore completely incapable that security can be guaranteed by mili- of serving as peacemakers between Jews tary threats. and Palestinians? But we also have to admit two things. Firstly, we do not agree among ourselves. And the US government which engaged in The conceptions of a “just war” are the war against Iraq was also supported in that by millions of pious US Christians. just as ineffective today as those of Secondly, in our theology of peace one big radical pacifism. problem still remains unsolved: The con- ceptions of a “just war” are just as ineffec- tive today as those of radical pacifism. This I believe we Christians have grounds becomes particularly obvious when we for modesty when we reflect on our role in look at the threats to the world from priva- the conflicts of this world. But we should tized violence unrelated to the state. Natu- also not exaggerate this modesty. In cer- rally, on the part of the church there can tain areas we, the Christian churches, have be nothing other than a resolute “No” to genuine, long-established competence. terrorism with its horrifying toll of civil- Probably first and foremost in relation to ian lives. But are we prepared on the other the issue of poverty. This competence hand, where terrorism is the despairing comes from the center of our faith. The though misguided response to humiliation gospel is a gospel of the poor and for the and poverty, to join actively in working to poor. God’s justice does not capitulate change the situation? when faced with the injustice of the world. Finally, the encounter between Chris- We stand on firm ground not only in the tianity and Islam: This problem is espe- theological context. We also have a lot of cially dear to my heart because it is so experience from five decades of church new for most of us. There has been inten- cooperation in development. However, we sive dialogue between Christians and also often have had to correct our views. Jews at many levels in the past decades— Today we recognize that, behind all the also within the framework of the LWF. Both idealism with which we initially entered sides have benefited from that. But the into this cooperation, there was quite an massive, unavoidable compulsion to dia- amount of false superiority on the Euro- logue has often only become so intense as pean side. We did say at the time that we a result of the experience of the Holocaust.

20 The Lutheran World Federation Must there first be a similar catastrophe the formula “reconciled diversity.” Should before Christians and Muslims begin a dia- we not work for the same goal of “recon- logue with one another? ciled diversity” in the relations between At present, we know far too little about Christianity and Islam? one another. The world of Islam with its At Beit Jala in the Holy Land, our strong religiosity, fidelity to tradition and Lutheran member church there is work- its apportionment of roles for women, ing on a beautiful project, “Abraham’s which we find unacceptable, is foreign to House,” in which many churches and con- most of us and makes many feel uneasy. gregations from all over the world are in- Foreignness and fear give rise to preju- volved. This is a place where the children dices and prejudices between religions of Abraham, namely, Jews, Muslims and can become dangerous—church history is Christians, are to enter into conversation full of examples. with one another in the quest for peace So we have to begin to get to know one that we wish for, invoking the one God. We another, to become curious about one an- need to build many such “Abraham’s other and to invite one another. That is Houses” in this world. I would wish that easier said than done. But how would it be Lutherans and Lutheran churches devote if the leadership of Christian churches tried plenty of energy and enthusiasm to this to enter into dialogue with leading repre- construction work for peace! sentatives of Islam; if theological facul- ties were to start a dialogue with Islamic Where is the LWF Going? scholars (which would presuppose that the The motto chosen to guide this Assem- former begin to read the Koran); and, above bly has been taken from a visionary text of all, if structures could be set up so that the Bible. In the imagery of the Book of young people from both sides could meet Revelation, two women are contrasted: the and learn from one another? whore, Babylon, (Rev 17:1) and the bride Here we must be clear about one thing, of the Lamb (Rev 21:9). On the one hand, in Islam as a whole, and not just on its ter- the threat to the world, the one world power, rorist fringes, a tremendous amount of an- Rome, dominating everything and tram- ger and often also of hatred has accumu- pling everything under its feet, a real and lated against the West and its way of life. painful experience for all those who In the eyes of most Muslims, we Christians crossed its path. On the other, the Heav- are part of the West—and therefore part of enly Jerusalem visible only to the Seer, the problem. The fact that the president of the great vision of the new heaven and the the USA expressly cited Christian convic- new earth, of a new creation: living water tions in favor of the Iraq war was the best and the tree of life with leaves that serve confirmation of such Muslim prejudices. as therapy for the nations (Rev. 22:1-2), in As long as we go on deceiving ourselves other words, “for the healing of the world.” about this, the dialogue cannot succeed. The heavenly Jerusalem is not built by Thus, there must be no crusade against human beings. The forces for healing the Islam. What we need instead is dialogue broken and wounded come “from the throne with a will for peace and which therefore of God and of the Lamb” (Rev 22:1), not from tries to strengthen the potential within Is- the weapons manufacturers and power lam which is geared to non-violence, tol- centers of this world and also not from our erance and human rights. So it is a matter own ability and action. Sola gratia still ap- of attempting to find common ground, very plies; we can hope for healing only from much as we have done in the internal the fullness of God’s gifts of grace; sola fide, Christian ecumenical dialogue. For the on that alone can we set our trust. relations between the Christian churches, That is the last and perhaps the only after many years of effort we have adopted hope of the poor. This is where you can

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 21 understand the power of the cross. This is munions as well. Here, too, high priority where God’s closeness is celebrated, must be given to using the global instru- which promises healing in the midst of the ment of the LWF so that we do not witness slums of this world. This is where frontiers new splits, breaks and alienations instead are transcended and bridges come into of a consolidation of the communio. Years existence spanning the yawning gaps be- ago, I proposed a conference on the sub- tween North and South, poor and rich; and ject of the charismatic movements, which this is where we can dare to speak hope- was then held in Arusha, Tanzania. But that fully about a communio, a new commun- is not sufficient because there are hardly ion in Christ. Can we really do so? any tangible results available. There is also Would it be possible, at least within the an essential issue for theology. Can we for- limited framework of a confessional but mulate a common conception of the nonetheless also worldwide communion, church—and even of a confessional to commit to each other in this way? The church—and live it out? However much call for communio, which has been dis- progress may have been made by the ecu- cussed among us with growing intensity menical dialogue between the historical in recent years, is not primarily a call for churches themselves in many places, the humanitarian aid in view of poverty and challenge to dialogue and to common wit- AIDS—however important that may still ness to the faith is still just as real between be, but a call to a worldwide community of these churches and the charismatic move- trust and hope in discipleship of Jesus ments. It is a major concern of mine in this Christ. Are we ready for this—the rich with context to mention a third group of Chris- the poor? tian churches and communities which must For the future work of the LWF, I con- also be included in the common search for sider it more important to link and coordi- a common path of discipleship of Jesus nate the relevant local or regional initia- Christ. I am referring to the more conser- tives and information on a global scale, vative evangelical churches and congre- rather than devoting much effort to distrib- gational groups, especially in North uting the constantly decreasing funds for America, which, at present at least, have a individual inter-church projects after ap- lasting and—as I have tried to show—ex- propriate examination by the Geneva staff. tremely problematic influence on US for- The communio does not need administra- eign policy and thus on prevailing world tive centralism! The special character of politics. We need to talk about this together the LWF structure must be used better in and must not just go our separate ways. view of the new challenges, namely, so that Anyone who wants to contribute to over- the regional or national member churches, coming religious fundamentalism with all which commit themselves to a binding its dangers including terrorism and, at the communio, are brought out of their pro- same time, to preventing neo-liberal arbi- vincialism or individualism into a global trariness and lack of commitment, must dimension of prayer and action, into a com- start by putting their own worldwide Chris- munity of sharing: the gospel—the good tian house in order. We need new ecumeni- news of the Savior for the poor. cal models in order to meet one another, The Christians in the South, and thus also across our internal barriers, to deal especially among the poor and those who constructively with existing controversies are in so many ways underprivileged and and to be able to celebrate worship to- deprived of their rights, are growing in num- gether. I suspect that models of this kind bers with a great wealth of forms of spiritu- will take more the form of movements of ality, and their charismatic movements are faith than of institutional church structures. increasingly changing the historical We shall need to try things out with plenty churches and their Christian world com- of imagination and commitment.

22 The Lutheran World Federation Once again, I wish to emphasize for the LWF nothing more than arbitrariness to offer or that theological work is also required here. a retreat into the private sphere, one is not I remember how in 1970, when I was a staff fit for dialogue beyond one’s own realm, member of the LWF, the decision was taken nor for proclamation in the congregation. to change the “Theology” department into “A city built on a hill cannot be hid” (Mt a department of “Studies.” Whether because 5:14). The clear, public confession of Jesus of a bad conscience or general uncertainty, Christ remains the mission of all Chris- theology was later added to studies again tians in the twenty-first century as well. in the name of the corresponding LWF de- There are enormous tasks ahead of us. partment. The LWF general secretariat has Under the cloak of poverty and AIDS lies a had a separate office for ecumenical rela- seemingly boundless amount of injustice, tions. The Strasbourg Institute for Ecumeni- hunger, sickness, refugee movement, op- cal Research, France, often only has a pression and humiliation at all levels of loose link with all of this. That is not a con- human existence. In the next few days, that vincing approach and does not promise the will be spelled out further in the Village drive required for our contribution to the Groups. The task will be to mark out paths ecumenical theology and ecclesiology so to justice and to preserving the dignity of urgently needed. God’s creation and to identify such paths Let us expand our view even further to for the future work of the LWF. The same include interreligious dialogue, in this applies to drawing up models of unity, glo- case above all between the children of bal understanding and reconciliation to Abraham. There, too, both things are bridge the painful rifts that threaten peace needed: openness and respect for others, in this world of ours. inquisitiveness to learn something new Under such a heavy burden of unavoid- and the wish and will to find and to follow able tasks, we could only break down or at common paths to peace. That again re- least become resigned if there were no quires major involvement of the LWF as hopeful perspectives and no clear indica- an international coordinating and support- tions of the goal. However true it may be ing instrument in the ecumenical concert. that we cannot build the heavenly Jerusa- Otherwise the distortion and perversion of lem in our own strength, it is equally true the struggle for oil and water into a reli- that, when we trust in the grace and mercy gious war can scarcely be excluded. of God, God’s power grows within us like The demand for dialogue with the within the leaves on the tree of life—so that world religions and especially with Islam we can serve for the healing of the world. includes the demand that we clarify our own position and express it distinctly. If ... when we trust in the grace and you do not show your colors, your color cannot be recognized. At this point the mercy of God, God’s power grows LWF has wavered uncertainly in recent de- within us like within the leaves on the cades, changing its “Department of World Mission” into one of “Church Cooperation” tree of life... with much feeling at the Assembly in 1970, and finally adopting the usual addition pro- So we take up the call to plant the cross cess to call it “Mission and Development.” of Jesus Christ in the midst of this world One can debate the name but the mandate which is falling apart: God with human- must have clear content. The basic stand kind in the very depths of poverty, suffer- of faith in the Savior Jesus Christ and the ing and fear. “…he will wipe every tear core message of Holy Scripture must be from their eyes. Death will be no more; distinct, constantly brought up to date, au- mourning and crying and pain will be no dible and acceptable to others. If one has more, for the first things have passed away.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 23 And the one who was seated on the throne May God bless you and all of us—that said, ‘See, I am making all things new’.” we may discuss with commitment, joy- (Rev 21:4-5). May this dimension of faith fully celebrate our communion in Christ, which emanates from the theme of the As- take wise decisions and in everything sembly inform our work here and in the follow Jesus as true disciples. God be years ahead of us in an encouraging way. with you!

Notes

1 No Rusty Swords. Letters, Lectures and Notes 1928–1936 from the Collected Works of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Vol I. New York and Evanston: Harper & Row, Publishers, 1965, p. 183.

2 Dietrich Bonhoeffer, ibid., p. 187.

3 Ibid., p. 183.

24 The Lutheran World Federation LWF General Secretary Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko

Address of the General Lutheran Church in Canada (ELCIC) Secretary through its National Bishop Raymond L. Schultz, the synod bishops, retired bish- Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko ops and members of the church council. We are aware that countless hours of dedi- Introduction cated work have been invested beyond the call of duty by the Assembly Local I greet you delegates, representatives of Committee, the staff of Canadian member churches, official and ecumeni- Lutheran World Relief, pastors, students, cal guests, visitors, colleagues and and numerous volunteers. friends. Finally, we are here. Canada was We are grateful to them and the many once described by a leading historian as others who assisted in relating to the po- a land of incredible possibilities, and the litical authorities in relation to the denial prairie provinces as the “home” of Cana- of visas to some Assembly participants. dian hospitality. This is truly confirmed With gratitude, I acknowledge the role by the way we have been received by the played by the various provincial and fed- host church. In this connection, let me ex- eral parliamentarians who supported our press gratitude to the Evangelical request, and by the media in drawing the

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 25 attention of the Canadian churches, the We Live in a Wounded World public and international community to this issue. We deeply regret that, despite these The church is called to witness its faith in efforts, some representatives of our glo- Christ as savior and healer. In this task, it bal communion have been prevented from is continuously challenged by the ever- joining us here in this Assembly. changing contexts of a world broken by I wish to recognize the presence of sin. But this world is God’s world. And as Bishop Dr Margot Kässmann of the Evan- church we must in faith do our utmost to gelical Lutheran Church of Hanover who consider the world and live in it with what will deliver the keynote address tomorrow we believe is God’s own love and concern. morning, as well as the responders to her Two years ago when the theme of this address, Bishop Dr Wesley Kigasung of the Assembly was chosen, we were mindful of Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua the fact that the world is a wounded world. New Guinea and Ms Virginia Ivañez de Since that time developments around the Neyeloff of the Evangelical Lutheran globe have confirmed the significance and Church in Venezuela. I also recognize and timeliness of this theme. In Trondheim, Nor- welcome, among our numerous distin- way, the Conference of European Churches guished guests, Dr André Appel, former recently held its assembly around a similar general secretary of the Lutheran World theme, “Jesus Christ Heals and Reconciles Federation (LWF). I am asked to convey – Our Witness in Europe.” Next year, the to the Assembly the greetings of former World Alliance of Reformed Churches LWF Presidents Dr Gottfried Brakemeier (WARC) will hold its general council in and Dr Mikko Juva, as well as former Gen- Accra, Ghana, under the theme, “That All eral Secretary Bishop Dr Gunnar Stålsett, May Have Life in Fullness.” who regret they are unable to be with us. War and violence have continued to Six years have passed since we gathered beset communities, people and nations in Hong Kong, China, for the Ninth Assem- throughout the world. The war against Iraq bly. We were inspired and moved by the mis- is only one illustration of how political sion-centered theme: “In Christ—Called to leaders resort to violence to further their Witness.” We adopted commitments in- national interests. Other civil conflicts of tended to give strength to our resolve to be different intensities also have taken place witnesses to God’s love for the world and to or are taking place in countries such as work together in the Lord’s Vineyard. the Democratic Republic of the Congo, This Assembly has the responsibility of Colombia, Israel/Palestine, Zimbabwe, reviewing the work of the Federation since and again Liberia, in which LWF member 1997 described in the printed six-year re- churches strive to be faithful witnesses to port, From Hong Kong to Winnipeg 1997- the gospel in the midst of bloodshed. In a 2003,1 and submitted to the Assembly by the number of conflicts, particularly in Sudan, General Secretary on behalf of the Council. Nigeria, Indonesia, Israel/Palestine, and in Though the six-year report already was the confrontation between India and Paki- made available on the LWF Web site some stan, religious intolerance and extremism weeks ago, the printed version could not be have fueled the tensions. mailed out in advance due to circumstances As a result of the events of 11 Septem- beyond our control; so delegates received ber 2001, fear of terrorism has imprinted the report only upon arrival. This report will itself on the consciousness of the global be highlighted tomorrow in the sessions de- community. The international environment voted to “The LWF Presents Itself.” we face today, as churches seeking to re- In my remarks to you today, I wish to draw spond to Christ’s call, has been fundamen- your attention to some selected aspects of tally reshaped by those events, and espe- our work and purpose as a communion. cially by the political and military reac-

26 The Lutheran World Federation tions to them. In addition, the war against evident. Socially, though trends differ from Iraq presented the world community with place to place, deprivation and dislocation a stark and unappealing choice between seem visibly to be on the rise in many soci- impunity for dictators on the one hand, and eties. An estimated 2.8 billion people, close submission to a unipolar hegemony on the to half the population of the planet and al- other. The implications of this choice, and most all of them in developing countries, the consequences of the actions ulti- live on less than USD 2 a day. According to mately taken, will confront the interna- a recent United Nations survey, the quality tional community—and the churches—for of life has actually declined in a significant years to come. number of countries over the last decade. The last few years also have been a The gap between rich and poor has never time of continuing injustice, suffering and been wider. The devastation resulting from escalating violence in Israel/Palestine. poverty is much more than the absence of Very recently, fragile signs of hope have material goods. It also inflicts spiritual begun to reemerge. We pray for the real- wounds that undermine self-esteem, self- ization of that hope—for the sake of the worth and self-confidence. It attacks the Palestinians who have been subjected to God-given dignity and equal value of every occupation, domination and daily humili- human being and, therefore, undermines ation, and for the sake of the Israelis who any notion of community and communion. have lived in permanent fear of suicide bombers. Our prayers also must accom- pany the churches of the Holy Land as they The gap between rich and poor has continue, in the midst of violence and ha- never been wider. tred, to preach the healing word of the gos- pel and contribute whatever they can to the promotion of peace. Some churches, particularly in the Latin Since our last Assembly, we have wit- American region, have called for an ethi- nessed further intensification of the pro- cal examination of the legitimacy of the cess of globalization and its effects on all crushing debt burdens of many develop- spheres of human life, including the life of ing countries. They see the need to con- the churches. Globalization has contrib- front a situation in which the demands of uted to the undermining of oppressive po- international creditors continue to be litical systems. New mechanisms for glo- given priority over the basic needs of citi- balized justice and against impunity, such zens and their right to self-determination. as the International Criminal Court, have It is our conviction that globalization can come into existence. Human rights have be reshaped by policies that are formu- attained increasing prominence in inter- lated through institutions with proper in- national affairs. These aspects of global- ternational accountability, rather than by ization are cause for hope. the global presumptions of the G8 leaders. Yet on the other hand, we are aware of Efforts of the strong to push their own the ambiguity of globalization. The unify- way forward, disregarding the needs and ing trends have also been accompanied by pleas of others, can only be detrimental to worsening fragmentation, marginalization the healing processes that the world is and division. In a world of instantaneous yearning for. The main instrument for the electronic communication, an estimated 80 common life of the international commu- percent of people worldwide have never nity is and must be the UN. Strong and co- heard a dial tone, let alone sent an e-mail ordinated efforts must be made to further or surfed the Web. Economically, inequal- develop the abilities of the UN to fill all ity of wealth and well-being and the tragic the functions attributed to it by its mem- conditions of the poor have never been more ber states.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 27 Churches for the Healing In this world, we increasingly experi- of the World’s Wounds ence the politics of brute force and naked self-interest, yet the healing power of God Our Christian faith is grounded in a para- is not the power of dominance. Commun- dox: the image and reality of the crucified ion with the Triune God and with each other Messiah. The divine healing power of the determines a new relationship among the almighty God is expressed in suffering, faithful. It is a divine gift, the meaning of sacrifice, woundedness and vulnerability. which goes far beyond what we normally Through baptism and the Eucharist we are understand by the term “partnership.” This united with Christ, and as the body of Christ term is often used in the commercial envi- in the world the church must bear the ronment, where the quality of partnership marks of Christ’s healing sacrifice. Its life depends on the contribution one is able to must show forth Christ’s devotion to the bring into the relationship. You are either a other, even unto death. The church must senior or junior partner. If the relationship be ready to confront the powers and prin- breaks down, one is free to walk away from cipalities in our global village that deny the agreement. However, the notion of com- human dignity. munion from a theological/biblical per- Within the complexity of this world, the spective describes an entirely different type church is gathered to be a communion of relationship: mutual participation in (koinonia): a dynamic reality, a fellow- common faith and life among members of ship of God’s people from every tribe, a body. Life in communion is not based on a tongue and nation, marked by a life of unity partial commitment of Christ but on the to- in diversity, sharing in the apostolic faith. tal emptying of Christ for our sake. This Assembly is itself one visible rep- Applied to the LWF, the concept of com- resentation of the church. We who are here, munion designates the common life of from seventy-three countries, have been member churches as a confessional com- called together in the unity we share in munity placed organically within the uni- our faith, despite many differences of cul- versal church. Built on our declared altar ture, tradition and spirituality. We have and pulpit fellowship, the communion of come together as we are, carrying the the LWF is an ecclesial fellowship and as wounds of our people and churches, as well such is operative as an instrument for com- as our own personal wounds. Our differ- mon witness and service. ences and woundedness are not to be cov- The member churches of the LWF are ered up. We are here to listen and be open institutionally and legally autonomous with to the cries of one another, to say: “Your their own structures of ministry and govern- cry is my cry. Your joy is my joy.” ing bodies. The nature of the LWF as a com- In gathering the communion, God re- munion is characterized by the interaction jects the forces of alienation, fragmenta- of the autonomous member churches in view tion and divisions based on race, color, of the common good, both within the Lutheran gender, age, culture, descent, social or communion and ecumenically. economic status. As part of its contribu- Baptism with water in the name of the tion to the struggle against the many forms Triune God is recognized ecumenically, and of social exclusion, the LWF has contin- calls us to seek comprehensive eucharistic ued to advocate against racism, notably fellowship and mutual recognition of minis- at the World Conference Against Racism, tries. Ordination to the ministry, in the Lutheran Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and understanding, is not carried out simply for Related Intolerance; and, it has helped to the particular church in which it takes place. place on the international agenda the spe- Ordination is, in principle, an ecumenical act, cial category of dehumanizing discrimi- since it is an authorization to preach the gos- nation faced by the Dalits of South Asia. pel and administer the sacraments, which are

28 The Lutheran World Federation gifts given to the universal church. From this ⇒ The Secretariat consists of the admin- perspective, no church is autonomous in the istration in Geneva, Switzerland, the sense of being independent from other field and regional offices. It prepares churches. As churches confessing the one the work of the Assembly and Coun- apostolic church, we belong together. We are cil and facilitates the implementation interdependent ecumenically, and the mem- of their decisions. Executive staff bers of the Lutheran communion express and members are appointed to the Secre- serve this interdependence in concrete and tariat by formally established proce- committed ways. dures, following endorsement by their respective churches. The Instrument and Ligaments of the Lutheran Communion ⇒ The LWF National Committees are responsible for the coordination and Our altar and pulpit fellowship expresses interpretation of the life and work of our spiritual interconnectedness by which the LWF at the national level. In the we are also united with the church univer- nations where such committees have sal. Without the binding power of the gos- been established, their offices are the pel, baptism and the Eucharist, the LWF coordinating contact points between could be like a civil agency but would not the Secretariat and member churches. be a communion of churches. The LWF in its organizational form is an instrument of In addition to the institutional ligaments of the Lutheran communion. It is through this the communion, communication among the instrument that the member churches wit- Lutheran churches also is maintained through ness together to God’s love for the world. consultations and gatherings, and through Like a living body made up of diverse conferences of bishops/presidents, women organs, the Lutheran communion requires and youth, and other church representatives. “connective tissue,” or “ligaments” to As another form of connection within make the life of the communion possible the communion, there have been many vis- and meaningful. The LWF has various in- its and exchanges among member stitutional ligaments which serve the life churches themselves, visits by the Presi- of the communion: dent, Vice-Presidents and other elected of- ficials of the Federation as well as by rep- ⇒ The Assembly is the highest and most resentatives of the Secretariat. Associated comprehensive expression of the with this Assembly, the program of pre- and Lutheran communion. It provides space post-Assembly visitations provides further for representatives from all the LWF opportunity for mutual encounter. All of member churches to confer together. these “journeys” are much more than mere travel. I see them as being very much in the ⇒ The Council (with its various com- apostolic tradition. In the apostolic tradi- mittees) is also a vital ligament for tion of the New Testament, guests from the communion. It exercises its gov- Burma [Myanmar], Sierra Leone, and the erning authority according to the LWF Democratic Republic of the Congo have Constitution. The members of the visited sister churches in the northern hemi- Council represent the churches of the sphere. These visits are of great importance. regions from which they come. This They help us to learn from each other about is the reason why the process of elect- the life of the churches, their spirituality ing Council members by the Assem- and the missionary tasks they face. bly involves a process of nomination All these ligaments are not themselves by the member churches and consul- the communion but are integral to its life. tation at the level of the LWF regions. They enable it to function properly and

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 29 meaningfully as an international body and sible name change given that the federal a spiritual fellowship. It is important, concept no longer adequately expresses therefore, to strengthen these ligaments the ecclesial nature of the fellowship that for the sake of our inner Lutheran unity exists between the member churches. Last and ecumenical cooperation. year, I presented to the Council a detailed In a real sense, theologically as well report on “The Nature and Future of the as practically, communion is communi- LWF as a Communion of Churches.”2 I pre- cation. This is true in regard to sacramen- sented four alternative names: tal theology and the understanding of sal- vation, as well as to the way we interact - The Communion of Lutheran as individuals and as an organization Churches (CLC) within the “information society.” Few things are changing as rapidly in - The Lutheran World Communion our world as the means of communication. (LWC) The LWF Secretariat is seeking to respond to the current challenges in this area by - The Lutheran Communion (LC) engaging member churches and partner organizations more actively in the devel- - The Lutheran World Federation – A opment of communication strategies. Ef- Communion of Churches (LWF) forts also are being made to promote in- formation exchange within the LWF con- The Council voted to endorse the fourth stituency and between the LWF and ecu- proposal—“The Lutheran World Federation menical and secular media organs. – A Communion of Churches”—with the The LWF news service, Lutheran World understanding that when, for practical rea- Information, serves to maintain broad cov- sons, the full name was too long the present erage of developments related to the life of name would also remain valid, and that the Lutheran churches globally, also pay- “LWF” would remain the normal acronym. ing attention to ecumenical developments. The Council asked the General Secretary The LWF is a partner in Ecumenical News to check whether there were any legal im- International (ENI) as well, which provides plications that would require constitutional media around the world with important changes. This has been done and the LWF’s news related to the activities of churches legal advisers have confirmed that such a and church-related organizations. name change would be consistent with the existing constitutional description of the The Name of the LWF: Federation. It is, therefore, up to this As- Possible Change sembly to consider such a step.

The reports of successive Assemblies Toward a More Inclusive show how the LWF has matured theologi- Communion cally in its self-understanding. The 1984 Seventh Assembly in Budapest, Hungary, Inclusion and acceptance, rather than ex- represents the most far-reaching change clusion and discrimination, is the hallmark so far in the ecclesial character of the Fed- of communion in Christ. The vision of an eration, establishing altar and pulpit fel- inclusive communion of women and men lowship between all the LWF member still lies before us unfulfilled. While ac- churches. This development was affirmed knowledging that policies have been put in by the LWF Constitution adopted by the place at the level of the LWF governing 1990 Eighth Assembly in Curitiba, Brazil. bodies and LWF Secretariat; for various At the 1997 Ninth Assembly in Hong reasons, these policies are far from being Kong, China, I raised the question of a pos- actualized in some of the member churches.

30 The Lutheran World Federation More than two thirds of the LWF mem- standing of the gospel and its proclamation. ber churches by now have adopted proce- Increased participation of young people is dures that allow for the ordination of men happening in some churches, but not in oth- and women. Churches that have taken this ers. The Bible is full of stories of young decision have found their witness en- people who influence the life of the church. hanced by new gifts brought into the or- Let us not be afraid of the creativity of young dained ministry. This is an experience that people in our midst. the LWF continues to commend to its mem- The LWF has established policies to en- bers. Through scholarship programs and sure youth participation and contribution. In other means, women have increasingly particular, we have committed ourselves to qualified themselves for leadership and achieving 20 percent youth participation in positions of responsibility in church and our major decision-making bodies. As we society. However, there is a pressing need prepared for this Assembly, we were informed for many member churches to take further by several churches that they were not able measures allowing and encouraging to include youth representatives as asked for women to assume roles of leadership. Syn- by our guidelines. I appeal to the LWF mem- ods and other decision-making bodies ber churches to reflect on the importance of should take bold steps, where still re- this commitment, and to honor it. quired, to move out of inherited patterns of male dominance. We should actively Intra-Lutheran Relations seek, through our theology, to overcome traditional and cultural mechanisms Since the inception of the LWF in 1947, its whereby women are denied such positions member churches have prayed for a fel- on the grounds they are women. lowship that is inclusive of all Lutherans Violence against women is a radical form in the world. However, over three million of exclusion that denigrates the image of Lutherans remain outside the fellowship God in the victim as well as the perpetrator. of the LWF, even while sharing in the It represents a fundamental challenge, hav- Lutheran confession and our spiritual fel- ing an impact on the inner life of the church lowship in Christ. In several areas in the and that of the wider community in which it world, the LWF and its member churches witnesses. The LWF has taken a strong stand collaborate with the Lutheran communi- against this social evil through the wide- ties outside the LWF in diaconal activities. spread distribution of its publication But the yearning for a fully inclusive Churches Say “NO” to Violence against Lutheran communion remains unfulfilled. Women,3 produced by the desk for Women Lack of a united Lutheran witness un- in Church and Society of the Department for dermines the integrity of our mission and Mission and Development (DMD). We must reduces the vitality of our ecumenical en- commit together as a communion to apply gagement. Shouldn’t the common affirma- the document to our local contexts as we tion of the Lutheran confessional writings observe the World Council of Churches be sufficient for church fellowship among (WCC) ecumenical “Decade to Overcome the Lutheran churches? What are the real Violence (2001–2010) Churches Seeking reasons that keep Lutherans apart? Reconciliation and Peace.” I am pleased to inform the Assembly that We have committed ourselves to an in- a process of consultation is in place be- clusive communion, in which younger gen- tween representatives of the International erations will be more and more included Lutheran Council (ILC), which represents in the life of the churches. Young people, most of the Lutherans still outside our fel- who represent both the future of the church lowship, and the LWF. Common ground as and an important part of its present life, pro- well as differences are being identified in vide significant contributions to the under- the area of theology, with particular refer-

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 31 ence to confessional and ecumenical is- man Catholic Church continue their solid sues. The importance of enhanced coordi- work. Conversations between the LWF and nation, communication, and theological Seventh-day Adventists have been carried discussion has been emphasized. out and the report and recommendations It is my hope that the conversation the from this process are being studied by the LWF and ILC are currently engaged in will member churches. Two international bring us forward substantially in this area. working groups—with the Anglican Com- I also am happy to report that since the munion, and World Alliance of Reformed Ninth Assembly we have maintained close Churches—have submitted their reports. relations with the three associate mem- The LWF Council has received these re- ber churches—the Lutheran Church of ports and upon its request, they have been Australia, Japan Lutheran Church, and sent to the member churches for study and Evangelical Lutheran Free Church of Nor- response. I strongly urge that providing way. All are represented at this Assembly. such responses be given high priority. In Norway, the Church of Norway and Evan- In the ecumenical area, there continues gelical Lutheran Free Church of Norway to be substantial reciprocal interaction be- constitute the LWF national committee. tween national and regional developments The associate member churches in Aus- on the one hand and the international dia- tralia and Japan are both active partici- logues on the other. I commend the agree- pants in the regional programs of the Asian ments of church fellowship negotiated and Lutheran churches. This is of great value entered into at the national and regional level to the life of the LWF, and one day will hope- by LWF member churches since the Ninth fully lead to full membership of these Assembly with churches of the Anglican, churches. Methodist, Moravian and Reformed tradi- tions. The vast majority of all bilateral com- Commitment to Global munion agreements that have been estab- Ecumenism lished around the world involve Lutheran churches. Such developments contribute in From the beginning, the LWF has seen it- a real way to the visible unity of the church. self as related to the ecumenical move- But in the period before us, we must make ment. All steps it takes in the direction of strong new efforts to ensure that these de- its own unity and coherence also are seen velopments also take place to a greater de- as contributions to the unity of the one, gree in the southern hemisphere. universal church of Christ. And the ecu- Bilateral dialogues and relations are not, menical movement remains, at this however, the only instruments of ecumenism. present time in history, a deeply signifi- The ecumenical commitment of the LWF is cant healing process. also, by its nature, multilateral. The WCC was Bilateral relations between the Chris- deliberately formed as a fellowship of indi- tian world communions are a vital part of vidual churches, without a specific role for the ecumenical movement. They require the Christian world communions (CWCs) appropriate instruments of accountability, such as the LWF. However, in light of the in- providing a basis for trusted global rela- creasing ecumenical importance of CWCs, tions. The Joint Declaration on the Doc- it was significant that the 1998 WCC Eighth trine of Justification,4 signed and cel- Assembly in Harare, Zimbabwe, adopted a ebrated in 1999, represents a major bilat- resolution calling for closer cooperation be- eral achievement at the international tween the WCC and CWCs. This resolution level. It could not have been achieved with- has been followed up by the LWF Council and out the instrumentality of the LWF. WCC Central Committee. The international dialogue commis- We must explore how our practical sions with the Orthodox churches and Ro- cooperation with the WCC might grow and

32 The Lutheran World Federation develop further. Our common emergency proach to this issue. The LWF Executive agency, Action by Churches Together Committee has received the statement (ACT) International, is one example of and upon request of the committee, it has good cooperation. The news agency ENI, been sent to the member churches for mentioned above, is another. study and response. The WCC provides a unique framework for deliberation on fundamental ecumeni- Unity, Mission and Diaconia cal issues. The LWF and its member churches should play an active and sup- From the beginning of the life of the church, portive part in the current discussions on its unity, mission and diaconia have been the nature and purpose of the WCC and basic to its self-understanding and pur- the need for new configurations in the ecu- pose. As instruments to help serve these menical movement in future. Some form life functions of the church, organizations of representation in the WCC of CWCs as with special foci have been instituted: mis- communions will be important for contin- sionary societies, ecumenical organiza- ued development of the ecumenical move- tions, and diaconal/humanitarian agen- ment. The Conference of Secretaries of cies. These instruments provide compe- Christian World Communions (CS/CWCs) tence and capacity for fulfillment of these is an important forum that also contributes functions. It is clear however, that the ser- to this discussion. vice of unity, mission and diaconia is in- separable in the witness of the church. The Episcopal Ministry Most organizations for inner and foreign in the Church mission have had significant diaconal ser- vice integrated into their work. These func- The role of the episcopal ministry (minis- tions are rooted in the nature of the wor- try of oversight) is an issue under discus- shipping community. Every church, at ev- sion ecumenically, and among the ery level, must be “marked” by these es- Lutheran churches, in regard to the apos- sential features if it is to be recognizable tolicity of the church. Different views and as church at all. And the LWF as a com- practices have been maintained by the munion of churches must bear the same LWF member churches within the space traits as the member churches them- of the communion. selves. It cannot be a true communion with- The communion agreements that some out the “marks” of commitment to unity of our member churches have entered into and engagement in mission and diaconia.6 with Anglican churches, or Reformed In the area of diaconia, there has been churches, or both simultaneously, have a tendency over some decades for large raised questions about the coherence of diaconal institutions to become institution- the Lutheran understanding of the episco- ally independent of the churches with the pal ministry. I am pleased that a study pro- main point of contact with governing bod- cess has taken place leading to a state- ies of churches being limited to informa- ment by the Lutheran dialogue members tion sharing. In some cases, efforts have on the issue of “The Episcopal Ministry been made to make newly established within the Apostolicity of the Church.”5 Lutheran development services, operated This study process included five regional by churches in the South, independent of meetings with representatives of member these churches. However, in today’s stage churches. The statement builds on the of history, we also have seen a reversal of texts of ecumenical agreements to which this development in some countries, such Lutheran churches have been a party. I as in Sweden, Finland and Germany, where believe this statement provides a differ- the responsibility and accountability of the entiated yet coherent and healing ap- churches have become decisive for the

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 33 structures of the agencies. This new trend some churches is the issue of homosexual- is very important for the life of the churches ity, and attitudes to homosexual persons. and the nature of the service they provide. This is an issue that has been with human- To help clarify basic aspects of kind since time immemorial, and will con- diaconia, a major consultation was held tinue to be so in future. It will not go away. It in Johannesburg, South Africa, in Novem- is a complex matter with ethical dimensions ber 2002, with the Department for World related to culture, anthropology and spiri- Service (DWS) taking the lead in an inter- tuality. departmental preparatory process. The There are some churches in which this consultation report “Prophetic Diakonia: issue has not been raised for discussion, ‘For the Healing of the World’”7 raises fun- others in which it has become a discus- damental questions about the centrality of sion of great controversy, and still others mission and diaconia in the life of the where it has been addressed with little or church, and deserves careful study in our no difficulty. Since we are a communion member churches and related agencies. of interdependent churches, no member As an LWF contribution to the ongoing church can ignore the issue, or consider it discussion on missiology, and a resource closed one way or the other while sister for the member churches, a draft docu- churches are still struggling with it. ment has been developed by DMD called An issue of this kind requires patient “MISSION: Transformation, Reconciliation, discussion and prayerful reflection. This Empowerment”—An LWF Contribution to Assembly should take steps to ensure care- the Understanding of Mission.8 I also ful preparation for such discussion and re- warmly recommend this document for fur- flection. I therefore propose a process of ther study and comment. consultation, exchange, discussion and These issues should be considered fur- prayer, as a communion, to seek the guid- ther in a broad international consultation, ing wisdom of the Holy Spirit. The new Coun- which hopefully could take place in the cil could be asked to bear responsibility near future. The LWF, serving as a bridge for such a process, mandated by the As- between many partners committed to serv- sembly, to examine this issue in a proper ing the needs—spiritual and material—of consultative way, utilizing the space we humanity, stands in an excellent position have for differences in viewpoint and open to promote this discussion. deliberation within our communion.

Approaching Complex Social Interfaith Aspects of Current and Ethical Issues Tensions in the World

The churches have sometimes had consid- Around the world today, there is obvious erable difficulty in addressing certain com- and urgent need for processes of reconcili- plex social and ethical issues. One such is- ation between nations, cultures and reli- sue is the question of globalization. Churches gions. One of the strongest negative forces themselves are deeply involved in this pro- in this situation is prejudice. Enemy images cess, for good and ill. The LWF, through ma- that have built up over generations, and the terials prepared by its Department for The- habit of discrimination ingrained for cen- ology and Studies (DTS), has challenged turies, are not easy to erase at a stroke. In- member churches to approach this question deed, ancient prejudices continue to be ma- from the perspective of communion, and has nipulated for political purposes and given invited member churches to participate in fresh vitality in many modern contexts. It transforming economic globalization. is my strong belief that for the sake of peace Another issue that has generated a lot and the future of humanity—which is God’s of controversy in some societies and in family—the Christian churches are called

34 The Lutheran World Federation urgently to do what they can in their own churches. In May 2002, the LWF launched contexts to build understanding instead of a communion-wide HIV/AIDS campaign in confrontation. Nairobi, Kenya. It has organized several One of the very greatest challenges consultations in the various regions, and before us, particularly in light of recent financially supports many programs and world events, is the healing of relations projects in different aspects of the HIV/ between the three great monotheistic re- AIDS crisis through DMD and DWS. In all ligions—Judaism, Christianity and Islam. these programs, the LWF seeks to involve The LWF and its member churches have a people living with HIV/AIDS in its work. strong focus on relations with the other “Abrahamic” religions as indicated by the Conditions of Work range of initiatives that have been under- in the Churches taken, engaging Muslims and Jews in dia- logue and cooperation, in a number of con- Church work is a vocation, not mere em- texts. The LWF, through DTS, has produced ployment. But it should not be less than a series of publications in this area in- human dignity requires. “Decent” work tended as a contribution and resource within the church is a matter not only of material for member churches in their in- stewardship but also of witness. Churches terfaith relations. proclaim human dignity and human rights The LWF seeks to promote interfaith but the conditions in which many workers dialogue not as an academic exercise but in the church must fulfil their calling fall to address the pressing issues of the con- short of those standards. This problem is texts in which our communities live. The neither limited to developing countries nor LWF has facilitated a process engaging re- countries in which public finances and leg- ligious leaders from across the geographi- islation on labor standards are inadequate. cal and faith spectra of Africa in interfaith In my travels, I am often confronted with dialogue and practical cooperation to ad- very unfortunate working conditions in the dress conflicts and promote peace in Af- churches. Perceptions of the nature of rica. Meeting in October 2002 under the work in the church and a lack of financial theme “Embracing the Gift of Peace,” ap- resources have sometimes led to condi- proximately 120 religious leaders commit- tions of work in the church that are undig- ted themselves to an ongoing process of nified and even exploitative. cooperation to help reduce tensions and I am well aware of the dilemmas in- conflicts on that continent. This was the first volved, often having to face them myself in time such a gathering had taken place at a the management of LWF staff. Nevertheless pan-African level. The LWF and its partners as a communion, together we must face up continue to support this vital process. to the challenges that exist in this area. We must encourage each other to live up to HIV/AIDS relevant national standards and Interna- tional Labour Organization conventions. During the period under review the LWF, In this context, let me also draw atten- in collaboration with the member tion to the important issue of dignified churches, agencies, ecumenical partners, working conditions for persons with dis- and Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculo- abilities. This is an area where the ethical sis and Malaria, has sought to give stron- standards of a society are put to the test ger focus to its efforts concerning the HIV/ and where churches have the responsibil- AIDS pandemic. The focus has been on the ity to speak out clearly. It also is an area disease itself as well as on the stigmatiza- where the churches themselves must tion and exclusion of people living with keenly be aware of their own practices and HIV/AIDS in our communities and priorities.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 35 Indigenous Issues Some member churches, through ecu- menical agreements, have achieved close Meeting here in Winnipeg sets us in a con- forms of church fellowship with churches text in which the voices of Indigenous of other CWCs. We welcome this uncondi- people—the First Nations of this land—can tionally. At the same time, the question and should be heard. The period between arises whether the LWF member churches the Hong Kong and Winnipeg Assemblies can generally achieve similar closeness coincided with the UN “International De- among themselves. Can the LWF move be- cade of the World’s Indigenous people 1995– yond altar and pulpit fellowship to even 2004.” The concrete outcome of this obser- more substantial forms of mutual recogni- vance, however, in terms of improvement tion and cooperation, for instance, in the for the lives of Indigenous peoples around area of exchangeability of pastors and bish- the world is hard to discern. Several inter- ops? Some member churches, such as the national instruments have been adopted in Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, this area, but ratification and implementa- explicitly have declared their openness to tion by individual countries have not been exchangeability of ordained ministers from sufficiently followed up. We must put pres- all other LWF member churches. Such dec- sure on governments to ensure such ratifi- larations are of great significance for fur- cation and implementation. Several mem- ther development of the communion. ber churches have taken significant initia- As we are confronted with a growing tives in this area leading to strong associa- range of difficult doctrinal/ethical issues, tions with Indigenous communities in their the LWF needs an expert advisory commis- countries. The LWF as a whole could take a sion, drawn from all parts of the commun- stronger lead. In the next period, I hope this ion, to discuss fundamental presuppositions can be achieved. and outline possible main lines of consid- eration. Such a commission would seek to Continuing Our Walk Together clarify what the LWF member churches can say together on important matters of teach- As I have said before, the strength and unity ing. It would not be a program or standing of our communion is for the sake of the committee. It would have no authority to unity of the one church of Christ. For this make decisions that would bind the LWF or reason, we must continue to strengthen our the member churches, but would play an communion and deepen the experience of advisory role. In interaction with the teach- that communion in all member churches. ing ministry of the member churches and As we walk together into the future, we various theological instruments of the LWF, must explore how we can develop our rep- such a commission could play an impor- resentative structures so that the official tant role in the development of the LWF as leadership of all our member churches can a communion in faith. work together in ways that commit us and Pastoral leadership formation must engage us as a global communion within the become of greater priority in our ecumenical movement. We must enhance churches, and in the life of our Lutheran our common efforts and mutual accountabil- communion, so that well-prepared lead- ity without undermining the autonomy of ers can equip our members and churches each member church. One specific measure to become more active agents of God’s I wish to propose is the institution of a regu- work of reconciliation in the world. We lar cycle of consultations, in which the LWF need socially engaged teaching and Council meets with leading representatives preaching in our churches that will form of all the member churches in the commun- and empower members confronting the ion, following the model of one such meet- forces of division and domination in our ing that took place in 1994. societies. In this area, the LWF can con-

36 The Lutheran World Federation tribute guidance and resources through the ing the burden, and on closer coordination programs and projects of DTS, DMD and of our efforts within the communion. The DWS, as well as in cooperation with the commitments of the communion must be Institute for Ecumenical Research, in implemented within a broad partnership, Strasbourg, France. There is a stated wish among LWF member churches to move toward a sim- We need socially engaged teaching pler, more integrated pattern for the vari- and preaching in our churches... ous global church assemblies. We must seriously explore how we might move in this direction. I therefore welcome the involving the member churches even decision of our Council to take up this task more directly in carrying responsibility for together with our ecumenical partners. In common programs and activities. Thanks this process, we must also give due atten- must be expressed to the member churches tion to the question of what it means to be for all they have contributed in the period a delegate at an assembly. What authority since our last Assembly to support the is given by churches to the delegates that many LWF programs and projects. Insofar represent them? By what processes are as the financial stability of the LWF itself the results of the assembly received by is concerned, the establishment of the LWF the churches? And, how seriously is the Foundation – Endowment Fund, which outcome taken? currently stands at CHF 6.2 million, is that Our experiences with visa difficulties of an important instrument that requires leading up to this Assembly highlight a further support from the communion. Like- growing challenge, especially in the cur- wise, the commitment to pay a fair rate of rent period of heightened security. Every membership fees calls for response from country has a sovereign right to regulate all member churches. The Treasurer will entry to its territory. But the nature of our deal further with these matters in her re- communion, and the apostolic tradition, port. I thank the member churches for call us to share in each others’ lives—both standing with the LWF at a challenging the joy and pain. Undertaking travel and time, demonstrating their commitment to providing hospitality afford an important this instrument of the communion and ecu- personal experience of communion. How- menical movement. ever, the current international environ- ment of increased security and tighter im- Conclusion migration controls in some countries has a chilling effect on this form of commun- We gather in the midst of a broken world in ion experience. The increasing role of need of healing. The brokenness of the prejudice and stereotypes in this process world, the division between rich and poor, is obvious to all. These developments con- North and South, is painfully obvious as we front us afresh with the dilemma of the gather without our sisters and brothers who church—which is not of the world but is have not been granted visas to enter this in the world—and its relation to the state country. We gather for the sake of the heal- (or rather, to individual states). ing of the world, but we know that such heal- For the same financial reasons that are ing is not in our power. At the very core of having an impact on churches and many the Christian faith, as Lutherans understand other communities around the world, the it, is the insistence that in our deepest need LWF Secretariat is a much leaner organi- we do not look to ourselves or to our own zation now than it was some years ago. resources, but to Christ and the healing This means we will depend even more in power of his Spirit. We cannot heal the the years ahead on member churches shar- world, but we know that Christ and the Spirit

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 37 can, and have, and will. That is the basis common objectives. And once again, on upon which we gather for this Assembly. behalf of the whole LWF, I give special I take this opportunity to express my thanks to the host church of this Assembly, thanks to the member churches of the LWF, the ELCIC, and the many dedicated volun- which are the life and soul of this commun- teers who have made this vision their own. ion, and to the President and members of Your planning and work is now bearing its the Council who have guided our common long-awaited fruit, for you have made for work over these last six years so faithfully us in this place a space in which we can and well. I thank my colleagues, in the LWF meet each other as sisters and brothers in Secretariat in Geneva and the field and re- Christ, to share our joy, pain and concerns gional offices around the world, who have without reservation, and rediscover what worked with commitment and profession- it is to be a communion. alism for the realization of the communion’s

Notes

1 Geneva: LWF, 2003.

2 LWF Council Agenda, Wittenberg, Germany, 2002. Exhibit 18.2.

3 Geneva: LWF, 2002.

4 Joint Declaration on the Doctrine of Justification. The Lutheran World Federation and The Roman Catholic Church. English-Language Edition. Grand Rapids, Michigan/Cambridge, U.K.: William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 2000.

5 The Episcopal Ministry within the Apostolicity of the Church. A Lutheran Statement 2002. Geneva, LWF Office for Ecumenical Affairs, 2003. ISBN 3-905676-26-5.

6 cf. LWF Constitution, Article III

7 Report from the consultation in Johannesburg, South Africa, November 2002. Geneva: LWF Depart- ment for Theology and Studies, 2003

8 Draft B, February 2003.

38 The Lutheran World Federation LWF Treasurer Ms Inger Johanne Wremer

Report of the Treasurer related organizations as the main finan- cial support for its activities. I have been Ms Inger J. Wremer impressed by the loyalty and trust of so many member churches and related agen- Introductory Remarks cies toward the Federation, and to know of their sincere wish to contribute to their This report refers to the years from the utmost capacity. previous Assembly in 1997 until the first Money and administrative activities months of 2003. Besides describing the fi- are tools which must be used in pursuit of nancial situation and development of the the aims and goals of any dynamic organi- Lutheran World Federation (LWF), the re- zation for it to be able to live up to its vi- port presents concerns and policy com- sion. The years since the Assembly in ments for consideration in regard to the Hong Kong have been rewarding for the future of the Federation. LWF. But they have also been tough and challenging from a financial viewpoint. The Budget, Concerns The income of the A-Budget decreased and Challenges by 10 percent between 1998 and 2002. The sustainable level of the A-Budget, based on The LWF always has relied on, and is de- current funding, is now about USD 9.5 mil- pendent on, member churches and church- lion. For most years since the Assembly in

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 39 Hong Kong, fluctuations in exchange rates and emergencies, as well as human have been to the disadvantage of the LWF. rights work, and more. The A-Budget, in particular, suffered much under these conditions. The exchange rate - Contributions from governmental between the US dollar and Swiss franc organizations to specific programs. started to decrease during the summer of Such contributions come from the 2001, and came down from 1.68 to 1.32 this United Nations High Commissioner year. This 20 percent depreciation of the for Refugees, European Union (EU) US dollar against the Swiss Franc makes and UN Relief and Works Agency. Geneva costs more expensive, thereby These organizations also pay service hampering balancing of the budget. fees that provide income for the While these factors are beyond LWF con- Geneva Coordination Budget. trol, they nevertheless have considerable consequences for the overall financial situ- The General Secretary’s report on behalf ation. We therefore have had difficulties in of the Council, From Hong Kong to balancing the A-Budget in recent years. Last Winnipeg 1997–2003, contains an over- September, the Council approved a resolu- view of the Federation’s finances from the tion calling for balanced budgets in 2004 and previous Assembly until 2001. Since the 2005. The number of staff members in figures for 2002 have been audited, we are Geneva decreased from 92 in 1997 to 86 in able to give you an overview of the last six April 2003. The decrease in income may years. Between the previous and present result in further reduction of the Geneva staff. Assembly, the LWF recorded an overall Decreases in income have to be dealt income of USD 580 million, of which USD with in a very careful way, by reducing staff 524 million were granted for programs, costs and expenditure in general as well as projects and emergencies. keeping staff positions vacant for some Some member churches were able to time. The decrease in income also reflects increase support, while others had to cut the strained economic situation of some back. Church-related organizations also member churches. Nevertheless, it should contribute within Action by Churches To- be underlined that most member churches gether (ACT) International, for which I am contribute to the budget as much as they truly grateful. Still, while we realize what possibly can. This also is true for many re- financial means the LWF has available, of lated agencies, which is highly appreciated. major concern is that the needs of the Income for the LWF comes from the member churches remain greater than the following sources: available resources to meet them. Even though certain areas of work are consid- - Annual membership fees from the ered a priority, funding is not necessarily churches, used to cover administra- available. This is a reality we have to face. tive costs of the Geneva Secretariat Nevertheless, I am impressed by what has and governing bodies. This is the been done with the available money. Many main source of income for the LWF churches have expressed their gratitude A-Budget. toward the LWF for being able to meet their needs and, in deploying the limited means - Contributions from churches for the available, bringing optimism and encour- programs, projects, and Coordina- agement into their church life. tion Budget. The majority of funding is earmarked for specific programs and projects, leav- - Contributions from church-related ing little room for flexibility. My hope for organizations mainly earmarked for the future is that more unearmarked fund- purposes of development, relief work ing will be made available so the LWF can

40 The Lutheran World Federation work in an even more flexible way for our their fair membership fee. In the current members, quickly responding to new and situation, expectations have to be adjusted challenging situations. to the financial realities, while the LWF at While the general reserves in 1998 the same time must seek new funding stood at USD 6.7 million, by the end of 2002 sources. ( See also Special Efforts Made). they were down to USD 4.9 million. Thanks to ongoing tough efforts to keep expendi- Projects and Programs ture as low as possible, and due to rather strict financial controls, the situation is The various LWF departments presented manageable but also calls for soberness themselves and their work during the pre- and very strict setting of priorities within sentation of the General Secretary’s report; the LWF. My concern about the future of so, let me just highlight some special pro- the Federation is that we may see a fur- grams and projects that may make a differ- ther general decrease in income, a factor ence for the people and regions involved: that has to be taken into account when the LWF discusses its aims and goals, and sets Inter-Faith Action for Peace in Africa priorities. I hope the incoming Council will have serious priority-setting discussion on The objective of this three-year program what the core functions of the LWF will be is to deepen interfaith commitments to dia- in the years to come. A cut in activities logue and cooperation for promoting would have to be made if the financial situ- peace in Africa, to equip African interfaith ation does not improve. partners and encourage the implementa- For the past two years the total income tion of concrete interfaith responses to ex- from membership fees has remained fairly isting conflict situations. stable, for which I am very grateful. An- nual membership fees are an important Empowerment source of income for the LWF and an ex- pression of commitment to the commun- In India, the United Evangelical Lutheran ion. At the 1999 Resource Consultation in Church in India has succeeded, through Geneva, it was decided that membership its Integrated Rural Development of fees should be calculated on the basis of Weaker Sections in India (WIDA) project, the number of individual church members in making the tribal populations aware of and the gross national product of the re- their political and social rights. Through spective country, resulting in a so-called many years of faithful cooperation, WIDA fair membership fee. Most member has gained the trust of the tribal communi- churches have already adjusted their ties and now guides them on their way to membership fees to the new fair level, socioeconomic self-reliance and full po- while others are still striving to reach it. litical participation and representation. My hope for the future is that the in- This work, through DMD, is supported by come from membership fees will not only Canada, Germany and Sweden. remain stable, but also will increase again over the coming years to reach the level Basic Needs (Water, Healthy Food) of fair membership fees for all member churches. When this goal is reached, the In Indonesia, the Simalungun Protestant situation of the Geneva Coordination Bud- Christian Church [Gereja Kristen get will ease considerably and make the Protestan Simalungun] (GKPS) has over LWF even more able to provide member the years gained considerable experience churches with the services they need. I in providing remote villages with access therefore strongly recommend that all to clean drinking water. In these villages, members of the LWF pay the amount of the GKPS has now engaged in processes

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 41 of enabling and empowerment. The project poverishment caused by a hostile socio- trains women and men in sustainable ag- economic environment. Groups of people riculture, using organic fertilizers and less and congregations are trained to respond harmful pesticides. It also endeavors to to their situation in pro-active ways: improve marketing opportunities for these strengthening of networking, setting up of healthy products. The DMD project is sup- small-scale self-help projects, and more. ported by France, Germany and Sweden, as well as a considerable contribution from Compassion, Conversion, Care: the village communities themselves. Responding as Churches to the HIV/AIDS Pandemic Reconciliation The objective of this program is to engage In Brazil, COMIN [Conselho de Missão en- the LWF member churches in open discus- tre Índios], a local non-governmental orga- sion about HIV/AIDS, and in so doing pro- nization, does important work with Indig- mote their active and courageous response. enous people. In addition to legal aid and other project components (health, agricul- Relief and Rehabilitation Project ture, land and resettlement), the Evangeli- in Ethiopia cal Church of the Lutheran Confession in Brazil, congregations and the wider com- Last year, the Ethiopian Evangelical Church munity, are made aware of the history and MekaneYesus and LWF assisted 114,620 present unjust situation of Indigenous people. people across four areas with 2,691 metric This includes rectification of the biased “his- tons of food donated by the EU. torical” account. A culturally sensitive en- vironment promotes solidarity, and thereby In January 2002, an LWF consultancy of- fosters reconciliation of broken relation- fice for the regional expression of com- ships and peace building. The DMD project munion was set up for one year in Warsaw, receives support from Finland, Norway, Poland. A year later, an LWF Regional Of- Sweden and the United States of America. fice in Central and Eastern Europe (ROCEE) was opened in Bratislava, capi- Guaranteeing Basic Rights tal of the Slovak Republic. There are great expectations about the office’s contribu- Through DMD, the work of the Bolivian tion to the life and work of the member Evangelical Lutheran Church among the churches in Central Eastern Europe. Aymara Indigenous people in the Bolivian The LWF also has given priority to highlands, ensures that formal and non-for- strengthening the organizational and in- mal education is provided in remote areas stitutional capacities of smaller churches, often neglected by central government. The especially in the South. My hope for the church’s commitment to this work is an future is that cooperation will be broad- expression of the call to guarantee basic ened and the concrete signs of solidarity rights for the education of these people. with smaller churches in difficult finan- cial situations even clearer, and stronger. Addressing People’s Impoverishment Many sponsored projects, especially in Argentina those of DMD, have strong components to strengthen institutions. In Asia, mission pro- Through a DMD project, the United Evan- grams and projects are geared toward in- gelical Lutheran Church [in Argentina] creased participation of smaller churches. equips people for self-organization and The need to also support smaller active civic participation in order to alle- churches in theological matters has been viate the deadly spiral of increasing im- underlined by many member churches. To

42 The Lutheran World Federation develop this further will require new funding, been endorsed in 1997 on the occasion of but it is important because it helps churches the fiftieth anniversary of the Federation, strengthen each other. There already is bilat- the fund has progressed very well since it eral cooperation on this matter between was set up in 1999. This is thanks to the member churches, such as that between the hard-working and enthusiastic members Nordic region and Latin America. of the board and the member churches It is also my hope that a communion willing to contribute. Worldwide economic fund will be set up for the purpose of problems, recessions and exchange-rate strengthening the organizational and finan- variations in contributions from member cial capacities of smaller churches in the churches may threaten LWF activities. South and East. Being a supportive com- This fund provides the member churches munion, we will act with a sense of relat- with an important instrument for securing edness, responsibility and accountability, the financial viability of LWF operations, so strengthening the fellowship within the especially those in the field. It helps the LWF Federation. Such an act would show we carry out necessary operations that other- also care for one another in very practical wise would be difficult to finance. The capi- ways, and really are a mutually support- tal of the Endowment Fund now stands at ive communion of churches. more than USD 4.2 million and is growing A Standing Committee for World Ser- steadily. Fundraising activities have vice [which reports to the Council through achieved good results and may serve as ex- the Program Committee for World Service] amples when seeking new ways of was set up after the 2000 Council meeting fundraising for the LWF in the years to come. in Turku, Finland, to guide DWS in dealing The long-range target of the Endow- with the many challenges that lie ahead. ment Fund is USD 10 million. We would be New demands and changes in the interna- very grateful for more donors to share the tional environment call for constant readi- financial responsibility so that this goal ness to consider strategies and solutions, can be reached as soon as possible. such as in economic matters and setting Although it may be difficult for some of priorities within the Federation’s project member churches to contribute to the En- portfolio. The good and encouraging work dowment Fund, and at the same time in- of the committee is highly appreciated. crease their membership contributions to As awareness of, and funding for, hu- the level of a fair membership fee, I do manitarian crises become increasingly de- hope that in due time both membership pendent on coverage by global mainstream fees and grants for this fund will reach a media, it is my hope that the LWF, through level at which the services of the Secre- the Office for Communication Services, will tariat, as well as to the member churches, continue to provide alternative perspectives can be secured in a most satisfactory way. and raise awareness about so-called forgot- ten crisis situations. I also hope that some Special Efforts Made financial support is provided to enable com- municators from all regions to take part in The present difficult economic situation such experiences and report on what they calls for creativity and hard work to find have seen and heard. ways and means to acquire additional sup- port for the LWF. Some special efforts have The LWF Foundation already been made. – Endowment Fund A task force was set up in 2001 to de- velop a new budget structure aimed at One of the most positive aspects in the fi- improving transparency of the budget and nancial development of the LWF is the LWF broadening the basis of unearmarked fund- Foundation – Endowment Fund. Having ing, while taking into account the

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 43 Federation’s aims and goals. The new bud- The Executive Committee decided in March get structure presents the work of the LWF 2003 to set up a small group with the man- in a more integrated way and should en- date to carry out a strategic planning pro- able partners to be more involved in agree- cess for theology and ecumenism in the LWF, ing on a realistic Coordination Budget. taking into consideration DTS, the Office for This structure is now in place and comes Ecumenical Affairs (OEA) and Institute for into operation as this Assembly gathers. I Ecumenical Research in Strasbourg, hope the new structure will be further de- France. Results from this work were re- veloped by the incoming Council. ported to the Executive Committee on July Special efforts to improve the LWF’s fi- 19. The work should be taken forward by the nancial situation also include prioritizing incoming Executive Committee. fundraising and streamlining. A task force was set up by the Council in 2002 to de- The Augusta Victoria Hospital velop a plan of action on how to improve fundraising in the different regions. Gen- The Augusta Victoria Hospital in Jerusa- eral reserves need to be built up again. lem has been working under difficult po- Commitment and solidarity are expres- litical and financial conditions. Despite this, sions of communion. It is my sincere hope the management was able to balance the that member churches will commit them- annual operating budgets, thanks to grants selves during the coming years to contrib- from some governments and strict setting ute to the funding of the LWF. of financial priorities. The debt, however, At the start of this year, the Office for remains considerable, since there are old Finance and Administration (OFA) intro- liabilities burdening the hospital’s balance duced CODA, a new and comprehensive sheet. Considerable work on policy and accounting package. It will improve con- negotiations have been carried out over the siderably the financial reporting services years to save the hospital’s economy, and I provided by OFA. want to thank every government, church Ecumenical work is very important to and related agency that has contributed. Of the LWF and its member churches. course, the prevailing and constantly dete- In the period since Hong Kong the most riorating political situation influences work important activities have been: at the hospital in a complicated way, and increases the need for emergency support. - the signing of the Joint Declaration The recent war in Iraq made this need even on the Doctrine of Justification (1999) more visible and urgent. The difficult tax issue, with the Israeli - the report of the Lutheran-Reformed tax authority’s insistence that the hospital Joint Working Group (2002)1 pay employer’s tax, casts a shadow over the running of the hospital in the years to - the report of the Anglican-Lutheran come. In December 2002, the Jerusalem International Working Group (2002)2 district court ruled that the LWF should pay employer’s tax, including backdated pay- - the statement on “The Episcopal ments for the last two years. The LWF has Ministry within the Apostolicity of submitted an appeal to a higher court and the Church” at the same time, together with member churches, we are pushing for political ac- - involvement in multilateral ecu- tion from various governments. menical relations, particularly with It is very important to secure and pre- the World Council of Churches serve the property on the Mount of Olives (WCC) and Conference of Secretar- against pressure from creditors, parties to ies of Christian World Communions. the political conflict in the region, or to any

44 The Lutheran World Federation other activity that may put the property in nomic situation. To ensure that economic danger. It is my hope that we can maintain a difficulties will not undermine the partner- strong international and ecumenical pres- ships we enjoy is our common and mutual ence there. To strengthen the signs of hope responsibility as a Lutheran family. This will for the member church in the area as well as also help to build trust through mutual ac- for Palestinians, I want to encourage the countability and help churches to live member churches to pray for the hospital through difficult times. This is an important and also contribute to its financial security, task for the whole communion. Richer for instance, by holding special collections. churches could help by working together For the time being, plans are in progress with related agencies in overcoming con- for further development of the property on centration policies. It is an important task the Mount of Olives. The realization of these to strengthen the financial and organiza- projects depends on political developments tional capacities of smaller churches. and financial possibilities. The LWF should continue to broaden its cooperation with the WCC in exploring, for Overall Observations instance, the possibility of holding coordi- nated assemblies. Closer cooperation with International society has changed consid- the WCC should explore what might be the erably over the past few years. We see LWF’s tasks in ecumenical dialogue. Such rapid changes, increased commercializa- close cooperation is necessary to avoid du- tion and new demands. The LWF has to plication of effort and expense. meet these challenges in a way that en- As a Lutheran family, we are also mov- sures humanitarian and Christian prin- ing forward in studying, exploring and cre- ciples and values continue to defy the ating dialogues with other church families forces of neoliberalism. and organizations. Ecumenical space is As a Lutheran family, we exist, witness required so that the various Christian tra- and work within complex and diverse con- ditions and church families will be af- texts around the globe. There are consid- forded opportunities to articulate their erable differences in the financial situa- concerns and express their self-under- tion and economic ability of churches to standing and readiness to see themselves contribute to the fellowship. Of the 136 as part of a broader ecumenical move- member churches in 76 countries, some ment. Listening, reaching out and learn- do not have the economic strength to fully ing from the experiences of others may participate in the LWF or to meet the am- give us new hope and new experiences. bition of a fair membership fee. Others are We all have something to learn from each in a stressful local situation and for that other in new efforts to engage in ecumeni- reason cannot fully participate. cal dialogue according to the prayer of Fair sharing of resources is, neverthe- Christ: “…that they may all be one” (Jn less, considered essential in our commun- 17:21). In developing our Lutheran profile ion of churches, and we must hold on to we will contribute to, and participate, in a the fact that we are part of a worldwide constructive way, in the ecumenical dia- family which calls for actions of solidar- logues by pursuing possibilities for bilat- ity, such as when contributing money and eral dialogues, involvement in multilateral sharing stewardship within our common ecumenical developments and network- resources. These are very practical ways ing in ecumenical relations. of bringing blessings from region to region. My concern for the future is that this My concern for some smaller, minority development might progress more slowly churches within the LWF family is about than until now, due to budgetary reasons. how they will cope in the years ahead with But my hope lies in the fact that this part the likelihood of being in a strained eco- of the LWF’s work is understood by the

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 45 member churches to be so important that and experiences, and promoting programs it must be of priority, and continue to be a of joint mission ventures, should be the crucial part of the LWF’s identity. Building path to follow. Being a supportive com- Christian unity for our common witness is munion of churches, this also will be our a path we must follow, while acknowledg- task for the future. Based on the shared ing that it needs time and commitment. values of faith, fellowship, relationship, in- clusiveness, solidarity and mutual re- Quo Vadis, LWF? spect, we are called to set our priorities for the future use of our financial re- In the present situation, we need to have a sources. matter-of-fact attitude on financial policy I want to express my appreciation for and practice. But the LWF must never stop the good collaboration and fellowship looking for ways and means to realize its within the LWF, with member churches, vision of supporting churches in their task church-related organizations and agen- to tell the world about the love and glory cies. I also wish to express my apprecia- of God. This can be told through witness in tion to the LWF President, General Secre- service, meeting the practical needs of tary and several department directors people, doing our part to lower the thresh- within the Federation. I have a great deal olds between Lutherans and other church of respect and appreciation for the way families, and through interfaith dialogues; the staff in Geneva and the field are able wherever these are possible, we will be to keep their motivation for the work and witnesses of God’s mercy and love. vision alive in a challenging economic It can also be told through diaconal ser- situation. The LWF is lucky to have such vice in cases of humanitarian need. Diaconia devoted staff members able to adjust and belongs to the very heartbeat of any Lutheran adapt to constant exercises in strict set- community. Effective development of ting of priorities without enough human diaconia that responds to the needs of sus- and financial resources available. tainable communities, fights for human rights, I wish God’s rich blessings may stay and fosters socio-ethical attitudes and ac- with everybody who, in the years to come, tions, should always be a priority for the LWF. devotes time and work to bringing the LWF Strengthening interdependence in mu- forward in being a witness to the world tual accountability by sharing resources through its important work.

Notes

1 Called to Communion and Common Witness. Report of the Joint Working Group between the Lutheran World Federation and the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (1999–2001). Geneva: LWF/WARC, 2002.

2 Growth in Communion. Report of the Anglican-Lutheran International Working Group 2000–2002. Geneva: LWF, 2003.

46 The Lutheran World Federation Letter to the Member Churches

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Sav- and South, those integrated into the new ior Jesus Christ! global system and those left out. We have learned anew, however, that We, the delegates of the churches of the our faith triumphs over division. Christ has Lutheran World Federation, the officers of come to break down the walls that divide the LWF, and many other participants, have us. The communion in Christ that binds us gathered here in Winnipeg, in the heart of is stronger than any power that keeps us Canada, for the Tenth Assembly of the Fed- physically apart. The absence of those eration. We have gathered under the denied entry has been for this Assembly theme: “For the Healing of the World.” In like the thorn in Paul’s side, a reminder the vision of the New Jerusalem that ends that God’s power is made perfect in weak- the Revelation to John, the leaves of the ness (2 Cor 12:7). Our communion is tree of life “are for the healing of the world” founded on our common participation in (Rev 22:2). This Assembly has rejoiced in Christ and that means a common partici- the healing presence of the Risen Lamb in pation in his cross. Healing and participa- our midst, even while we yearn for the day tion in Christ’s sufferings are inseparable, when we will gather with all the saints in for only by Christ’s wounds are we healed. the New Jerusalem. We have experienced under the broad We have been surrounded here by the Canadian sky an intense communion. Our warm hospitality of our Canadian hosts. days have begun with the Eucharist and been Canada’s increasing ethnic diversity, along punctuated by prayer and Bible study. The with its French, British, and Indigenous wide range of the Lutheran communion has heritages, make it a striking example of been represented among us, from Finland the joys and difficulties of our world. The to South Africa, from Japan to Argentina. Our wounds of the world have not been hidden delegations have been made up of youth and from us during the Assembly. Among us adults, men and women. Present with us also have been sisters and brothers from lands have been representatives of other ravaged by war, afflicted by the HIV/AIDS churches: Roman Catholic, Orthodox, Re- pandemic and drug abuse, crushed by the formed, Anglican, and many others. We have underside of economic globalization. We welcomed the ecumenical steps forward of heard about the devastation caused by the the last decade, especially the Joint Decla- civil war in Liberia directly from Liberian ration on the Doctrine of Justification with church leaders. That the world needs heal- the Roman Catholic Church, but also sensed ing has been painfully evident. Particu- our need of the Spirit to overcome the sig- larly painful for us has been the absence nificant divisions that remain. The experi- of more than fifty sisters and brothers de- ence of a communion so diverse yet united nied the visas needed to attend the Assem- in the gospel is always a highlight of an LWF bly. Behind these denials lies a world Assembly, and we hope that you will have changed by terrorism, a world ever more some contact with those who have been here closely united by technology but increas- and get a fuller sense of what we have expe- ingly divided between rich and poor, North rienced.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 47 A major task of every Assembly is to - expressed its solidarity with the review the work of the Federation since churches of Iraq and affirmed the right the previous Assembly and to prepare the of the Iraqi people to a democratic LWF for its next period. The six-year re- government port of LWF activities, From Hong Kong to Winnipeg 1997-2003, was reviewed in - affirmed efforts for peace in Israel- ten small groups called “Village Groups,” Palestine based on liberation for Pal- organized around individual topics. Elec- estine and security for Israel tions were held for a new LWF Council and Mark Hanson, presiding bishop of the - committed the LWF to continue to ex- Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, plore what it means to be a communion. was elected LWF President. The Village Groups also developed commitments for The Assembly confronted the diversity the future work of the Federation, which within the Lutheran communion on ques- were reviewed and adopted by the Assem- tions of family and human sexuality. We bly. These commitments are gathered to- found in the course of an engaged but mu- gether in the Assembly Message. This tually respectful dialogue that our com- message, together with the Assembly’s munion in Christ is stronger than our dif- resolutions, will be distributed to you in ferences on these issues; here also, we the near future. In them, the Assembly: must bear each others’ burdens. The As- sembly Message calls on the churches to - committed the LWF to closer work support one another in continued dialogue with Indigenous peoples on these topics and in advocacy for the human rights of all persons. - called for a coordinated study on the We leave Winnipeg with a sense of role of diakonia as an integral part of gratitude for what God has done through the Lutheran communion the Federation in the past and with prayers for its work in the future. We are all united - invited the member churches to sup- in the one Christ and the one Spirit. Every port fair international trade policies time we gather around Word and Sacra- and the cancellation of illegitimate ment, our local communion is one with the international debt communion that includes all times and places. The Lutheran communion realized - expressed its concern about the in- in the LWF is one expression of that unity. creasing unilateralism of the United Our communion needs healing; the wider States of America in foreign affairs church needs healing; the world needs healing. The LWF exists to serve the work - changed the full name of the LWF to of God “for the healing of the world.” May “The Lutheran World Federation–A God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, bless and Communion of Churches” sustain our communion in this work.

Bishop emeritus Dr Christian Krause Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko Outgoing President General Secretary Winnipeg, July 2003

48 The Lutheran World Federation Rev. Dr Walter Altmann, president, Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Confession in Brazil, chairperson of the Editorial Committee that prepared the Assembly Message.

Message from the Tenth Assembly

Introduction: The World “terrorism,” its causes and fearful reactions in Need of Healing to it. Relationships in this world continue to be ruptured due to greed, injustices and We have come to this Tenth Assembly in various forms of violence. People continue Winnipeg, Canada, from many parts of the to be abused and excluded by other per- world God has created as good. It is also a sons, institutions and practices. Those crying, wounded world, in which devasta- viewed as being of an “other” religion, race, tion, suffering and violence are pervasive, caste, ethnicity or life condition are often along with denial, mistrust and blinding af- still kept at a distance and rejected. fluence. Our world is split asunder by forces This was poignantly demonstrated by we often do not understand, but that result the fact that over fifty participants—from in stark contrasts between those who ben- poor countries in Asia and Africa—were efit and those who are harmed, especially denied entry into Canada and thus were under forces of globalization. Today, there unable to participate in this Assembly. We is also a desperate need for healing from were painfully aware of their absence,

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 49 which was a concrete example of how ex- meaning for people in the third millennium. clusion occurs through mechanisms at In our broken world, people experience so work in today’s fearful, globalized world. much evil in personal, social and global The world’s multiple ills are evident dimensions. We have to face our sinful around and within us; as Lutheran Christians thoughts, words, actions and omissions we profess that in this world we cannot es- against God, human beings and the whole cape from these ever-present manifestations of creation. Sin is a power, manifested in of sin and evil. We may yearn for definitive acts, from which human beings cannot solutions to sin and evil, but are left with escape by their own means. In the midst of partial glimpses of what God, the ultimate this, we yearn for liberation and healing. healer, promises us. God promises “a new Our hope in the midst of sin and suffer- heaven and earth” (Isa 65:17ff.) in which suf- ing is that God heals us. The message of fering, sickness and dying are no more. Liv- justification is the word of hope, which of- ing in light of that promise we realize that fers us the good news of God’s love and amid the brokenness and suffering, God is acceptance. Jesus Christ came into this effecting healing in our lives and our world, world and lived among us. He took the suf- in mysterious and unexpected ways, using ferings of the whole world onto himself. human beings as his healing agents. God’s He humbled himself unto death, but in his abiding commitment to the world—to be death and resurrection we were given a with us—gives us the courage to name and new hope and future. Jesus Christ himself seek healing for the wounds, scars and dis- is the precious gift and promise for all hu- eases, and to bear witness to the healing that mankind. The Holy Spirit makes this gift is occurring. We have done so in this As- present in us by calling us to faith and re- sembly with a deepening sense of commun- newal, and to life in the community of the ion with one another, and in the confident justified. In this community we are in- hope that God’s promises as revealed cluded and strengthened by the healing through Scripture will be fulfilled! power of the Triune God, who creates in us Through daily celebrations of Holy a new life through the proclamation of the Communion and in Bible studies, we have gospel and the celebration of the holy sac- glimpsed these promises, and shared and raments. Even though our healing here is celebrated our faith in the God who heals. incomplete we trust in the sufficiency of Our sense of belonging to the one body of God’s grace (2 Cor 12:9). Christ, with its many ecumenical dimen- We, as Lutherans, assert that the doc- sions, has been renewed. We have been trine of justification is the article by which touched by the healing power of God’s Holy the Church stands or falls. We rejoice that, Spirit, and strengthened in our commitment with the signing in 1999 of the Joint Dec- to participate in God’s transformative mis- laration on the Doctrine of Justification sion for the healing of the world. by the LWF and the Roman Catholic And so we cry out, “Lord, heal our Church, a chasm has been bridged; the wounded world, heal our wounds and those mutual condemnations regarding justifi- ways we inflict wounds on others! O God, cation do not apply. But, continuing chal- comfort, save and stir us to be about your lenges remain to address the theological healing work in our world today.” questions still at stake, the reception and implications of this agreement in local settings, and probing what justification I. The Healing Gift means for the world today. of Justification We share the concern of many people who are not familiar with the language by We are convinced that the message of which the common faith is traditionally God’s healing gift of justification is rich in expressed. There is a need for the theo-

50 The Lutheran World Federation logical content of the doctrine of justifica- contexts, especially where human tion to be interpreted in different contexts. beings are vulnerable and urgently We challenge ourselves to talk about God’s need healing because of exploitation, gift of justification in words which are un- oppression and alienation derstandable, relevant and meaningful for contemporary people. We encourage • explore and pursue further—to- member churches to promote a deeper and gether with other churches—the re- wider understanding of justification. lation between justification and We as human beings loved by God have ecclesiology, justification and the a deep need for belonging together. We suf- sacraments, justification and ethics, fer from feelings of being excluded in ways with special attention to the connec- that contradict community. It is therefore a tion between justification and justice big challenge to live truly as a community for the sake of a more credible pub- of justified, inviting and including everyone. lic witness of the church in the world. Justification is a personal encounter with God that challenges our communities and all humanity. We are called into the II. The Healing Gift healing body of Jesus Christ. The deepest of Communion meaning of justification is experienced in our relationships with God and one another As the justified people of God, we are a in our daily lives of worship, witness and communion in Christ through the power of mutual caring and sharing. In baptism, we the Holy Spirit. Therefore, we are called are accepted, and included, into the com- to share our resources and perspectives munion of God’s children. Through the with each other, as well as to challenge Word of God and through the Eucharist our and provoke one another to new horizons sins are forgiven, and we are strengthened of faithfulness that go beyond what we can by the presence of our Lord. We express see or do as individual member churches. our deep desire to come to the Lord’s table Because communion involves a commit- together with our sisters and brothers in ment to the sharing of power, we must ask, other Christian communities. as did the Curitiba Assembly, “How vari- We are convinced that God’s healing ous groups within the church exercise gifts have to be shared with all people. We power over others to exclude them from are called to participate in the sufferings of full participation in the Body of Christ.”1 our sisters and brothers and so to carry out Misuse of institutional power is evident in our common responsibility of working for our churches, as well as in societies, legal justice at all levels in our world today. Al- and economic systems, political and in- though we are justified by faith alone, that ternational organizations. faith can never be alone. It compels us to Many churches still do not ordain good works and love for all people. The jus- women and/or keep women from partici- tifying gift of God transforms us in faith, and pating fully in decision-making processes. gives hope and healing for the whole world. Often patriarchy plays a dominant role, legitimized by culture and religion. Therefore, we commit ourselves and Young people are a gift of God and bring call on member churches to many unique experiences and insights which they are willing to share. However, • bear witness with our ecumenical youth often are marginalized in and ex- partners to the message of justifica- cluded from the life of our churches. They tion in ways and languages that are often are not included fully in their con- understandable, meaningful and rel- gregations and even more frequently are evant for people living in specific blocked from decision-making processes.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 51 Our mutual participation in Christ leads • give attention to and develop policies us to challenge all those cultural, economic for addressing situations of conflict and political forces that define and tend to within and between churches divide us. Communion can make us uncom- fortable as assumptions and practices that • facilitate cross-cultural communica- we take for granted are challenged, and we tion that enables us to listen sensi- are pushed to consider questions that we tively and to respond authentically would not, as separate churches, on our own. and gracefully, with an awareness of These tensions, which can at times be threat- the prevailing unequal power dynam- ening, are also a sign of vitality; they can ics; monitor and improve internal and deepen the realization of what it means to public communication, according to be a communion. We give thanks to God that the LWF Guiding Principles for Com- our communion is blessed with diversity. prehensive Communication “A Com- Communion means more than having municative Communion”2 nice feelings about one another; it in- volves calling one another into account • invite the participation of Lutherans for the effects that our actions have, or who currently are not a part of this can have, on others. communion Our understandings of communion are richly diverse and are grounded in the New • facilitate dialogue within the com- Testament understandings of koinonia, with munion on areas of disagreement, several dimensions: the believers’ commun- such as understandings and prac- ion and participation in Christ, communion tices of the ministry, involving both with the Holy Spirit, the communion shared men and women, both ordained and in the Eucharist, the communion in apos- lay, in a spirit of mutual respect and tolic teaching, sharing in each others’ suf- in quest of common understandings fering and economic sharing. • challenge sexual stereotypes and Therefore, we commit ourselves and raise gender issues early in life and call on member churches to seek to build a just community of women and men • continue exploring what it means to live in the communion that God gives, • promote the full inclusion of women to receive one another’s differences and youth in all aspects of our life and as gifts and necessary complements work as churches and in our societies for building up the body, and to learn from each other how communion as • make the church’s institutional power Eucharist creates and nurtures com- more transparent and accountable, with munion in the rest of our shared life a deepened commitment to sharing re- sources and developing inclusive styles • continue studying the theological of leadership. grounds for and implications of what it means to be a Lutheran commun- ion, seeking to make it as inclusive III. Healing Divisions as possible within the One Church

• respond to situations of injustice in Ecumenical dialogues are one of the impor- other parts of the communion from a tant ways through which the healing and ful- communio perspective that moves filling gift of the Spirit is received. Through beyond solidarity and accompaniment them, we are able to see with different eyes

52 The Lutheran World Federation the many barriers of separation that exist centered in the proclamation of the Word, between our churches and traditions. Yet we Holy Baptism, the sharing of the Eucha- also realize how much we share on account rist and the apostolicity of the whole of our faith in Christ and the communion in Church sent in mission. the Holy Spirit. The ecumenical dialogues are not only institutional endeavors, but real Therefore, we commit ourselves and developments in our commitment to witness call on member churches to in the Spirit sent by the Father through the Son for the healing of the whole world. • continue the international bilateral Reaching formal agreements on doctrinal dialogues with the Anglican, Ortho- matters and establishing official forms of dox, Reformed and Roman Catholic intercommunion with other churches con- churches, searching for new ways of tribute to the healing of divisions within the improving the reception of dialogue one Church and therefore to the unity of hu- results in member churches by manity. The mission of the Church is means of accessible methods, study strengthened through unity; through this documents and catechetical materi- unity we bear a deeper witness to God’s love als, and to foster the initiation and/or for humanity and creation. the strengthening of regional dia- With previous assemblies, we reaffirm logues and local ecumenical endeav- ors, in ways that are sensitive to lo- • the conviction that ecumenical com- cal church realities, priorities, mis- mitment is integral to Lutheran con- sion concerns, and pastoral issues fessional identity (e.g., mixed marriages)

• the importance of official dialogues • welcome the agreements with with other churches churches of the Anglican, Methodist, Moravian and Reformed traditions that • the need to explore possibilities for member churches have entered into new ecumenical involvements, meth- since the last Assembly, and to study ods and instruments, and better ecu- and appropriately implement the rec- menical coordination of programs ommendations of the working groups and assemblies, and with the Anglican Communion and the World Alliance of Reformed Churches • the importance of encouraging, equip- (WARC). We also commit ourselves to ping and assisting our member explore the possibilities for deepened churches in their regional ecumenical relationships with these communions dialogues, agreements and mission. at the global level for the sake of our common mission in the world We support the process initiated internation- ally to examine whether the condemnations • give priority to the regular meetings of Anabaptists in the Augsburg Confession with the International Lutheran Coun- apply to Mennonites today, and we encour- cil (ILC), and support member age the development of Lutheran-Mennonite churches of the ILC and the LWF to relations locally. We also encourage rela- develop and further their relation- tions between Lutheran and Oriental Ortho- ships locally dox churches at various levels. As we serve the world with words and • support the study processes related to deeds, our Lord’s mandate and the healing the coherence of the Lutheran ecu- gift of the Holy Spirit inspire our ongoing menical involvement, such as on the search for the visible unity of the Church episcopal ministry within the aposto-

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 53 licity of the church and on the diaconal Mission as transformation challenges ministry, paying special attention to churches to be themselves transformed in different and sometimes controversial order to become God’s instruments of trans- aspects and interpretations formation in multifaith contexts; the faith we confess is by nature dialogical. With the • incorporate new voices, disciplines, Curitiba Assembly, we: “…commend dia- methodologies and partners in ecu- logue as a legitimate form of ministry and menical dialogues and encounters, witness in a religiously diverse world… .”3 giving greater attention to ecumeni- “…by listening to the faith and convictions cal pursuits in and with Africa, Asia, of others, we have the opportunity to deepen Central Eastern Europe and Latin our own commitments and to define our America and the Caribbean identity in relation to others and not over against them.”4 With the world mission con- • actively participate in discussions of ferences in San Antonio (USA) and Salva- a new configuration of the ecumeni- dor (Brazil), we affirm that “we cannot cal movement, while also encourag- point to any other way of salvation than ing Lutheran member churches in the Jesus Christ; at the same time we cannot World Council of Churches (WCC) to set limits to the saving power of God.”5 In uphold the WCC as key in the ecumeni- light of this, we must continue to cal movement, and working toward the realization of a truly universal Chris- • affirm religious freedom tian council taking practical steps to- ward coordinated assemblies • explore with people of other faiths ways in which we may undertake com- • find ways of engaging in dialogue with mon endeavors which promote jus- Pentecostal churches and to study and tice, peace and the integrity of creation relate to charismatic movements within our own churches. • study our Christian faith in depth and others’ faiths sympathetically, in order better to understand the relationships IV. The Mission between them and the challenges that of the Church interfaith dialogue poses to Christian, in Multifaith Contexts specifically Lutheran, theology

God’s mission is wider than the bounds of • accelerate our efforts to equip people the church. The church participates in God’s for witness and dialogue through edu- mission through witness in word and deed cation, encounters, one-on-one relation- to the coming of God’s reign in diverse, ships and the contributions of persons multifaith contexts. Our participation in the who have crossed religious or cultural mission of the Triune God involves three in- boundaries, and terrelated dimensions, diakonia, proclama- tion and dialogue, which are integral parts • hold before our Christian brothers and of the mission of the church. We call atten- sisters the interrelationship of wit- tion to the great diversity of contexts in which ness and dialogue as integral to Chris- mission is carried out and the variety of tian mission and self-understanding. forms of Christian witness that are appro- priate and possible in different contexts, and In our world today, where too often religions the need for churches to learn from one an- are used by political forces to divide people other. and fuel conflict, it is crucial that we pur- sue justice and reconciliation with those of

54 The Lutheran World Federation other faiths. Reconciliation is central in the o for God’s mission in the world, gospel we proclaim: In Christ, God has rec- the mission of our own church, onciled the whole creation. In this sense, and for openness to the gospel dialogue that furthers such reconciliation is one of the important ways of carrying out o call upon the Holy Spirit to re- God’s mission. Christians are called to live new individuals and congrega- in peace with all and to promote reconcili- tions for the sake of mission. ation with people of different faiths, with- out surrendering their call to be witnesses • Learn for Christ. The relation between interfaith dialogue and proclamation requires ongo- o promote catechesis and biblical ing study and discussion in our churches. learning in our churches; we need to know our own Christian tradi- Therefore, we commit ourselves and tion well in order to enter into re- call on member churches to sponsible dialogue with others

• Listen o read the Bible in ways that enable us to discover how God meets o ensure that Christians from mi- people in different cultural contexts nority contexts are heard so that Christians in majority contexts o explore in new and creative might learn from them ways what it means to be church in multifaith/multicultural con- o create forums where churches texts with regard to the nature can openly present their pre- of the church, structures, theol- dicaments and needs, and thus ogy and theological education, inspire and invigorate us to ad- spirituality, ministry and the vocate for each other priesthood of all believers

o listen to people of other faiths o encourage ongoing renewal of with a willingness to learn and our worship practices in ways recognize signs of God’s pres- that are culturally and contex- ence among them. tually appropriate

• Repent o prepare pastoral guidelines for multifaith gatherings and the o of the church’s failure to see the effects of interfaith marriages. good gifts of God in cultures • Witness o of how the church has supported oppression and exploitation of o empower God’s people for wit- people and seek to rectify these ness to the gospel in word and injustices deed in daily life and society

o of how churches and individu- o develop and disseminate prac- als have exploited creation. tical ways of holding together interfaith dialogue and witness • Pray o invite others to faith in Jesus Christ.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 55 • Dialogue guage and/or culture. Ethnicity is seen both as an asset and a danger. Frequently, o actively pursue the dialogue of Indigenous people feel powerless and living and growing together in voiceless regarding self-determination mutual respect and understand- and access to education, health care and ing, striving with people of other job opportunities. faiths for the healing of the We also were challenged by those among world (“diapraxis”) through rec- us at this Assembly who are differently-abled onciliation, peace, justice and [people with disabilities]for whom life in its better living conditions for all fullness is hindered due to inaccessibility to God’s children. institutions, education, employment and so- cial life. In some countries disabilities and diseases are still considered the result of V. Removing Barriers sin, or a cause of shame in families. That Exclude The current pandemic of HIV/AIDS has moved us as churches to confess how we At this Assembly, we were reminded that have sinned against those infected and we live in a world where fear and suspi- affected by this disease, by stigmatizing cion of other people are rampant, due to and discriminating against them, particu- differences in gender, race, ethnicity, larly based on assumptions regarding their class, nationality, caste, sexual orienta- sexual practices. We are reminded of God’s tion, age, or physical/mental condition. We healing power of inclusion into the com- all are created in God’s image. Even munity, as well as the many ways that we, though diversity is part of God’s creation, as Lutheran Christians, could promote differences often become the basis on healing through social justice advocacy. which barriers are built that exclude per- We acknowledge the diversity within sons and communities from participating the communion on matters of human sexu- fully in the life that God envisions for all. ality. At the same time, we believe it is We recall and affirm those many ways important to enter into dialogue to clarify the LWF has spoken out repeatedly in op- our understandings and learn from the position to discrimination and exclusion of Scriptures, contemporary knowledge and many kinds. Rights of refugees, displaced our different experiences. In approaching persons and migrants, have long been at such dialogue we seek to preserve the hu- the forefront of LWF work. Working to end man rights and dignity of all people. gender-based discrimination and to em- Naming and speaking out against dis- power women in both society and the crimination of all kinds and defending hu- church has been a programmatic aspect of man rights have and continue to be key. LWF work since the early 1970s, and later Yet even more crucial is to take the next with regard to youth. In both cases, many steps of empowering and working with resolutions and commitments have been others to effectively remove the systemic made in the past. Discrimination based on barriers. It is not enough if some individu- “caste” (especially of Dalits) and against als are themselves able to overcome such Indigenous peoples in many lands has re- barriers, while the patterns of discrimina- ceived attention in more recent years. tion and exclusion remain in place. For the first time in the history of the LWF, meetings of representatives of Indig- Therefore, we commit ourselves and enous peoples were held during this As- call on member churches to sembly. In many countries, Indigenous people are discriminated against, in terms • continue to recognize and support the of land rights, ethnic background, lan- basic human rights of Indigenous

56 The Lutheran World Federation peoples according to international and to heal” (Lk 9:1-2). The ministry of laws and standards; land rights are healing, which has an eschatological di- fundamental to the survival of Indig- mension, belongs to the whole church. It enous peoples and their cultures continues Jesus’ ministry of healing, build- ing and edifying a new community. It in- • acknowledge and seek the presence cludes the ministry of service— of Indigenous peoples within our diakonia—through medical, educational churches; take steps to challenge and social services for those in need. All paternalistic patterns and affirm In- are called to promote healing, nurture and digenous peoples as equal partners preservation of life. We testify to a rich variety of applica- • continue standing in solidarity with tions and understandings of healing in our those in India, especially the churches, affected by local situations and Lutheran churches which are help- cultures. As a Lutheran communion, we ing to empower the Dalits as they see the importance of sharing experiences struggle for human dignity and rights and developing our understanding of the Church’s healing ministry. We need the • make our churches accessible so as gifts of the Holy Spirit to discern the spir- to include differently-abled people in its and to provide our communities with the full life of, and decision making, sound criteria in the exercise of the heal- in our churches; in word and deed, ing ministry. unconditionally support differently- In our globalized world we cannot limit abled people in their struggles to over- the task of healing to the individual or inti- come all forms of discrimination; seek mate sphere. A wider perspective is nec- compliance with the United Nations’ essary, including social, political and eco- standards that secure equal opportu- logical dimensions. The prophetic dimen- nities for differently-abled people. sion must not be ignored in the healing ministry of the church. Where healing takes place, justice is restored. VI. The Church’s Ministry It is of fundamental importance to relate of Healing the healing ministry to the ministry of pro- claiming the gospel and administering the We are embodied beings. As the Incarna- sacraments. Healing is grounded in the Word tion of Christ makes clear, our bodies are of the cross, which basically is a word of important. God became embodied in a hu- powerlessness. This clarifies that the source man being and addresses us as embodied of healing is God. This is expressed in the persons—as we are—rather than accord- Lutheran doctrine of justification by grace ing to human standards of what are “per- through faith alone, as celebrated in Bap- fect” or “normal” bodies. Sometimes our tism and Eucharist. Both are sacraments of bodies are broken and in need of healing. healing. From this basis the church is given As a Christian communion we are its ministry of healing as a transformative called to participate in God’s healing work, action, empowered by the Holy Spirit. which promotes the wholeness of life. As Lutheran Christians, many of us Physical, mental and spiritual healing of have kept our distance or been suspicious persons is not a new activity. This has been of healing movements in the church. Yet, important in the life and ministry of the all of us yearn for healing of body, mind church from its beginning, and continues and spirit. With regard to faith-healing to be in the church’s ministry today. Jesus movements, we affirm that human beings healed and called his followers to do like- cannot guarantee, promise or control the wise: “…to proclaim the kingdom of God outcome. Healing is not synonymous with

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 57 salvation, nor is faith necessarily a pre- • broaden the understanding of condition for healing. diakonia, as a fundamental dimension Healing is not limited to curing in the of the church’s nature and life, and es- scientific sense. The essence of healing is pecially diaconal ministry as a part of to alleviate suffering, give hope and enable the holistic ministry of the church. people to live and die with dignity. Disabling conditions may persist in healing, but per- sons are restored to life in community, for VII. Justice and Healing the sake of abundant life. Pastoral care and in Families liturgical acts of anointing and healing are further expressions of this reality. God has created us and redeemed us in These affirmations help us to see that Christ for fullness of life in community, the ministry of healing belongs to the marked by love and sharing. Families are whole church. Both ordained and lay mem- a primary expression of that divinely or- bers are called to heal as partners in God’s dained community. Here, human beings healing work for the wholeness of life. are nurtured, raised and supported to par- ticipate in society. Within our global com- Therefore, we commit ourselves and munion, there are widely divergent under- call on member churches to standings and compositions of families, with different cultural practices and ta- • continue to develop our understand- boos. The challenge is to pursue justice ing of the church’s ministry of heal- and healing in many different kinds of fami- ing, in relation to lies. In a changing world, the integrity of fam- o the richness of cultural expres- ily as a place of love, nurture and safety is sions, with a special focus on continually challenged and often broken marginalized and Indigenous by violence, disease, the impact of pov- cultures erty, alcohol and drug abuse, and chang- ing patterns for our life in community. o our socio-political and environ- Families in all parts of the world experi- mental contexts, permeated by ence massive changes and tensions, es- concerns such as poverty, HIV/ pecially in times of war, economic up- AIDS, violence and destructive heaval and devastating pandemics such lifestyles as HIV/AIDS. Because of the need to “break the si- o everyday life, giving value to lence” regarding domestic violence, we daily work as vocation and the affirm how the LWF resource, Churches opportunity to be partners in Say “No” to Violence Against Women, has God’s healing ministry in the been used in many of our churches, and public arena among our ecumenical partners, and en- courage that effective follow-up continue o charismatic movements in churches throughout the communion. In addition, attention needs to be given to vio- o the spiritual life of the church, lence against men, children, the elderly and especially how this can be and the differently-abled. expressed in liturgies for heal- An essential part of our pastoral and ing, drawn from the wealth of prophetic ministry in solidarity with those cultures within the Lutheran who suffer is continually to lift up God’s communion. gracious intentions for life in community,

58 The Lutheran World Federation through care, for justice, peace and heal- VIII. Overcoming Violence ing in families. Violence in our world today takes many Therefore, we commit ourselves and forms—some of them overt and personal but call on member churches to many of them covert, embedded in dehu- manizing structural and institutional forms. • encourage and support one another In situations where one group holds the in power and others are left dependent, injus- tices fester and often are reinforced and per- a) study and respectful dialogue petuated through violence. The church must on issues of marriage, family also be aware of the possibility that it may and human sexuality, in a man- misuse its power, especially through tradi- ner appropriate to the needs of tions and practices that exclude and oppress. each member church, and We deplore, as did the Curitiba Assem- bly, the huge expenditures that go into mili- b) advocacy for the human rights tary budgets, often at the cost of meeting and the dignity of all persons the basic needs of people, and that lead in- regardless of gender or sexual stead to further oppression, denial of hu- orientation man rights and an escalation of violence. Following the Hong Kong Assembly, we • increase awareness regarding pre- affirm the role of the LWF “…to facilitate vention of the HIV/AIDS pandemic dialogue, peace and reconciliation at all through education and information, stages of the evolution of conflict.” And including speaking-out against harm- “…to support and accompany local initia- ful, abusive and exploitative sexual tives in pursuit of sustainable peace, jus- practices, treating sexually transmit- tice, genuine reconciliation and the recon- ted diseases, promoting faithfulness struction of civil society, and the establish- in marriage and advocating effec- ment of trust among peoples and nations.”6 tive means of prevention (e.g., absti- We affirm the continuing exploration of the nence, use of condoms, sterilized ethical dilemmas this poses, such as those needles, clean blood supplies) discussed in the LWF paper, “Armed Inter- vention to Defend Human rights.”7 • encourage and support one another We note the alarming evidence of reli- in overcoming violence in families, gious and other forms of fundamentalism particularly violent practices against that contribute to suspicion, hatred and con- women and children (including harm- flict. We challenge all those ways religion ful cultural practices such as female is misused to legitimize or rationalize the genital mutilation and forced mar- use of violence—in families, communities, riage) and to create processes of heal- nations and internationally. We join with the ing and reconciliation within families Hong Kong Assembly in declaring that “‘Fundamentalism,’ whether political or • encourage and support one another religious, is contrary to the basic values of in counteracting alcohol and drug human dignity and freedom….”8 abuse Our faith is in a God who through jus- tice, forgiveness and reconciliation, rather • be mindful of how families experi- than through vengeance, breaks cycles of ence spiritual poverty and encourage violence. Nonviolent resistance to condi- the development of liturgies and wor- tions that lead to and are themselves vio- ship resources that reflect their lent is a form of discipleship. needs and realities.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 59 Therefore, we commit ourselves and • confront increasing militarism, the call on member churches to manufacture and proliferation of weapons, arms spending at the ex- • participate fully in the WCC ecu- pense of social spending (including menical “Decade to Overcome Vio- health and education) and military, lence (2001–2010) Churches Seek- political and all other forms of impe- ing Reconciliation and Peace.” rialism

• become agents for overcoming vio- • support efforts to strengthen the United lence and for promoting reconcilia- Nations, international institutions and tion. Our theologies should help break international law as instruments of the barriers that prevent us from ex- peace, especially in the current con- pressing repentance and receiving text of isolationism, unilateralism and absolution, and support advocacy for xenophobia the oppressed and liberation of both oppressors and the oppressed. The • advocate against violence in the me- gospel of liberation must be applied dia and in popular forms of entertain- in practical contexts of oppression ment, especially those affecting chil- and marginalization within the church dren and youth; encourage journalists as well as in society to provide authentic communication and objective non-sensationalist re- • encourage and support one another porting on world events and act to overcome sexual violence against children and youth including • confront those who profit from the within our churches trafficking of women and children.

• affirm and use the power of non-vio- lence, educating and training for non- IX. Transforming violent actions to transform situations Economic Globalization of violence and injustice Economic globalization is reshaping our • pursue dialogue, encounter and prac- world. We have heard of the impact on our tical cooperation as a means of re- communities around the world, and have ducing prejudice and enemy images focused on key economic policies that and overcoming violence, stigmati- abdicate all decisions to the market with- zation and victimization out considering the human, social, eco- logical, and spiritual consequences. • actively confront expressions of re- Economic globalization has brought a ligious and political fundamental- profound sense of hopelessness to so many. ism, including Christian fundamen- Instead of the promised prosperity, many talism; search for common values of aspects of economic globalization continue justice, peace and reconciliation in to bring suffering, misery and death to mil- all religious traditions, and under- lions. In spite of the increase in food produc- take joint interfaith actions tion, the unequal distribution of wealth and goods leaves more than one billion people • recognize and support the essential under the spell of endemic hunger. Many na- role and initiatives of women in nego- tions of the South find themselves under the tiations and peace-building processes, unbearable burden of economic debt. The and encourage men to be more active historical reasons for the debt are deeply in opposing violence connected to colonialism and the unfair de-

60 The Lutheran World Federation velopment of the modern system of trade • the globalization of information that and finance. The harsh burden of globaliza- connects people in many parts of the tion falls in greater measure upon women; world is denied to the majority who they not only suffer its direct effects but also lack access to it are called upon to care for others abandoned due to the consequences of globalization. • churches have shrinking resources as Through our diverse experiences, we support decreases because more are facing the same negative conse- people are struggling to survive quences of neoliberal economic policies (i.e., the Washington Consensus) that are • unemployment and underemployment leading to increased hardship, suffering are reducing the ability of people to earn and injustice in our communities. As a a living and are forcing many into dehu- communion, we must engage the false ide- manizing activities (e.g., trafficking in ology of neoliberal economic globaliza- women and children, prostitution, crimi- tion by confronting, converting and chang- nal activity) ing this reality and its effects. This false ideology is grounded in the assumption • while capital and goods are freely that the market, built on private property, traded across borders, people left des- unrestrained competition and the central- perate by weakened local economies ity of contracts, is the absolute law gov- are often prevented from migrating erning human life, society and the natural environment. This is idolatry and leads to • governments are becoming power- the systematic exclusion of those who own less and less willing to safeguard the no property, the destruction of cultural di- well-being of their people. versity, the dismantling of fragile democ- racies and the destruction of the earth. As a Lutheran communion we call for the We find negative global effects of eco- development of an economy that serves nomic globalization within all parts of our life. We affirm the LWF document, “A Call communion, but particularly in the South to Participate in Transforming Economic and in Central Eastern Europe. Economic globalization,” upon which we commit globalization has resulted in the following: ourselves to work, based theologically on what it means to be a communion. We also • a growing gap between the very rich emphasize, with Martin Luther, that eco- and the poor that particularly adversely nomic practices that undermine the well- affects women, youth and children being of the neighbor (especially the most vulnerable) must be rejected and replaced • increased marginalization of Indig- with alternatives. Luther also reminds pas- enous peoples, excluding them from tors that they are obliged to unmask hid- their right to their land, self-gover- den injustices of economic practices that nance, resources, Indigenous knowl- exploit the vulnerable. edge and their culture We recognize that this vision of an economy that serves life will need to be • the international debt has become an pursued ecumenically. We join with the instrument of domination; the rates of World Council of Churches, the World Al- interest charged amount to usury; many liance of Reformed Churches and other of the debts are illegitimate (including church families in a continuing ecumeni- “odious debts”); the efforts undertaken cal process focused on how economic and by governments and international finan- ecological injustice challenges us as cial institutions so far have failed churches.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 61 Therefore, we commit ourselves and heaven not earth that matters; that humans call on member churches to are to exploit and subjugate all creation, including human and ecological relation- • participate in transforming economic ships; and, that the scope of God’s redemp- globalization and to engage in partner- tion is limited to human beings alone. ships with civil society, particularly in As a Lutheran communion, we affirm efforts that recognize the churches’ instead that prophetic role in promoting justice and human rights • God is present not only in and with human beings but in and with all cre- • help empower members by raising ation; Christ suffers with creation awareness of the issues of economic when it is abused, wounded, violated; globalization and equipping them to the Holy Spirit cries with the take concrete actions wounded creation

• address issues of economic global- • through Christ, God reconciles, trans- ization that include trade, debt, mili- forms and heals all of creation tarization, corruption, corporate so- cial responsibility, gender equality • human beings are to be God’s creat- and migration ing, restoring, sustaining hands on this earth • build and strengthen ecumenical partnerships, multifaith cooperation, • reconciled to our Creator through and participate in civil society alli- Christ, we have the opportunity to re- ances (i.e., the World Social Forum) pent; justified by faith we can act ac- cordingly. In so doing we acknowl- • create opportunities and arenas for dia- edge our place in creation and accept logue, discussion and moral deliberation our responsibility toward creation. between various economic actors, policy makers, citizens, stakeholders and The 1990 LWF Eighth Assembly in communities. Curitiba, Brazil, made the commitment to form “one global lifeline of churches sup- porting each other in confronting threats X. Healing Creation to God’s creation.”9 Here we raise up the importance of The wounded creation also is in desper- ate need of healing. The earth continues • challenging, on personal, corporate and to be polluted due to human greed, igno- international levels, specific practices rance, overpopulation and wars, as well that violate and wound the creation as a consequence of consumerism. This has fatal consequences such as drought, • working for policies and practices desertification, extinction of species, pov- that respect all of life, and opposing erty and starvation. We confess that we the patenting of life forms or pro- play a part in the exploitation and destruc- cesses that produce them, especially tion of nature. Too often, we treat the cre- at the expense of everyone who de- ation as an object for our use and inflict pends on them wounds upon it, rather than seeing our- selves as part of God’s precious gift of cre- • promoting sustainable agriculture, ation. Contributing to this reality have been based on a holistic ecological ap- misleading theological attitudes: that it is proach, that is ecologically sound,

62 The Lutheran World Federation economically viable, socially just, • evaluate new biotechnological de- culturally appropriate and humane velopments and advocate against and learning from the insights and those that violate the dignity and in- experiences of minority cultures and tegrity of human beings as created Indigenous peoples in the image of God

• opposing consumer and profit-driven • support international agreements models of economic development (e.g., the Kyoto Protocol) that seek and industry which ignore equity and to preserve the environment and the justice for all creation integrity of creation

• reflecting on ethical and justice is- • include study of the theology of cre- sues related to modern biotechnol- ation as an established part of the cur- ogy, whose social and medical con- riculum of institutions of higher learn- sequences are yet to be seen ing of the LWF member churches, and educate our communities on the the- • lifting up and promoting alternative ology of creation ways that guarantee equitable trade and fair wages. • respect Sunday as a day of rest in order that all creation can be restored Therefore, we commit ourselves and and renewed. call on member churches to

• challenge practices where the gifts Conclusion of God for all are made into com- modities in unjust and unnecessary In light of the many challenges we face in ways, which especially impact the today’s world, we have reaffirmed past poor. This includes the privatization commitments of the LWF, and assumed of water and all other natural re- new ones. We pledge to devote ourselves sources that are basic for human life and our best efforts to them. And yet, we and the patenting of seeds for crops know all too well the limitations of our ca- and of other living organisms pacities and recognize the tragic effects of our sinfulness, which also pervades our • become more eco-centric in order to churches and our communion. live more in harmony with nature. We More than ever, our deeply wounded have much to learn from Indigenous world needs a testimony of hope, a hope peoples and other traditions and what that arises out of God’s promise alone. In they have to teach us about our partici- Christ, we have come to recognize that pation in and preservation of nature God heals the world and us. Jesus Christ came into this world and lived among us, • work for a more just sharing of the like one of us. He took the sufferings of the goods of creation, mindful that for whole world on himself. In his death and many people, how they relate to na- resurrection we were given a new hope ture is a matter of daily survival, and and new future. Jesus Christ himself is the that some of us consume far more precious gift and promise for all human- than others. Together we must work kind, for all creation. against climate change and the And therefore, we confess the God as greenhouse effect, by acting to de- God of Life, and see healing as promoting crease the consumption of fossil fuel the wholeness of life. In the midst of all and use renewable energy resources suffering and injustice, God is continuously

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 63 at work, healing our world. In Christ, God way from the cross to resurrection. The makes us whole, receives us anew as God’s Holy Spirit guides the church on this jour- children, restores all broken relations, and ney of faith and hope, and reminds us to calls us into the pathways of discipleship. carry each others’ burdens in prayer and Thus, as justified sinners, we are all solidarity. And thus, “let us run with perse- called to participate in God’s work of heal- verance the race that is set before us, look- ing our world. We are not yet in the ful- ing to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of filled reign of God. Our discipleship calls our faith” (Heb 12:1b-2a). O God, guide us us to follow Jesus on the way of the cross. to do so, “for the healing of the world.” God’s Word and sacraments lead us on our

Notes

1 LWF Report No. 28/29 “I Have Heard the Cry of My People.” Curitiba 1990. Proceedings of the Eighth Assembly. Geneva: LWF 1990, p. 82.

2 LWF Council Agenda, Wittenberg, Germany, 2002. Exhibit 16.1

3 LWF Report No. 28/29 “I Have Heard the Cry of My People.” Curitiba 1990. Proceedings of the Eighth Assembly. Geneva: LWF 1990, p. 84.

4 Ibid.

5 The San Antonio Report “Your Will Be Done: Mission in Christ’s Way.” Ed. Frederick R. Wilson. Geneva: WCC Publications 1990, p. 32, par. 26. Called to One Hope. Ed. Christopher Duraisingh. Geneva: WCC Publications, 1998, p. 33.

6 Official Report of the Ninth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation. Hong Kong 1997. Geneva: LWF, pp. 59-60.

7 LWF Council Agenda, Turku, Finland, 2000. Exhibit 17.3.

8 Official Report of the Ninth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation. Hong Kong 1997. Geneva: LWF, p. 72.

9 LWF Report No. 28/29 “I Have Heard the Cry of My People.” Curitiba 1990. Proceedings of the Eighth Assembly. Geneva: LWF 1990, p. 89.

64 The Lutheran World Federation Adopted Resolutions

Delegates take decisions.

The Assembly VOTED: to adopt the resolution re- garding conflict in Liberia.

Text of the resolution as adopted: The Assembly

The Tenth Assembly of the Lutheran World • declares its profound sense of com- Federation (LWF), meeting in Winnipeg, munion in Christ with the leader- Canada, has been deeply moved by accounts ship and members of the Lutheran of the conflict in Liberia, the suffering of Church in Liberia, and its support its people, the witness of the Lutheran for the LCL, as it seeks to be a faith- Church in Liberia (LCL) and its ecumeni- ful witness to the healing word of cal and interfaith partners in the midst of the gospel in the midst of violence, the violence, and the failure to date of the bloodshed and international indif- international community to respond in an ference to terrible human suffering, adequate and meaningful way. and requests the General Secretary Bishop Sumoward Harris and Ms Com- to convey the Assembly’s sentiments fort Freeman of the LCL have been witnesses to the LCL by letter. among us, and have powerfully conveyed the cries of their community and church. • expresses its concern for the suffer- Having heard these cries, and in- ing people of Liberia, and especially spired by the Assembly theme “For the for the most vulnerable and unpro- Healing of the World”: tected, through the LCL.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 65 • acknowledges and strongly en- The Assembly dorses the lead taken by Liberian VOTED: to adopt the resolution call- women in seeking peace through the ing on the member churches Women in Peace-building Network of the LWF to engage in a pro- (WIPNET). cess of healing by taking all the necessary measures at the • encourages all LWF member international level to develop churches to uphold the people and research for the prevention churches of Liberia in their prayers. and treatment of malaria.

• appeals to all the parties to the con- Text of the resolution as adopted: flict to cease armed violence, to pro- tect civilians, to stop recruiting and Great sums of money—though not deploying child soldiers, and to ne- enough—are devoted by laboratories to gotiate for a peaceful resolution of research on HIV/AIDS, a disease which the conflict. touches women and men in both the South and the North. The Assembly sup- • urges the United Nations Security ports endeavors to fight this devastating Council to immediately mandate disease. the deployment of a multilateral sta- However, the number one cause of bilization force to separate the war- mortality in the world—with even ring sides, to protect civilians, and greater consequences—is malaria. No to disarm and demobilize all fight- one talks about it because it kills chil- ing forces. dren, women and men only in the South. The Assembly • calls upon UN Member States that calls on the member churches of the have the capacity to do so to com- LWF to engage in a process of healing by mit adequate troops and equipment taking the necessary measures at the in- to this stabilization force. ternational level to develop research for the prevention and treatment of malaria. • affirms the efforts of the staff of the Lutheran World Federation in The Assembly Liberia, who continue to try to find VOTED: to adopt the resolution on ways of alleviating human suffer- ministry training. ing in the most difficult and dan- gerous of contexts. Text of the resolution as adopted:

• urges the international community The Assembly requests that the LWF, as to support and contribute to efforts part of its efforts for human resources for humanitarian relief and recon- development, initiate struction in Liberia, including a longer-term perspective on promot- a) formal and informal training pro- ing democratization, peace and grams in medical-pastoral care in nation-building in Liberia, and seminaries and church-run institu- tions, and • requests the General Secretary to undertake all appropriate actions to b) opportunities to understand the express and implement the concern holistic concept of healing for health of the Assembly for the people of care professionals and others who Liberia. work with healing.

66 The Lutheran World Federation The Assembly cal study on how to overcome the barriers VOTED: to adopt the resolution on that hinder gender mainstreaming (gender exclusion issues. equity) and women’s ordination (in churches where women are not ordained). Text of the resolution as adopted: The Assembly The Assembly, aware of God’s calling to VOTED: to adopt the resolution on the church to include all people, recom- sister church relationships. mends that the LWF examine and create an action plan to address the stigmatiza- Text of the resolution as adopted: tion and exclusion of specific groups of people, including women, youth, those The Assembly requests the LWF commun- who are physically and/or mentally chal- ion to support “sister church” relation- lenged, those infected with HIV/AIDS, those ships between regions to promote mu- who lack financial resources, and those tual support through the provision of who are discriminated against based on both material and human resources. ethnicity or caste. The Assembly The Assembly VOTED: to adopt the resolution on VOTED: to adopt the resolution on “Churches Say ‘No’ to Vio- Indigenous peoples as lence against Women.” amended. Text of the resolution as adopted: Text of the resolution as adopted: The Assembly recognizes with gratitude The Assembly asks the LWF, for the next the resource “Churches Say ‘No’ to Vio- period, to initiate a specific program for lence against Women,” and urges the LWF Indigenous Peoples facilitating networking to continue to through regional and international consul- tations and exchange programs, as well as a) promote this resource. initiate theological study processes related to gospel and culture and Indigenous spiri- b) encourage the member churches to tualities, as far as possible in cooperation work with this resource, and with other world confessional bodies and with the World Council of Churches. The c) encourage that this resource be LWF and its member churches are also made available to all local churches asked to support a process at the national, in their respective languages. regional and international levels of protect- ing human rights of Indigenous peoples, The Assembly including land rights. VOTED: to adopt the resolution on trade and development poli- The Assembly cies/ international debt/cor- VOTED: to adopt the resolution on porate social responsibility, gender mainstreaming and as amended. women’s ordination. Text of the resolution as adopted: Text of the resolution as adopted: The Assembly invites the LWF and the The Assembly requests the LWF and its member churches to undertake the fol- member churches to undertake a theologi- lowing priority issues:

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 67 Assembly delegates in the plenary hall

TRADE AND DEVELOPMENT more just-trade rules and movements POLICIES working for fair trade; Advocate for trade and development poli- The LWF addressing the impact of lib- cies which uphold the objective of enhanc- eralized capital and currency flows, rec- ing human well-being to which the in- ognizing the need for regulations and ternational human rights instruments controls including the issue of a tax on give legal expression. This may involve currency transactions; and the following: The LWF continuing its campaign, in The LWF initiating an international conjunction with the World Council of campaign, involving member churches, Churches and the Ecumenical Advocacy communities and individuals, to pro- Alliance, to support actions and advo- mote access to Global Public Goods (e.g. cate with governments to ensure access basic goods and services). In particular to treatment, medicines and public-health the LWF should promote trade and devel- programs for people living with HIV/ opment policies with regard to the World AIDS and other diseases, specifically as Trade Organization which secure access they relate to Trade Related Intellectual for all to safe water, adequate nutrition, Property Rights (TRIPS), trade rules, and shelter, health care including medica- the responsibility of governments to en- tions and primary education. The LWF sure these are provided. should encourage the churches to hold in- ternational financial institutions, gov- INTERNATIONAL DEBT ernments and corporations accountable Continue to call for the cancellation of the to respect these fundamental human debt of Severely Indebted Poor Countries. rights. Raise the question which portion is The LWF working to prevent the com- illegitimate/odious debt, support those mercialization and commodification of victims and their lawyers who are filing water and other basic necessities for life; court cases for reparation in national The LWF encouraging governments courts and the International Court of and financial institutions to support Justice, and challenge the governments

68 The Lutheran World Federation to cancel the illegitimate debt both bilat- ion.” This study should include reflections eral and multilateral. on the diaconal work of laypeople inside Support the development of an inde- and outside organized church structures. pendent arbitration mechanism for Contextually, the Lutheran churches middle-income countries. should be churches of presence for and with Monitor the debt crisis in countries marginalized individuals and groups. In and globally, encourage networking and view of the persistence of material poverty the sharing of resources. in major parts of the world, and in the light of the spiritual poverty related to excessive CORPORATE SOCIAL individualism in other parts of the world, RESPONSIBILITY the diaconal tasks of the churches are to- Strengthen and expand their advocacy for day many and multifaceted. greater accountability by corporations Theologically, we need to reconsider the and more corporate social responsibility. Lutheran commitment to the priesthood of Support efforts to eliminate corrup- all believers. What is the relation between tion and ensure greater transparency. mission and diakonia? What does the mes- sage of God’s unconditional justification of The Assembly sinners mean to those who are ashamed as VOTED: to adopt the resolution on poor, powerless or contagious, or branded prioritizing the issue of as those who do not measure up to modern diakonia within the LWF as standards of efficiency and success? it elaborates more specifically Ecclesiologically, we should give voice a number of the concepts in and recognition to those lay members of the first draft of the Message the church, who contribute to the life of the (paragraphs 25 and 45). church through hospitality and visitation, hearing and helping, or contribute to the Text of the resolution as adopted: beauty of the world through music and art. A failing theological reflection on the works PRIORITIZING THE ISSUE OF of the love and beauty may reflect an DIAKONIA WITHIN THE LWF ecclesial situation where sometimes only The theme of the LWF Tenth Assembly in the ordination of church officers is regarded Winnipeg 2003, “For the Healing of the as important to church formation. World,” constitutes a suitable starting point for sustained reflections on the role of The Assembly diakonia within the Lutheran communion VOTED: to adopt the resolution on of churches. This move is already prepared observance of LWF guidelines and principles. • by the global consultation on “Pro- phetic Diakonia” (Johannesburg, Text of the resolution as adopted: November 2002), and The Assembly insists that all LWF sup- • by an upcoming study project on the ported projects and programs observe diaconal ministry within the Depart- and adhere to the “Environmental Guide- ment for Theology and Studies. lines for Program Implementation” and “Guiding Principles for Sustainable De- Against this background, the Assembly velopment.” requests that the Lutheran World Federa- tion (LWF) initiate a coordinated study The Assembly program on “The Role of Diakonia as an VOTED: to amend the resolution on Integral Part of the Lutheran Commun- “Environmental Guidelines

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 69 for Program Implementation” Text of the resolution: and “Guiding Principles for Sustainable development.” The Assembly adopts, in line with the rec- ommendation of the Council in Septem- Text of the amended resolution as adopted: ber 2002, an expansion of the name of the LWF, so that the full name will be “The The Assembly insists that all LWF-sup- Lutheran World Federation – A Com- ported projects and programs observe and munion of Churches,” with the under- adhere to the “Environmental Guidelines standing that when, for practical reasons for Program Implementation” and “Guid- the full name is too long, the present name ing Principles for Sustainable develop- without the addition also remains valid, ment.” and “LWF” remains the normal acronym. To request the LWF to respond to glo- bal ecological suffering by supporting The Assembly institutions which fight to stop environ- VOTED: to adopt the resolution con- mental damage. cerning issues facing the Middle East region, as The Assembly amended. VOTED: to adopt the resolution on the development of an action Text of the resolution as adopted: plan on water. The Assembly Text of the resolution as adopted: • expresses its solidarity with the The Assembly calls for the development churches and people of Iraq. of an LWF action plan on water, includ- ing resource mobilization, as a way of • reaffirms the internationally recog- highlighting nized right of self-determination of nations and the right of the Iraqi a) how essential water is for every people to a democratic government. person and all of creation, and • affirms the role of the churches to b) the dilemmas of just, affordable dis- be bridge-builders at the local level tribution and the privatization of and initiators of interfaith dialogue. water which increasingly is occur- ring under economic globalization. • declares that the war in Iraq has dem- onstrated yet again that the Middle requests that the LWF provide exegetical East is not in need of more weap- and theological materials to facilitate ons—whether developed locally or discussion in order to move the member obtained through arms sales, churches, congregations and communi- whether conventional or non-con- ties from an anthropocentric/ego-centric ventional—but rather is in need of approach to a holistic eco-centric model justice, and of understanding creation, including all people, as part of creation. • affirms the need for the interna- tional community to address the The Assembly dreadful proliferation of arms VOTED: to adopt the resolution con- throughout the region and calls upon cerning an expansion of the the member churches and the Coun- name of the LWF. cil to work for their elimination.

70 The Lutheran World Federation National Bishop Raymond L. Schultz, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, chairperson of the Policy and Reference Committee, introduces a recommendation.

Statements

The Assembly ing such devastation to the underprivi- VOTED: to adopt the Public State- leged part of the world.” ment on Illegitimate Debt and Now, as representatives from the glo- send it to the LWF member bal Lutheran community are meeting in churches and the interna- Winnipeg, the debt burden has increased tional financial institutions. and is today a major barrier against eradication of poverty and fulfillment of Text of the public statement as adopted: basic human rights for all. Since Curitiba, the international com- PUBLIC STATEMENT munity has accepted, among others, as ON ILLEGITIMATE DEBT a result of the global mobilization in the When the Lutheran communion gathered Jubilee 2000/Jubilee South campaign, in Curitiba thirteen years ago, it stated the need to reduce the debt burden. But that the churches should “search for so- the measures taken are insufficient in lutions to the debt crisis which is bring- financial terms.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 71 In our assessment, the present finan- in national and/or international cial external debt can only be understood if courts suing people and institutions seen in relationship to the historic exploi- involved in criminal or illegal acts tation of colonialism. External debt has in related to debt contract and use. fact become a modern tool for domination. Moreover, research has shown that sub- - the member churches to challenge stantial parts of the external debts of coun- commercial banks, which are or tries in Asia, Africa, Latin America and have been involved in illegitimate the Caribbean are illegitimate. Loans lending to take their responsibility were freely offered to illegitimate and un- and cancel their claims. democratic governments which then con- tracted these loans. In many cases, the The Assembly further recognizes that there contracted debt was misused or diverted, is an urgent need to develop mechanisms at both by illegitimate and legitimate gov- an international level in order to find ways ernments. Only a minor part has been of a justice-oriented debt management. This actually used for social development. mechanism should ensure full and active par- International financial institutions ticipation of indebted countries, securing that (IFIs), which are ruled by the dominant the lenders take their responsibility. nations in the world, knowingly and even actively promoted this irresponsible lend- The Assembly ing to illegitimate and/or corrupt govern- VOTED: to adopt the Public Statement ments. Even when the financial resources of Concern on Unilateralism in were used properly the supported projects the International Policies of and programs often did not meet the need the United States of America. for social development. The IFIs and the dominant nations in the world have to Text of the Public Statement as adopted: accept their responsibility for the bad poli- cies, decisions and practices, which led PUBLIC STATEMENT OF CONCERN to the current debt crisis. ON UNILATERALISM In line with this assessment the LWF IN THE INTERNATIONAL POLICIES calls upon: OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - the IFIs to accept that part of the debt Conscious of the importance of interna- is illegitimate or odious. This debt tional law and the United Nations in the is the responsibility of the creditors healing of the world, the Assembly expresses and has to be cancelled. its deep concern about the direction of a number of US government policies. - the member churches in the industri- It notes a trend away from multilateral alized countries to challenge their gov- discussions and responsible engagement ernments to advocate for the cancella- within the framework of international law tion of illegitimate or odious debts. toward one of unilateralism. Among the recent examples of this pattern are - the member churches in the indebted countries to actively participate in - the refusal to ratify the Kyoto Proto- social auditing of the debt and in bud- col to The United Nations Framework get monitoring by utilizing mecha- Convention on Climate Change. nisms developed by civil society. - the refusal to ratify the (Oslo) Con- - the member churches to support ini- vention on the Prohibition of the tiatives which are filing court cases Use, Stockpiling, Production and

72 The Lutheran World Federation The Plenary Hall

Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines human security through international co- and on Their Destruction. operation and common security. The Assembly in particular asks the - the refusal to ratify the Rome Stat- Government of the United States of America ute, establishing the International to truly recognize international law and the Criminal Court. United Nations as the legitimate interna- tional framework and forum for encoun- - the refusal to ratify the Convention tering the threats to peace, security and on the Elimination of Discrimina- survival of the entire human family. tion Against Women. The Assembly therefore urges the Gov- ernment of the United States of America - the refusal to ratify the Convention to embrace international law and to on the Rights of the Child. ratify the above-mentioned conventions and international agreements. - the conditioning of support for HIV/ AIDS programs in severely affected The Assembly countries on their acceptance of VOTED: to adopt the Public Statement genetically modified organisms. concerning the United States of America and the Kyoto Pro- - the detention of prisoners in tocol. Guantanamo in defiance of inter- national law; and not least Text of the Public Statement as adopted:

- the adoption of a “pre-emptive war” PUBLIC STATEMENT CONCERNING doctrine. THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE KYOTO PROTOCOL The Assembly asks the US to respect in- Throughout the world human beings are ternationally recognized human rights suffering from dried-out land, storms and and international law. Aware of the threats floods, etc., as a result of climate change. posed by terrorist acts, the Assembly af- Also, eco-systems with their species are firms international policies which seek threatened because of these changes. These

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 73 effects are increasing and need to be dealt The Assembly, therefore, calls on the with very seriously and instantly. Government of the United States of The Lutheran World Federation cares America to ratify the Kyoto Protocol and for God’s creation and alleviates human to seriously work toward decreasing car- need.1 Climate change is an issue of re- bon dioxide emissions. spect and integrity for the creation and global justice and solidarity. The Assembly The Kyoto Protocol is a document that VOTED: to adopt the Public State- has been made by the United Nations and ment on Israel-Palestine as its Member States. In 1997 more that 160 amended. nations met in Kyoto to continue the work with the Framework Convention on Text of the Public Statement as adopted: Climate Change from 1992. The Kyoto Protocol was an outcome of this meet- PUBLIC STATEMENT ing and was a commitment to decrease ON ISRAEL-PALESTINE the levels of greenhouse gas emissions. The Tenth Assembly of the Lutheran World Carbon dioxide is one of the most com- Federation notes that the LWF has spo- mon greenhouse gases. The greenhouse ken and acted on many occasions with gases act as a greenhouse around the regard to the situation in Israel-Pales- planet and are resulting in increasing the tine. It expresses appreciation for the temperature on earth. Further, this will resolutions adopted by the Council since have the effects of increasing and decreas- the Ninth Assembly. ing the amount of rainfall in different ar- The Assembly affirms the efforts of eas, heavy storms will be more common the churches, the international commu- and there will be a risk of changes in the nity and all persons of goodwill in their ocean currents. These effects are of course quest for peace with justice in Palestine affecting nature, including humankind. and Israel. It denounces the occupation, The United States of America is one violence, political and religious extrem- of the largest contributors of carbon di- ism, and any violation of human rights oxide emission in the world. as antithetical to this vision.

During plenary sessions, delegates are seated at round tables.

74 The Lutheran World Federation The Assembly notes that the Quartet of religious dialogue which is indispensable the United Nations, the European Union, for building a just peace and for healing the United States and the Russian Federa- of the conflict. Aware of the emigration tion have placed before the international of Palestinian Christians due to the un- community “A Performance-Based stable political and economic situation, Roadmap to a Permanent Two-State Solu- the Assembly commends the ELCJ’s work tion to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict,” in providing community-based education thus providing international legitimacy to and housing to enable Palestinian Chris- this effort. The Assembly considers this tians to remain in their country. proposal as a golden opportunity to find The Assembly also expresses apprecia- ways to resolve the many differences which tion for the worldwide support of the Au- exist between Israelis and Palestinians be- gusta Victoria Hospital and endorses the cause the proposal is designed to end the efforts by the Council and the member military occupation of the West Bank, churches to resolve favorably the present Gaza and East Jerusalem, end the spiral legal dispute between the Lutheran World of violence, implement a two-state solution, Federation and the Government of Israel and establish a State of Palestine by 2005. with regard to the tax status of the LWF in The Assembly affirms efforts, such as these, East Jerusalem. At issue is a threat to the to establish two viable, independent, con- very witness of all of the churches in tiguous states—living side by side, justly, Jerusalem. The Assembly endorses com- peacefully, equally and equitably—with a prehensive negotiations between the LWF shared Jerusalem. The Assembly calls and the State of Israel and between the LWF upon the parties to address these issues as and the State of Palestine respectively, in well as those of Israeli settlements on Pal- order to secure rights for Lutherans (and estinian land, the Palestinian refugees’ thereby other Christians as well), in Is- right of return, a fair distribution of wa- rael and in Palestine. ter resources and religious freedom for all. The Assembly affirms the Ecumenical The Assembly calls for the halt on construc- Accompaniment Programme in Palestine tion of the separation wall being built to and Israel (EAPPI) and other efforts by the divide the two states, but which, in fact, member churches to stand in solidarity with will be dividing the Palestinian cities from Palestinians and Israelis working for peace each other and confining people to their and an end to the illegal occupation. The towns and villages. The Assembly affirms Assembly encourages the member churches that the solution to the root cause of this to support the EAPPI by building aware- problem will result in liberation for Pal- ness about the program, recruiting people estine and security for Israel. It calls upon to serve as Ecumenical Accompaniers, and Israel, Palestine, the Quartet and the inter- remembering in prayer all those who par- national community to implement the ticipate in the program. Road Map with clear benchmarks. The Assembly wishes to thank all those The Assembly in the member churches who have sup- VOTED: to adopt the Public State- ported the ministries and institutions of ment on Exclusion of Assem- the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jor- bly Participants. dan (ELCJ), e.g. its schools, other educa- tional and social institutions, its congre- Text of the Public Statement as adopted: gations, and its work for reconciliation, so that they have been able to continue PUBLIC STATEMENT ON EXCLUSION their vitally important work. The Assem- OF ASSEMBLY PARTICIPANTS bly calls upon the member churches to ac- The participants in the Tenth Assembly tively support the ELCJ’s efforts in inter- of the Lutheran World Federation, held in

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 75 Winnipeg, Canada, 21-31 July 2003, have this occasion is but a small symptom of enjoyed the warm welcome and hospital- one facet of the growing trend toward ex- ity of the Evangelical Lutheran Church clusion and isolationism in our world in Canada, the authorities of this city and today. It has helped us to understand this province, and many individual Canadi- reality and to respond to it as a com- ans. We deeply regret that so many ex- munion of churches. pected participants in this gathering of It especially grieves us that those ex- the global Lutheran family have been ex- cluded from this gathering are exclu- cluded from this welcome and hospitality sively from the countries of the South— as a result of the lack of visas. including some of the poorest coun- An unprecedented number of partici- tries—and comprise in particular pants—approximately fifty persons from women, youth and members of Indig- thirteen different countries (all African enous and marginalized communities. or Asian)—were either denied, or did not This is a parable of the continuing and receive, Canadian visas. Women, youth, often increasing exclusion of these same and Indian Dalits and Tribals were dis- sectors of humanity from the global com- proportionately represented among those munity and “marketplace.” who could not attend for this reason. We We are outraged by the statements have not only missed the faces and voices attributed to the Canadian federal au- of these sisters and brothers in Christ; thorities suggesting that those denied they have been prevented from fulfilling visas include “alleged murderers, embez- their appointed role of representing their zlers of church funds and other crimi- churches in the process of establishing nals.” Such statements defame all those directions for the work of the LWF for not granted visas—including a number the next six-year period. of bishops and other church leaders—and In addition, a number of participants are typical of the enemy images often who were expected to participate in pre- manufactured to exclude the “other” in or post-Assembly visitation programs in our societies and in our world. the United States of America did not re- We seek a dialogue with the Govern- ceive visas to enable them to visit sister ment of Canada, and with all our govern- churches in the US. ments and other authorities, about these These circumstances, while not di- wider issues. Through such a dialogue, minishing the strength of our commun- we pray that we can be instruments of ion in Christ, have impeded our attempts Christ, “For the Healing of the World.” to demonstrate and experience that com- munion in an Assembly meeting under (Note: A letter was sent by the National the theme “For the Healing of the World.” Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran That theme has proved to be a prophetic Church in Canada on 25 July 2003 to the choice for this Assembly. The experience Canadian Minister of Citizenship and Im- of exclusion that some of our delegates migration on the visa situation.) have faced in trying to obtain visas on

Note

1 Cf. LWF Constitution, Article III. Nature and Functions

76 The Lutheran World Federation Action Referred to the Council

The Assembly tury reformations in Europe, VOTED: to refer to the Council the as amended, to the Council recommendation from the for consideration. Pre-Assembly Youth Confer- ence that the Secretary for Text of the resolution as referred: Youth in Church and Society be hired “regardless of the fi- That the Lutheran World Federation begin nancial situation, making cuts a program for writing a history of the six- where necessary, and that the teenth century reformations in Europe person should generally begin with the Roman Catholic Church. The goal his or her term halfway be- of such a program would be to provide the tween two assemblies and churches with a view of our past as a ba- serve a six-year term” and sis for creating new interactions based on encourage the Secretariat to accepted facts, rather than on old preju- view it in a positive way. dices and false assumptions. Such a project applies the notion of the communion of The Assembly saints to our efforts at explaining our past, VOTED: to refer to the Council the and continues the work of the Joint Decla- resolution that the Lutheran ration on the Doctrine of Justification by World Federation coordinate seeking a less biased understanding of our a program on the history of shared past to be used in teaching the new the individual churches both generations of the Church. in and outside of the Lutheran World Federation. The Assembly VOTED: to refer the resolution on vio- Text of the resolution as referred: lence against children to the Council for action. That the Lutheran World Federation coordi- nate a program on the history of the indi- Text of the resolution as referred: vidual churches both in and outside of the Lutheran World Federation. The goal of such That the topic of violence against children a program would be the writing of a simple and especially violence in the form of child historical study book of the Lutheran labor be discussed and studied more churches from their respective self-under- closely, and that this be communicated to standings in order to present the ethos1of each the member churches, emphasizing that and to strengthen a common understand- this is a pressing problem in our society ing of Lutheranism in its various forms. and that it is unacceptable that children’s rights are being violated. The LWF mem- The Assembly ber churches should work in close coop- VOTED: to refer the resolution on a eration with the World Council of Churches history of the sixteenth cen- to eliminate abusive child labor.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 77 Latin American delegates at work

The Assembly Churches and other organizations, a glo- VOTED: to refer the resolution on bal HIV/AIDS fund to create a network of family violence to the Coun- prevention through education and infor- cil for implementation. mation, and to allocate resources for families who are affected and/or infected Text of the resolution as referred: by HIV/AIDS.

The Assembly asks the LWF and its mem- The Assembly ber churches to study and discuss the VOTED: to refer the resolution on various issues relating to violence such overcoming violence to the as selective abortion, forced underage Council for its consideration. marriage, child labor and exploitation of children, economic violence, care for Text of the resolution as referred: the older generation, and care for differ- ently-abled persons. It also encourages The Assembly the LWF and its member churches to work on these issues as appropriate in • urges active participation by LWF their specific settings and contexts. member churches in the ecumeni- cal Decade to Overcome Violence, The Assembly and in the International Decade for VOTED: to refer the resolution on a Culture of Peace and Non-violence HIV/AIDS, as amended, to for the Children of the World (2001– the Council for consider- 2010). ation. • requests the LWF and its member Text of the resolution as referred: churches to provide theological training and the production of Bible Requests that the LWF establish, in coop- study materials focusing on over- eration with the World Council of coming violence.

78 The Lutheran World Federation • asks the LWF, through its Council The Assembly and member churches, to focus dur- VOTED: to refer recommendations 9, ing each of the following years un- 14, 30 and 36 to the Council til the next Assembly on a specific for consideration. situation or aspect of violence, and to inform and educate the member Text of the recommendations as referred: churches about it. Recommendation 9: Episcopé and • requests the LWF to help equip Teaching Authority member churches for non-violent Because there is great disagreement on action to address situations of in- the understanding of teaching authority justice, including training for among our churches (magisterium), and conflict resolution and mediation because the LWF has begun a study of in congregations and communi- oversight within the Church (episcopé), ties. The Assembly asks the mem- the LWF should also investigate the rela- ber churches to focus especially on tionship between teaching authority and planting the seed of peace in authority in general. Such a study should young children. Churches and give attention to biblical witness, the tra- church-run schools should teach a ditional teachings of the whole Church, culture of peace and non-violence, and Lutheran confessional theology, in and practical conflict resolution conversation with the practices of our skills. contemporary churches. Such a study would not be a movement toward a par- • asks the LWF to consider the estab- ticular form of church governance, but lishment of a peace and reconcilia- rather an aid to understanding between tion center in Africa, and/or sup- member churches. port for existing centers of this type in Africa and elsewhere. Recommendation 14: Language Barriers We recognize that many cannot fully • requests the LWF to develop a dis- participate in important conversations cussion/study, followed by appro- within the LWF because of language bar- priate action, on violence against riers. Particularly, we note the limita- children, especially child labor, the tions of participation placed on those who training and use of child soldiers, are not fluent in English. We recommend child prostitution and trafficking, that documents in interregional activi- and sexual violence against chil- ties be translated into appropriate lan- dren, and guages, and that we work together to pro- vide clarification and translation for • asks the member churches to con- those who may not understand. front situations of violence within our churches. The Assembly urges Recommendation 30: Literacy the establishment of a common Asks the LWF communion to place more policy of zero tolerance of abuse by emphasis on literacy as a basic human clergy. It also calls for the violence right and as a means toward the reduc- of exclusion from fellowship in the tion of poverty. church to be addressed and for a re- examination of policies and prac- Recommendation 36: Re-examination tices on excommunication/expul- of “Just War” Doctrine sion based upon social, cultural or Requests the LWF to undertake an in- moral transgressions. depth study to re-examine the justice of

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 79 “just war” doctrine in the current con- The Assembly text of globalization and increasing mili- VOTED: to refer all pending matters tarism in a unipolar world. to the Council.2

The Assembly VOTED: to refer the resolution con- cerning homosexuality to the Council.

Notes

1 The ethos of a group is that which makes it distinctive: its generally accepted tradition and historical identity.

2 Cf. LWF Council Minutes, Winnipeg, Canada, 31 July–2 August 2003. Exhibit 10.4. Recommenda- tions 45, 46, 49, 58, 61.

80 The Lutheran World Federation Other Action

The Assembly abuse, and loss of identity and traditional VOTED: to receive the Message from values. Aboriginal peoples are overrepre- Indigenous peoples. sented in the prisons. Although they com- prise only 4 percent of the population, Ab- Text of the Message from Indigenous peoples original peoples in Canada represent 17 per- (forwarded by the group meeting of repre- cent of the inmates in federal institutions. sentatives of Indigenous peoples): Suicide rates for Aboriginal youth are six times the national average and among the During this Tenth Assembly, we as repre- highest in the world. Unemployment rates sentatives of Indigenous peoples, includ- are two to three times the average for non- ing tribal peoples and Dalits, for the first Aboriginal Canadians. Overcrowding in time in the history of the LWF had meet- homes that are often inadequate is sixteen ings. In solidarity with each other and with times worse than in other Canadian homes. all Indigenous peoples of this world, we The solution to many of the problems shared our concerns and our need to stand faced by Aboriginal peoples requires together in addressing common issues. compromises from non-Aboriginal mem- We honor the fact that we have been gath- bers of society that would return land and ered at the traditional lands of the Cree, resources to them. Ojibway and Assiniboine, and we wish to Indigenous peoples worldwide are not a express our solidarity with them, as with all small group. We count for over 300,000,000 the First Nations and the Inuit peoples of people and represent 4,000-5,000 languages Canada. We realize that many of the basic of the about 6,000 languages of the world.1 human rights of Indigenous peoples in We as Indigenous peoples therefore repre- Canada—as in other parts of the world—are sent an essential part of the cultural diver- still not implemented into the national policy. sity of the human family. At the same time, According to the 1996 Royal Commis- we represent the most threatened cultures sion on Aboriginal Peoples, the physical of the world, and in most cases the poorest, and spiritual decline of Aboriginal com- most marginalized and most discrimi- munities in Canada is the result of a fed- nated-against populations. eral Aboriginal policy that denies Ab- It is therefore urgent to recognize, and original rights, and that deprives Aborigi- support the basic human rights of Indig- nal peoples of their traditional lands. enous peoples according to international Aboriginal Peoples in Canada are fac- law and standards. Land rights are fun- ing a social, economic and cultural crisis. damental to the survival of Indigenous Aboriginal Peoples are suffering from pov- peoples and their cultures and essential erty, a shortage of adequate housing, for their right to self-determination. homelessness, and lack of access to clean We believe that our peoples had a his- water and nutritious food. Aboriginal tory with the Creator prior to the coming peoples also experience more family vio- of the missionaries. The Fourth Com- lence, disproportionate rates of illness and mandment tells us to honor our fathers distress, higher rates of alcoholism and drug and mothers, and we believe that we do

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 81 so by honoring our cultural heritage and commitment to ensure and not by rejecting it. We therefore claim the implement 20 percent youth right to embrace all that is good and participation at future assem- blessed in our cultures and spiritualities, blies, and to urge the member and we admit to you the same privilege. churches to ensure no less Even though Indigenous peoples in than 40 percent male and no many places already are a part of the mem- less than 40 percent female ber churches of the LWF, they have histori- youth representation among cally been excluded from our churches in the delegations within their terms of theology, cultural awareness and region at future assemblies. access to decision-making processes. We invite the LWF and all its member churches The Assembly to join us in a common journey on the VOTED: to urge all member churches path of healing. We ask you to listen to our to encourage the participa- stories with respect, and treat us as equal tion of youth in the worship partners in our member churches. and decision-making pro- We strongly recommend the Assem- cesses at all levels. bly to support the comments and recom- mendations concerning Indigenous The Assembly peoples as it is suggested in the Message VOTED: to request the General Secre- and the Resolutions of the Assembly. tary to make available in writ- ing the full text of the Village — Group of Indigenous peoples’ represen- Group reports to the mem- tatives, LWF Assembly, Winnipeg, 29.07.03 bers of the incoming Council.

On the recommendation of the Nomina- The Assembly tions Committee, the Assembly VOTED: to request the Council to set VOTED: to request the new Council to priorities as soon as possible. clearly define the policy on gen- der balance in order to secure The Assembly a common understanding in all VOTED: to request the Council or the regions for future assemblies. Executive Committee to en- sure that the next Assembly The Assembly be organized in such a way to VOTED: to request the Council to re- allow it to set priorities for view the existing regional the content of the future sub-division of Europe. work of the LWF.

Bearing in mind the recommendation The Assembly adopted at the Eighth Assembly, the Tenth VOTED: to adopt the Message and Assembly Commitments of the Tenth VOTED: to urge strongly the member Assembly of the Lutheran churches to reaffirm their World Federation.

Note

1 According to Chairperson of The Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UN), Ole Henrik Magga: Indigenous peoples’ Needs – Challenges for the Church. Address at the Assembly of Conference of European Churches, Trondheim, Norway, June 2003.

82 The Lutheran World Federation Dr Dr h.c. Margot Kässmann, bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover, Germany

For the Healing of the World

Keynote Address

Bishop Dr Dr h.c. Margot Kässmann

1. Eli, Eli lema sabachthani We see the hurt of lonely individuals who (Translated from the original German text.) (Mt 27:46) – The Cry of the long to be loved and cared for. Wounds of the World We see the wounds of tormented creation, longing for redemption. We see the wounds of the children injured We hear the cry of Jesus: Eli, Eli lema in the wars on our planet. sabachthani? (My God, my God, why have We see the suffering of the starving vic- you forsaken me?) tims of injustice. We see the hurt of women who are victims Our world is wounded and cries out. Even of rape. God is vulnerable and cries. God has ex- We see the plight of the homeless people posed the divine self to wounds. living in the streets.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 83 2. O land, land, land, hear the and have surplus fat suctioned out—there word of the Lord! (Jer 22:29) – is a great fear of getting old. If as a man Seeing Contexts you do not earn enough, are unemployed, ill or disabled, you stand by the wayside I learned in the ecumenical movement that and in a sense just watch the world go by. our context influences our theology. I live in The real meaning of life is hardly queried. central Europe and come from the country Meanwhile, the annual advertising budget of the Reformation. A beautiful country, a of the German economy stands at around fascinating continent full of culture and his- six billion Euros, with the suggestion “I tory. Above all, I love the varying scenery— consume, therefore I am” instead of “I think, France with its beautiful beaches, Ireland therefore I am” (Descartes). As stated by with its rough seas, Poland with its large one commercial: “We believe in safe cars.” fields, Hungary with its splendid horses, my But woe betide anyone who does not regional church with its north German ex- live within the walls of this continent. We panses. We see and feel the parts of Europe have been hearing reports of refugee-laden merging together. There have been no more boats sinking in the Mediterranean—right border checks for many years when I drive in front of the islands on which many of us to the Netherlands or Italy. Even the roads to spend our holidays. Cars are discovered eastern Germany, where the Berlin Wall de- in which the people smuggled in from Af- fined everything during my youth, are all ac- ghanistan or Iraq have suffocated. And cessible now. We can hardly imagine further more money is earned with trafficking in wars within Europe. This is why we are so women than with the arms trade. Every shocked by what happened in Yugoslavia and year, entire gangs force up to 500,000 is occurring in Northern Ireland. Even Ger- young girls, mainly from eastern Europe, many, that has so often inflicted war and suf- into prostitution in western Europe. fering on the world, finally seems to be fed Many in our part of the world ask: “Who up with wars—as shown by the mass pro- needs God?” People want to be free of all tests against the Iraq war. However, the ex- rules and duties. The birthrate is constantly perts say, it is primarily the economic rela- falling in Germany, and currently stands at tions that link European countries together, around 1.4 children per woman. Children that will prevent the outbreak of wars. The are considered as a potential poverty trap people in central Europe have enough to eat, with the result that our society is gradually there are schools for our children, and medi- aging. While life expectancy was age forty- cal care for those who fall ill. A happy conti- six at the beginning of the twentieth cen- nent, a fortunate country, very true indeed. tury, half our society is currently older than Yet this is not entirely true. There are forty. The divorce rate is high, and commit- many happy people in my country, many ment is not highly valued in a society that who are committed to justice and peace, allocates so much importance to mobility but also many who have lost their inner and individuality. However, things get diffi- glow. Luther’s question: “How can I find a cult when the fundamental questions about gracious God?” is one that only few people life rise to the surface—where do I origi- still understand. Life for the successful of- nally come from, and what is my ultimate ten consists of attempting to get as much destiny? Eleven thousand one hundred and out of it as possible: you have to have the fifty-six people took their own lives last latest car, the right house and plenty of year, a higher number than those who died money, and be at the right parties! As a in traffic accidents. Statistically speaking, woman, you have to have the right figure one person commits suicide in my wonder- and be good looking. Many feel they have ful country every forty-seven minutes. to have botox poison injected under their And our Lutheran Church in this context? wrinkles, pad their breasts with silicon, We proclaim Jesus Christ, the Son of God,

84 The Lutheran World Federation who died on the cross and rose from the dead. and to recognize the image of God in each We baptize children, and marry couples; we and every one of us. So many people long console the bereaved and bury their loved for a fulfilled life, but are too busy to ones. In the midst of a performance-driven achieve that ideal. So many long for a pur- society we convey the message of justifica- pose and remain lonely. Health is certainly tion by faith alone, the understanding of hu- an important issue, but healing the soul man beings as simul iustus et peccator. Our and ensuring good relationships is a prior- diaconal services care for the ill, the eld- ity. Restoring social relationships, be- erly, and the disabled. A large-scale hospice tween the younger and older generations, movement has emerged over the past few between strangers and local residents, years that seeks to help people to die in dig- between the rich and the poor in our coun- nity. There are many achievements, many try, and throughout the world are examples new ideas, and society is in fact open to what of this. It really is all about learning or re- the church has to say. gaining social skills that many have lost. I know that there is some prejudice re- Educational efforts need to teach commu- garding the German churches, which are nication skills to all those who have lost said to have “empty pews!” However, this these—and Internet access is no substi- is oversimplified. In some localities, more tute. Furthermore, it must be pointed out than 90 percent of the population, particu- that for many people in former East Ger- larly in the rural areas of my church, are many, the breaches of trust from the past members of our Lutheran Church, and as that were disclosed by the “Stasi” files, the Christians shape the places where they live. State Security records of the German To others, however, the church seems bor- Democratic Republic, are still an issue. ing with its old stories about the Good Sa- Let us bear in mind that although Europe maritan, Jesus, and Moses. They leave the possesses great wealth there are still many church and its community, a painful reality wounds and much that is broken that needs with financial consequences. It is therefore healing. There is a yearning for salvation. getting more difficult to fill pastoral vacan- As Christians, we can communicate God’s cies, to pay salaries, and keep up the build- Word of healing in this context. We can look ings—particularly in eastern Germany, at the world as it really is, and do not need to where decades of what was called “real run from the reality or close our eyes. existing socialism” dechristianized entire districts. However, we are striving with ⇒ Those who seek to heal must first courage and commitment to make the look at their own context, and learn church credible at the beginning of the to view the world with an open atti- twenty-first century, in its witness, service, tude and from the perspective of the and preaching. In these times of change, love of God. Martin Luther’s words show us the way for- ward. He said that: “For after all, we are not 3. By his wounds we are the ones who can preserve the church, nor healed (Isa 53:5) – God’s were our [forebears] able to do so. Nor will Wounding our successors have this power. No, it was, is, and will be he who says, ‘I am with you Those who want to speak of healing must always, to the close of the age.’”1 first look at the wounds, like any doctor. Fortunate Germany—unfortunate Ger- There are small injuries such as lack of many, happy Europe—poor Europe. What esteem because I look different from oth- does healing mean in this context? For me, ers. There are those offending comments it is important to take a closer look, to see that hurt so much that I simply cannot for- people through the eyes of God, to look at get them, or my trust that was so utterly them with their strengths and weaknesses abused. There are the horrific injuries, such

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 85 as those witnessed in Germany as well: A if this contradicts all previous attempts of young man who ran amok in a school last interpretation. God’s reply to Job is to point year and shot sixteen people. Two men who to the creative power without actually ex- strangled an eleven-year-old boy and re- plaining the suffering. The message to Job peatedly raped his nine-year-old sister is that suffering is also part of faith in God. before murdering her as well. A college In the Book of Jonah there is a clear shift student who suffocated an eleven-year-old away from the logic of retribution (the “Tun- boy out of greed. A car accident in which Ergehens-Zusammenhang”, i.e., the per- five young people lost their lives. Then spective of causal relationship between ac- there are the immense wounds of our tion and personal well being). Nineveh is world such as the wars in which people not destroyed, as it would have deserved, are torn apart by bombs. The refugees in view of its evil doings. Instead, Nineveh driven back and forth by marauding gangs. is given an opportunity to repent through The debt crisis that gives so many coun- the appearance of Jonah. God’s wrath is tries in Africa, Asia and Latin America no overcome by the city’s repentance chance of developing. The child soldiers (niham). God does not punish but shows that are brutally forced to take up arms. mercy and kindness. God is shown as not The starvation that thousands fall victim being rigid and being open to change: there to every day. The injustice that deprives is a historical relationship between God and so many of their opportunities in life. humankind, whom God turns to ever anew Wounds of humanity, that probably are and does not give up. It reveals God’s mercy also wounds of God, and cries of despair and patience. The motif of punishment re- that echo throughout the world, followed cedes into the background in the overall by the call for God: My God, my God, why witness of the Hebrew Scriptures. have you forsaken me? A cry still heard The witness of the New Testament today: Where were you, God? The lament: clearly rejects an interpretation of suffer- How can God let all this happen? What does ing and evil as punishment (e.g. Lk 13:1-5). healing, or becoming whole mean in such Through Jesus Christ, God is revealed once cases? Can such wounds ever be healed? and for all as a loving God, who opens the First of all, such injuries probably call way to community among people while re- for silence. The horror that overcomes us nouncing human power and force. This is when we look at the victims of our world always hard to understand. What a provo- cannot easily be expressed in words. Such cation: God, who comes into the world as a words must sound trivial. Such silence, this child. God, who dies after suffering terribly lament, such cries, the hours between on the cross! Should God not be a strong, Good Friday and Easter Sunday, all have all-conquering hero? Or someone who their reason for being. Silence and lament, stands above it all? Can we believe in a the Saturday between crucifixion and res- powerless God, is this not ridiculous? urrection. The story of Jesus Christ challenges It is important to understand that the us to link the omnipotence and the power- destruction caused by people, and what lessness of God in our minds. Dietrich we do to one another also wounds God di- Bonhoeffer wrote: “God allows himself to rectly. In the Book of Job we read about be edged out of the world and on to the the limits of an explanatory pattern that cross. God is weak and powerless in the interprets suffering as a punishment. Job, world, and that is exactly the way, and the the righteous man, has to suffer. And Job’s only way, in which God can be with us and traditional answers are inadequate, given help us.”2 And the resurrection says: God the fact that Job has not sinned and there- seeks to overcome the suffering in this fore cannot explain his misfortune. Job world with the power of love alone. Love tries to understand the mind of God, even is vulnerable but is also stronger than

86 The Lutheran World Federation death! It is this promise of God’s new world ceed on our way undeterred as a commu- that enables us to live. In this God, made nity of hope that believes that the love of manifest in this way, we can trust, believe, God is stronger than hatred, violence, hor- and entrust him with all our wounds and ror, or death. injuries. This is what Jesus Christ pro- Let us bear in mind that, as Christians, claimed, this is what he lived and died for, we have the courage to look at the wounds and what was confirmed by his resurrec- and can keep God’s weakness and omnipo- tion. We find reassurance in this God, this tence in mind as parallel thoughts. Indeed, is our savior. By the way, Luther always we have to put up with the inconsistencies spoke of God being hidden, in order to ex- of life and accept the experience of the press this experience of God’s becoming a cross as a part of our lives. stranger and yet to witness to the faith that all things are in God’s hand. Indeed, Luther ⇒ Those who seek to heal can trust in warned against wanting to penetrate and God’s commitment to those who suffer. interpret the “deus absconditus” and thereby wanting to take control of God. 4. Honor physicians for their The question regarding God’s omnipo- services (Sir 38:1) – Holistic tence and God’s allowing suffering to oc- Medicine cur therefore remains a matter of reflec- tion and intensive debate. No, we have no Years ago, I held the hand of a dying man better answers than the generations be- and heard him say in great distress: “Is that fore us. My concern is that we have the all life was about? I actually never thought courage to trust in God knowing that God about it. It all went so quickly!” Yes, the wants life and not death, instead of trying words of the psalm, “So teach us to count to find precise or logical answers. It is our days so that we may gain a wise heart.” about the trust Jesus had, as testified to by (Ps 90:12) contain a profound truth. Only if Luke: “Father, into your hands I commend we recognize the finitude of life will we my spirit” (Lk 23:46). After crying out that understand life as a gift, and see and per- God had forsaken him, Jesus found his way ceive it as limited time, for which we will back to trusting in God. Indeed, this is not be accountable to God one day. achieved easily or quickly, it is a path lead- In the western world there are two ex- ing to the cross and into death. Jesus tremes: First, the total belief in modern clearly carries his wounds when entering medicine that overestimates medicine as God’s kingdom. He does not show Thomas a science as though it knew no limits and an unharmed body, and indeed it is by see- were not subject to the power of death. Then ing his wounds that the disciples recog- there is the total fixation on the so-called nize the risen Christ. This is probably the alternatives: Aren’t Chinese medicine and same for us as well. Even when our homeopathy of higher value, both scientific wounds, our injuries, the brokenness in our in their own way although often regarded lives heal, they remain part of our per- skeptically by conventional medicine in sonal history. They can be healed, but can- our countries? And what about spiritual not be forgotten. Adversity and bruises are forces, new age spirituality, and the cult of simply part of life, and will leave scars. physical well being? The first view under- The disciples regain their trust in God stands the body like a machine: if anything when Jesus breaks through the locked is broken it has to be replaced. The second doors. This trust is facilitated by God’s view believes that all scientific knowledge spirit which God promises them and which is unhelpful and sometimes falls prey to the we can experience when we open our power of suggestion. hearts. This trust enables wounds to heal, To begin with, it should be pointed out even if scars remain, and allows us to pro- that we as Christians should not despise

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 87 medicine. Luther saw it both as a science but that the soul also has to be healed is and as a gift of God.3 He also respected something that is often underestimated. doctors, as “experience teaches clearly As Christians let us not despise the that we cannot do without them.”4 This prin- psyche either, the inner life, the interplay ciple still applies today. We can be grate- of body and soul.5 Luther also knew that it ful that it is possible to be vaccinated is important whether someone with an ill- against measles. Making this vaccination ness likes and trusts their doctor, and often available at last to people all around the referred to that in his Table Talk.6 No, we world has to be a priority. In Africa, 500,000 cannot explain everything. Indeed, faith, children currently die of measles every prayer, and trust in God can positively in- year, mostly due to malnutrition. fluence sickness, and can heal. Yet, medi- Another example: the SARS virus, which cine is not to be neglected. I agree with also threatened the holding of our Assem- Wilfried Härle, who stated “that the influ- bly, has been contained by medical exper- ence of the Holy Spirit not only determines tise. Many people in the rich industrialized the spirit or soul of a person, but also their nations now survive cancer thanks to medi- body as a result. The idea that this can have cal progress. Even HIV infection is no a healing effect is something that is once again becoming understood in our age, de- spite opposition to an insight that for a long Within the church we should come time was either not taken seriously and ig- back to understanding the mission nored, or plainly disregarded.”7 Within the church we should come back of healing as part of the great to understanding the mission of healing as commission... part of the great commission and not as diaconal charity, which is somehow rel- egated to secondary importance. “Cure the longer a death sentence if the right medi- sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, cines are administered. Rather, the prob- cast out demons” (Mt 10:8)—that is indeed lem is that this medication is so expensive included in the great commission! The that people in South Africa or Kenya can- churches have a therapeutic ministry, not afford it. True enough, there is a two- there are healing charisms among us. And class system when it comes to medical pastoral care—this actually implies car- care. Nevertheless, let us not disregard ing for the soul that is wounded within so medical knowledge and its potential! many people, the healing of psychologi- However, progress in medicine has led cal suffering. Making the connection be- to a growing feeling that health is control- tween medicine and the charism of heal- lable and that it must be possible to cure ing, is an important task for our Lutheran every ill. Human beings frequently no longer church. God’s healing power can clearly understand themselves as created in the be experienced. So we should not scoff at image of God but want to create humans in people with special gifts, such as those their own image: Can’t disabled children be known as the “bone-breakers” in East avoided? Such conditions can be diagnosed Friesland (northern Germany), or the during pregnancy and the woman can have “bone-setters” in Africa. Could we not in- an abortion. Or what about pre-implantation deed contribute to bringing together con- diagnostics? Trying to clone humans is a ventional medicine and traditional heal- modern form of temptation. Christians can ers for dialogue, as is already happening only say: Hands off! Health and healing can in Ghana, Peru, and Switzerland?8 become an ideology when it seems that we I am aware that many churches are cur- can achieve the perfect body. The fact that rently wondering how they should handle healing is not simply a technical process healing, such as that occurring in the char-

88 The Lutheran World Federation ismatic movements. It is important to de- gifts are not humble. Indeed, scientific velop criteria derived from Jesus himself. knowledge is a gift of God, but it is subject When Jesus healed, he did two things: he to the criterion of being used to “build up.” spoke and he touched, God’s Word became Simultaneously: “denying a reality that we audible and tangible. When Jesus healed, cannot explain is unscientific. There are he looked at a person’s faith and trust in things that we simply do not (yet) under- God. When Jesus healed, his healing be- stand.”9 This is in fact now being reflected came a sign of the inbreaking of the reign even in the field of reproductive medi- of God (Mt 12:28; Jn 2:11). When Christians cine.10 So, let us open ourselves up to the heal in the name of Jesus, God’s spirit is at potential of God’s spirit, but let us judge work today. Yes, we may indeed be open to clearly whether what happens actually charismatic elements. But healing in the “promotes Christ” (Luther: “Christum spirit of Jesus is not a matter of performing treibet”), or whether someone wants to miracles for show, as these criteria indi- glorify themselves. Are we talking about cate. Healing in Jesus’ name does not fo- a theologia gloriae, seeking to show how cus attention on the healer but on God’s lov- powerful our God is, who is thus used to ing care for the whole person. Health is not show how good we are? Or do we struggle a proof of God’s presence, and is misused for healing as disciples of Christ? when people think they can raise them- Let us bear in mind that healing is a selves above the rest of us as particularly holistic process in which we should disre- gifted. Healing in God’s name has nothing gard neither the achievements of medi- to do with self glorification ! Healing is cine, nor the soul, nor the gift of God’s about trust in God and faith. Being healed spirit. Perhaps the churches themselves or being healthy is not the same as truly can, in fact, help people to see the differ- having faith. We can show our trust in God ent charisms as not being in competition by learning to live with an illness. This is a but complementary, enabling them to gift of God, God’s grace. By trusting in God, learn from one other. we can understand death as being part of the way to God, as an intermediate pas- ⇒ Those who seek to heal must be open sage—instead of as a final curtain. for body and soul, for old and new Moreover, we have criteria to discern: insights, for differing experiences of Was that God at work, or were forces with God and for a holistic approach. other intentions involved? Is it about God or the exaltation of a human being? Is the ob- 5. They devoted themselves to jective to build up the community, the the fellowship (Acts 2:42) – οικοδοµη? Is it a matter of humility or of ex- Communio Sanctorum alting oneself? Whether anyone is ever per- fectly whole must be seriously questioned. The theme of our Assembly is “For the We live in the age between paradise and the Healing of the World.” Do we have any- perfection of the reign of God, and theologia thing to offer? Does our faith or our theol- crucis has its place here. Wounds are al- ogy contribute anything that the world it- ways part of our life, we are not perfect, and self cannot produce? we cannot blow our own trumpets without Life in community is part of our faith. being dishonest. The brokenness of life must Since Jesus traveled through Palestine be accepted. This is not easy and not con- with the first disciples, and shared bread ceivable without the cross, without this di- and wine, community has been part of the vine foolishness (I Cor 1:18). definition of discipleship. The Book of Acts Doctors who only see their own skill, paints a special picture of it—a kind of the art of application, have a limited per- glossy photograph that we look at in our spective. Healers who praise their own album and say: “Those were the days!” But

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 89 we hardly ever match that picture now. supposed to be a common feast that can Nevertheless, community and sharing, include laughter and tears, gaiety, festive- and supporting one another remain the ness, and spirituality with the heart and sign and symbol of the church. the senses—that is something we God calls upon each one of us, and bap- Lutherans often lack! We come together, tism is a symbol of that: I have called you the poor and rich, those from the highways by name (Isa 43:1). Luther made that very and byways, the estranged, the disap- clear to us: You stand before God (coram pointed, the lovers, the sick, those from deo), and freedom and responsibility belong the North and those from the South—a together. At the same time we are a com- healing community around the whole munity, and every church in its own place globe and through the ages. is a province of world Christendom (Ernst The Lord’s Supper is characterized by Lange). We are a learning community with a human and social challenge. all our different contexts. Those of us in the industrialized countries are learning, for We share bread and wine, and are thereby example, what Indigenous peoples have to in communion with those who celebrate the say about land that belongs to God as not Lord’s Supper at all times and in all places. being for sale, and about the creation being We enter into the history of all those who a gift. We listen and we learn. This is the have met in remembrance of Jesus Christ great opportunity for our community—be- for over 2000 years. Remembering is part ing open for new perspectives on things. of the Lord’s Supper, and we know we are in I think that it is indeed Holy Communion communion with all those who are sharing that shows our specific contribution to the bread and wine in many places. In the slums healing of the world. When we share bread of Rio de Janeiro. In refugee camps in Pal- and wine with one another, then all squab- estine. In the bombed-out buildings of bling, all arguments, all burdens and all hier- Grozny. In the suburbs of Washington. Sis- archy could and should recede into the back- ters and brothers—the Lord’s Supper re- ground—because we experience anew that minds us that we belong together across we belong together. The many are one Body, borders as the people of God. as Paul said. Communio sanctorum— the The Lord’s Supper is a strong reminder communion of saints. No one should be against to seek peace and justice. their neighbor. We all hear these words often enough, and often enough we do not live up to We hope for a future in which all sit together them. Because we are human, far from being at the Lord’s Table. It remains a thorn in the as generous as we would like to be, often bear- flesh, a stumbling block that we cannot cel- ing grudges, being envious and skeptical— ebrate the Eucharist together. Even if we confession and repentance are continually Protestants in Germany grant all others who necessary so that we can come to the Lord’s have been baptized eucharistic hospitality Table openly and freely. on the basis of the Leuenberg Agreement of 1973, this cannot allow us just to sit back. We are called to one table, but are warned It is certainly not a question of denying our against coming while unworthy. This idea own profile. Nevertheless, despite recog- of being “unworthy” has caused many to nizing all denominational differences we be afraid of actions that might bring guilt. confess each Sunday in the Apostle’s Creed “Showing a lack of solidarity” might be a that we believe in one church. We read in better translation of anaxios. After all, it John’s Gospel of how Jesus prayed that his is supposed to be a common meal. That is own should all be one. Healing divisions in what Paul criticizes in Corinth—the fact the church must be a key issue for us! This that everyone just eats their own food and was actively manifested during The Ecu- that there is no growth in community. It is menical Kirchentag (church convention)

90 The Lutheran World Federation held in Berlin in May, attended by over ing fruit to eat. Communion with one an- 200,000 people. Encyclicals cannot re- other and communion with God. In hope we strain something that is growing together! come together “until he comes.” A hope that Indeed, the church must also cope with its breaks through and transcends our age and own wounds if it is to face up to the wounds world. We will share bread and wine in re- of the world. membrance of him until he comes. The Lord’s Supper is a challenge to ecu- The Lord’s Supper has an eschatological menical commitment. dimension.

We share bread and wine, the fruits of the Let us bear in mind that altar fellowship is earth. We are often estranged from the healing fellowship, is a visible sign of heal- source—farming has become an industry ing, and is God’s call to the healing of the world. in many places. A bishop from the Pacific If our church wants to contribute to the once said at an ecumenical conference: healing of the world it can offer the sacra- “Jesus saw grain and grapes around him, ment of communion as the central event so he talked about them at the Last Supper. between God and humankind, and between Our staple food is coconut. Why shouldn’t us as persons. we use that in Holy Communion?”—you can well imagine the heated discussion 6. It is the spirit that gives life sparked off by that suggestion! Indeed, the (Jn 6:63) – key issue is about staple food. All our An Alternative Society senses are in play, not just our minds. Tast- ing. Seeing. Perceiving. Give us today our The World Health Organization defines daily bread—the real bread, that the rich health as a state of complete physical, psy- on this planet often hardly appreciate. chological and social well being. Hence it is Bread, for which millions still hunger ev- not just a matter of the absence of illness, ery day. Bread that tastes good, not a ge- but also of social conditions. Where God’s netically modified industrial product! spirit is at work we will be moved to do our Baked bread. Bread from the earth. The part in such comprehensive healing. earth that belongs to God. From the soil that In January 2003, the Third World Social is to be protected for future generations. Forum met in Porto Alegre, during which The Lord’s Supper challenges us to till the Lutheran Church in Brazil played an the earth and keep it for coming generations. active part. Is this not the place for our Lutheran Church as a whole? With those Communio sanctorum—sharing in what is who gather to shape globalization, starting holy. We say: The Body of Christ, given for at the grassroots? A globalization process you. The Blood of Christ, shed for you. Christ, whose goal is not profit for a few but social really present among us here and now. An justice for all? Could the LWF not speak impenetrable mystery! Jesus’ death—a sac- and act for us all at the global level? After rifice of atonement? The body of Christ, all, as Lutheran churches, we are both “lo- given for you, the blood of Christ, shed for cal actors” and “global players” at the same you—some find that off-putting. Died for us— time. In my country there is anxiety about did God want this sacrifice, or did Jesus give the objectives outlined by the Earth Sum- himself for his own? For love? mit in Rio in 1992 that involve changing The Lord’s Supper remains a theologi- consumption and production patterns. How- cal challenge. ever, could a positive attitude not take the place of fear? Could a sustainable lifestyle That is how it should be: no misery, no cry- not be an opportunity, a benefit of a quite ing. No child that dies an early death. People different kind? Could there not be open bor- building houses in which they live, harvest- ders for people instead of goods?

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 91 As Lutheran Christians, a family with a about the best way to proceed (arbitration common confession in a globalized world, or compensation?), and questions (debt we come together from many small places, cancellation or reparation?), but people from North and South and East and West, in will sit down and try to map out a common order to see and hear. We look at one an- future together in a spirit of solidarity. other as sisters and brothers. We do not hear Those with HIV/AIDS will not be stig- stereotypes but share the experience of matized and discriminated against, and people on the ground. We hear true stories. help will be possible within the commu- Truth—a rare commodity today! However, nity, e.g. through access to anti-retroviral among the people of God, there is true com- medication for all. Our churches will stand munication that is not distorted by images united with others to lower the rate of in- drawn by the media. We encounter one an- fection through education, including the other, person to person, across all borders use of condoms. People will receive infor- of nation, race, and gender. As Christians, mation to protect themselves from infec- we are the people of God from all peoples— tion, whereas those already infected will this is the biblical vision. This is why we receive information about treatment and can give hope for the world in our disciple- support to avoid them losing all hope. ship. We hope for a new heaven and a new Refugees will find a home, for example, earth—we have a hope beyond this world. those who are torn between Bhutan and From this eschatological hope we will Nepal. There is an entire generation that struggle to trace the contours of an alterna- has grown up in camps. How are they to tive society in the here and now, a society find a home? This is not an issue we can that does not follow the law of the stron- leave to others to deal with. God places gest, of power and assertiveness, but prac- these refugees in our path for us to pro- tices solidarity, loves justice, makes peace, vide help, as in the case of the Samaritan. and safeguards creation. In this alternative We will pursue a dialogue between the society: religions, so that religion can finally be- We will heal memories. Germans and come a factor in defusing conflicts and can Poles, Hutu and Tutsi, Protestants and no longer be misused to fan the flames of Catholics, Jews and Christians, the battle political conflicts. of Kosovo (1389, when the Serbs were de- Future generations, children and young feated by the Turks), crusades, colonial- people, will learn the notion of hope; they ism, the burning of witches—memories will learn to understand the earth as God’s that are not healed will destroy us. Yet it Creation—their living space for them to must never be a matter of explaining away till and keep. injustice suffered. Reconciliation is only Let us bear in mind that healing also possible if the victims are heard and the means acting as stewards in this wounded perpetrators confess their guilt. Anything world, leaving traces of the kingdom of else would be cheap reconciliation that God, in which one day all tears will be cannot lead to healing. wiped away and death will be no more. We will rise above the ideology of The globalization of goods and corpora- weapons and allow peace to grow without tions and markets that shows no respect violence. We do not believe in empires and for differing cultures will not bring heal- superpowers but in the power of the meek ing for our world. It is through a globaliza- and the perseverance of the peaceable. tion of the message of God’s love, a global- Righteousness and peace will kiss ization of justice, peace and the integrity each other and there will be a jubilee year of creation that healing will come. that will see debts as guilt and will liber- If Christians want to contribute to the ate people and nations from bondage. healing of the world, they will have to take There will certainly be disagreement part actively in the affairs of the world,

92 The Lutheran World Federation imbued with the hope that we can all live out my spirit on all flesh; your sons and together in justice and peace. your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams (Joel 2:28). 7. Rejoice in hope (Rom 12:12) – Final Litany We will make hope visible and tan- gible—As a mother comforts her child so Perhaps the language of theology in our I will comfort you (Isa 66:13). time should really be poetry, since in the Bible, too, the language of hope is poetic. We will courageously take the path of discipleship—For he will command his We will keep alive the hope for a trans- angels concerning you to guard you in formed world—Blessed are the meek, for all your ways (Ps 91:11). they will inherit the earth (Mt 5:5). We will keep alive the hope for a world We will not tire of loving the Holy Land, that can overcome violence—Blessed are of praying for peace between Muslims, the peacemakers, for they will be called Christians and Jews, and between children of God (Mt 5:9). Israelis and Palestinians—for it is the land flowing with milk and honey for We will speak of hope for healing—The those who live there (Ex 3:8). Lord lifts up the downtrodden (Ps 147:6).

We will not give up hoping for a Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! (Rev 22:20) community of humankind—I will pour

Notes

1 “Against the Antinomians,” 1539, in Luther’s Works, vol. 47. F. Sherman (ed.). Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1971, p. 118.

2 Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Letters and Papers from Prison, letter of 16.7.44., Eberhard Bethge (ed.). London: SCM Press, 1953, p. 164.

3 Luther’s Works, vol. 54. Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1967, p. 266.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 93 4 Luther’s Works, vol. 46. Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1967, p. 253.

5 Walter Hollenweger’s thinking on this and the following was extremely helpful, e.g. Das Kirchenjahr inszenieren. Stuttgart: Kohlhammer, 2002, pp. 219ff.

6 Luther’s Works, vol. 54. Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1967, p. 266.

7 Wilfried Härle. Dogmatik. Berlin: Gruyter, 2000 (2), p. 370.

8 Hollenweger, op. cit. (note 5), p. 225.

9 Hollenweger, ibid., p. 222.

10 See Kwang Y Cha. “Does Prayer Influence the Success of in Vitro Fertilization-Embryo Transfer?”, JRM, vol. 46, no. 9. Sept. 2001, pp. 781ff.

94 The Lutheran World Federation Bishop Dr Wesley W. Kigasung, delegate from the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea

A Response to the Keynote Address: For the Healing of the World

Bishop Dr Wesley W. Kigasung, Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea

Introduction to the Assembly to take up the theme of “healing” with a strong sense of Christian It is appropriate to begin this response with commitment, Christian responsibility, and first, a word of thanks, and sincere apprecia- Christian stewardship. tion to Bishop Dr Margot Kässmann for giv- In her keynote address she brings our ing us the keynote address on this significant attention first to the need to listen to “the theme: “For the Healing of the World.” cry of the wounds of the world.” Then she We sincerely thank our speaker for the draws our attention to the importance of address and for the challenge she presents “viewing the world with an open attitude

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 95 and from the perspective of the love of God” of human creation when God created ev- if we want to engage in the process of heal- erything good. God’s original intention was ing. Next she reminds us to look at the won- goodness and not evil. Everything was cre- der of “God’s wounding.” “…by his wounds ated and was good in God’s sight. God even we are healed” (Isa 53:5). Challenging us created humanity in God’s own likeness, to understand the interrelatedness of the meaning good and holy. language that speaks of the suffering and Then came the fall of humanity and de- crucified God and the significance of that struction of what was intended to be good. message for the healing of the world. But human disobedience did not destroy Then she takes us through the human God’s love, and God’s love continued to be experiences of healing processes that in- experienced in the process of healing. That volve medical knowledge and praxis and process of healing required experience of our Christian challenge to participate in pain. When God came to visit humanity in that healing as “part of the call to the great the cool of the evening, he had to have Adam commission.” I quote: “The churches have take responsibility for what happened. God a therapeutic ministry, there are healing approached Adam in the form of a ques- charisms among us…. God’s healing power tion: “Adam, where are you?” Then what can clearly be experienced.” happened after that is an interesting expe- Next, the discussion of the “sacramen- rience that continues even today. “It is not tal healing” through the communio me, it is her. The woman you gave me!” sanctorum and through sharing and par- Immediately following the exchange of ticipating in the Lord’s Supper. The signifi- questions and answers between God and cance of the Lord’s Supper and its mean- humanity, we find the word of promise for ing for those who receive it. “healing for humanity.” After this particular story we have an- The Experience of Hope other interesting story where we find the and the Spirit of Renewal two brothers Cain and Abel and their ex- into a New Life perience of life in relationship to God. Then the unfortunate event in which Cain killed The emphasis or central issue of the pa- his brother Abel. God questioned Cain on per, I believe, is to draw our attention as the whereabouts of his brother Abel. Lutheran Christians to the wounds and “Where is your brother Abel?” Cain re- cries of pain in the world. That the world plies: “I don’t know! Am I supposed to keep must be brought to consciousness about track of him wherever he goes?” Then the need for healing and reconciliation and came the hard fact of Cain’s action when instill new life giving Spirit and new hope. God questioned him: “What have you done? Let me now turn to my personal response Listen—your brother’s blood cries out to to this keynote address and mention three me from the ground!” major points, which I feel are important to Healing begins when we listen again note in light of what this theme means for us. to these early experiences between God and humanity, and the whole Scripture is Response 1 full of them. Anyone who wants to heal must listen again to these searching and chal- The speaker emphasized the point that lenging questions posed by the Creator “those who seek to heal must first look at God Almighty: “Adam, where are you?” their own context, and learn to view the ‘Cain, where is your brother Abel?’ “What world with an open attitude and from the have you done? Listen—your brother’s perspective of the love of God.” blood cries out to me from the ground!” I would like to take that further in sug- Yes, in listening again to God, then we gesting that we must look at the beginning can look at our own context, “and learn to

96 The Lutheran World Federation see the world with eyes wide open, with cries coming from our injured children, the eyes of God’s love.” hungry people, victims of rape and domes- tic violence, homeless people, lonely in- Response 2 dividuals, creation being tormented, and many, many more. The witness of the New Testament is a wit- Many of these wounds and “cries of the ness of great hope. It is the witness of a wounds of the world” are caused by Chris- fulfillment of the promise and brings great tians and Christian countries. Yes, to be assurance and hope for the world. “For God engaged in the healing for the world and so loved the world that He sent His only son of the world Christians need to “hear the so that everyone who believes in him will Word of the Lord.” Christians need to be not perish but have eternal life (Jn 3:16). challenged to be faithful to the Word and, Jesus is the hope for all who experi- in that faithfulness to the Word, Christians ence pain and are suffering and need heal- are challenged further to maintain the true ing. He extends the invitation: “Come to relationship to God and to the world. me all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest” Concluding Comment (Mt 11:28). The New Testament provides us with the “For the Healing of the World” Christians experience of God’s love and grace. The love are brought to task to review and renew exemplified on the cross so that we can be their commitment and their faithfulness to able to say in the words of our speaker: “As God and to the Word. In that commitment Christians we have the courage to look at and faithfulness we are challenged to par- the wounds and can keep God’s powerless- ticipate in the healing of our broken rela- ness and all-powerfulness in mind at the tionships to God, to one another and thus same time. Indeed, we have to put up with the healing for the world. the inconsistencies of life and accept the Only by doing so can we find meaning experience of the cross as part of our lives.” and significance in our contributions to- But accepting the experience of the ward the healing process in the world. cross is not enough. That experience must Hence we could emphasize again the con- give us the courage and the desire to live cluding words of our speaker: “If Chris- it out in the world that is full of “the cry of tians want to contribute to the healing of the wounds.” the world, they will have to take part ac- tively in the affairs of the world imbued Response 3 with the hope that we can all live together in justice and peace.” Christians are challenged to live out their Thank you for the privilege to make this faith in this world that is full of all kinds of response to the keynote speaker.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 97 98 The Lutheran World Federation Ms Virginia Ivañez de Neyeloff, delegate from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Venezuela

A Response to the Keynote Address: For the Healing of the World – A Challenge for Latin America and the Caribbean

Ms Virginia Ivañez de Neyeloff

I was asked to speak to you about the was populated by Aboriginal tribes, some (Translated from the original Spanish text.) wounds of this continent, and my voice of whom had highly developed social orga- today is the voice of women and men who nizations, as was the case with the Aztec, are subject to frustrations and conflicts, of Mayan and Incan empires which had de- human beings who feel the pain of injus- veloped close ties with nature. But the Eu- tice, corruption and unnecessary deaths, ropeans confronted with this reality were and who are crying out for change. For this people organized according to military reason, I shall speak to you about some of logic and with the intent to conquer. the problems affecting Latin America and Central and South America were colo- the Caribbean. nized by Spain and Portugal, two Catholic countries where the Inquisition exercised Historical Profile rigorous control over matters of faith. Spain was impregnated with a feudal logic At the time of the arrival of the colonizers, which found expression in the deployment what we today call the American continent of thousands of the Indigenous population

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 99 to forced labor in the gold and silver mines this violence of exclusion in our churches. and in large-scale cattle farming and agri- Some of them do not ordain women, others culture. They were evangelized for the turn a deaf ear to the complaints of women, purpose of enslavement and converted to and still others refuse to use gender-neu- Christianity for Spain’s own benefit. The tral language in their liturgies, alleging that mercantile approach of Portugal allowed it is too cumbersome or that the time has for a less rigid style of evangelization. not come to change a habit so deeply Due to the inhumane treatment received engrained among the parishioners. And at the hands of the colonizers, the Indig- there are still some men who, in a mocking enous population began to cut themselves tone, pretend to console us by repeating the off and die in large groups; this is what biblical phrase “the last will be first.” The caused the rapid development of the slave struggle for equality and recognition is long trade from Africa. For dominant elites, and the burden of resistance heavy. We there is no room for the growth of an au- have to recognize that, while half of soci- tonomous, well-trained middle class, nor ety is immersed in inertia and prejudice, is there any interest in improving the qual- the other half undoubtedly finds that the ity of life of the population. Even today, the road is rough and that it has to carry this fragility of the middle class constitutes a enormous burden on its own. key factor in the vulnerability of the socio- The negative aspects of globalization economic organization of Latin America. which can be observed in the region are so By the end of the nineteenth and the overwhelming that, whatever the accompa- beginning of the twentieth century, we see nying positive aspects may be, they go prac- that the dominant elite, which had adopted tically unnoticed. The basic idea of free an agro-export economic model, assumed trade, be it economic, cultural, political or that in order to harvest coffee or cotton, technological, is only fair when both sides cultivate the land or cut down trees, it was can benefit. In order for the North to obtain not necessary to learn how to read or write manufactured products at low cost, the South or even to be well fed. This produced high has to pay starvation wages to the produc- levels of human exploitation and exclu- ers. For our region, globalization means pov- sion, mainly of Indigenous people, as well erty, marginalization and exclusion, all re- as a huge waste of natural resources, lated to gender, ethnicity and illiteracy. The which continue to this day in the majority Indigenous people and those of African de- of the countries of this region. scent continue today to be the poorest and most discriminated against. These three fac- Our Reality tors generate resentment, and the popula- tion becomes easy prey for leaders with to- A quick overview of Latin America shows talitarian ideals who promote violence. This that, even when you interchange the names misery gives rise to the migration of men of countries or actors, the problems re- and women to richer nations, and to the dis- main similar and have the same names. integration of the family. If we look at the Although I shall present them individually case of El Salvador, where the numbers leav- today, they are closely interrelated. ing the country have reached dramatically Family violence is the most brutal mani- high levels, more than a quarter of the popu- festation of gender violence against lation lives in the United States, and their women and children; it gives rise to terror, remittances of the “dollars of the poor” resentment and humiliation. It must be rec- amount to two billion dollars per year, more ognized that this is not only a consequence than 15 percent of the GDP and almost 90 of poverty or of the politics of the govern- percent of El Salvador’s national budget. We ment in power, but is also derived from our cannot fail to mention the FTAA in this dis- cultural and religious roots. We also feel cussion, the agreement on the Free Trade

100 The Lutheran World Federation Area of the Americas. If the United States forms and that we must ask forgiveness succeed in getting the governments in this whether we helped produce these volun- region to put this agreement into effect irre- tarily or involuntarily, because there is no spective of social, labor and environmental way to achieve the well being of this world concerns, the only beneficiaries will be the unless the conditions for women are im- developed countries of the North. We must proved. not forget that industrial development in one The use of the handbook “Churches Say part of the world cannot eradicate poverty ‘No’ to Violence against Women” must be and unemployment in any other part of the encouraged at all levels in the churches, world. and it must be made available to the local The burden of the external debt and communities. We must promote integrated its related costs deprive a large sector of training workshops for women in leader- our region of any kind of noticeable eco- ship positions in the churches. nomic development, while facilitating the Gender training must be offered in the deterioration of the quality of life. Debt churches from the tenderest age, and this payments have been and still are a mecha- training should be viewed and imple- nism for transferring the nation’s wealth mented with an inter-generational ap- produced by the people to its creditors. As proach, without neglecting projects aimed Eduardo Galeano said, “The more we pay, at strengthening a “new masculinity.” the more we owe and the less we have.” We must search for new forms of un- Because the social costs are extremely derstanding with the churches, so that high, due to the adjustments imposed by women will be accepted with the same the IMF [International Monetary Fund], the degree of equity and visibility accorded World Bank and other financial institutions, to men, and the ordination of women must public spending on health and education, be understood as one way of doing them which should be a priority for governments, justice. is drastically reduced. As a church we also must give an ecu- If we examine corruption from an menical response to globalization, focus- economic perspective, we shall notice that ing our efforts on the human being prior to it is closely related to a marked frame- the consumer market. From the vantage work of unemployment, poverty and vio- point of our theological and ecclesial iden- lence. Corruption reduces the rate of eco- tity, we must present clear options and al- nomic growth while also diminishing in- ternatives for life for the poorest and most vestment incentives, and the overall dam- marginalized in our society, in accordance age is considerably greater than the ac- with the demands of the Scriptures. We are tual cost of the bribery. the people of God, united by the Holy Spirit, It is also obvious that, in the absence of who is perceived as an enormous yet respect for human beings, there will be still subtle power and, with this as our basis, less respect for the environment. In we can develop a rational philosophy to Amazonia, to mention only one case, there deal with the problems of our people. is increasing, indiscriminate deforestation We must encourage education at all caused by large companies, the majority stages of life; making human beings aware of them transnationals, who put their own of their rights will lead to an expansion of interests before Creation as a whole. knowledge, and to recognizing the inferi- ority and racism which make us forget that Possible Alternatives the human race is one. Both governments for Healing and NGOs as well as the churches must promote free education for the masses, and It is essential that we recognize that vio- avoid encouraging sectarian approaches lence against women exists in different which distort their thinking.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 101 As far as possible, we must promote a Scriptures, because it is a question of sin- policy of decentralization in the adminis- ning or serving God. To follow through, we tration of industry. The development of must clearly establish the basis for a just cooperative structures in the regions will struggle working with more than one pro- create employment opportunities for the posal and supporting peaceful acts of civil people, relieving the congestion in the resistance, led by honest women and men large cities and humanizing the quality of who can serve as examples for other life of their inhabitants. peoples immersed in the same wretched To improve our relationship with the situation. environment, we must keep in mind that Finally, I wish to say that we can help our nations are creditors of a tremendous to alleviate the pain of the wounds in sev- social and ecological debt which has eral ways, but the real healing will only steadily kept growing over past decades come about when the Day of the Lord ar- as a product of the neo-liberal taxation rives. The only thing we can achieve here policies stemming from our external debt. is to live in anticipation of that day when To demand the payment of this debt is a “…everyone who calls on the name of the matter related to being true to our confes- Lord shall be saved” (Joel 2:32). Yes, that sional identity and our obedience to the is our commitment as a church!

102 The Lutheran World Federation Open Hearing on Indigenous Issues 29 July 2003

Introductory Remarks stitution—in Section 35 those rights were The following statements were tape-recorded at included in the Constitution of Canada. In the time of the Assembly. Rev. Dr David Pfrimmer, 1990, Canadian churches opposed the The transcriptions appear Lutheran Office for Public Policy, Meech Lake Accord, which would have here with the authorization of the Waterloo Lutheran Seminary weakened the rights of Aboriginal peoples speakers. and nations in this country. During the time It’s my pleasure to be able to welcome you of the Jubilee Debt Campaign, in which this afternoon on behalf of the Evangelical many of you were involved and many of Lutheran Church in Canada to this open you participated, Canadian churches also hearing. Many of you are aware of some of had another Jubilee Campaign in support the tragic history that characterized the of First Nations in this country, gathering relationship between Aboriginal peoples in 50,000 signatures on a petition that called Canada and the non-Aboriginal community. upon the Federal Government to establish Our Anglican partners earlier this week an independent commission to resolve out- shared with you some of the legacy of resi- standing Aboriginal land and treaty rights. dential schools and the painful history that After repeated requests, I am sad to say, that has left with us. While Lutherans did not over the last three years, the Minister of have residential schools, along with other Indian Affairs, Robert Nolt, has not even Canadians we share responsibility for the agreed to have a meeting with church lead- grossly unjust social consequences of efforts ers to receive these petitions or discuss to assimilate native peoples, forcing them these important issues. to surrender their culture, their land, their Between 1991 and 1996, churches ac- language and their resources. Along with tively participated in the Royal Commission other ecumenical partners, though, on Aboriginal Peoples, one of the largest and churches have also been active advocates most comprehensive commissions in Cana- and solidarity partners with the First Nations dian history. The commission made over 400 of this country. In 1974, when an oil pipeline recommendations and called for increased was proposed for the McKenzie delta, in the investment—financial investment—in order far north on Aboriginal lands, churches es- to, I quote “renew the relationship with Ab- tablished Project North as a coalition of original peoples.” Churches were particularly churches that supported the demands of cited for their important role in helping to raise Aboriginal peoples and succeeded in ensur- awareness about the needs and the rights of ing that there would be no resource extrac- Aboriginal peoples and to build support tion on unseeded lands until land rights were among the wider Canadian population for justly settled, or we had from native peoples renewing this vital relationship. Sadly again, their full and informed consent. the Federal Government of Canada’s re- In 1981 and 1982, churches supported sponse to this monumental work of this im- Aboriginal efforts in ensuring that the newly portant commission has not been to act on repatriated Canadian Constitution included these recommendations. Instead, it has intro- the recognition of the inherent rights of duced its own First Nations governance leg- Aboriginal peoples: Section 35 of that Con- islation that will be implemented against the

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 103 wishes of the Aboriginal leadership. Cana- nal communities and within the non-Aborigi- dian churches have called for this legislation nal community. We are delighted they could not to proceed unless it has the full consent of be here this afternoon. the First Nations. This legislation needs to be withdrawn and negotiations need to begin again, based on the report of the Royal Com- Statements mission and their recommendations. ELCIC Bishop Raymond Schultz, on the Ms Marie Frawley Henry, occasion of a visit to Canada by the gen- director of international affairs, eral secretary of the Lutheran World Fed- Assembly of First Nations eration, Dr Ishmael Noko, convened a in Ottawa meeting in March 2003 that brought to- gether church leaders for a historic meet- Boozhoo! Greetings! I am very pleased to ing with the National Chief and the Assem- be here today. I would like to acknowledge bly of First Nations in Ottawa, and the the traditional lands that we are meeting Grand Chief at the Assembly of Manitoba on, the lands of the Anishinabe peoples, the Chiefs here in Winnipeg. Treaty One area. I would also like to give It is from this history of solidarity that we thanks, great thanks to the organizers here come to this particular moment, and the today, the Lutheran World Federation Tenth guests that we have invited to join us this Assembly, and the Evangelical Lutheran afternoon for this Assembly. I must say that I Church in Canada, and to KAIROS, the In- regret that Chief Dennis White Bird, who was ter-Church Social Justice Coalition. to be here today, unfortunately was called My name is Marie Frawley Henry. I work away in an emergency to a community in with the Assembly of First Nations. My com- the north, and he is represented instead by munity is Nipissing First Nation, which is ap- Mr Jim Bear, who is representing the As- proximately four hours from Ottawa, Ontario. sembly of Manitoba Chiefs. This is a provin- Nipissing First Nation has approximately cial organization of chiefs from the First 2,000 members, residing on and off reserve— Nations across the Province of Manitoba. We it’s a reasonable size of a community. are indeed pleased that he could be here on I would like to begin this story in keep- such short notice. We are also pleased to ing with your theme of a healing journey. It welcome Ms Marie Frawley Henry, who is is important for me to begin at a time when the director of international affairs with the I was searching for my Anishinabe tradi- Assembly of First Nations in Ottawa. The tional name, clan and colors. Not the En- AFN is the largest Aboriginal political orga- glish name I was given but a name that is nization in Canada and represents all the sometimes called by the Anishinabe First Nations across this country. Thirdly, we peoples a “medicine name.” It tells me who are pleased to have with us and to recognize I am and provides me with a sense of direc- the Very Rev. Stan McKay, who is a former tion and identity and fits nicely into the topic moderator of the United Church of Canada, of today, that of a healing journey. This is the journey that I personally began a number of years ago in order to Part of what the healing journey understand that we do have a purpose in is all about is also associated life, that it is important to understand who you are and what gifts you need to develop with our “identity.” to contribute to the betterment of society. A part of what the healing journey is all the first Aboriginal moderator in that church, about is also associated with our “iden- and is well known across this country for his tity.” It’s about knowing who we are, where healing ministry in working within Aborigi- we came from and where we are going. I

104 The Lutheran World Federation From left to right: Very Rev. Stan McKay, former moderator, United Church of Canada; Honorable Jim Bear [on behalf of Grand Chief Dennis White Bird], Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, and Ms Marie Frawley Henry, director of international affairs, Assembly of First Nations in Ottawa, at the open hearing on Indigenous issues. have worked with young people in the past encouraged by my mother to travel to cer- because I really feel that a sense of indi- emonies and name-giving ceremonies in vidual identity is important when you are order to find my “traditional name” or medi- starting out on your path in life. Once you cine name which is important in knowing know who you are, you know you have a your spiritual path, or your “healing jour- place and can positively contribute to the ney.” The name that was given to me by my human family. A sense of identity and his- namesake in the language of the Anishinabe tory is also important for the whole of the people is, Mide Waaboo Kwe. This medi- human family to know who we are, where cine name is associated with the life-giv- we came from and where we are going. ing properties of “water” and all that it en- This is a wonderful opportunity to be tails, it is also connected to the role and able to share a small part of this healing responsibilities of women. journey with you, a journey that was in- There was one very important message spired by my grandmother and my mother, my mother had for me before she passed Jane. My mother spoke Ojibway or the lan- away, she told me, “You must speak your lan- guage of our Anishinabe people. My grand- guage.” Like many of our old people, she pro- mother and grandfather also spoke their ceeded to speak only her native language in language. They shared stories and prophe- the weeks before her passing. Language is cies with us when we were children. There also connected to our identity and who we were stories of the Anishinabe people and are, learning our language is also a part of the medicine societies which my grand- the healing journey for our First Nations. mother called “Mide.” She said they did not Along with receiving my medicine call this a religion but “a way of life.” I was name, I also received the gift of the sacred

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 105 colors which also indicates the work I may peaceful coexistence based on equitable one day be associated with. The colors I sharing of lands and resources. Ultimately, was gifted with are those colors of the four the relationship is founded on respect, equality and recognition of our mutual right to govern ourselves. The Assembly of First There are more than fifty First Nations Nations, AFN for short, exists to promote in Canada. Each nation has its own the restoration and enhancement of this re- lationship, and to ensure that it is mutually unique laws, languages, customs, beneficial for First Nations and Canadians. traditions and territories. There are more than fifty First Nations in Canada. Each nation has its own unique laws, languages, customs, traditions and directions, yellow, black, white and red as territories. Currently, there are 633 First well as green and blue. Today, I find my- Nations communities in Canada. About half self working in the international arena, of the First Nations populations reside on working with Indigenous peoples, and reserved territories, and others live off-re- brothers and sisters from the four direc- serve in urban centers and rural areas. The tions. I began the journey to find my name, AFN acts as an advocate of First Nations my clan and my colors in order to better on many issues, including Aboriginal and understand my direction in life and what I treaty rights, economic development, edu- had to learn and to offer. I found this in the cation, languages, literacy, health, housing, culture and teachings of my mother’s social development, justice, taxation, land people, the Anishinabe. All races of the claims and the environment, to name a few. world have many similar original teach- Our issues are as diverse as the nations ings. It is a rich and healing journey to themselves. First Nations peoples have a learn and re-discover these teachings. right to self-determination and self-govern- With the Assembly of First Nations, at ment, and guided by this principle we can present, I work on the international file as work together to build a healthy and vibrant well as the gender equality/women’s file country that is home to all of us. We must and the fund-raising file. I would like to restore the original spirit of partnership in share with you first some background in- order to move forward together. formation on the Assembly of First Na- The Assembly of First Nations also tions, so that you have some understand- works closely with the churches. For ex- ing of the organization, how it began and ample, a petition with the churches was where it is going. circulated calling on the government to The Assembly of First Nations is the na- establish an independent commission to tional organization representing the First implement Aboriginal rights. Therefore, we Nation citizens of Turtle Island, which we have had about 50,000 signatures on that call Canada. The First Nations peoples live petition and the AFN worked closely with a in all areas of the country, on reserves, in number of churches, not only in drafting the cities, in rural areas and in the north. First wording of this petition but also in getting Nations peoples are recognized as Indians signatures. In June of 2001, over 400 people in Canada’s Constitution, which recognizes gathered in Ottawa to meet trains that came and protects Aboriginal treaty rights. His- from all corners of Canada. These trains torically, First Nations have a unique and were bringing blankets—yes, I do say blan- special relationship with the Crown and the kets—from Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people of Canada, as manifested in our trea- supporters across the country. Over 1,000 ties and other historical agreements. In es- blankets were unfolded on the lawn of the sence, the special relationship is a nation- Supreme Court of Canada building—sym- to-nation partnership with a view toward bolizing the return of our land to the First

106 The Lutheran World Federation Nations. The AFN and the churches worked the stature of sacred oaths. By the 1500s, closely together to make sure this would European and First Nations contact began be one of the greatest and most important to increase in number and complexity. Cau- demonstrations of Aboriginal solidarity in tion, cooperation, not conflict, was the theme recent history. of this period that lasted into the eighteenth Following the release of the Royal and nineteenth centuries. First Nations and Commission on Aboriginal Peoples’ final Europeans viewed themselves as separate report in 1996, the churches worked to- distinct peoples with responsibilities over gether to create an education resource kit their own affairs. This cooperation was for- which summarizes the major themes of the malized in two very important ways. Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples’ Number one—the process was set down report, which includes educational exer- in writing by the British, French and other cises to help people understand these is- European negotiators and solemnized by the sues better. I have a copy of that report here. First Nations in oral, visual records, includ- Today, I would like to provide a short ing the Wampum belts. Number two—in part, history of how the AFN came about, so that the Royal Proclamation of 1763 stated, you can understand why the treaties are “whereas it is just and reasonable, and es- important. The AFN, the Assembly of First sential to our interest and the security of our Nations, actually came about at a time colonies, that the several Nations or tribes when First Nations peoples feared that of Indians with whom we are connected and developments would undermine the trea- who live under our protection, should not be ties and the Federal Government’s fidu- molested or disturbed in the possession of ciary responsibility for First Nations such parts of our dominions and territories peoples. The first move by the Federal as, not having been ceded to or purchased Government to end our special status with by us, are reserved to them, or any of them our treaties in Canada took place in June as their hunting grounds.” The British colo- 1969 under the then Prime Minister Pierre nial government’s approach was vastly dif- Elliot Trudeau who issued an Indian policy ferent. By signing treaties largely to acquire called the White Paper. Not until 1970 did land, the government appeared to recognize First Nations have options to the idea of the nationhood of First Nations peoples, and inherent right, coming from the agree- their equality as nations. The First Nations, ments made between the First peoples and which were not accustomed to the written the Federal Government of Canada. The word, believed that whatever the treaty Federal Government holds a fiduciary re- commissioners told them on behalf of the sponsibility with the First Nations. In terms of the Assembly of First Nations, The First Nations, which were not treaty policy secretariat: First Nations to- day continue to view the treaties that were accustomed to the written word, signed by their ancestors as living treaties believed that whatever the treaty and lasting covenants. Treaty-making did not begin with the arrival of Europeans. It commissioners told them ... would be was a process that was developed long be- accurately recorded in the treaty and fore the arrival. First Nations negotiated with each other to establish peace, to regulate would be honored for all future trade, to share the use of lands and resources, generations to come. and arrange mutual alliances. These agree- ments were sealed according to Nations’ specific customs, which may have included Crown during their talks would be accurately sacred pipe-smoking and other ceremonies. recorded in the treaty and would be honored By this process they gave the agreements for all future generations to come. Often dur-

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 107 ing the treaty-making process, the treaty human rights and to combat patriarchal commissioners and the First Nations came attitudes, practices and stereotyping roles. together with vastly different perspectives It recommends to the State party to ensure and expectations. The First Nations sought that Aboriginal women receive sufficient protection from invading land-hungry set- funding in order to be able to participate tlers and the disruptions they sensed would in the necessary governance and legisla- follow. First Nations sought large areas of tive processes that address issues which land that would allow them to continue to impede their legal and substantive equal- live as their ancestors had. The treaty com- ity. It also requests the State party to pro- missioners, on the other hand, sought Indian vide comprehensive information on the reserves as places where Indians could learn situation of Aboriginal women in its next to be settlers and farmers and abandon their report.” The report goes on to state, “The old ways. For this and other reasons, the trea- Committee is also concerned that the State ties were left hanging with many questions party’s measures are mostly directed to- that are yet to be resolved by government wards children and not towards women.” and First Nations. Each treaty contained dif- There are a number of issues and con- ferent promises and provisions for the First cerns that threaten the future survival of Nations signatories in general in exchange our First Nations such as certain sections for large areas of land, First Nations were of the Indian Act, namely Bill C-31, which promised certain benefits, such as annual was passed in 1985 to amend sections of treaty payments (approximately 3 to 5 dol- the Indian Act for the purpose of eliminat- lars), continued rights to hunt and fish, pro- ing the discriminatory provisions against visions of schooling, medical care, farm disenfranchised First Nations. Under the equipment and ammunition. This is an ex- Indian Act before 1985 if a First Nation ample of some of the work that we continue woman married a man who did not have to do, and the continuing story in the work of First Nation status she lost her First Na- the treaty area. tion status or Indian status. The amend- Some of the other work we attempt to ment to section 6-(1) and 6-(2) of the In- address at the AFN is the gender/women’s dian Act has impacted adversely on First issues. In a recent report the United Na- Nations families and communities by di- tions Committee on the Elimination of Dis- minishing the treaty status population. We crimination against Women (CEDAW) will only begin to see the impacts of this cited serious concerns, that Canada has legislation over the next few years in the been remiss in dealing with Aboriginal dwindling of our status population. women. From the CEDAW report I quote, Finally, we also attempt to address is- “…the Committee is seriously concerned sues related to violence and the discrimi- about the persistent systemic discrimina- nation against Aboriginal women which tion faced by Aboriginal women in all as- is a great concern for our communities in pects of their lives…. The Committee is Canada and for Indigenous women around further concerned that the First Nations the world. For these reasons and more we Governance Act currently under discus- work together as Indigenous peoples to ad- sion does not address remaining discrimi- dress a number of these human rights is- natory legal provisions under other Acts, sues at the United Nations and the UN Per- including matrimonial property rights, sta- manent Forum and the Organization of tus and band membership questions which American States. are incompatible with the Convention…. In closing, I would like to say thank you …It urges the State party to take effec- very much for taking the time to come to- tive and proactive measures including gether. I wish you continued success in awareness-raising programs, to sensitize your conference. Aboriginal communities about women’s

108 The Lutheran World Federation Very Rev. Stan McKay, sacred land.” Canada—in our language Ka- former moderator, na-tun—is sacred, so they acknowledged, United Church of Canada the first visitors, that this is sacred land. You have already heard Manitoba, some people President Krause, General Secretary say Manitoba, Manitou is the Creator God Noko, it has been an honor to sit with you for us, in our language, Manitou pa may be this week. Friends who are delegates at God’s resting place, here. Not so romantic is this great meeting, I know your energy is Winnipeg. They asked us, “What is this beginning to decline after so many days of river?” Winnipeg—it means dirty water! So sitting. I too have sat for many of the days it is not quite as romantic, but when you go and I must say it is the first time in my to the Forks this evening, those of us who many meetings of the church that I have walk to the Forks, will again go to the sa- been awake for the Treasurer’s report— cred gathering place of many nations from thank you for the Treasurer’s report. Much this territory, a ceremonial place which is more exciting than all the figures and the now given over largely to economic devel- details of the monies themselves, but the opment and hardly has any space for Indig- purpose of gathering was very much high- enous peoples in that location any more. So lighted in that report. The Tenth Assembly welcome to Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. theme “For the Healing of the World” is You would be interested to know that 500 very much about Indigenous peoples and years ago we did not have an immigration so it is an honor to be with you as you work department, we didn’t grant visas, we wel- with that theme. comed visitors (applause). Four hundred I wanted now just to begin by saying I years ago, 300 years ago we welcomed visi- was here at the opening of your Assembly tors, and were determined to share the riches when there was an honor song by three of the Creator with whomever came to us. Anishinabe people and a prayer by an elder. People who were hungry and lost, in need of The honor song was to welcome you to this a place to live, were granted welcome in land. That wasn’t explained in the opening— this land. Now we experience the embarrass- it was a welcoming song, an honoring song, ment of a Canadian government that will not with the hand drums. And then the elder, as acknowledge that the gathering for sacred you might have been watching, prayed in purpose is not worthy of a visa. So I too am the four directions, because your gathering, embarrassed to be in this land and so I will your Federation, this Assembly is a gather- go home tonight and read Psalm 107 which ing from the four corners of the world, and in speaks of the four winds and the in-gather- our philosophy we understand that to be ing of the people by the Creator from the God’s purpose, the Creator’s purpose to bring four directions, because I think the purpose us together, so in many ways this Assembly of gathering in diversity is very important. I for me has been a representation of a pro- describe myself within my denomination as phetic gathering of peoples of diversity and an Aboriginal Christian. Our denomination of purpose for the healing of the world. Wel- still struggles with the understanding of what come to Canada! Many of you will know that it means to be an Indigenous person seeking this is a name from the Aboriginal commu- to understand the Christian faith, and I gather nity, but there are many theories. In the Cree in this Assembly your Message is going to language, the visitors came to us and said, include something on Indigenous people in “What is this place?”—most of them from an effort to change that relationship within Europe and they didn’t know where they the global work of the Lutheran World Fed- were. Not surprising! No, it is surprising— eration. It is also necessary in this land within that they got here at all! But they came here my denomination. It’s very difficult, out of and they said, “What is this place?”, and the dogmatic, colonial processes to change the people responded “Ka-na-tun-usk, this is understanding of the diversity of the gifts of

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 109 the Creator to all the peoples. The concept ering, from this Assembly—it was a great of communion, koinonia, the concept of re- honor for me, and I thank all of you for mak- spectful relationships on the land, I think is ing that possible. Kisey Manitou ka about the healing of the world—the balance, sawantum oma mowachetowin (asking of respectful balance between peoples and the God to bless the Assembly, in the Cree lan- creation, the wholeness of the creation. guage) the Creator, God, will bless you in your Assembly. Kinanaskomitin Katipayischikayun kaishis minosick The concept of communion, koinonia, kamamowiyak (thanksgiving for the Cre- the concept of respectful relationships ator bringing us all together in a good way). on the land, I think is about the Honorable Jim Bear on behalf healing of the world... of Grand Chief Dennis White Bird, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs

I was a visitor in Vancouver in 1983, Good afternoon, Brothers and Sisters! I when the World Council of Churches met guess you all didn’t know you had an there, and during that meeting the concept Ojibway brother in Winnipeg. It’s good to of justice and peace was discussed and a see that not everyone is a snowball Chris- phrase was added on to that statement, tian. Usually Christians melt away in the which said “…and the integrity of creation.” summer, eh? On behalf of the Assembly of We often read, “…for God so loved the Manitoba Chiefs—residents in Manitoba world,” and then talk only about human be- are the Cree, the Ojibway Cree, the Dene, ings. It is very difficult to move to be inclu- the Dakota and the Ojibway—that’s who the sive, and I think in this Assembly you are Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs represents, doing some very creative things around and Dennis Whitebird is the Grand Chief expanding the healing of the world beyond elected by the Chiefs of Manitoba. We have the human condition. It’s an honor to be with a saying, “I am Ojibway, Denis is Ojibway, you in this gathering, the gathering place if you can’t find any other way to heal, do it of our ancestors in this area of Manito a- the Ojibway.” So to let you know, I see a lot pâ—this sacred land, Canada—Ka-na-tun. of nationalities out there, different races, I After five years in a residential school man- just want to let you know that Jesus was aged by the churches, I have been able to Indian. He was! Who knows their Bible here, maintain my language and I am striving to who reads their Bible? Put up your hand. understand my culture, because I believe O.K. most of you. If you read Ephesians, globally in Indigenous communities there Ephesians says: Jesus Christ himself be- were teachings about community, about ing chief cornerstone! (Eph 2:20) love and sharing that are very important in The speaker just before me talked about the globalization process: the philosophy the different places named after our people, of my father and my mother on the land, like Manito ba—where the spirit sits; and we lived on the land from what the Cre- Winnipeg—muddy waters; Saskatchewan— ator, God provided for us; my father’s phi- fast-flowing waters; vegetarian—a very poor losophy as he hunted and trapped and fished hunter! (laughter) Laughter is good. We use was, you only take what you need. That’s a lot of that in our healing, and I think we need not what globalization is about, I’m afraid, more of that in our churches, I mean Jesus it’s not what it’s about, so I believe the les- was full of humor and if you don’t know that sons of conversations with Indigenous he was full of humor, you better read your peoples globally has begun to happen here. Bible again. I mean, who else would spit in I sat very respectfully this morning with a somebody’s eye to heal him? He actually didn’t group of Indigenous people from this gath- do that, but you can interpret it as such.

110 The Lutheran World Federation First Nations have much to share for the need your help. Third World conditions ex- healing of the world. Our traditions, teach- ist right here in Manitoba, and exist right in ings and homelands are Creator-given gifts your own backyard, and your congregations to be shared, including our traditional medi- are made up of many individuals who have cines, and ours is an oral tradition and that’s many different skills that can be utilized in why we have such a respect for our elders’ the First Nations communities. We are not importance. Canada has shown its respect necessarily after your preaching, we are for Aboriginal languages, traditions and not necessarily after your money, even rights by failing to share equably and though we don’t preclude those! But we through imposition of reservations, residen- need your help, we want to start a new rela- tial schools, relocations, environmental tionship with you. We want you to be zeal- damage, prisons, child and family, welfare ous as in the past, but in a different way. We agencies, the Indian Act, and lately, the still need you to be zealous. We need you to First Nations Governance Bill. help get our message to the government Some of our people were taken from and to the citizens of this province and coun- their family at a very young age, and taken try, so that they understand our dreams, our hundreds of miles away. Some were only goals, our aspirations. We know where we taken one hour away. I was one such per- want to go, but we need your help. The Bible son, but when you are very young one hour just doesn’t say, “What do you learn in Sun- seems like thousands of miles away. Some day School?” ‘What is that song?’ “Red and were taken within their own community, yellow, black and white, all are precious in maybe five minutes from their home but his sight.” It doesn’t say, “except could not see their family, except through Aboriginals.” It doesn’t say that. The First the window. You all know that as a child Nations of this country have always had a and as a teen, those are your learning close walk with the great spirit, and I think years, and that is why a lot of us are so there’s a lot that we can offer you, but we messed up, even at my age, and we need need you to walk with us, to walk hand in help, and we need that healing within and hand with us, not in front of us, not behind that healing without. We must also address us, but with us. And I think that’s the only our own healing needs by exercising our way we are going to be able to heal. rights and restoring our economies, insti- tutions, languages, cultures, traditions and the physical, mental and spiritual health We must also address our own healing of our peoples. I work for a tribal coun- needs by exercising our rights and cil—there are nine of us, nine First Na- tions, and we have got tremendous eco- restoring our economies, institutions, nomic development, we’ve got our own languages, cultures, traditions and the education and a lot of things that are hap- pening now. You might read a lot of nega- physical, mental and spiritual health of tive things, but if you visit our tribal coun- our peoples. cil you will see the many, many positive things that are happening. Just recently, because we have an investment group, we Right now we are working, we are try- were given CAD 100,000 by our tribal coun- ing to work with the schools, the justice cil investment group to be shared among system, the child and family, and health. our First Nations—that’s just one example. Those are just four areas we are presently Healing is a huge undertaking, and for working with through the residential com- the healing of the world we are for the tra- mittee, the residential school committee ditional teaching of the respect to be felt, at the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs. We earned and given in all relations, and we are looking to the churches to help us make

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 111 approaches to the schools, to the frontline Bird, I’d just like to thank you for giving us workers and to make some kind of check- the time to give a very short message. We list, or whatever it may be, as to how they didn’t want to get into what the Assembly have been residential-school impacted, so of First Nations already told you about us. that those individuals working in those We have got a lot more, but I understand systems will understand and know how to that you have limited time, but certainly I deal with our people, who have been im- personally would like to attend a future pacted by ways that are foreign to us. gathering and also give my viewpoints. So Again, just on behalf of Grand Chief White with that, meegwetch.

112 The Lutheran World Federation Assembly youth participants symbolically illustrate the need for open dialogue on HIV/AIDS during the open hearing. Message of the Pre-Assembly Youth Conference

Executive Summary ganized for the Assembly, except that the first and second groups were combined. Introduction One problem encountered was that many youth delegates and stewards were From 11 to 20 July 2003, delegates and denied visas, simply because of their stewards to the Lutheran World Federation young age or financial situation and, there- (LWF) Tenth Assembly, gathered with ecu- fore, could not participate. menical guests and advisers at the Uni- Based on the reports of the Village Groups, versity of Guelph for the Pre-Assembly the PAYC proposed the following for action: Youth Conference (PAYC).1 The confer- ence served partly as preparation for and God’s Healing Gifts had the same theme, “For the Healing of of Justification and Communion the World,” as the Assembly. Much of the participants’ primary work  To encourage the churches to pro- centered around the work of the Village mote a wider understanding of justi- Groups, which were the same as those or- fication by grace.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 113  To affirm ecumenical dialogue as a  To work for the inclusion of those for way to further strengthen the world- whom language is a barrier to par- wide communion of churches, espe- ticipation in LWF events. cially dialogue with the Roman Catholic Church following the sign- The Church’s Ministry ing of the Joint Declaration on the of Healing Doctrine of Justification.  To request the LWF to promote train- Healing Divisions within ing of people in medical-pastoral care the One Church and in holistic concepts of healing.

 To underline the importance of the Justice and Healing in Families LWF study on church authority in- cluding attention to teaching au-  To challenge the member churches to thority. focus on the prevention of HIV/AIDS, and to advocate for the treatment of sexu-  To request the LWF to undertake a ally transmitted diseases, against harm- study of the history of Lutheran ful cultural practices, such as dry sex, churches in order to promote greater and for the use of condoms; to promote understanding between churches. women’s sexual self-determination; and to promote protection of children.  To request the LWF to initiate a pro- gram on the history of the Reforma-  To challenge the LWF to encourage tion with the Roman Catholic discussion of sexuality, particularly Church, building on the Joint Decla- with regard to same-sex relationships. ration on the Doctrine of Justifica- tion and aiming at a less biased view Overcoming Violence of the shared past in order to promote mutual understanding and to teach  To call for wider discussion and study future generations of the Church. of violence against children, espe- cially child labor. The Mission of the Church in Multi-Faith Contexts  To call for global action on sexual violence against children and youth.  To encourage the LWF to continue in inter-faith dialogue, both indepen- Transforming Economic dently and through the WCC. Globalization

 To affirm the need for continued wit-  To call for an international campaign ness in word and deed (diakonia) to to promote, at every level, the right work for peace, justice and healing to access basic goods and services. as an essential part of the mission of the church in multi-faith contexts. Healing Creation

Removing Barriers That Exclude  To call upon the US Government to sign the Kyoto Protocol.  To reaffirm the church’s calling to include the excluded through con-  To request the LWF and its member crete action plans, highlighting es- churches to take concrete action pecially exclusion by stigmatization. against climate change.

114 The Lutheran World Federation In addition, the PAYC proposed action • Education and prevention of HIV/AIDS concerning the place of youth in the church: • Economic globalization and envi- ronmental advocacy • To ask the LWF Assembly to rebuke the US and Canadian governments • Countering violence against children for denying visas to youth wishing to and youth participate in the Assembly. • Ecumenical and inter-religious dia- • To ask the LWF to extend the term of logue the Secretary for Youth in Church and Society from four to six years, to be- • Youth participation in decision-mak- gin half-way between two Assem- ing bodies and processes. blies, and to ensure the position re- ceives financial priority. Methodological Priorities

• To urge member churches in Asia • Creation of a YICAS database of and other regions to encourage par- young leaders in the church ticipation of youth in decision-mak- ing processes. • Seeking of further transparency in delegate selection and strengthening • To strongly urge the Assembly to re- of the role of youth affirm the LWF Eighth Assembly commitment to 20 percent youth par- • Use of multiple languages where ticipation in LWF Assemblies, and to appropriate ask member churches to ensure gen- der balance among youth. • Seeking greater inclusion of youth in the churches’ life and work, espe- Finally, the PAYC set the following priori- cially at the national and local lev- ties for the Desk for Youth in Church and els. Society (YICAS) during the next six years: The PAYC hoped that the LWF Village Programmatic Priorities Groups would take its reports and recom- mendations for action into consideration, • Promotion of a wider knowledge of and that the Assembly would take seri- the YICAS Desk’s work and programs ously the motions concerning youth.

Note

1 Cf. Report of the “Pre-Assembly Youth Conference – For the Healing of the World,” Toronto, Canada, 11–20 July 2003.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 115 116 The Lutheran World Federation At the extraordinary plenary session on the denial of visas where unoccupied chairs revealed missing delegates.

Report on Status of Visa Difficulties for LWF Tenth Assembly Participants, and Remarks

Report by Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko, 22 July 2003

The following report is delivered at the Secretariat’s best endeavors to gather the request of the LWF Council. latest and most comprehensive information. As of this morning, 694 out of an expected Given the nature of the circumstances, the 888 participants had arrived (including 357 lack of confirmed or any information from out of an expected 412 delegates). some member churches, and the fluidity of Of those not yet arrived, at least fifty- the situation, it is difficult to give a precise two expected Assembly participants are account of numbers and details. However, presently known to have either been de- the following report is based on the nied visas for entry to Canada, or to still be

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 117 awaiting the outcome of their visa applica- Throughout the preparation period, the tions. All of the affected individuals are from ELCIC has kept the Canadian authorities the Asian and African regions (nine Afri- updated on the numbers and names of the can countries and four Asian countries). anticipated Assembly participants. The The Indian participants have been church was given to understand that infor- among the worst affected. Fifteen Indian mation concerning the LWF Assembly (in- participants (including twelve delegates) cluding the assurances of the LWF regard- are believed to have had their visa appli- ing its financial responsibility for all del- cations rejected or to have been told not to egates to the Assembly) had been distrib- apply, or to have had existing visas can- uted to all relevant embassies and high celled. The applications of another twelve commissions in order to facilitate the visa Indian participants (including eight del- applications. In addition, participants were egates) are believed to be still pending. The urged during the regional pre-Assembly Indian situation is particularly saddening, consultations, from late January 2003 on- since all of the affected persons are Dalits ward, to begin the visa application process or Tribals (among the most marginalized as soon as possible. communities in Indian society). The first indication of visa difficulties In addition to India, expected participants was received on 8 May 2003 when the LWF from the following countries also are af- in Geneva was informed of visa rejections fected: Bangladesh (one delegate, one stew- for two participants from Colombia. This ard), Cameroon (one delegate, two stew- matter was addressed by the LWF general ards), the Democratic Republic of the Congo secretary during his visit with the ELCIC (one delegate, one adviser), Ethiopia (five in late May, but concerted efforts to se- delegates), Indonesia (three delegates), cure a meeting with the government Min- Liberia (one steward), Madagascar (two ister for Citizenship and Immigration were delegates, one journalist), Philippines (one not successful. (The visas for the two Co- steward), Rwanda (one delegate), Senegal lombian participants were subsequently (two delegates), Sierra Leone (one del- granted on review.) egate), and South Africa (one delegate). When word was received that partici- Approximately thirty-eight delegates pants from Bangladesh had also been de- are among those presently known to be nied visas, the general secretary ad- affected. Women and, in particular, youth dressed an urgent letter to the Minister for are disproportionately represented among Citizenship and Immigration. A copy of the those whose visas have not been granted. letter, dated 28 May 2003, is attached. Twelve of the affected persons are youth. Though the letter was never acknowledged At an early stage of planning for the and no response has ever been received, LWF Tenth Assembly, the Evangelical a Member of Parliament delivered the let- Lutheran Church in Canada (ELCIC) as ter personally into the hands of the Minis- host church entered into communication ter in the Canadian House of Commons. A with the relevant government department, subsequent letter dated 27 June 2003, a Citizenship and Immigration Canada copy of which is also attached, was handed (CIC), to apprise them of the nature of the to the minister personally as well. Assembly and the countries from which With an increasing number of visa re- member church representatives were ex- jections, and no response from the Canadian pected. The ELCIC was given assurance government, a press release was issued on that none of the countries of origin of the 24 June 2003 and shared with the member LWF member churches were on the CIC churches. There was enormous media and prohibited list. In other words, it was pos- public response to news of this situation, all sible for all participants to make an appli- supporting the granting of visas to Assem- cation for a visa to enter into Canada. bly participants. Subsequent press releases

118 The Lutheran World Federation were issued on 4 and 15 July, and were Summary shared with the member churches. As a con- sequence, numerous media interviews were 52 participants (38 delegates and 14 other given by the LWF and ELCIC. participants) affected (including 12 Jointly with the ELCIC, the LWF has re- youth): peatedly assured the Canadian government that the LWF is fully responsible for all costs - 27 from India for the delegates affected, and has guaran- (20 delegates, 7 others) teed that the participants will return home after conclusion of the Assembly. LWF staff - 5 from Ethiopia (all delegates) have assisted participants to provide addi- tional supporting documentation and have - 3 from Indonesia (all delegates) made repeated interventions with Canadian embassies and high commissions, while - 3 from Madagascar ELCIC staff have worked diligently to com- (2 delegates, 1 journalist) municate with the CIC to assist with cer- tain individual cases. These efforts have - 3 from Cameroon resulted in the granting of over seventeen (1 delegate, 2 stewards) visas that were initially denied. In a few cases, it has become apparent - 2 from Bangladesh that the visa difficulties were associated (1 delegate, 1 steward) with failure to complete visa applications correctly and/or to lodge them in good time. - 2 from the Democratic Republic of On 20 July 2003, the LWF Council meet- the Congo (1 delegate, 1 adviser) ing in Winnipeg issued a statement and appeal concerning this matter, which was - 2 from Senegal (both delegates) forwarded to the Canadian government, as well as being issued as a press release. A - 1 from Liberia (steward) copy of the statement/appeal is attached. In my view, this situation is a symptom - 1 from the Philippines (steward) of a wider global problem that is not lim- ited to Canada, or even to North-South re- - 1 from Rwanda (delegate) lations, but also increasingly affects move- ment between countries in the South. One - 1 from Sierra Leone (delegate) member of the Council described it as the “flipside of globalization.” It represents an - 1 from South Africa (delegate) increasingly common “fortress mentality” and isolationism based on insecurity. Statement by the Council The countries of origin of the affected of the Lutheran World persons are all in the South, and predomi- Federation nantly African. They include some of the poorest countries in the world, and particu- Winnipeg, 20 July 2003 larly in the case of the communities the Indian participants represent, some of the On the eve of the opening of the Tenth As- poorest communities in those countries. sembly of the Lutheran World Federation I believe that the holding of this Assem- (LWF) in Winnipeg, the leadership of this bly, despite this painful situation, is itself a global church family expresses its deep- witness against the “flipside of globalization,” est concern and outrage that over sixty and gives a united voice to our opposition to delegates and official participants from exclusion. It is a test of our communion. around the world have not received visas

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 119 from the Government of Canada to enable However, the response thus far of the Cana- them to attend this meeting. dian authorities has been in effect to deny The LWF is a federation of 136 member entry to participants exclusively from among churches of the Lutheran communion in sev- the poorest nations of the world. This situa- enty-six countries, representing approxi- tion reflects one of the most deplorable as- mately 62 million people. In addition to serv- pects of globalization, namely the exclusion ing as a forum for the worldwide Lutheran of the South, the poor and the marginalized community, the LWF is also a major institu- from the global community. It illustrates very tion for mission, theological reflection, ecu- concretely and painfully the brokenness of menical dialogue, development cooperation human relationships that the theme of the and humanitarian assistance. The Assem- Assembly, “For the Healing of the World,” bly is the highest decision-making body of seeks to address. the LWF, in which representatives of all The situation is also a poor reflection member churches are entitled to participate. of Canada’s traditional policies of open- The Assembly takes place only once every ness, internationalism and support for the six years, and sets the direction for the LWF’s developing world. The lack of recogni- work for the coming period. Comprehensive tion and responsiveness to the concerns participation is therefore essential. already repeatedly raised by the ELCIC It is the first time that the LWF has held with Citizenship and Immigration Canada its Assembly in Canada, and we have been manifests a very saddening disregard for warmly and enthusiastically received by the church’s role in this society. the Evangelical Lutheran Church in If immediate action is taken, it still might Canada (ELCIC) as host church. The joy not be too late for the Canadian government of this celebration of global Christian fel- to rectify this matter, and to facilitate the lowship is dimmed by visa difficulties of a fulfillment of the Assembly’s primary pur- magnitude completely unprecedented in pose as a truly global gathering of the the more than fifty-year history of the LWF. Lutheran church family. We appeal to the We are very grateful for the untiring ef- Canadian government to be a force “For forts of the ELCIC and the LWF’s Secretariat the Healing of the World,” to avoid promot- in Geneva to secure the favorable consider- ing division and marginalization, and to is- ation of these outstanding visa applications. sue these visas now.

120 The Lutheran World Federation ELCIC National Bishop Raymond Schultz flanked by youth participants, addresses the extraordinary plenary session on the visa issue.

Extraordinary Plenary Session 22 July 2003

At an “extraordinary plenary session,” delegates to the LWF Tenth Assembly indi- cated their intention to participate in a public demonstration on Tuesday, 29 July 2003, to protest the Canadian government’s failure to grant visas to fifty-one del- egates and other Assembly participants.1

Statements man born here. My parents and grandpar- The following statements were tape-recorded at the ents lived in an area of eastern Europe, now time of the extraordinary National Bishop Raymond L. Schultz, part of Ukraine, from where our own people plenary session. The Evangelical Lutheran Church were forced to flee. My parents came to transcriptions appear here with the authorization of 2 in Canada North America with my grandparents as ba- the speakers. bies. The family settled in a homestead in Our church is one of displaced people forced Alberta, farmed with oxen, and blew up to flee their own countries because of war, stumps in the ground with black powder to poverty, and repressive governments: create enough soil to till in order to survive people who feared for the lives and future of this country’s hard winters. That’s my own those they loved. Many among our congre- history. We were welcome in Canada. gations have neither forgotten the life and Each successive generation of immi- death importance of a place of refuge and grants found its place in this new country, and sanctuary nor their welcome in Canada. I made its own contribution to building our di- myself am a first-generation Russian Ger- verse, multicultural and multifaith commu-

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 121 nity. Canadians have sought to create a com- relies on military force, seeking to keep munity that would be a meeting place for the people away from our islands of affluence, world’s nations, faiths and cultures that might will not bring true human security. We know offer the global family another path to follow this; but our governments do not. This is a for its future. When we were living in false god. Not what we pray for as a church Edmonton, our son used to talk with us about when we pray that the world might be one. one of his friends. We said, “Describe him to Our communion must say “no” to this false us,” to which he replied, “Well, he’s the best god of exclusion. math student in our class.” He described many Many have worked hard to address this other aspects about him, and then one day his problem—our church staff, the Geneva staff, friend came over to our house. He was a Ja- many members of parliament in Canada, maican, the only dark-skinned person at their many in the media, most of the people of school. It had never occurred to our children Canada, and many of you. I have received that that might be distinctive. letters and e-mails, and read letters in the So I do realize this is a complex issue, newspaper. A reader of the Winnipeg Free and that the recent denial of visas is about Press writes, “I don’t go to church but I don’t much more than just exclusion of individu- understand why the government is keeping als from attendance at a meeting. For Ca- this church from allowing its delegates to nadians, it calls into question the very na- be here.” Through these words, I want to ex- ture of how we, most of us as ordinary Ca- press our sincere apologies to all of you, and nadians, want to be present in the world. I to those who cannot be here. have received expressions from all across There are some actions I suggest this the country on this issue. We want to be a Assembly can take. One is that we should welcoming compassionate community not forget: we need to be reminded of the that responsibly seeks justice within the absent delegates among us. I have asked community of nations. Until very recent that the flags we use in the ELCIC to sym- times, this has been our legacy. We were bolize our mission partnerships at our own proud of the leadership of this country that gatherings—unfortunately, we don’t have led us in that direction. them for all the countries concerned, not On behalf of the Evangelical Lutheran for Ethiopia, India, Liberia or Cameroon— Church in Canada, therefore, I want to ex- be placed in this hall as a visual aid to press appreciation for your understanding remind us of their presence in our family. of the profound disappointment and shame I know many of you wanted to publicly that we in the church feel over our express solidarity with those who were de- government’s insensitivity and inaction to- nied visas, and I am aware that some of you ward what this Assembly symbolizes, and do not want to embarrass our church by any the implication of the exclusion of so many public display against the Canadian govern- delegates from this gathering. I would like ment. But I believe the people beyond this to accentuate the remarks of my brother and room, the members of our churches, citizens friend, Archbishop Michael Peers, who as of this country and political leaders account- we introduced ourselves yesterday evening able for these matters do need to know these said, our nation is fast becoming a very dif- decisions are an affront to the Church, and ferent place: one made unrecognizable by more than that, to the dignity of all those who the turbulent forces that are reshaping our have been treated so badly. So I invite you to world and country. Ours is a world where join with me in a solidarity vigil of remem- money moves freely, but where people can- brance, which we hope to hold outside the not. I appreciated as well what our General Federal Immigration offices in Winnipeg, Secretary said, that this is a global problem, next Tuesday afternoon. More details will not just Canada’s, in a world which is lock- be made available as we make arrange- ing people out. The new security agenda that ments. To remain silent would be a double

122 The Lutheran World Federation Extraordinary plenary session on the denial of visas: LWF Vice-President (North America) Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson

injustice. Responsible citizenship requires pally why I am here. I want to support him in that our voices be heard. calling us to remember that if we don’t ac- Third and last, this sad experience re- knowledge the complexity of this visa issue minds us that this is neither the kind of world our response will lack integrity. But I am we want, nor the kind of world God intends. mostly here tonight to appeal to us to not The principalities and powers of globaliza- singularly focus upon the Canadian govern- tion have created a world where capital ment, because we must also acknowledge moves freely but people cannot; and that that the Government of the United States has seeks to tame the Church and discredit its led the way in responding to the horrific acts gospel call for justice and peace. We will sup- of violence in the world, first by exerting its port efforts to make the Lutheran World Fed- military and economic power, most often eration better able to understand and address punishing the victims of violence by closing the dynamics of globalization, and the advo- its borders to all but the powerful. I believe cacy required for that; and so we regret that it’s important for us, as delegates to this As- our brothers and sisters cannot be here. You sembly, to remember that this visa episode have no idea how much we regret that. But reminds us that we are a communion of the their absence reminds us of the crucial wit- powerless but we are not a powerless com- ness we all must make: for their experience munion. We have the power to act, and it’s is the experience of not only millions but prob- my prayer, following and endorsing the sug- ably a billion people every day, whose cry is gestions of Bishop Schultz, that our public never heard. Thank you for giving me this actions give clear witness to the promise of opportunity to address you. God, the presence of the risen Christ, the power of the Holy Spirit. So let us publicly Presiding Bishop Mark S Hanson, engage in what we do in the Sacrament of Evangelical Lutheran Church Holy Baptism, renouncing the forces of evil, in America the devil and the devil’s empty promises, but let not our renouncing of evil turn into what If I were wise, I would simply say “Amen” to the Government of the United States has too my colleague bishop, because that’s princi- often done, and that’s a denouncing of those

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 123 in poverty, who are most often the victims of one of announcing the in-breaking of God’s the violence of poverty rather than the per- reign, for the healing of the nations, a reign petrators of violence. Let our public witness that excludes no one. Thank you. be one of interceding, standing before the throne of God’s grace in Christ, pleading on Bishop Dr Munib A. Younan, behalf of the whole creation for God’s mercy. The Evangelical Lutheran Church Let our public act of witness be one of la- in Jordan menting, lamenting a world that responds to horrific acts of violence by closing borders It is not easy for me to speak after Bishop of nations rather than by resolve to build Schultz and Bishop Hanson because many communities of justice and peace. Let our of the ideas that we have in Asia are similar public act of witness be one of embodying to what they have presented. We are very the risen Christ, who is present in the poor, thankful for their points of view; but not only who welcomes the stranger, who accompa- thankful. We also want to say that our com- nies the sojourner, and let our public wit- munion, with these statements, is consoli- ness be one of announcing good news to the dated and fuller than ever, with such pro- poor, because if the gospel we announce at phetic attitudes from the national bishop Extraordinary plenary this Assembly is not heard as good news to from Canada and presiding bishop from the session: Palestinian Lutheran Bishop the poor, then maybe it’s not the Good News United States. It is very sensitive for us in Munib A. Younan of Jesus Christ. Let our public witness be the South, Asia, Africa or Latin America, when we are living under oppression, when we see that our resources, commodities, money and oil can move but human beings cannot. Thank God the communion of churches does not need a visa, and we don’t need a visa for a communion of churches. Our visa is our Lord Jesus Christ who gath- ers us in this house with all the Christians in the world. For this reason, by these acts that Bishop Schultz has asked of us, we as Asians will be the first to join in on Tuesday in a peaceful demonstration, to be with him, raise our voice and at the same time pray. It’s not enough to write statements; we make statements to ourselves. But when we show visible unity of communion in the streets of Winnipeg, that in itself is a statement of the communion. For this reason, we welcome this peaceful demonstration to protest against harassment of anybody in the world, especially for us people in the South. As the President said, it’s more bitter when these people come from poor countries, not only from countries in the North. At the same time, we have nine churches from India that cannot be present with us. We also have delegates from In- donesia and Africa—it’s not enough to say there is a quorum. We must find every means and way that these delegates who

124 The Lutheran World Federation Extraordinary plenary session: Brazilian Lutheran church President Rev. Dr Walter Altmann

could not come, are represented or their we also discussed the visa issue. After lis- voices heard in this Assembly, or even their tening to the prophetic words of the na- vote given and cast, and not denied. If the tional bishop of the church in Canada, and world and governments deny us, the also of the presiding bishop of the church Church and communion should allow from the United States, as well as those of them, challenging the law and having the our brother Younan, the bishop from the gospel. For this reason, I ask this house to Holy Land, I should also like to say that think seriously of ways and means by we, for our part, think that the suffering we which those delegates who cannot be here, are undergoing is a time for strengthening could vote. Please, this matter is serious. the bonds of communion, which we have I myself am stateless, although I call as a Lutheran family. We were not aware myself Palestinian. Many of my sisters and of the proposal for a demonstration next brothers in India, South Africa, Nigeria, Tuesday, but I am sure that everyone of us Liberia, wherever you go…in Indonesia, are will want to participate in it with our heart always denied a visa and we need to bring and soul. There is also something else that pressure to bear. I believe the time has come we could perhaps contribute from our ex- when our prophetic role will not only be to perience in Latin America. Under the mili- write statements, but act in order that our tary dictatorships, thousands of people in communion really will be a communion for various countries of Latin America had dis- mission, speaking against the violation of appeared. This was brought to attention human rights and giving the Word of the Good by their relatives, mothers, grandmothers, News for our communion. and by social movements, when they marched in the streets carrying the names Rev. Dr Walter Altmann, president, and pictures with the faces of people that Evangelical Church of the Lutheran had disappeared. Our brothers and sisters, Confession in Brazil who have not been able to attend this As- sembly in Canada, are not in such a des- The delegates from Latin America gath- perate situation, but have been refused ered informally during the past hour, and visas because of the policies which gov-

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 125 ern our world at the present time. They the name and photo of a person from Af- are therefore unable to be with us in per- rica on one of the placards, and a photo of son. We believe it necessary to visualize a person from Asia on another, where the their presence as much as possible during banner with the logo of the Lutheran World this event. Our suggestion is that the name Federation is placed. Next Tuesday, we can of each person who is unable to be present, carry these names with us during the dem- and their photos if possible, be put on plac- onstration so that they can be among us at ards to be placed here in this hall so that that time. This is a contribution we want to they will be present among us symboli- make from the experience suffered by the cally as we deliberate on the life and fu- peoples of Latin America. Thank you. ture of the Lutheran World Federation. (Translated from Dr Altmann’s origi- Another idea that occurred to us is to put nal Spanish text.)

Notes

1 On Tuesday, 29 July 2003, to protest the Canadian government’s refusal to grant visas to over fifty of their fellow delegates from developing nations, delegates and other participants in the Tenth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation walked in silent and solemn procession from the Winnipeg Conven- tion Centre through the city’s streets to the Oodena Circle at “The Forks.” This junction of the Red and Assiniboine rivers has been a “meeting place” for thousands of years to which Aboriginal peoples from across the North American plains and eastern forests came to trade, hunt, fish, and celebrate. The Assembly host church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, organized the procession.

126 The Lutheran World Federation LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 127 128 The Lutheran World Federation LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 129 Editor’s note: the list of individuals and countries referred to in the above reflected the situation at that time. It has not been included here.

130 The Lutheran World Federation LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 131 132 The Lutheran World Federation The Assembly opening eucharistic service was preceded by an affirmation of baptism ceremony led by Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada National Bishop Raymond L. Schultz on the banks of the Red River.

Sermons

Opening Eucharistic Service

Bishop Raymond L. Schultz

O Christ, the healer, we have come to pray for health, to plead for friends. How can we fail to be restored when reached by love that never ends? Grant that we all, made one in faith, in your community may find the wholeness that, enriching us, shall reach and prosper humankind.

F. Pratt Green in Lutheran Book of Worship 360

Amen.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 133 Dear friends in Christ, welcome to this Tenth Assembly of our worldwide communion of churches.

Welcome, also, to the home of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, your hosts for this Assembly.

The joy of meeting our sisters and brothers from around the world is almost overwhelming.

God has indeed blessed the Lutheran World Federation with this great gift of community in Christ.

God has blessed us with the privilege of receiving your visitation.

Grace and peace to you from the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. For the healing of the world.

There is great joy in this gathering itself, but we are called together for another purpose.

We live in a broken world, on the surface of a broken planet, in community with broken people.

Nevertheless, we hold onto the promise that one day all God’s dreams for creation will be fulfilled.

We are here to worship the Father, who created nature and called it good.

We are here to follow Jesus the Healer, the source of our hope in a broken world.

We are here to be open to the Spirit, giver of vision in a blinded world.

We have been called, gathered and enlightened by the Holy Spirit to bring to each other the gifts that the Spirit has given us:

• Compassion and mercy for the suffering

• Peace and reconciliation for the conflicted

• Stewardship and Sabbath for the land

• Justice and equity for the oppressed

• Shelter and hospitality for the homeless

• Leadership and direction for the misled

• Hope for those who no longer expect anything to change.

134 The Lutheran World Federation The reading from Revelation promises that there will be a peaceful outcome to this world’s toil and trouble.

The chaos created by human politics and industry will be transformed into a peaceful and ordered realm where the gentle are the rulers and wholeness is the norm.

These are the images described in the closing chapters of Revelation; a book of images so tempestuous and fierce that the makers of violent video games have borrowed liberally from it in the creation of their sadistic toys.

It was written against the historical background of imperial Rome, with its program of economic and military globalization.

St John warned the church that holding on to its integrity would bring dire consequences.

A church of Laodiceans doing successful business with Rome would have to come to terms with the price this business would demand of their souls.

They could not avoid the cross.

To remain faithful to Christ, they would eventually bring chaos and destruction down upon themselves.

The unleashed anger of the mighty empire is depicted in images of disease, warfare, fire and rampaging plague.

The business those church members were doing was not evil in itself.

The evil was in the compromise of the soul that was demanded by those who controlled access to it.

And so John’s people were called to defy the empire’s promises of peace, order and good government in order to follow the Lamb who gave his life for the world.

The stories in the book of Revelation retell Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness.

There are many good and wonderful opportunities open to us in this world, but the one who offers them is not God, nor loves what God has created, so we must, therefore, refuse them.

The cost to us is the inheritance of a world of disorder, suffering, oppression and insecurity.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 135 The hymn I used as my opening prayer contains another stanza that reads:

In conflicts that destroy our health we recognize the world’s disease; Our common life declares our ills. Is there no cure, O Christ, for these?

John’s promise is that those powers of dominion and control shall not have the last word.

The last word belongs to the Lamb whose life was not given in vain; rather, the Lamb is now the central symbol of the New Jerusalem.

We, as a church, can respond to many of these crises with health, education and development programs.

Jesus, too, came healing and curing.

But that was not enough.

Only one of ten lepers came back to say, “Thank you;” nine did not.

However, to the one who was able to be thankful, he said, “Your faith has saved you.”

That is the key, to come to faith in Jesus Christ.

A psychologist friend of mine spoke to me about the work he does with young people suffering from a lack of self-esteem.

He went on to talk about the high incidence of emotional disease, anxiety, depression and suicide in North American society.

There is more to healing than curing disease.

The disease we cannot cure is the hunger to know that one is loved and valued no matter what.

Faith is what is called for.

Before Jesus did anything to become famous or notorious, he heard, in his baptism, that he was God’s beloved Son, and that with him God was well pleased.

136 The Lutheran World Federation Worshippers process to St. Boniface (Roman Catholic) Cathedral in Winnipeg for the opening eucharistic service.

That promise took flesh in him and the passionate love that God holds for all the children of humanity, Christian or not, was made to dwell among us.

The youth of the LWF have expressed their urgent desire to be more central to the church’s planning and discourse about ministry for the future.

They raise the issue of HIV/AIDS as a huge issue for them.

Church people have been more judgmental about sexuality than practically any other aspect of human behavior, yet, it is in sexual seeking that humans act out their deepest longings for love, belonging and identity.

To have such a powerful aspect of human experience tied to such a terrible disease is an enormous challenge, but also an enormous opportunity.

Here is where unconditional acceptance of sufferers and compassion of the highest order can touch people where their self-esteem is most threatened and their spiritual health is most eroded

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 137 by the disapproval and censure of their society.

In a world of global economics, how one is valued comes under other attack as well.

Human beings can become commodities and the old demon of salvation by works assumes a new, secular identity.

One is worth what one can earn and the place one can win in corporate board rooms.

To proclaim the victory of the Lamb, who was slain for our salvation, is the healing action that overcomes the world’s deepest need.

As Isaiah wrote:

Ho, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and you that have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.

Isaiah 55:1

What a beautiful city awaits us on the other side of the river, but what a terrible swim to get to it!

The human waters of this earth are home to predators and the waters themselves are poisonous.

Can we of the LWF build this beautiful city?

No, we cannot.

The city is the City of God whose renewal is accomplished through the victory of the Lamb.

But when those who hunger for justice ask us whether we are the promised ones or should they seek another, we can proclaim a word of expectation.

We can say that they should give attention to what they have seen and heard: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have good news brought to them.

138 The Lutheran World Federation Worship assistants at the opening eucharistic service

We know that we cannot, by these efforts, build the new Jerusalem.

Rather, we do these things in order to provide the world with a foretaste of what we believe has already been accomplished for the world’s healing.

We proclaim the great mystery of faith: Jesus Christ crucified and risen.

By his victory all creation is made new.

By his bruises we are healed.

Let the vineyards be fruitful, Lord, and fill to the brim our cup of blessing.

Gather a harvest from the seeds that were sown, that we may be fed with the bread of life.

Gather the hopes and the dreams of all; unite them with the prayers we offer.

Grace our table with your presence, and give us a foretaste of the feast to come.

Lutheran Book of Worship Communion Liturgy

Amen!

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 139 140 The Lutheran World Federation Rev. Tore Johnsen, Church of Norway, at the closing eucharistic service

Closing Eucharistic Service

Rev. Tore Johnsen

Reading: Rev 21:1-6

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ! And the same Spirit tells us to share what we have seen with one another as a com- We have just listened to one of the most munity of faith in Christ. wonderful texts in the Scriptures. It is a As I share with you my reflections re- text that fills us with faith, hope and love, lated to this text, I do so as a representa- that gives alleviation to our suffering and tive of one of the many Indigenous peoples hope to our yearnings for the world. It does of the world. This sermon reflects some of so by letting us know that God has not left the history of my people, the Sami people. us to our own brokenness. There is hope I will share with you some of our yearn- for healing of this world! ings that reflect not only our wounds and We all read the Bible from our own per- pains, but also our experiences of whole- spective. None of us has seen the fullness ness and healing. I hope I manage to do of the mystery of God. But the Holy Spirit, this in an inclusive way, because we all who every moment breathes life into us, share in the same humanity, and the same lets us catch glimpses of the glory of God. yearning for wholeness and community.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 141 As we approach this text I invite you to creation. It even represents the destruc- embark on a common pilgrimage, but from tion of their own lands by the pollution of a Sami perspective. the air and the poisoning of the rivers. The last two chapters of Revelation give This city, the venue of our Assembly, us a fantastic vision of a new heaven and a bears witness to what I am reflecting upon new earth. It is as if the biblical story makes now. While the Indigenous people consti- a full circle and returns to its point of de- tute 10-20 percent of the population, it ac- parture. We recognize the tree of life and counts for 70 percent of its prisoners. This the stream of living water flowing from the is not because native peoples are more center of Eden. But not everything is the destructive than others, but it bears wit- same as in the beginning. Much is new and ness to how destructive the communities different. And of course it cannot be the same represented by the cities have been to their because the story returns with our history lives, communities and cultures. There- as symbolized in this text by the vision of fore, it is very difficult through the sym- the city. And Jerusalem, as the city of God, bolism of the city to communicate a mes- underscores that this is essentially a his- sage of healing to Indigenous peoples. tory in relation to God, our Creator. So what can we as Indigenous peoples The city is still an ambiguous symbol. identify with in the last two chapters of Rev- At best it represents the community, the elation? In fact a lot! We can identify with the place where human beings gather and river of living waters. We have tasted its life- share their existence with one another. But sustaining water in our rivers. We can iden- to millions of people the city is a symbol tify with the tree of life, because we can feel of destruction. This applies especially to its presence in our forests. We can even iden- Indigenous peoples. To them the city rep- tify with the holy mountain of Zion, because resents a hostile environment. It repre- in our sacred mountains our ancestors have sents the colonizing power that oppresses been worshipping the Great Mystery, the Cre- them. Life in the city is a life that alienates ator of heaven and earth from time immemo- from relatives, native language and cul- rial. For us, there are powerful symbols of ture. More than that, it represents the alien- healing in Revelation 21 and 22. ation from native homelands and the de- At the beginning of June, I was invited by struction of the spiritual relationship to a group of Southern Sami church people to

With One Voice: (from right) outgoing LWF President Bishop em. Dr Christian Krause; LWF General Secretary Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko; and incoming LWF President Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson sing during the closing eucharistic service in St. Mary’s (Roman Catholic) Cathedral, Winnipeg.

142 The Lutheran World Federation join them on a visit to an old Sami sacrificial about streets of gold and the jewelry of the site at the sacred mountain Tsjuokkere, the city—words that until now have been cold God Mountain Island. This was really a pil- and dead to me—suddenly get a new mean- grimage of healing and reconciliation re- ing. As a Sami bride is carrying the gold and lated to the religious history of our people. silver of her clan on her chest, the new hu- This island is a mountain peak rising al- manity, the new Jerusalem, on that day, shall most 500 meters (1,600 feet) out of a lake. carry its finery, its dignity, as a precious gift The mountain of this island is higher than from God. And as a whole and healed com- almost every other mountain in the surround- munity it will enter into the covenant of love ing area. That is in itself an astonishing fea- with its Creator in Christ. It will be a city ture. At the top there are mostly cliffs, but at indwelled by the Spirit of God. It will be the one end a small meadow stretches toward residence of God. And God will be its Light. the edge of the mountain cliff. When you This city, shall not be a city of destruction. walk into that meadow, you get a feeling of It will not be like the cities we know from this stepping into a new space. But there is more. world. It will not force the Garden of Eden to By that meadow the mountain itself opens flee. This city will not cut down the trees of up into a long, narrow rift. And exactly at the life, pollute the air and poison the streams of end of that rift there is a huge stone, which living waters. This is the city of God, the city by nature is cracked in two. That is the sa- of healing for creation. It is a nurturing city, cred stone, the sacrificial site, of God Moun- and the tree of life is blossoming in its center. tain Island, Tsjuokkere. Adam and Eve may again eat freely of its What an extraordinary experience to be fruit. And its leaves give healing and recon- there! There is no other place in nature ciliation for the nations. It is a city finally ac- where I ever have had such a feeling of cording to its name, Jerusalem, the city of being there where heaven and earth em- shalom, of peace, of healing wholeness. brace. When our Southern Sami ancestors This is the healing, which Christ brings gathered at that place, they could see their to the world! We are not left to our own settlements, their burial grounds, the moun- brokenness. By receiving the broken body tains and hills where their reindeer herds of Christ, we may be healed! There is hope were grazing. This was a natural cathedral for the healing of the world! in the very center of their world. And I won- May the message of this text give alle- der, do I dare to call this the Zion of the viation to our wounds and hope to our Southern Sami people? The place where the yearnings! May this gospel of Christ fill us new Jerusalem descends from heaven, rec- with faith, hope and love, and encourage onciled with God and reconciled with the us to bring healing to this world! May the earth? To me that is an image of healing. Spirit of God, heal and renew our In Revelation 21 the new Jerusalem is churches, our communities and our world! not a city as such. It is a symbol of the new, May God Almighty listen to our prayers— reconciled and healed humanity. John de- for the healing of the world! scribes it as a bride adorned for her hus- Glory be to the Father and to the Son band. And from that perspective the words and to the Holy Spirit for all eternity. Amen.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 143 144 The Lutheran World Federation Over 35 stewards from all over the world gave valuable help.

Expression of Gratitude

Text of the expression of gratitude as adopted by the Assembly:

This Assembly of the Lutheran World Fed- ing of the Assembly flag at the Convention eration, convened in Winnipeg, expresses Centre, and to the officials and their co-work- its gratitude to the following persons and ers who welcomed the Assembly partici- organizations for their part in making this pants and extended the hospitality of the city. Assembly a meaningful and important event in the life of the LWF and the lives of To the Premier of the Province of Manitoba, those who participated in the Assembly. the Honorable Gary Doer, who also brought greetings to the Assembly. To His Worship the Mayor of the City of Winnipeg, Mr Glen Murray, who brought To federal Members of Parliament, the greetings to the Assembly, to Deputy Mayor Honorable Rey Pagtakhan, the Honorable Lillian Thomas, who presided over the rais- Bill Blaikie, the Honorable Reg Alcock,

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 145 and the Honorable Judy Wasylycia-Leis, bishop, Rev. Raymond Schultz, and the who appealed on behalf of the Assembly congregations of the ELCIC for their warm participants with the Canadian government hospitality and hard work. concerning their visa applications. To the churches in Winnipeg who wel- To the management and staff of the comed the participants to attend worship Winnipeg Convention Centre and AVW- services in their congregations and to TELAV Audio Visual Solutions for provid- share a meal with them. ing meeting and technical facilities. In ad- dition, we note the comfortable accommo- To the chairperson of the Assembly Local Committee, Ms Rhonda Lorch, the Assem- bly Logistics Coordinator, Ms Heidi Wilker, as well as the hard-working and efficient staff of the local committee and more than 600 volunteers, “the Yellow Angels,” and also the participation of the Anglican Church of Canada. A special word of ap- preciation to all those who made Miriam’s Well a place of true encounter and respite.

To the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of St Boniface for welcoming the Assembly to hold its opening worship service at the St Boniface Cathedral, the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Winnipeg for welcoming the Assembly for morning Eucharists and the closing Eucharist at St Mary’s Cathedral, and the Holy Trinity Anglican Church for host- ing the Assembly healing services, all in a moving spirit of ecumenical cooperation.

To the designers of the Assembly logo, Mr Erik Norbraten and Mr Richard Nostbakken, for providing an expression of the Assembly theme that served ideally to provide iden- tity and encourage reflection.

To Canada Post, for the issuance of a spe- cial postage stamp on the occasion of the Assembly.

To the Luther Center in Lutherstadt Assembly steward Noriko dations provided to the participants at the Wittenberg for the exhibition “Martin Luther: Sakomoto shows an Delta, Sheraton and Radisson hotels. We The Reformer,” in particular Ms Katja Köhler, origami crane (a Japanese peace symbol) also thank Derksen Printers of Steinbach, Dr Cornelia Dömer, and Bishop Christoph that she folded herself. Manitoba, for providing extraordinary ser- Kähler, who brought greetings from vice in printing Assembly materials. Lutherland, as well as Ms Sabine Sparwasser, chargé d’affaires of the German Embassy in To our generous hosts, the Evangelical Ottawa and our President Dr Christian Krause, Lutheran Church in Canada, its national who helped arrange for the exhibition at this

146 The Lutheran World Federation Assembly. We also express our thanks to oth- ers who held exhibitions and displays for our benefit and enrichment, including the LWF Foundation – Endowment Fund, Augsburg Fortress Publishers, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Wittenberg Center, and Canadian Lutheran World Relief.

To the member churches, national com- mittees, related agencies and mission so- cieties for contributing to the Assembly budget, and to Lutheran Life (Canada), Thrivent Financial for Lutherans (USA), and Raptim Voyages (Geneva).

To the member churches in North America which prepared the visitation programs bly newspaper) and the technical service Documents were before and after the Assembly, as well as for their continuous efforts to enable com- prepared in the LWF’s four working languages: those who made the travel arrangements. munication among the Assembly partici- English, German, French pants, the editors and staff of the Assem- and Spanish. To the Assembly Planning Committee and bly Web site and Lutheran World Infor- its chairperson, Rev. Susan Nagle, for their mation for informing the world and the capable leadership in guiding Assembly audio and video news teams. preparations. The Assembly wishes to thank the inter- To Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko, general secre- national worship planning group, the lo- tary of the LWF, particular appreciation is cal worship implementation group, the expressed for his warmth toward the Evan- music directors and liturgical leaders and gelical Lutheran Church in Canada and the assistants who planned and carried out the climate he created as Assembly prepara- spirit-filled worship services. tions progressed. We also thank the Assem- bly Coordinator, Rev. Arthur Leichnitz, for The gathering of people from all over the the able guidance and direction he pro- world in the opening service in the dra- vided, and the staff of the Assembly Office. matic setting of St Boniface Cathedral made a lasting impression of our unity. We To the Assembly Coordinators for Worship, also thank the preachers: Bishop Raymond Content, Communication, Logistics, Fi- Schultz at the opening service, and Rev. nance, “LWF Presents Itself” and the pre- Tore Johnsen at the closing service. Assembly consultations as well as the staff, co-opted staff and many others from the The Assembly expressed its deep gratitude member churches who have unselfishly to Bishop Dr Margot Kässmann, the key- given their time and efforts to the Assem- note speaker, as well as those who offered bly. Many persons have worked long and responses, Bishop Dr Wesley Kigasung and hard, but always cheerfully, to assist in Ms Virginia Ivañez de Neyeloff, and those making the Assembly function efficiently. who made contributions through the panel A special word of thanks goes to the stew- on Indigenous issues. ards for their great service. Particular gratitude is expressed to the language ser- This Assembly of the Lutheran World Fed- vice, the interpreters, the translators, the eration, convened in Winnipeg, expresses editor and staff of The Source (the Assem- its profound appreciation and thanks to

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 147 God for the service and presence of Bishop the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the Anglican emeritus Dr Christian Krause, president Consultative Council, the World Alliance of the Lutheran World Federation. Bishop of Reformed Churches, the World Method- Krause’s leadership and witness during the ist Council, the General Conference of Sev- past six years have affirmed our global enth-day Adventists, the Lutheran Church solidarity within the Lutheran communion. – Missouri Synod, the Lutheran Church – His competence, experience and insight Canada, the International Lutheran Coun- have guided the LWF as it has discussed cil, the Leuenberg Fellowship, the Menno- and explored the practical implications of nite World Conference, and the Lutheran this global solidarity within diversity. School of Theology at Chicago.

This Assembly of the Lutheran World Fed- This Assembly of the Lutheran World Fed- eration, convened in Winnipeg, expresses eration, convened in Winnipeg, expresses its gratitude for the work of the LWF Ex- its thanks to the large number of represen- ecutive Committee, the Council, and its tatives of the press, radio and television various committees since the Ninth As- who have extensively covered and re- sembly. The Assembly in Hong Kong took ported on the activities of this Assembly. many actions that required the attention These representatives have assisted in and action of the Council. The Council has communicating to the world the role of the faithfully carried out those resolutions and Lutheran World Federation in the affairs statements. The members of the Council of churches and nations. and its committees have diligently ex- ecuted their tasks, including providing This Assembly of the Lutheran World Fed- helpful resources and assistance to the eration, convened in Winnipeg, recognizes member churches. Our profound apprecia- that there are many other persons and or- tion is extended to all these persons who ganizations who have been involved in the have served during the past six years. preparation, planning and functioning of this Assembly. Although unnamed, their This Assembly of the Lutheran World Fed- contributions are not unnoticed, and our eration, convened in Winnipeg, expresses hearty thanks are extended to them. its appreciation for the many greetings ex- tended to the Assembly by representatives This Assembly rejoices in having former of other religious communities. We note General Secretary André Appel among us. those provided by Archbishop Michael Peers and the Anglican Church of Canada, Beyond this expression, we thank God for the World Council of Churches, the Pontifi- the many blessings bestowed upon this cal Council for Promoting Christian Unity, Assembly.

148 The Lutheran World Federation Safe in the Hands of the Assembly Volunteers

How seriously was security undertaken during the Assembly? LWF General Secre- tary Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko was deeply impressed by the untiring efforts of the almost 700 volunteers at the event. Even he was sent back to his hotel for his official badge when he arrived at the Winnipeg Convention Centre (WCC) without it! One morning, a volunteer guarding the entrance to the Assembly meeting area in the WCC would not let Dr Noko in, no matter which explanation he gave. The general secretary had left his name tag in his hotel room. “I had forgotten my badge,” Dr Noko recalls. “An elderly gentleman stopped me and asked, ‘Where is your badge?’ ‘Who are you?’” So the only way to the plenary was via his hotel room. After he had fetched his name tag, Dr Noko thanked the volunteer profusely, and added “I know I’m safe in your hands.” Later on at a press conference, he acknowledged, “Such a sense of duty makes me feel very safe.” Based on an article in the Assembly newspaper The Source no. 3, 27 July 2003. Photo © LWF/N. Thure Krarup

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 149 150 The Lutheran World Federation Governing Bodies of the Lutheran World Federation

The Assembly regions defined as: Africa, Asia, Central East- ern Europe, Central Western Europe, Nordic The highest decision-making body of the Countries, Latin America and the Caribbean, Lutheran World Federation (LWF) is an and North America. Assembly, normally held every six years. Representatives from each member church President participate. Between Assemblies the LWF is governed by a Council, which meets an- Presiding Bishop Mark S. HANSON, USA nually, and by its Executive Committee. [North America]

Vice-Presidents The Executive Committee Bishop Dr Zephania KAMEETA, Namibia The Executive Committee is the appoint- [Africa] ing authority of staff with programmatic and supervisory responsibilities, with the Bishop Dr Munib A. YOUNAN, Jerusalem exception of Cabinet members, who are [Asia] appointed by the Council. The Executive Committee serves as the LWF Personnel Bishop Dr Christoph KLEIN, Romania Committee and Board of Trustees. [Central Eastern Europe] The committee includes the President, five Vice-Presidents, the Treasurer, and the Rev. Victoria CORTEZ RODRÍGUEZ, Nica- chairpersons of the seven Program Com- ragua [Latin America and the Caribbean] mittees of the LWF Council. The President, Vice-Presidents and Trea- Bishop Dr Eero HUOVINEN, Finland [Nor- surer represent the seven LWF geographical dic Countries]

LWF President, Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson, Oberkirchenrat Peter Stoll, LWF Treasurer, Evangelical Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Church in Württemberg, Germany

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 151 Stewards distribute election ballots to delegates.

Treasurer among the membership or from outside, and forty-eight persons elected by the As- Mr Peter STOLL, Germany [Central West- sembly. It also includes up to thirty advis- ern Europe] ers with vote on the committees but only voice and no vote in Council sessions. The Chairpersons of Program Council establishes seven Program Com- Committees mittees and the Standing Committees.

Rev. Kristín T. TÓMASDÓTTIR, Iceland Program Committee (Communication Services) for Communication Services

Rev. Dr Joachim TRACK, Germany (Ecu- Members of the Council menical Affairs) Ms Klára BALICZA, Hungary Mr Peter STOLL, Germany (Finance & Administration) Mr Jhon KUNDWE MULANDA, Demo- cratic Republic of the Congo Ms Diadem DEPAYSO, Philippines (Inter- national Affairs & Human Rights) Rev. Chandran P. MARTIN, India

Rev. Dr Walter ALTMANN, Brazil (Mission Ms Sindisiwe NDELU, South Africa and Development) Rev. Kristín T. TÓMASDÓTTIR, Iceland (chair) Rev. Dr Barbara ROSSING, USA (Theology and Studies) Advisers to the Council

Rev. Marie J. BARNETT, Sierra Leone Rev. Gabriele ARNDT-SANDROCK, Germany (World Service) Rev. Heitor J. MEURER, Brazil

The Council Superintendent Rev. Paul WEILAND, Aus- tria The Council is composed of the President, the Treasurer who can be elected from

152 The Lutheran World Federation Program Committee Program Committee for Ecumenical Affairs for International Affairs & Human rights Members of the Council Members of the Council Archbishop Nemuel A. BABBA, Nigeria Mr Helge AARSETH, Norway Ms Selma (Shu-Chen) CHEN, Taiwan Ms Diadem DEPAYSO, Philippines (chair) Bishop Dr Eero HUOVINEN, Finland General Bishop Dr Július FILO, Slovak Re- Bishop Walter A. JAGUCKI, United Kingdom public

Dr Mariette RAZIVELO, Madagascar Ms Virginia IVAÑEZ DE NEYELOFF, Ven- ezuela National Bishop Raymond L. SCHULTZ, Canada Mr Thomas JENSCH, Germany

Rev. Dr Joachim TRACK, Germany (chair) Bishop Dr Zephania KAMEETA, Namibia

Advisers to the Council Ms Riikka E. MYLLYS, Finland

Bishop Péter GÁNCS, Hungary Rev. Dr David PFRIMMER, Canada

Bishop Dr Wesley KIGASUNG, Papua New Ms Nakei SILOI, Papua New Guinea Guinea

Rev. Roy K. THAKURDYAL, Guyana

Program Committee for Finance & Administration

Members of the Council

Ms Sophia J. HUTAGALUNG, Indonesia

Ms Doris S. KITUTU, Tanzania

Rev. Alexander PRILOUTSKI, Russian Federation

Mr Peter STOLL, Germany (chair) Advisers to the Council The delegates represented 136 LWF member churches from Advisers to the Council Rev. Ángel F. FURLAN, Argentina 76 countries worldwide.

Rev. Dezsö Z. ADORJÁNI, Romania Ms Margareta GRAPE, Sweden

Ms Linda BROWN, USA

Ms Yoke Kiew LAI, Malaysia

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 153 Program Committee Program Committee for Mission & Development for Theology & Studies

Members of the Council Members of the Council

Rev. Dr Walter ALTMANN, Brazil (chair) Dr Niels H. GREGERSEN, Denmark

Bishop Maria JEPSEN, Germany Bishop Dr Jubil R. HUTAURUK, Indonesia

Ms Subhashini LALL, India Bishop Dr Christoph KLEIN, Romania

Ms Milita POŠKIENE, Lithuania Rev. Dr Thomas NYIWE, Cameroon

Ms Angelene SWART, South Africa Rev. Dr Barbara ROSSING, USA (chair)

Bishop Anders H. WEJRYD, Sweden Rev. Claudia SCHREIBER, Germany

Bishop Dr Munib A. YOUNAN, Jerusalem Ms Sonia A. SKUPCH, Argentina

Ms Abigail ZANG, USA Advisers to the Council

Advisers to the Council Rev. Susan JOHNSON, Canada

Mr Alfonso CORZO GARCIA, Colombia Bishop Walter OBARE OMWANZA, Kenya

Ms Yeonli KIM, South Korea Dr Risto SAARINEN, Finland

Rev. Dr Rafael MALPICA-PADILLA, USA

Members of the LWF Executive Committee at Rev. Dr Mogens S. MOGENSEN, Denmark their 21–23 February 2004 meeting in Geneva: Deaconess Esther MUSAH, Liberia Front row, left to right, Rev. Victoria Cortez Rodríguez (Nicaragua); Rev. Marie J. Barnett (Sierra Leone); LWF President, Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson (USA); Mr Peter Stoll (Germany); Bishop Dr Zephania Kameeta (Namibia); and Ms Diadem Depayso (Philippines). Back row: Rev. Dr Joachim Track (Germany); Rev. Dr. Barbara Rossing (USA); Bishop Dr Munib A. Younan (Jerusalem); Bishop Dr Eero Huovinen (Finland); Bishop Dr Christoph Klein (Romania); Rev. Kristín Tómasdóttir (Iceland); and Rev. Dr Walter Altmann (Brazil). © LWF/H. Putsman

154 The Lutheran World Federation Program Committee Standing Committee for World Service for Membership

Members of the Council Members of the Council

Rev. Marie J. BARNETT, Sierra Leone (chair) Rev. Iteffa GOBENA, Ethiopia

Rev. Victoria CORTEZ RODRÍGUEZ, Nica- Ms Virginia IVAÑEZ DE NEYELOFF, ragua Venezuela

Rev. Iteffa GOBENA, Ethiopia

Rev. Dr Emmanuel F. GRANTSON, USA

Rev. Hedwig PARTAJ, Austria

Bishop Julius D. PAUL, Malaysia

Mr Kazuhiro SEKINO, Japan

Sister Esther SELLE, Germany

Advisers to the Council

Bishop Dr Joseph P. BVUMBWE, Malawi Rev. Claudia SCHREIBER, Germany (chair) With prolonged applause and a standing ovation, Propst Hartwig LIEBICH, Germany Mr Kazuhiro SEKINO, Japan Assemby participants bid farewell to Bishop em. Dr Christian Krause Bishop Dr Edmund RATZ, Ukraine (right), whose six-year term as LWF President officially ended 31 July 2003.

Standing Committee Honorary Members of the for Constitution Council

Members of the Council Dr Gottfried BRAKEMEIER, Brazil

Mr Helge AARSETH, Norway (chair) Bishop emeritus Dr Christian KRAUSE, Germany Ms Selma (Shu-Chen) CHEN, Taiwan

Ms Milita POŠKIENE, Lithuania

National Bishop Raymond L. SCHULTZ, Canada

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 155 Project Committee Standing Committee for World Service The Project Committee reports to the Council through the Program Committee The Standing Committee for World Service re- for Mission & Development. It oversees ports to the Council through the Program Com- project criteria, reviews project screen- mittee for World Service. Its ten members rep- ing and approves projects. Its eight mem- resent the seven LWF geographical regions. bers represent the seven LWF geographi- cal regions. Members

Members Dr Konrad von BONIN, Germany

Ms Ruth E. JENSEN, Canada Dr Belletech DERESSA, USA

Ms Yeonli KIM, South Korea Ms Carin GARDBRING, Sweden

Deaconess Esther MUSAH, Liberia Ms Elsebeth KROGH, Denmark

Rev. Dr Kjell NORDSTOKKE, Norway Bishop Dr Ambrose MOYO, Zimbabwe

Mr Martin SCHINDEHÜTTE, Germany Bishop Julius D. PAUL, Malaysia (chair)

Rev. Ilo UTECH, Nicaragua Mr Peter SCHIRMER, Australia

Archbishop Janis VANAGS, Latvia Rev. Silvio SCHNEIDER, Brazil

Bishop Anders H. WEJRYD, Sweden (chair) Mr Leo SILIÄMAA, Finland

156 The Lutheran World Federation Ecumenical Greetings

The following original texts appear in chronological order:

Greeting from The Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod

President Krause, General Secretary Noko, Jesus taught was the human need for the Distinguished Guests, Friends in Christ, healing of the schism that exists between God and people, which results from sin. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, the As the Augsburg Confession teaches us, Savior and Healer of the World, it is an “without the grace, help, and activity of honor for me to bring greetings to this dis- the Holy Spirit, man is not capable of mak- tinguished gathering on behalf of the 2.5 ing himself acceptable to God.1” This heal- million members of The Lutheran Church ing was accomplished when God in Christ – Missouri Synod. Though our synod is not reconciled the world to Himself through a member of the Lutheran World Federa- His suffering, death and resurrection. tion, we are appreciative of the opportu- Through His Word and Sacraments, our nity to be present at this Assembly as you Lord, by the power of the Spirit, continues meet together under the theme, “For The to bring healing to this world. We Lutherans Healing of the World.” are especially mindful of the imperative to The Evangelist Mark tells us in the maintain a solid, faithful, uncompromised, sixth chapter of his Gospel that confessional, evangelical teaching and wit- ness of the pure Gospel and administration “34Jesus…saw a great multitude and of the Holy Sacraments “for the purpose of was moved with compassion for them, awakening and strengthening our faith. because they were like sheep not having For…they are rightly used when they are a shepherd. So He began to teach them received in faith and for the purpose of many things. 35When the day was now strengthening faith.”2 far spent, His disciples came to Him Divisions and schisms also, sadly, con- and said, “This is a deserted place, and tinue to impede our witness to this Gospel already the hour is late. 36Send them message we are committed to bring to the away, that they may go into the sur- world. We must therefore also give heed rounding country and villages and buy to the words of the Apostle in 1 Corinthians, themselves bread; for they have nothing “Now I plead with you, brethren, by the to eat.” 37But He answered and said to name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all them, “You give them something to speak the same thing, and that there be no eat”… 41 [Then] when He had taken five divisions among you, but that you be per- loaves and two fish, He looked up to fectly joined together in the same mind heaven, blessed and broke the loaves, and in the same judgment.” By His grace, and gave them to His disciples to set we in the Lutheran Church – Missouri before them; and the two fish He divided Synod remain committed to work toward among them all. 42So they all ate and healing these divisions through an uncom- were filled” (Mk 6:34-37, 41-42; NKJV). promising commitment to the truth of God’s Word, and we have a sincere desire Here we see the compassionate Christ to work together with our brothers and sis- who brings a multifaceted healing to the ters in Christ to resolve these differences. world. Foremost among the “many things” It is our prayer that God will bring healing

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 157 to our brokenness according to Christ’s sires of every living thing (Ps 145:16).” In bidding. this manner, “Give them something to eat.” It is also God’s will that we bring this May the Almighty God continue to healing word to the world, accompanied by have compassion on us through Christ our deeds of kindness. As we confess in the Lord and cause us, as His hands and feet Augsburg Confession, “It is also taught and eyes, to be compassionate “Healers among us that good works should and must of the World.” For what better healing can be done…that we may do God’s will and we share with the world than that the lives glorify him.”3 Saint Augustine said, “We do of many are transformed, through Christ’s the works, but God works in us the doing of love, in time…for eternity! the works.” God is working in us to do—to Thank you and God bless you, in the respond to the varied and widespread needs name of the Father, of the Son and of the for healing in our world, ranging from ill- Holy Spirit. Amen. ness and disease to human suffering and violence to hunger and poverty. As we Rev. Dr Gerald B. Kieschnick, cooperatively pursue this undertaking, president which we do through such agencies as Lutheran World Relief, may God cause us 1Tappert, T. G. (2000, c1959). The Book of Con- to see the pain and fear in the eyes of those cord : The Confessions of the Evangelical whom we serve, so that we see the crowds Lutheran Church (The Confession of Faith: AC, as Jesus did and are “moved with compas- XVIII, 2). Philadelphia: Fortress Press. sion for them.” In service to Christ, we dis- tribute with our hands the provisions He has 2Ibid., (The Confession of Faith: AC, XIII, 1-2). granted, so that all “may be filled” by the One who “opens His hand to satisfy the de- 3Ibid., (The Confession of Faith: AC, XX, 27).

Greeting from the Mennonite World Conference

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, LORD has promised to bless his people with life for evermore. I bring you warm greetings from the Men- nonite World Conference on behalf of I want to offer a blessing to the Lutheran World Larry Miller, executive director. Federation: may you experience the good- At a time like this, when people from ness and pleasing favor of the Lord through around the world assemble, I am reminded unity. May you find God’s unifying presence of Psalm 133 which says: as you meet together here in Winnipeg. I also want to offer thanks from the Men- 1 How good and pleasant it is nonite World Conference to the Lutheran when brothers and sisters live together World Federation for its gracious initia- in peace! tive and desire to study with Mennonites the question of the condemnations of the 2 It is as beautiful as olive oil poured on Anabaptists in the Augsburg Confession Aaron’s head, of Faith. We are glad to engage in this study and running down his beard and the in the name of better understanding within collar of his robe. the body of Christ worldwide. In three weeks the Mennonite World 3 It is like the dew from Mount Hermon Conference will gather in Bulawayo, Zim- falling on Zion’s mountains where the babwe, Africa. At that time, we also hope

158 The Lutheran World Federation to experience the Lord’s unifying presence Rev. David Wiebe, executive under the theme Woza! God has something director of the Canadian Conference here for you! of Mennonite Brethren Churches Thank you for this moment of sharing and connection. We1come—all of you—to on behalf of Rev. Larry Miller, executive my home city of Winnipeg. God bless you. director, Mennonite World Conference

Greeting from the World Methodist Council

Mr President, Mr General Secretary, Mem- into his world. This was the world God had bers of the Assembly, created and saw that it was good. The peace brought by Jesus which was all-embracing I bring you greetings from the 39 million was different from world peace. Methodists in the world from the seventy- God in this mysterious way has brought seven member churches in 132 countries. us together here to receive this healing. We Methodists treasure our relation- First from Him in order to enable us to ra- ships with the Lutherans after our recent diate to the people of the world and the agreements with this communion. earth this healing. In the words of the We thank you all for extending your prophet, “Not by our own power and not by invitation to the General Secretary and me our own might but by His Spirit,” we shall to attend this very important conference be instruments for His healing of the world. and Assembly. All of us Christians must avail our- The World Methodist Council con- selves to God for this difficult and delicate gratulates you on the historic Joint Decla- task of confronting our communities and ration between you and the Catholic our local churches, our people and the Church on the important doctrine of justi- world with this healing message. fication. The World Methodist Council, af- We must be willing to answer the call ter her Assembly in Seoul, South Korea, in and be enlisted into His army of volun- 2006, will join you, we hope, in appending teers. Fear and disbelief must be put aside her signature to this very important his- for the battle is the Lord’s. toric document. The World Methodist Assembly taking It is timely and I believe that you were place in Seoul, South Korea, in 2006 with a directed by God, to choose the theme “For theme “God in Christ Reconciling” will join the Healing of the World” at a time when you together with other willing Christians our world is in her worst brokenness. The everywhere in this crusade and campaign picture of our world today is not only that of to bring this, His healing, to our broken hopelessness, despair, confusion, uncer- world. With Christ in the boat, there is hope tainty, and full of anxiety, but also tragic for our world. because of conflict, war, distrust, hatred, Let me wish all of you God’s led delib- poverty, terrorism, violence, disease and erations. the abuse and exercise of power every- Thank you. where. Jesus brought peace (Shalom!) into the world. He gave this peace, wholeness, His Eminence Sunday Mbang, healing, and well-being to his followers and chairperson

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 159 Greeting from the Ecumenical Patriarch, His All Holiness Patriarch Bartholomew I

Mr President, Mr General Secretary, Dear to realize in ever-increasing ways this di- Friends in our Lord Jesus Christ, vine image within us. In the words of the great theologians of the first millennium, On behalf of His All Holiness our destiny is to become what we already Bartholomew, Ecumenical Patriarch of are. St Paul says in Ephesians, Chapter 4, Constantinople, and His Beatitude Metro- that “Christ has given us the many voca- politan Basili, Primate of the Ukrainian tions of the Church, equipping the Saints Orthodox Church of Canada, one of the sis- for the work of ministry, for the edifying of ter churches of the Ecumenical Patriarch- the body of Christ, till we all come to the ate, I greet you today with the traditional unity of the faith and of the knowledge of Orthodox liturgical greeting in Greek, the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the Ukrainian and English: measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ,” and in 2 Corinthians, he says that “we are all being transformed into the im- Christos poseded nas. age of the Lord, from glory to glory.” Christ is in our midst. This growth in the image, this transfor- mation, from glory to glory, is possible only The Lutheran-Orthodox Joint Commission of as we are liberated from the tyranny of ecumenical dialogue is the largest interfaith death, and of sin in all of its forms, both commission in which the Lutheran World personal and systemic. The liberation from Federation participates. It is a very impor- sin and death is the ultimate healing of- tant and fruitful dialogue for both the East- fered to us by God. It is the foundation of ern Orthodox and the Lutheran participants. all other forms of healing ministered by And over coffee this morning I was speak- God’s people. As men and women of faith ing with one of the Lutheran participants and themselves experience inner healing in we were talking about the various mutual their lives, they become agents of God’s gifts that each of our faith traditions offers to healing grace for others. the other. So it is a real joy then to be with May your deliberations, your fellow- you today, fellow companions on the jour- ship, and your worship over the next days, ney of mutual understanding, affirmation, bear much fruit: the fruits of healing. Fruits seeking the common ground of faith upon of continued growth as living images, liv- which we may stand side by side. ing icons, of the living God. In the opening Eucharist yesterday, I welcome you all to my home city of there were several references made to the Winnipeg, and thank you for this wonder- biblical teaching, that humankind is made ful opportunity to be with you today. in the image of God. This idea of the im- Christ is in our midst. He is, and always age, in Greek the “ikona,” the icon, is at shall be. Thank you. the heart of Orthodox Christian spiritual- ity. Human destiny, we believe is, by the Father Andrew Jarmus grace of God and with the human will par- of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church ticipating with the divine will, to grow and in Canada

160 The Lutheran World Federation Message from the World Council of Churches

Through our two representatives, Rev. Hec- interdependence where each supports and tor Mendez and Ms Teny Pirri-Simonian, I builds up the other, and where each lives send to all of you, participants in the Tenth life to the full according to their circum- Assembly of the Lutheran World Federa- stances and to the glory of God.” tion, warm Christian greetings in the name This is only one among the many in- of our common Lord Jesus Christ. Shortly stances where a convergence has emerged after your Assembly in Winnipeg the Cen- between the work of the Lutheran World tral Committee of the World Council of Federation and that of the World Council of Churches will be meeting in Geneva. We Churches. Most of the themes that you will shall be united in the same Spirit and in discuss in your Village Groups have their prayerful reflection, searching together for correspondence in the present agenda of the common witness that as Christian the WCC. Thus, we look with expectation people and as churches we are called to to the results of your reflections on the mis- render in our world today. sion of the church in multifaith contexts, on Our two meetings are also closely the barriers that exclude, like the stigma of linked to one another through their the- HIV/AIDS, on family life and human sexu- matic foci: While you have gathered un- ality, on overcoming violence, on trans- der the theme: “For the Healing of the forming economic globalization, and on World,” our Central Committee will focus healing creation. This convergence of agen- attention on the mandate of “Caring for das, which has been promoted through the Life,” which has been one of the four work of a joint staff group that has been in overarching themes in the work of the WCC place for the past three years, manifests since the last assembly in Harare. A ma- that we are sharing in one and the same jor study document, entitled “A Church of ecumenical movement, contributing the All and for All” which was prepared by insights and riches of our different tradi- members of the Ecumenical Disabilities tions and contexts. Advocacy Network, will lead us to reflect, It is also significant that three ecumeni- among other issues, on the relationship cal assemblies in the course of this year, between disabilities and healing. that is, apart from your own, those of the The healing narratives of the New Tes- Conference of European Churches and of tament can cause pain and serious ques- the All Africa Conference of Churches, tions for people with disabilities. What does have chosen themes that focus on healing, healing mean in the face of a permanent, reconciliation and rebuilding. At a time severe disability? The document invites us when in all parts of the world people expe- to place our understanding of healing into rience fear, brokenness, exclusion and vio- the comprehensive horizon of God’s prom- lence, the churches are beginning to un- ise of salvation. “Healing...is an act, event, derstand that it is their missionary voca- system, and structure which encourages, tion to be “healing and reconciling com- facilitates God’s empowering, renewing, munities” in Christ–thus, the theme of the reconciling, and liberating processes in World Mission Conference in 2005. We be- order to reverse the negation of God’s in- gin to recognize that we have one common tended good for God’s creation. Therefore, message in and for the world. In fact, car- the overall theological contribution of the ing for life, healing and reconciliation are healing narratives in the New Testament is central to what it means to be church. Over to demonstrate or serve as signs of God’s this past year, the conviction has been grow- salvation history. God wills the acceptance ing in the World Council of Churches that and inclusion of each in a community of we should seize this moment of conver-

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 161 gence to draw closer to each other and thus the twentieth century and to seek ways of to strengthen our ability to render a com- strengthening the coherence of the ecu- mon witness. The organizational expres- menical movement for the sake of our com- sions of the ecumenical movement bear the mon mission. The Lutheran World Federa- marks of historic conditions as they have tion is an important partner in this process prevailed during the major part of the twen- and we count on your continued participa- tieth century. Over these last fifteen years tion in this process of reflection. our world has changed radically. New chal- May your meeting in Winnipeg be lenges have emerged which call for our richly blessed so that you return inspired common response. The World Council of and encouraged to your home countries Churches has, therefore, taken the initia- and places of ministry. tive to invite its ecumenical partner orga- nizations to reconsider the organizational Rev. Dr Konrad Raiser, configuration that we have inherited from general secretary

Greeting from the World Alliance of Reformed Churches

Rev. Dr Christian Krause, President, Rev. have chosen to use it to further injustice, Dr Ishmael Noko, General Secretary, Sis- poverty, war and suffering rather than obey ters and Brothers in our Lord Jesus Christ, God. As the world’s powers relying on their military might put in place policies that It gives me great pleasure to bring greet- lead to more brokenness, violence and ex- ings on behalf of your sisters and brothers clusion, millions of people are dying from in the World Alliance of Reformed conflicts, diseases and unjust economic Churches family. Dr Paul Fries and I are structures. The world—both humanity and here as a sign of the value the Reformed the environment—is in a state of illness. It family places on Lutheran-Reformed re- is our hope that this Assembly will identify lationships. We are grateful for the work some of the steps we can commit to in our we have done together in recent years work as God’s instruments for the healing through the Lutheran Reformed Working of the world and bringing fullness of life to Group, some programmatic collaboration all—our own General Council theme. especially on justice issues and the regu- Our work of healing for the world will lar senior staff meetings we have been be even more meaningful, if we continue having in the last few years. The building with the work of healing within the church. of our relationship is not superficial or only This is why I celebrate the steps the at the global level. It is inspired and Lutheran World Federation has taken in strengthened by various regional and na- your ecumenical engagements with a tional initiatives, notably the Leuenberg number of confessional families including agreement and the formula of agreement the Reformed family. We are currently dis- in North America. We celebrate these ways cussing the possibility of our governing in which together we engage in respond- bodies meeting together in the near future. ing to our Lord’s desire expressed in the We look forward to the time when the Coun- high priestly prayer “That we may be one.” cil to be elected in this Assembly will meet Your theme “For the Healing of the with our Executive Committee to be World” is timely in our world today where elected next year. In 1997, we called for so many millions of people hurt—from the the possibility of the LWF and the WARC diseases that have befallen the world— having a common Assembly together. I Humanity, especially those with power hope in your Assembly this year, you will

162 The Lutheran World Federation be able to echo that same call. In these world in which faithful Christians are found. ways and other ways of living above our On behalf of our President, Professor C. S. differences, we can set a real example to Song, our Executive Committee, our Area the world—demonstrating that we are se- Councils, all colleagues in Geneva and the rious about working for the healing of the 76 million members of the World Alliance of world. This will give increased credibility Reformed Churches, we wish you all the best to our work in God’s mission of bringing of God’s blessings in your deliberations in healing to a broken, wounded world. this Assembly for the healing of the world. Together, women and men, young and old, can in our churches proclaim and live Rev. Dr Setri Nyomi, out the gospel in all the different parts of the general secretary

Address of Walter Cardinal Kasper to the Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation1

July 21-31, 2003, Winnipeg, Canada Ishmael Noko, thank you Sven Oppegaard for this fellowship and friendship. Brothers and sisters in our common Lord Jesus Christ! Dear friends! II. This time we meet after the Joint Decla- ration. So it is time to look forward and ask It is my privilege as President of the Pon- ourselves: Where we are going now? What tifical Council for Promoting Christian are the next steps? And what is the final Unity to greet this tenth Plenary of the goal after all? Lutheran World Federation, and this means I think the theme of this 10th Plenary, to me: to greet so many good friends. “For the healing of the World”, gives a hint for the answer. There is no doubt, our world I. When we met last time in Hong Kong, it needs healing, healing from the wounds of was prior to the Joint Declaration on Justifi- injustice, of war and terrorism, of divisions, cation. Problems, doubts and critics fore- of lies, lack of truth and confidence, loneli- shadowed difficulties, but a clear decision ness, a sense of meaninglessness, hope- was made. And so we signed the Joint Dec- lessness, and all together: wounds of sin- laration in Augsburg, and we not only signed fulness and godlessness. To all these bleed- it, we rejoiced and celebrated, because, ing wounds the Christians’ answer is noth- thanks be to God, we could reach—not the ing other than the message of justification. final goal—but an important milestone in the Since the Joint Declaration we were of- pilgrimage to full unity. The stumbling block, ten confronted with the objection: Who still the doctrine with which the Church stands understands your message on justification? and falls—as Luther wrote—was removed. Who still cares about these old controver- Though open questions remain, our re- sies? Are they not irrelevant? And we have lations since Augsburg have found a new to admit: The question how I can find a mer- quality and have reached a new intensity. ciful God, is for most of our fellow human As a Catholic, I can affirm: We did not only beings no longer the question. But this does sign, we now stand behind this signature, not mean that justification has become we take it as a starting point from which meaningless. What justification means is we want to go ahead towards a common exactly what is asked for in the aforemen- future. We extended our hands to each tioned questions, anxieties, desires and other and we are not willing to let go again. hopes. Justification is God’s answer to it. Thank you Bishop Krause, thank you But it is now up to us to translate this an-

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 163 swer in the language, in the context and in convincing and credible witnesses of rec- the dealing with the problems of today. onciliation. Otherwise we will be told: “Doc- The Joint Declaration is not a text which tor heal yourself!” As long the Church of we have written and published once for all, Christ bleeds out of the wounds of our divi- such that we could now be happy to have got sions our service to the world cannot be fully rid of the problem and simply store the text convincing and effective. There cannot be a on a bookshelf. The Joint Declaration must choice between spiritual and secular ecu- not remain a dead letter and must not be- menism. Jesus prayed on the eve of his death come the secret of specialists and experts; “that all be one that the world may believe”. it must come to life in our respective com- munities and over all, in our hearts. This IV. Spiritual ecumenism is not a substitute message is needed even more now than dur- for concrete ecumenism. On the contrary. ing the 16th century. So, after Augsburg, this The healing of the wounds of our still re- message should and can become our com- maining division arises with still greater mon message and our common witness to urgency as we face the 500th anniversary the hope which is within us. of the beginning of the Reformation in What we have reached must bear fruits 2017. This may seem to be still a long time in joint co-operation. For ecumenism is not away. But if it is to be an anniversary where an end in itself. Our Joint Declaration too is we can give account on our unfortunately not an end in itself. Together we have to heal separated history and speak of our hope- the wounds of our world and—not the least— fully common future, then we must pre- of our own divisions in order to be more able pare ourselves in time. to heal the wounds of humankind. What will we tell the world on that occa- sion, what will we say then to our young III. How can this happen? Since Augsburg people about the meaning of the Reforma- we were not lazy. Several steps were taken. tion in the 16th century, and what about its Many others are still necessary. One touches meaning for our time and for the future? Will the core and the heart of the ecumenical this anniversary only look back and become movement: Spiritual ecumenism. Without an occasion for a new confessionalism— spirituality the ecumenical movement be- unfortunately a temptation we have too comes merely an academic affair, where much today—or will it not also and even “normal” Christians cannot follow, where more look to the future and be an ecumeni- they feel excluded and finally frustrated; or cal impulse, what so many urgently expect? it becomes a soulless activism, the business With these questions we touch on a fun- of an endless series of conferences, sym- damental problem: What is our ecumenical posiums, gatherings, meetings and ever new goal? What is the unity of the Church all about? documents which nobody can read. We need As I understand it, the Reformers did not a spirituality of unity and communion, which want to build a new Church; they wanted to is also a spirituality of prayer, of forgiveness, preserve the continuity of the Church of all of reconciliation and mutual acceptance of centuries, they wanted to renew the one uni- each other. If this is to be more than indiffer- versal, the one, holy, catholic and apostolic ence about our differences, then it requires Church. But the communion was broken in conversion and the opening of our hearts. the 16th century for many reasons, reasons There is no ecumenism without such con- both theological and non theological, with version and renewal. fault on both sides and to the detriment of To the measure that we are living and both sides. In different ways, we are both working together, growing in communion in wounded by our divisions. But could not what one faith and one spirit, to the measure that failed in the 16th century be healed today, we are able to heal the wounds of our own under totally new constellations and in view divisions, to that degree we will be more of new common challenges?

164 The Lutheran World Federation I was extremely happy when I listened This is alone in the hands of God’s Spirit, and to what Bishop Krause and Dr. Ishmael he is always good for a surprise. I am con- Noko had to say on communion. Indeed, vinced: the Holy Spirit who initiated the ecu- the understanding of the Church and the menical process will bring it to a conclu- unity of the Church as communio/com- sion, in spite of all difficulties and all ob- munion indicates the direction we should stacles. Probably the way will be longer than go and should now be the ecumenical idea. we expected. But God’s Spirit is faithful; in There is a common basis, a chance, but a him we can trust. So let’s move ahead, with need for further serious theological and patience and with courage as well, with faith, ecclesiological clarification as well. with love and with hope. May God bless us Therefore, for us the theological dialogue and make us a blessing for one another and is fundamental in order to reach full com- a blessing for the healing of the world. munion and eucharistic sharing. No blueprint for the future is possible. 1 This greeting was published in The Pontifical We are not the masters of history, neither of Council For Promoting Christian Unity Informa- our own history nor of that of the Church. tion Service, N. 113 (2003/II/III)

Greeting from the International Lutheran Council

President Krause, General Secretary Scriptures as “the only source and norm of Noko, Brothers and Sisters in Christ, its doctrine, life and service” (LWF Consti- tution), as “the inspired and infallible Word It is a privilege and an honor for me to be of God” (ILC Constitution). Both confess their with you at this Tenth Assembly of the conviction that the writings contained in the Lutheran World Federation, and to have Book of Concord are “a pure exposition of the pleasure of bringing greetings to you the Word of God” (LWF Constitution), a “true from the International Lutheran Council in and faithful exposition of the Word of God” the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. (ILC Constitution). Not only do we have the The International Lutheran Council is a name Lutheran in common, but nine of the worldwide association of twenty-nine member churches of the ILC are also either church bodies having a combined baptized full or associate members of the LWF. membership of 3.3 million people. Orga- And yet, as is well known, we have our nized in 1993 the ILC has as its purpose “to differences, primarily in the area of what share information, study theological ques- commitment to the Holy Scriptures and the tions and concerns together.” It meets in Lutheran Confessions means regarding conference together every two years in or- important and sensitive issues such as der to “discuss effective and coordinated abortion, homosexuality, the ordination of means of carrying out the mission and min- women to the pastoral office, how much istry of the church, nurture and strengthen confessional agreement is necessary for their relationships with each other, and celebrating our unity in Christ at the altar work toward the closest possible joint ex- and in the pulpit in church fellowship, and, pression of their faith and confession.”1 The above all, in our understanding of the au- ILC’s next conference will be held next thority of Scripture as the Word of God in month in Iguaçu Falls, Brazil under the the words of human beings. theme “Ministering to the Pastor’s Family.” Because of what we together hold in The ILC and LWF have much in common common, and also because of these areas with each other. Together, both of these or- of disagreement, we in the ILC believe that ganizations profess their commitment in it is critically important that the lines of their respective constitutions to the Holy communication between us be kept open,

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 165 and that every effort be made to find a way logo shows a cross on one side and three to resolve these issues which impede us green leaves on the other arching over the in accomplishing the work Christ has broken terrain of cracks which mar the given us to do in bringing healing to our planet earth on which we live. What a beau- broken world. It is for this reason that the tiful depiction of the hope we have in the ILC eagerly accepted the invitation ex- cross of Jesus Christ and the healing which tended through General Secretary Noko in His suffering, death and resurrection brings 2000 to resume the conversations held in to our brokenness. 1987–1988 between the LWF and those The members of the International church bodies which now make up the ILC. Lutheran Council join you in praying that The first of these conversations was held our Lord Jesus Christ will bless this As- last summer in Geneva, where three prof- sembly mightily, and that He will make it itable days were spent in sharing informa- to be an instrument in His hands to bring tion about our respective organizations, the true and lasting healing to our world and in identifying common ground and dif- which only His Gospel can bring. ferences. We in the ILC look forward to Thank you and blessings to you in continuing these discussions this coming Christ’s name. November in Helsinki, and we pray for God’s blessings on these talks together. Rev. Dr Samuel Nafzger, executive You have chosen as the theme for this secretary Assembly “For the Healing of the World,” words inspired by St John’s apocalyptic 1 ILC Constitution. Article III, “Statement of vision in Revelation 22:2. Its intriguing Purpose.”

Greeting from the Anglican Communion

I am very pleased to be able to offer the in the Anglican Communion. Indeed, our fel- greetings of the Anglican Communion to lowship and shared Christian discipleship this Tenth Assembly of the Lutheran World has become so close in an increasing num- Federation. I bring heartfelt and warm ber of places around the world, that Angli- greetings from all thirty-eight provinces cans and Lutherans have made covenantal of the Anglican Communion, together with commitments to share a common life and our prayers and hopes that you will know mission, and in some places have been able the presence and the guidance of the Holy to declare themselves in “full communion.” Spirit in all your deliberations. These are significant and welcome steps on To be a Lutheran has always been an the path of the ecumenical endeavor that important part of my life for the last forty we all share. some years. Having done my first degree at It is sometimes said that the Anglican Concordia College, Moorhead, I married a Communion is in the process of becoming Minnesota Lutheran pastor’s daughter who a “federation,” while the Lutheran World has insisted on remaining a Lutheran “until Federation is turning into a “Communion,” the Episcopalians have as good a confirma- Let us talk together about our experience tion preparation as we Lutherans do.” of living as global families of churches. I In this Assembly, you will have received believe, however, that there is a real possi- copies of “Growth in Communion,” the re- bility that we may be able to look beyond port of the Anglican Lutheran International the present situation to a day when there Working Group. This demonstrates how our may be only one united communion be- two Communions are working ever more tween our two venerable families. To this closely, which is a source of great joy to us extent, I look forward to the possible estab-

166 The Lutheran World Federation lishment of a new Anglican Lutheran Inter- growing closer in fellowship and coopera- national Commission next year, which may tion because of Ishmael’s vision. be able to lead us into an ever-closer rela- At the time of the Reformation, the An- tionship on many levels, including concrete glican Church and the Lutheran churches expressions of working together in our bro- of continental Europe saw themselves as ken world. Let me be specific. It is a scan- natural allies and partners in the procla- dal that we are not working more closely mation of the Gospel. As the Anglicans together in Africa and in other parts of our here at the Assembly share in your gra- global communion on HIV/AIDS. As cious hospitality and warm welcome, I Lutherans, as Episcopalians and Anglicans, know that this is but a foretaste of good we should always be asking the question, things which are to come for all who pro- “What can we do together? ” claim a gospel of hope and redemption in As the Secretary General of the Angli- these days of so much turmoil, war, pov- can Communion, I want to take this opportu- erty and ignorance. Martin Luther’s words, nity to recognize and to pay tribute to Ishmael “Here I stand, I can do no other” can be the Noko for his friendship and support, for his basis on which we, as two global churches outstanding leadership, not only in the LWF, can with him and others, say “Here we but in our global family of churches as well. stand, we can do no other,” if we truly be- Last September, when the Anglican Consul- lieve in the One who has called us out of tative Council met in Hong Kong, China, the darkness into His own marvelous light. We council chose Ishmael to be its keynote need each other. May God bless you and speaker. We wanted someone who would us in the days ahead. challenge us, we wanted someone who un- Our greetings, salutations and love to derstood the global scene. Ishmael pro- you! foundly affected all of our deliberations as a result of his thoughtful and prophetic pre- Rev. Canon John L. Peterson, sentation. Our two great churches are indeed secretary general

Greeting from the Lutheran Church – Canada

President Krause, General Secretary Noko, the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod, we Delegates and Friends to this Tenth Assem- were organized as an independent church bly of the Lutheran World Federation. body in 1989. Our vision as an association of congregations is to be faithful to the Holy Grace and peace to you from God our Fa- Scriptures and Lutheran Confessions, to ther and the Lord Jesus Christ who gave boldly reach out with the Gospel of Jesus himself for our sins in order to rescue us Christ to those who have not heard or come from the present evil age according to the to believe in Him and to grow in our love for will of our God and Father to whom be glory one another and for the world that the mes- for ever and ever. sage of Christ might be confirmed in our life It is with these words of the Apostle Paul and action for it is only in that message of that I bring greetings to you from the con- Jesus Christ and the Good News of forgive- gregations, pastors and deacons of Lutheran ness and life that we, indeed that all people, Church—Canada. We represent some of are rescued from this evil age, healed those other Lutherans in Canada who are through His precious name. not members of the LWF. Our church body is Such love also reaches out to meet the made up of some 325 congregations spread needs of a wounded world that struggles across this great land of ours. A daughter of with poverty and injustice and all the other

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 167 ills that come in a sin-filled world. Through in Geneva last summer. It is important for us our association with Canadian Lutheran as it is for you to keep the lines of communi- World Relief, we are pleased to join with cation open, to be able to discuss those is- you and Lutheran World Service in reach- sues that separate us and seek to find reso- ing out to meet that human need in what- lution to anything that impedes the free ever way possible and so bring healing into course of the proclamation of the Gospel in the lives of those who suffer. I had the op- our world. We look forward to a continua- portunity this past January to travel to Ethio- tion of those meetings in Helsinki this fall. pia with the CLWR and there personally see As a Canadian church, my welcome to the work of Lutheran World Service in con- Canada is belated—but nevertheless— cert with the poor of that country. We praise WELCOME! It is our prayer that you have God for the work being done and for the and will continue to enjoy your stay in this healing that is coming to so many. beautiful city and country. But more im- In bringing greetings to you, I want to take portant, it is our prayer that God’s blessing this opportunity to express publicly my would continue upon your gathering as you thanks to Dr Noko and the LWF Council for are encouraged and strengthened for the their decision to resume conversations with work that Christ has given to His whole the International Lutheran Council, an asso- church—to bring healing to the inhabitants ciation of Lutheran church bodies of which of this world through the proclamation of we are a member. Serving as chairman of the Gospel. the International Lutheran Council, I was pleased to be a part of the first meeting held Rev. Ralph Mayan, president

Greeting from the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists

Mr President, General Secretary, Del- The conversations we had several years egates and Guests, ago continue to produce positive effects in our world church. It is a privilege and an honor to bring greet- They are an encouragement for those ings from our world headquarters of the in our midst who want to have not only Seventh-day Adventist Church and from good relations with other Christians but our President Dr Jan Paulsen to the Tenth who believe that we are all Jesus’ dis- Assembly of our Lutheran brothers and ciples and should work together every time sisters. it is possible. You may not know this but Luther is a The Conference of Secretaries of great figure among Seventh-day Adventists. Christian World Communions gives us In 2000, our communication department many opportunities. Yet there are other conducted a survey among Adventists to fields for more cooperation. For example, find out who the number one person for the humanitarian assistance, education and second millennium was. Instead of choos- religious freedom and the battle against ing one of our Adventist pioneers, the con- HIV/AIDS. I would like to say how I appre- gregation answered Martin Luther! ciated the excellent program of the young I would like also to underline our ex- people concerning this issue. These are cellent relations with your headquarters areas where Adventists and Lutherans in Geneva, especially General Secretary may develop strong partnerships for the Noko and Rev. Sven Oppegaard. Our posi- healing of the world. tive relations go back to the days of André We also continue to work in close co- Appel and his successor Carl H. Mau Jr. operation with Bishop Gunnar Stålsett who

168 The Lutheran World Federation is a vice-president of the International President Hanson, General Secretary Religious Liberty Association in which I Noko, Dear Participants, serve as secretary general. May God bless your work, may the Holy Thank you very much for inviting me. Spirit inspire your decisions, may our Lord And now I want to invite you to our next Jesus help all of us, where we are, to ac- World General Conference Session in St complish our mission, which is a mission Louis, USA, June 29–July 9, 2005. A few of hope and salvation! days before, we will have an international conference on HIV/AIDS. Dr John Graz, director

Greeting from the Anglican Church of Canada

We, myself and our ecumenical officer, the Present Reality Rev. Canon Alyson Barnett-Cowan, are honored to address you. Some statistics

History We are a church of thirty dioceses (forty bish- ops), 3,000 congregations (2,000 active Our first parish was founded in 1699 in St clergy) and about 2 million members (accord- John’s Newfoundland as a congregation in ing to the census), with 800,000 on our parish a military settlement. lists and 200,000 in church each Sunday. In the eighteenth century our popula- Ethnically, we remain predominantly tion expanded with British settlers after British in origin, but in urban Canada much the conquest of Québec in 1759, and more mixed, with strong Caribbean mem- through the arrival of many political refu- bership, fifteen Chinese-speaking par- gees (both British and Mohawk) from the ishes, as well as French, Spanish, Japa- United States of America (Americans call nese, Tamil, Tagalog and Korean-speak- them Tories; we call them Loyalists). ing parishes. In the nineteenth century we grew as Women have been ordained as deacon- two sorts of church. The “settler” church, esses since the nineteenth century, dea- the church of immigrants, continued to cons since 1969, priests since 1976, and grow, but there was also the arrival of the bishops since 1994. About 22 percent of “mission” church, those who came to open our clergy are women. In this, we are the gospel to people who had never met it, closely parallel to the Evangelical the indigenous people. Lutheran Church in Canada. Winnipeg is a good example. In 1820 the The legacy of the “mission” church is first missionary to this area, John West, came with us in both positive and negative ways. to minister to the British fur trading settle- On the one hand, 85 percent of the Inuit ment here, but also opened a school for the (Arctic) population of Canada is Anglican. indigenous community. And it was in this While the indigenous peoples of Canada Province of Manitoba (meaning “place of the make up 1.5 percent of the total popula- Spirit” in Cree, for “Manito” means Spirit; our tion, the indigenous population of our Cree and Ojibway people pray to “Gi-zhe- church is 5 percent of our membership manito”, the Great Spirit) that 150 years ago, (with several dioceses having a majority in 1853, Henry Budd, or Sakachewescam, of members being indigenous), and in the the first indigenous priest, was ordained. House of Bishops, 10 percent of the bish- The “settler” and “mission”’ churches ops are indigenous. came together in Winnipeg in 1893 to form On the negative side, in the nineteenth the Anglican Church of Canada. century and up to 1969 we worked together

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 169 with government residential schools pro- rest—trees drop their leaves, animals hiber- viding education, but in a climate of as- nate. It is a time of hiddenness when many similation. realities, the beautiful and the ugly, are hid- The most painful moment of my time den under snowbanks. as primate occurred ten years ago this But together with the Evangelical week, when, after listening to days of Lutheran Church in Canada, we used the story-telling by victims of abuse in resi- time between 1989 (“interim eucharistic dential schools, I issued a public and for- sharing”) to 2001 (“full communion”) to mal apology on behalf of our church. Those open doors toward each other and toward painful stories and the painful apology a richer experience of life in Christ. have been the beginning of healing and acceptance of responsibility. Last year our The LWF General Synod and all our dioceses ac- cepted the responsibility of a CAD 25 mil- In Turku in 2000, at the LWF Council meet- lion settlement with victims. But we are ing, we shared with the Evangelical still at the beginning. Lutheran Church in Canada delegation in the invitation to come to Winnipeg. We of- Ecumenical fered you the openness of the churches, the city, the province, and the country. Who Our ecumenical instincts are deep-rooted. could have imagined what terrible events During the 1960s and 1970s we worked would intervene to create a worldwide cli- toward organic union with the United mate, and a mindset of the Government of Church of Canada. The plan, largely be- Canada, of xenophobia—not just fear of a cause of lack of grassroots Anglican sup- stranger, but suspicion and hatred. port, was defeated at our General Synod. The churches are with you, the govern- Nevertheless, a number of shared minis- ment has failed you. And Canadians here tries, joint Anglican United Church con- know that it has failed us, and I give you a gregations mostly in more isolated parts commitment that our challenge to the gov- of the country, continue to this day. ernment will be strong and consistent. If After Vatican II, we established not only your delegates have been rejected, think theological dialogue with the Roman of the prospect of refugees looking to a Catholic Church, but also an annual dia- country which less than two decades ago logue between bishops of each church. received (and deserved) the Nansen Both continue: the dialogue between bish- Award for support of refugees. No longer! ops is the longest standing of such national But we Anglicans stand in eucharistic dialogues in the world. Then, in the 1980s fellowship with the Evangelical Lutheran appeared on our horizon the Evangelical Church in Canada. So what is our last Lutheran Church in Canada. Born of word? Any Greek could tell you—the inter-Lutheran ecumenical work, this Greek word for “thank you” is first of all a church was searching for a broader ecu- thanksgiving. menical field. At the end of my time as Primate, I am The 1980s (and 1990s) were called, by deeply thankful that I am able to express the Archbishop of Canterbury Robert Runcie, on behalf of my church our gratitude for the “winter of ecumenism.” If there is any- the blessing of your presence in our midst. thing Canadians understand, it is winter. Win- Thanks be to God. ter does not mean death. True, it demonstrates Thank you. the harshness, potentially death-dealing re- alities of nature, but it also gives life. It kills Most Rev. Michael G. Peers, bacteria and germs, the insects that so often Primate, Anglican Church plague us, and so gives life. It is a time of of Canada

170 The Lutheran World Federation Greeting from the Leuenberg Church Fellowship

President Krause, General Secretary Noko, the Leuenberg Church Fellowship that Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, churches which have agreed to pulpit and altar fellowship continue the theological It is my honor and joy to greet you on behalf dialogues on issues which are still divid- of one of the oldest European church fellow- ing, for example, the relation to Judaism ships: The Leuenberg Church Fellowship. and the Old Testament or our understand- Leuenberg is a fellowship of more than 100 ing of the ordained ministry. But, more and Protestant churches from all parts of Europe, more, the fellowship is developing into a mainly Reformed and Lutheran. The fellow- living partnership and working together ship has existed for more than thirty years also in congregational life, in sharing of and is still growing and developing. information and resources. The Leuenberg We in Europe have again during this Church Fellowship is one of the ways in Assembly learned how the churches in which we from our region hope to contrib- other regions, Asia, Africa, and Latin ute to the unity of the church and to re- America, are overcoming confessional ceive the gift of the unity in Christ. barriers and differences by working to- Therefore, it is my pleasure to bring gether in mission and dialogue—in serv- greetings from this European church fel- ing the people and struggling for justice. lowship in assuring you that we are to- This is a gift you bring to the whole fellow- gether in the struggle for and reception of ship and the whole church. Christian unity, although we may some- We in Europe have to admit that times have different ways of doing it. many—most, to be honest—of the divi- May God bless the LWF and this As- sions and splits in the church have begun sembly and all the churches together in in Europe, based on different teachings, bringing God’s will of hope and love, of jus- definitions and understandings of the Chris- tice and peace to our world. tian faith. Therefore, it is necessary for us that we work on overcoming the differ- Rev. Ane Hjerrild, general ences also where the splits have hap- secretary of the Evangelical pened. It is therefore an essential part of Lutheran Church in Denmark

Greeting from the United Church of Canada

To the President and General Secretary of We share with you our historic and con- the Tenth Assembly of the Lutheran World temporary commitment and vision to be- Federation ing a united and uniting church, our doc- trinal beliefs in a Triune God who wills To the People of God gathered at the Tenth peace and justice and our faith claim of Assembly, grace to you and peace from the Bible as foundational authority for the God, Creator and Source of life, life and work of the church. Within this faith, we also share with you the joy and As moderator and acting general secretary cost of discerning God’s will as we seek to it is our honor to send greetings to you from profess our contemporary faith in ways that sisters and brothers in Christ in The United honor God’s peace, love and justice for all Church of Canada. We are delighted that, in people and for the whole of creation. addition to our greetings, former Moderator, We commend you for your courageous Rev. Dr Stan McKay, is representing The leadership in proclaiming unity as God’s gift, United Church of Canada at your gathering. and boldly recognizing that God’s healing is

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 171 needed for the divisions in our Church and you live with vision until God’s will for full- in the brokenness in our world. Our prayers ness of life and unity in the midst of diver- are with you as you engage in the discipline sity is “done on earth as it is in heaven.” and discipleship of decision making, as you In thanksgiving, faith and hope. celebrate through worship, and as you are nurtured through education. Rt Rev. Dr Marion Pardy, May God’s life-sustaining Spirit fill you moderator, and with deep joy on this special occasion; may Rev. Dr Jim Sinclair, the Grace of Christ keep you strong; may acting general secretary

Greeting from the Union of Utrecht of the Old Catholic Churches

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, frame in which more cooperation be- tween our churches will be possible in It is a pleasure to greet the Tenth Assem- the future. bly of the Lutheran World Federation in We thank the Rt Rev. David B. Joslin, Winnipeg, Canada, on behalf of the Union assisting bishop of New Jersey, for his of Utrecht of the Old Catholic Churches. readiness to represent the Union of Utrecht The theme of your encounter, “For the at your Assembly. Together with Father Healing of the World,” expresses your Cwieka, priest of the Old Catholic (Polish- commitment to a proclamation of the gos- National) parish of Winnipeg, he will be pel that will be effective in the struggle able to give the right expression of our against all kinds of injustice and human friendship toward Lutheran fellow Chris- suffering. I am sure you will develop cre- tians. ative ideas and will take concrete initia- May the Lord bless your Assembly and tives in order to strengthen the Christian the Lutheran World Federation and keep witness in our world, and I look forward us all in friendly and constructive relation- to hear about those results from your As- ship with one another so that our common sembly. witness of the liberating force of the Gos- Lutherans and Old Catholics have pel of our Lord may be seen in our lives, much in common. Therefore, I am very churches and societies. glad that an Old Catholic observer is tak- The peace of the Lord remain with you all! ing part in the Anglican-Lutheran dia- logue. It gives us the opportunity to get to Archbishop of Utrecht, Dr Joris know each other better. It is the generous A. O. L. Vercammen, president hospitality of the Anglican Communion that not only offers us this possibility but on behalf of the International Old Catholic also, without doubt, is creating the right Bishop’s Conference

172 The Lutheran World Federation Assembly Day-by-Day

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 173 Opening Day

July 21

A flag displaying the Assembly logo hoisted against the backdrop of a bright and sunny mid-morning sky marked the start of the opening day of the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) Tenth Assembly.

In raising the flag, Winnipeg Deputy Mayor Lillian Thomas (right) paid tribute to Lutherans for their efforts to ensure social justice, peace and charity as tenets of their faith.

Mayor of Winnipeg Glen Murray unveiled a Cana- dian postage stamp that depicted the Assembly logo. The stamp was issued to mark the Assem- bly. Chairperson of the Canadian Postal Corpora- tion Vivian Albo (left) remarked, “This is an im- portant event that will strengthen and enrich the Lutheran church and our society. It is a wonder- ful stamp and a unique memento of this impor- tant spiritual gathering.”

Ceremony and color marked the Assembly’s open- ing eucharistic service. The Lutheran service, held in the Roman Catholic St Boniface Cathe- dral, began with a dramatic procession from the banks of the Red River, where almost 700 Assembly participants had gathered for a ceremony of affirmation of baptism.

174 The Lutheran World Federation Ecumenical quartet: Church leaders at the opening eucha- ristic service in St Boniface Cathedral. From left: Walter Cardinal Kasper, president of the Pontifical Council for Pro- moting Christian Unity (PCPCU); Anglican Church of Canada Primate Most Rev. Michael G. Peers; LWF General Secre- tary Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko and LWF President Bishop em. Dr Christian Krause.

Worshippers received communion from a Canadian Lutheran bishop, Cynthia Halmarson (right), and Liberian Lutheran Bishop Sumoward Harris (center right).

A Canadian Aboriginal elder bestowed a blessing on the Assembly during “The Host Church Presents Itself” evening. Music, drama, comedy and spe- cial effects were combined to impart highlights in a presentation by the host church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (ELCIC). The presenta- tion was designed to give Assembly participants an impression of the role played by this small Lutheran church in Canada’s vast and diverse nation.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 175 LWF President, Bishop em. Dr Christian In his address, LWF General Secretary In her report, LWF Treasurer Ms Inger Krause, in his address to the Assembly, Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko highlighted sig- Johanne Wremer paid tribute to the LWF said that peace between the world’s re- nificant steps taken by the LWF and member churches and partners for their ligions and a common front against ter- its member churches since the 1997 unwavering solidarity and financial rorism are among the top challenges Ninth Assembly in Hong Kong, China, commitment over the past six years, facing Christians in the 21st century. as well as the challenges posed by on- but also called for a “matter-of-fact at- going and emerging concerns. titude on financial policy and practice,” in view of decreasing income.

Day 1

July 22

Press conference following the president’s ad- dress. From left: LWF President Bishop em. Dr Christian Krause, LWF Office for Communication Services Director Ms Karin Achtelstetter.

176 The Lutheran World Federation Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson addressed the Assembly during the extraordinary plenary ses- sion on the denial of visas.

Palestinian Lutheran Bishop Munib A. Younan also addressed the Assembly during the extraordinary plenary session.

At this session, delegates to the LWF Tenth Assembly indicated their intention to participate in a public demonstration on July 29, to protest the Canadian government’s failure to grant visas to 51 delegates and other Assembly participants.

Upon entering a remarkable traveling exhibition of Martin Luther memorabilia, titled, “Martin Luther: The Reformer,” which was unveiled at the Assembly, participants could step back 500 years in time from the modern halls of the Winnipeg Convention Centre into the German Reformation world of Martin and Catherine Luther.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 177 Day 2

July 23

The 90-minute presentation “LWF Presents Itself,” featured dancers from many nations, live music, narration in 12 languages, video and audio tape clips and group singing, to outline what the LWF had accomplished during the six years since the 1997 Ninth Assembly in Hong Kong, China.

“I grew up in the faith of my mother and my grandmother, who told me, ‘When God calls you, you’d better go.’” With these words, Dr Dr h.c. Margot Kässmann, bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover, Germany, introduced her keynote address to the Assembly.

Mr Gary Doer, premier (government leader) of Manitoba, the province which hosted the Assembly, vowed to get to the bottom of the contro- versy surrounding the denial of vi- sas to so many of the international invitees.

178 The Lutheran World Federation Day 3 1

July 24

Walter Cardinal Kasper (1), PCPCU President, in 2 his address to the Assembly, told participants that spiritual ecumenism is the answer to heal- ing the wounds of the world.

Bishop Dr Wesley Kigasung (2), delegate from the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea, reinforced keynote speaker Bishop Kässmann’s theme of the authority of scripture, sola scriptura. He said that human avoidance of responsibility did not change God’s “good and holy intent” for cre- ation. Echoing Kässmann’s words, he said that these stories challenged us to respond to our brothers and sisters “with eyes wide open” to the call to accountability implicit in God’s questions. 3 Ms Virginia Ivañez de Neyeloff (3), delegate from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Venezuela, re- acted to Kässmann’s address from the actual re- gional context of Latin America, where men and especially women feel “the pain of injustice, cor- ruption and unnecessary death.” She reviewed the historical perspective in which Indigenous cultures that once had their own sophisticated links to na- ture were later enslaved and exploited by Euro- pean conquerors, and force-fed a new religion.

In the day’s Bible study presentation under the theme “Forgive and Heal,” Assembly participants from the LWF region of Central Western Europe acted out in silence the story of Jesus and the woman “who was a sinner” (Lk 7:36–50). The dramatic sketch represented the meeting be- tween Jesus and the woman who, with her own tears, washed Jesus’ feet and anointed them.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 179 “Village Groups” were a central feature of the Assembly. This was where Bible study discus- sions took place, and where important implica- tions of the Assembly theme were pursued. Work in the groups developed the substance of the Assembly Message and commitments, through exploration of ten topics based on the Assembly’s overall theme, “For the Healing of the World.” Delegates indicated their preference for a group in advance. The groups delved into such issues as “God’s Healing Gift of Justification,” “The Mis- sion of the Church in Multi-Faith Contexts,” “Jus- tice and Healing in Families” and “Transforming Economic Globalization.”

Day 4

July 25

Youth delegates and stewards used the story of Ruth (Ruth 4:13–17) as a metaphor for this day’s theme, “Reorder Power.” In a breathtakingly rel- evant dramatization, they portrayed the exclusion that Ruth might have felt by holding up a sign that read “VISA,” in reference to the 51 people who had been denied visas by the Canadian government. They also portrayed other groups whom society and the church often reject: those with HIV/AIDS, the poor, the disabled, gay and lesbian persons, and others who experience the pain of exclusion. They concluded with the message of “God’s radi- cal inclusion” that embraces the whole world.

At a special press conference, LWF General Secretary Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko made public a letter he had faxed to the Hon. Denis Coderre, minister for citizenship and immigration in the Canadian government, requesting an- swers to why 51 people had been denied visas to enter Canada to attend the Assembly. Noko specifically asked the minister to respond to allegations reported in the press as supposedly stemming from “federal sources,” that those denied visas include “alleged murderers, embezzlers of church funds and other criminals.” Noko wrote, “I ask you to urgently inform me if these reported allegations are indeed emanating from Citizenship and Immigra- tion Canada, and if they correctly represent the position of your Ministry.”

180 The Lutheran World Federation Day 5

July 26

“Heal our Divisions” was the theme of this day’s Bible study taken from St Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians 2:13–22 and presented by the churches of the LWF region of Central Eastern Europe. In a moving portrayal of humanity’s deep divisions, they used the metaphor of their own divisions before the collapse of communist rule. A videotape showed eastern European churches pockmarked by weapon fire and abandoned. Then, stacking up cardboard boxes to represent walls of division—so familiar to citizens of this region—the members read out a list of opposites representing current divisions: East and West, rich and poor, victim and perpetrator, Lutheran and non-Lutheran. With the theme “For the Healing of the Earth,” an Aboriginal heal- ing liturgy took place in the evening at Holy Trinity Anglican Church. Sweetgrass, sage, cedar and tobacco were burnt for the traditional cleansing ceremony. The liturgy accommodated both traditional and modern elements.

In an Assembly resolution, the LWF “urges the United Nations Security Council to immediately mandate the deployment of a multilateral stabili- zation force to separate the warring sides, to pro- tect civilians, and to disarm and demobilize all fight- ing forces.” The resolution came after a heart-rend- ing briefing on the current situation in Liberia by Bishop Sumoward Harris and Ms Comfort Freeman, delegates from the Lutheran Church in Liberia.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 181 1

2

3 The Rev. Mark S. Hanson (1), ELCA Presiding Bishop, was elected as LWF President on the first round of a secret-ballot vote. He received a majority of 267 votes to 111 votes for the other candidate, Rev. Susan C. Johnson (2), ELCIC Vice-President. Outgoing LWF President Bishop em. Dr Christian Krause (3, left) congratulates LWF President-elect Mark S. Hanson.

On this day, 48 nominees representing the seven LWF regions were elected to the Council, which is responsible for the business of the Federation between Assemblies. The Council elects and di- rects the work of the general secretary, decides the structure of the LWF secretariat and sets the budget of the Federation.

182 The Lutheran World Federation Day 6

July 27

Approximately 1,500 people from all over the world gathered at The Forks* despite the broiling summer sun and little shade. Assembly participants collected with people from the local community in front of a giant stage to sing, dance, clap, pray and praise the Lord along with Jon Buller and the band “Freeman,” the Christian rock band “Krystaal” and a lively Worship Theatre experience entitled “Heal the Land.”

* “The Forks” is a national historic site of Canada. A traditional Aboriginal stop- ping place, with a strategic location at the junction of the Red and Assiniboine rivers that were part of a vast continental network of water routes, it was continu- ously used over the centuries for trans- portation, trade and settlement. The site is now Winnipeg’s “meeting place” where festivals and special events take place.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 183 Some people welcomed the beating sun after a week of meetings in air-conditioned rooms. Oth- ers protected themselves with umbrellas, visors and even hats fashioned out of the day’s edition of the Assembly newspaper, The Source. But no one left. The entertainment and worship presentations held everyone’s attention and, with the sun, warmed hearts and souls.

184 The Lutheran World Federation Day 7

July 28

Delegates from the LWF region of Latin America and the Caribbean during their Bible study pre- sentation.

Mr Peter Prove (left), assistant to the LWF general secretary for international affairs and human rights, responded to journalists at a press conference on the LWF Augusta Victoria Hospital in Jerusalem. Also shown (from right) are Mr Robert Granke, director of the LWF Department for World Service and Ms Pauline Mumia, Lutheran World In- formation (LWI) English-language editor.

A dramatic presentation focusing mainly on the is- sues of HIV/AIDS and human sexuality was a high- light of the youth open hearing at the Assembly. Graphically illustrating their point, youth delegates and stewards, wearing black T-shirts, stood silently on stage with their mouths crisscrossed with stick- ing tape. Around their necks hung signs with the birth and death dates of unnamed people. Written on the lower edge of the signs, in capital letters, was the phrase: “Stop HIV/AIDS.” To conclude, on cue the youth members removed the tape to sym- bolize open communication about the dreaded dis- ease sweeping across many countries.

Delegates and other participants responded to the appeal, made at the youth open hearing, for churches to join together in the fight against the HIV/AIDS pandemic. LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 185 In silent and solemn procession, delegates and Day 8 other participants in the Assembly walked from the Winnipeg Convention Centre (WCC), through the streets of Winnipeg, to the Oodena Circle at The Forks to protest the Canadian government’s July 29 refusal to grant visas to 53 fellow delegates from developing nations.

Healing, Word and Sacrament, and Scripture study—among the essentials of Christian life— were enlivened by the delegates from African churches at the healing service and this day’s eucharistic service and Bible study.

LWF General Secretary Rev. Dr Ishmael Noko (left) unveiled the WCC “Ambassador Plaque” to commemorate the Assembly. ELCIC Vice-Presi- dent Susan Johnson and WCC General Manager Klaus Lahr accompanied him.

186 The Lutheran World Federation Day 9

July 30

The Assembly concluded with a “Message” in many parts, all of which relate to the gathering’s theme “For the Healing of the World.” On the final full day of the Assembly, delegates worked into the evening hours to approve the Message that summarizes major areas of concern and provides direction for LWF activities for the next six years until the next Assembly. Rev. Dr Walter Altmann, president of the Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Confession in Brazil, presented the Message, which acknowledges a “world in need of healing,” and identifies areas of special significance for member churches in the worldwide communion of almost 62 million Lutherans.

At the final press conference of his six-year term as LWF President, Bishop em. Dr Christian Krause reflected on the highlights of his years in office. First and foremost had been his pastoral visits to the LWF member churches worldwide, in particu- lar to the churches of eastern Europe and the Russian Federation, which were in the early stages of transition from communist rule and moving back into the fellowship of the global communion.

Bishop of Greenland Sofie Peterson, Evangeli- cal Lutheran Church in Denmark, during the Bible study presentation by delegates from the LWF region of the Nordic Countries.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 187 Day 10

July 31

With prolonged applause and a standing ovation, the Assembly partici- pants bid farewell to Bishop em. Dr Christian Krause, whose six-year term as LWF President officially ended on this day. Dr Krause was elected to the LWF leading position at the 1997 Ninth Assembly in Hong Kong, China. He was bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Brunswick, Germany, from 1994 until January 2002.

The LWF region of North America Bible study presentation included a dramatic sequence to illustrate the biblical promise of a new heaven and a new earth. This included throwing of maple leaves, Canada’s national symbol.

In Abundance: the last Bible study presentation of the Assembly, on the theme “Fulfill your prom- ises, O God.”

188 The Lutheran World Federation Participants in the Assembly celebrated the end of the 11-day gathering in a closing eucharistic ser- vice at St. Mary’s (Roman Catholic) Cathedral.

Installation of the incoming Council took place during the service.

Go Forth: the new LWF President, Bishop Mark S. Hanson, be- stowed the blessing at the service.

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 189 190 The Lutheran World Federation Assembly Participants

By categories

Accompanying Persons ARNDT-SANDROCK, Gabriele Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover, Press Office Germany include spouses, children, and others, who ac- BELL, Jason company persons accredited in other categories. Winnipeg Free Press Canada They have neither the right to speak nor to vote. BELOW, Jerzy Zwiastun Ewangelicki BESTE, Ingeborg Poland Germany

BRINE, Trevor HAUSKELLER, Juergen A Channel/camera operator Democratic Republic of the Congo Canada KRAUSE, Gertrud CHAVEZ, Mark Germany The Word Alone Network USA LANDGRAF, Katharina Germany CHELL, Dave Canada Lutheran NOKO, Gladys Canada Switzerland

COREY, Whitford SHAFER, Kris Native Communications Inc. USA Canada STREHLOW, William CRAFT, Aimée Switzerland CBC Radio Canada Canada TIMM, Dorothea Germany DAHLKE, Marlon Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Confession in Brazil UMOFFIA, Ekaete Brazil Nigeria

DASGUPTA, Ashoke Accredited Press Freelance Canada include media persons invited from the member DE BOON, Jeff churches and secular press to cover the Assembly. Winnipeg Free Press/photographer Canada

They are accredited through the Office for Com- FABINY, Tamás Duna TV munication Services. They have neither the right Hungary to speak nor to vote. GABUNA, ROBERT ADNAMS, Ian The Filipino Journal The Canadian Lutheran Canada Canada GAJDA, Bogumil ALMUSA, Pirjo CZAS-Polish Press Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Canada Finland GAJDA, Krystyna CZAS-Polish Press Canada

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 191 GALLANT, Marc JACKSON, Marilyn MEURER, Heitor Joerci Winnipeg Free Press/photographer Rupert’s Land News Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Canada Canada Confession in Brazil Brazil GELENCSÉR, György JAKOBSONE, Anita Duna TV Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia MILLER, David Hungary Latvia Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA GIGLIOTTI, Ken JEUTNER, Thomas Winnipeg Free Press Freelance MIRANDA MARTINS, Luciano Canada Evangelical Church of Pomerania Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Germany Confession in Brazil/TV GOSSELIN, Remi Brazil CBC TV JOHANNESSON, Gayle Canada Esprit, Magazine of Evangelical Lutheran MUTIMUREFU, Martin Women EDICISA NEWS GRESSEL-HICHERT, Jürgen Canada Zimbabwe Rundfunk Berlin-Brandenburg Germany KENNY, Peter NDLOVY, Mzilikazi Ecumenical News International CKYN 95.9 FM (The African Summit Radio) GRILLANDA, Jessica Switzerland Canada CBC Canada KOOP, Doug NEETZ, Norbert Christian Week Evangelischer Pressedienst (epd)/ HAHN, Udo Canada photographer United Evangelical Lutheran Church of Germany Germany KRISTENSEN, Vidar Germany Church of Norway NIKOLOU, Joni Norway CBC TV HANAK, Ilse Canada Die Brücke-Evangelischer Arbeitskreis für KROEKER, Irvin Weltmission Rupert’s Land News NIXON-PAULS, Carol Austria Canada Freelance Winnipeg Free Press HANAK, Julius LAMBERT, Steve Canada “SAAT”- Evangelische Kirchenzeitung Canadian Press Austria Canada PAUL, Alexandra Winnipeg Free Press HAWRYLUK, Alexandra LATHROP, John Canada Radio Canada International Episcopal Life Canada USA PROSTREDNIK, Ondrej Slovak Radio/external editor for HEITMANN, F. Michael LAURENCE, Sarah ecumenical news CKJS Radio 810 AM Winnipeg CJOB Slovak Republic Canada Canada REICHARDT BACKMAN, Ida HERBERMANN, Jan Dirk LESCHASIN, Les Canada Lutheran Evangelischer Pressedienst (epd) CKY/TV Canada Switzerland Canada REYNISSON, Haldor HJERRILD, Ane LINDQVIST, Ingmar The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland Freelance Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Iceland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Finland Denmark RICHTER, Daniel Streb LINTON, Mike Evangelical Church of the Lutheran HORVÁTH, Tamás CBC Radio Canada Confession in Brazil/TV Duna TV Canada Brazil Hungary MALKAVAARA-JAASKELAINEN, Mari ROLLASON, Kevin HRYTSAK, Lisa Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Winnipeg Free Press Global News Winnipeg Finland Canada Canada MASSON, MarcAndre SAMSONOW, Jeff HUBER, John George CBC Radio Canada CJOB-68 The Southern Cross/Catholic newspaper Canada Canada USA MELIN, Olav S. SANDERS, Carol IJÄS, Johannes Kyrkans Tidning Winnipeg Free Press Kotimaa Sweden Canada Finland

192 The Lutheran World Federation SAUL, Burkhard BERGE, Gweneth JENSEN, Gordon Evangelischer Pressedienst (epd) Norwegian Church Aid Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Germany Norway Canada

SKUJA-GRISLIS, Indra BREVIK, Synnøve JENSEN, Ruth Cela Biedrs, monthly journal Church of Norway Canadian Lutheran World Relief Canada Norway Canada

STAUFFER, Daniel BROCKMANN, Manfred JOLKKONEN, Jari Lutheran Laity Movement in Canada/ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland newsletter and Other States Finland Canada Russian Federation JØRGENSEN, Knud STOCKER, Andrea BUJNICKA, Urszula Areopagos Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria, Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Norway Press Office Confession in Poland Germany Poland KAYALES, Christina LWF National Committee in Germany TEINILÄ, Mari BULLOCK, M. Wyvetta Germany Kotimaa Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Finland USA KIEFER, Rainer LWF National Committee in Germany ÜCKER, Bianca Daiana CANTELL, Risto Germany Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Confession in Brazil Finland KJÆR, Mogens Brazil Danmission CHADWICK, Joanne Denmark VAN STRAATEN, Tess Evangelical Lutheran Church in America A Channel USA KLEIVANE, Svein Harald Canada Church of Norway CHILDS, Jim Norway WEBER, Hartmut Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Bayerischer Rundfunk USA KNUTH, Hans Christian Germany LWF National Committee in Germany DEFFENBAUGH, Ralston Germany WHITE, Robert Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Christian Current Service KOPPE, Rolf Canada USA Evangelical Church in Germany Germany DENECKE, Norbert Advisers Evangelical Lutheran Church in Italy KRETSCHMAR, Georg Italy Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia and Other States includes representatives of LWF national EDOY, Torill Russian Federation committees, related agencies, invited Church of Norway experts and consultants. Norway LABLANC, Sandra Evangelical Lutheran Church in America GÄFGEN-TRACK, Kerstin USA They have the right to speak, but not to Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Germany LARSON, Duane H. vote. Wartburg Theological Seminary HAHN, Udo USA AHONEN, Risto United Evangelical Lutheran Church of Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Germany LARSON, Rebecca Finland Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA ASANO, Naoki HAUSCHILDT, Friedrich Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church United Evangelical Lutheran Church of LEE, Randall Japan Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Germany USA BENNETT, Josselyn Evangelical Lutheran Church in America HORSFJORD, Vebjorn MAHN, Käte USA Church of Norway LWF National Committee in Germany Norway Germany BERGBUSCH, Katharine Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada JENSEN, Bonnie MALPICA-PADILLA, Rafael Canada Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA USA

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 193 MANSKE, Friedrich ROHRBOUGH, Faith WOLFORD, Kathryn United Evangelical Mission-Communion of Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Lutheran World Relief Churches in Three Continents Canada USA Germany ROSSING, Barbara ZWECK, Wayne MARPLE, Dorothy J. Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago Lutheran Church of Australia Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA Australia USA RUDE, Brian MEISSNER, Herbert Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Delegates Association of Protestant Churches and El Salvador Missions in Germany are nominees from member churches as Germany SANDVAND, Leif Gunnar The Evangelical Lutheran Free Church of provided for in the LWF Constitution. MIDE, Bjorg Norway Norwegian Church Aid Norway Norway Delegates have the right to speak and SCHMIDT, Jerker to vote at the Assembly. MILLER, Charles Church of Sweden Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Sweden AANO, Kjetil USA Church of Norway SEKINO, Kazuhiro Norway MOE-LOBEDA, Cynthia Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Japan AARSETH, Helge USA Church of Norway SILIÄMAA, Leo Norway MOYO, Ambrose FinnChurchAid Lutheran Communion in Southern Africa Finland ABELI, Beatrice Elinami (LUCSA) Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church South Africa SINAGA, Sahala Kenya Indonesian Christian Lutheran Church NISBET, T. Michael Indonesia ABROMEIT, Hans-Jürgen Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Church of Pomerania USA SOLBERG, Terje Germany The Evangelical Lutheran Free Church of NYLAND, Kjell B. Norway ADORJÁNI, Dezsö Z. Church of Norway Norway Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Norway Augsburg Confession in Romania SOMMERFELDT, Atle Romania PFRIMMER, David Norwegian Church Aid Lutheran Office for Public Policy Norway AHLSTRAND, Kajsa Canada Church of Sweden SWANSON, Mark Sweden PLAISIER, Bas Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Uniting Protestant Churches in the USA ALEMU, Netsanet Netherlands The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Netherlands TRESELER, Tobias Mekane Yesus LWF National Committee in Germany Ethiopia PRILOUTSKI, Alexander Germany The Evangelical Lutheran Church of ALFARO ORELLANA, Cecilia Ingria in Russia TVEIT, Olav Fykse Salvadoran Lutheran Synod Russian Federation Church of Norway El Salvador Norway RAUSTØL, Leila Valvik ALTMANN, Walter Norwegian Church Aid VON BONIN, Konrad Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Norway Church Development Service (EED) Confession in Brazil Germany Brazil REYNISSON, Halldór The Evangelical Lutheran Church of VON EHRENHEIM, Carl Gustaf AMAAMBO, Filemon Iceland Church of Sweden The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Iceland Sweden Namibia (ELCIN) Namibia RIEMER, Hilbert WENGERT, Timothy J. Lutheran Church in Korea Evangelical Lutheran Church in America ANDERSON, Ralph Republic of Korea USA Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA RISSANEN, Seppo WILLIAMS, Louise The Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Mission Evangelical Lutheran Church in America ANDREAS, Richard Tsitohafison Finland USA Malagasy Lutheran Church Madagascar

194 The Lutheran World Federation ANDREWS, Jenson Raja BIRK, Jette Walther CLESS, Eva Evangelical Lutheran Church in Myanmar Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Federation of Evangelical Lutheran (Lutheran Bethlehem Church) Denmark Churches in Switzerland Myanmar and the Principality of Liechtenstein BLÜMEL, Matthias Switzerland ANKARSTRAND, Cecilia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Church of Sweden Brunswick CORTES TORRES, Rosa Elena Sweden Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church of Colombia Colombia ANKE, Hans Ulrich BÖHLANDT, Kristina Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony CORTEZ RODRÍGUEZ, Victoria Germany Germany The Nicaraguan Lutheran Church of Faith and Hope ARNDT-SANDROCK, Gabriele BOLAÑOS ZÚÑIGA, Cindy Nicaragua Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Lutheran Costarican Church Germany Costa Rica CZAUDERNA, Dorota Evangelical Church of the Augsburg ASTFALK, Jürgen BONGI, Michal Confession Evangelical Lutheran Church in Italy The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria in Poland Italy Nigeria Poland

BAASLAND, Ernst BORCHOLT, Hans-Peter DAHL, Madeleine Church of Norway Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Church of Sweden Norway Germany Sweden

BABBA, Nemuel A. BORE, Thor Bjarne DAMBMANN, Martin The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria Church of Norway Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Nigeria Norway Denmark

BAÏGO-DARI, Simone-Agathe BORGOARY, Ipendra DAUTHEVILLE, Joël Lutheran Church of the Central African Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church of France Republic India France Central African Republic BOTLHOLE, Basetsana DAVIES, Sarojini BAILABAR, Hawa Vamoulke Evangelical Lutheran Church in Botswana Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia Church of the Lutheran Brethren of Botswana Malaysia Cameroon Cameroon BRAATEN, Jennifer DEISS, Annelise Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Church of the Augsburg Confession of BALICZA, Klára USA Alsace and Lorraine The Evangelical Lutheran Church in France Hungary BRANDY, Hans-Christian Hungary Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover DEPAYSO, Diadem Germany Lutheran Church in the Philippines BANCIN, Timur P. Philippines Pakpak Dairi Christian Protestant Church BUTLER, Addie Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church in America DINSA, Aberash USA The Ethiopian Evangelical Church BANDA, Matildah Mekane Yesus Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zambia BVUMBWE, Joseph Paul Ethiopia Zambia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malawi Malawi DLAMINI, Doreen T. BÁRDOSSY, Tamás Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern The Evangelical Lutheran Church in CARDOZO CARREIRA, Cloves Africa Hungary Evangelical Church of the Lutheran South Africa Hungary Confession in Brazil Brazil DÖRR, Kilian BARNETT, Thomas J. Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sierra CHAN, Kai Yuen Confession in Romania Leone Chinese Rhenish Church, Hong Kong Synod Romania Sierra Leone Hong Kong, China DUBE, Litsietsi M. BECK, Lilian Carmen CHEN, Shu-Chen (Selma) Evangelical Lutheran Church in United Evangelical Lutheran Church The Lutheran Church of Taiwan (Republic Zimbabwe Argentina of China) Zimbabwe Taiwan BESTE, Hermann DUMPYS, Hans Evangelical Lutheran Church of Mecklenburg Lithuanian Evangelical Lutheran Church Germany in Diaspora USA

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 195 EKANEM, Effiong Etim FRITZ, Ilona GRAPE, Margareta The Lutheran Church of Nigeria Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Church of Sweden Nigeria Kingdom of the Netherlands Sweden Netherlands ELLINGER, Hartmut GREGERSEN, Niels Henrik Evangelical Church in Württemberg FURLAN, Ángel F. Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Germany United Evangelical Lutheran Church Denmark Argentina ENTE, Eva Katharina GROEBEN, Christiane North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran GABEL, Elfriede Evangelical Lutheran Church in Italy Church Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Italy Germany Confession in Brazil Brazil GUDIEL PINEDA, Angelina ERKKILÄ, Kristiina Christian Lutheran Church of Honduras Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland GEA, Fatisokhi Honduras Finland Christian Communion of Indonesia Church in Nias (Gereja AMIN) HAAG, Susanne ERNIŠA, Geza Indonesia Evangelical Church in Württemberg Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Germany Confession in Slovenia GEIL, Mette Slovenia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark HABASH, Dalia Denmark The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan ERNSTING, Ute Jerusalem Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover GEMEDA, Yeshimebet Germany The Ethiopian Evangelical Church HAMMAR, Anna Karin Mekane Yesus Church of Sweden ERTMAN, Irma Ethiopia Sweden Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Finland GENA HUGO, Kamen HAMMAR, Karl Gustav Evangelical Lutheran Church in Papua Church of Sweden FILO, Július New Guinea Sweden Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Papua New Guinea Confession in the Slovak Republic HAMUKWAYA, Hilja Slovak Republic GHEBREKRISTOS OGBALIDET, The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Fikreyesus Namibia (ELCIN) FLORES VELASQUEZ, J. Guillermo The Evangelical Church of Eritrea Namibia Christian Lutheran Church of Honduras Eritrea Honduras HANSON, Mark S. GINTERE, Sandra Evangelical Lutheran Church of America FOMGBAMI, Zita Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia USA Evangelical Lutheran Church of Cameroon Latvia Canada HANSSON, Klas GOBENA, Iteffa Church of Sweden FORSBRING, Curt The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Sweden Church of Sweden Mekane Yesus Sweden Ethiopia HARRIS, Sumoward E. Lutheran Church in Liberia FOYLE, Sarah GOBIN, Bibi Zabeida Liberia Lutheran Church in Great Britain Evangelical Lutheran Church in Guyana United Kingdom Guyana HAUSKELLER, Christine Evangelical Lutheran Church in Congo FREEMAN, Comfort M. GOLOSHCHAPOVA, Maria Democratic Republic of the Congo Lutheran Church in Liberia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Liberia and Other States HELMKE, Julia Russian Federation Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria FREYTAG, Ermina Germany North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran GÓMEZ SOTO, Medardo E. Church Salvadoran Lutheran Synod HEMBROM, Ismael Germany El Salvador Bangladesh Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church FREYTAG, Susanne GOYEK DAGA, Robert Bangladesh Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Church of the Lutheran Brethren of Kingdom of the Netherlands Cameroon HEMBROM, Jubily Netherlands Cameroon Bangladesh Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church FRIEDRICH, Johannes GRAGNE, Hunduma Bangladesh Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Germany Mekane Yesus HENRIKSEN, Jan Olav Ethiopia Church of Norway Norway

196 The Lutheran World Federation HERMELINK, Jan ISHAYA, Parmata JÖNSSON, Tobias Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria Church of Sweden Germany Nigeria Sweden

HINOJOSA, Ernie IVAÑEZ DE NEYELOFF, Virginia JUOZAITS, Saulius Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church of Lithuania USA Venezuela Lithuania Venezuela HJERRILD, Ane KABAMBA MUKALA WAKASONKU, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark JAGUCKI, Janusz Daniel Denmark Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Evangelical Lutheran Church in Congo Confession in Poland Democratic Republic of the Congo HOFFMANN, Annegret Poland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chile KAHLANA, Amanda Portia Chile JAGUCKI, Walter Moravian Church in South Africa Lutheran Church in Great Britain South Africa HOLLOWAY, Callon United Kingdom Evangelical Lutheran Church in America KÄHLER, Christoph USA JAIQUIRA, Armando Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church in Thuringia HOLSTENKAMP, Lars Mozambique Germany North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Mozambique Church KAHUTHU, Zachariah Germany JÄRVINEN, Veli-Pekka Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Kenya HOLZE-STÄBLEIN, Oda-Gebbine Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover KAINULAINEN, Pauliina Germany JENSCH, Thomas Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Finland HUBER, Ivo Thuringia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Germany KALIISA, George Wilson Germany Lutheran Church of Rwanda JENSEN, Carol Rwanda HÜBERTZ, Erik Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark USA KAMEETA, Zephania Denmark Evangelical Lutheran Church in the JEPSEN, Holger Republic HUOVINEN, Eero Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark of Namibia (ELCRN) Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Denmark Namibia Finland JEPSEN, Maria KAMHO, Henog Shituuete HUTABARAT, Damseria North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Protestant Christian Batak Church Germany Republic Indonesia of Namibia (ELCRN) JIMÉNEZ MARÍN, Melvin Namibia HUTAGALUNG, Saut Pardamean Lutheran Costarican Church Christian Protestant Church in Indonesia Costa Rica KAO, Yin-Mao Indonesia The Lutheran Church of Taiwan (Republic JOHANNESDOTTER, Jürgen of China) HUTAGALUNG, Sophia Judika Evangelical Lutheran Church of Taiwan Christian Protestant Church in Indonesia Schaumburg-Lippe Indonesia Germany KASCH, Hans-Wilhelm Evangelical Lutheran Church of HUTAGAOL, Rambio Junison JOHNSEN, Tore Mecklenburg Protestant Christian Batak Church Church of Norway Germany Indonesia Norway KÄSSMANN, Margot HUTAURUK, Jubil Raplan JOHNSON, Susan Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Protestant Christian Batak Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Germany Indonesia Canada KAULINGE, Apollos IMMONEN, Maria JONGOLO, Mnyamana Witness Joe The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Namibia (ELCIN) Finland Africa Namibia South Africa ISHAYA, Musa Edward KAUMBA KALUNJELE, Robert The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria JONSDOTTIR, Astridur Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zambia Nigeria The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Zambia Iceland Iceland

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 197 KAYEMO, Feyessa KUGAPPI, Arri LEE, Joanne The Ethiopian Evangelical Church The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Lutheran Church in Singapore Mekane Yesus Ingria in Russia Singapore Ethiopia Russian Federation LEE, Lap Yan KEDING, Reinhard KUMARI, Prasanna Hong Kong and Macau Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia The Arcot Lutheran Church Hong Kong, China (ELCIN-GELC) India Namibia LEE, Mi-Seon KURTJAKOVA, Julia Lutheran Church in Korea KIÆRBECH, Henrik M. The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Republic of Korea Church of Norway Ingria in Russia Norway Russian Federation LERUM, Isaiah Isa The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria KIGASUNG, Wesley KVAMMEN, Ingeborg Nigeria Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua Church of Norway New Guinea Norway LIEBICH, Hartwig Papua New Guinea North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Church LÄÄS, Kadri Germany KIIVIT, Jaan Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church Estonia LIENHARD, Marc Estonia Church of the Augsburg Confession of LAGODA, Ekkehard Alsace and Lorraine KING CHEW (CHANG), Teo (Gideon) Federation of Evangelical Lutheran France Lutheran Church in Malaysia and Singapore Churches in Switzerland and the Malaysia Principality of Liechtenstein LILJE, Dieter Reinhard Switzerland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern KITUTU, Doris Stephen Africa (N-T) Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania LAI, Yoke Kiew South Africa Tanzania Lutheran Church in Malaysia and Singapore Malaysia LINDNER, Gudrun KOLAKOWSKI, Anna Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Church of Lippe [Lutheran Section] LANDGRAF, Gerhard Germany Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Germany LO, Bob KOLLMAR, Peter Tsung Tsin Mission of Hong Kong Evangelical Lutheran Church of LANGE, Änne Hong Kong, China Mecklenburg Evangelical Lutheran Church of Mecklenburg Germany Germany LODBERG, Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark KOMPROE, Lilian LAPSA, Allison Denmark Evangelical Lutheran Church in Suriname Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church Suriname Abroad LORENZ, Dieter Canada Church of Lippe [Lutheran Section] KÖNIG, Elke Germany Evangelical Church of Pomerania LARSSON, Bo Germany Church of Sweden LUBIS, Martina Siregar Sweden Christian Protestant Angkola Church KOVÀCS, Elisabeta Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church of the LASEGAN, Benjamin Augsburg Confession in Romania Lutheran Church in the Philippines LUPANG, Silisia Romania Philippines Basel Christian Church of Malaysia Malaysia KOVÀCS-TÓTH, Márta LASKE, Milton The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Church of the Lutheran MACK, Lindsay Hungary Confession in Brazil Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Hungary Brazil USA

KRUSCHE-RÄDER, Uta LAU, Pui-Ting Christine MADINGA, Mabel Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Tsung Tsin Mission of Hong Kong Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malawi Germany Hong Kong, China Malawi

KUBISZOVÁ, Ingrid LAUSMANN, Carin Freitag MAIER, Gerhard Silesian Evangelical Church of the Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Evangelical Church in Württemberg Augsburg Confession Confession in Brazil Germany Czech Republic Brazil MAJAMAN, Noria KÜENZLEN, Heiner LEE, Hong-Yeol The Protestant Church in Sabah Evangelical Church in Württemberg Lutheran Church in Korea Malaysia Germany Republic of Korea

198 The Lutheran World Federation MALANGEN, Edward MÜLLER, Luise NORDIN, Jennie Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Church of Sweden New Guinea Confession in Austria Sweden Papua New Guinea Austria NORVAISA, Vanda MANNAVA, Raja Kishore MÜNCHOW, Christoph Lithuanian Evangelical Lutheran Church Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony in Diaspora India Germany Canada

MANURUNG, German Oloan Pinda MUNGURE, Irene Doreen NYIWE, Thomas Christian Protestant Church in Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Evangelical Lutheran Church of Cameroon Indonesia Tanzania Cameroon

MANURUNG, John Hasiholan MUNTHE, Edison OBARE OMWANZA, Walter E. The United Protestant Church Simalungun Protestant Christian Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya Indonesia Indonesia Kenya

MARAINEN, Johannes MWAIPOPO, Ambele OLSEN, Eric O. Church of Sweden Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Sweden Tanzania USA

MARTINEZ, Margarita MWAMUGOBOLE, Ipyana A. OLSSON, Tobias Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Church of Sweden Puerto Rico Tanzania Sweden

MATONDANG, Bonar MWAURA, Mary OSBERG, Ingvild Christian Protestant Angkola Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya Church of Norway Indonesia Kenya Norway

MAUDLIN, Timothy MYLLYMÄKI, Katriina PAARMA, Jukka Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland USA Finland Finland

MEINECKE, Renate MYLLYS, Riikka PÄDAM, Tiit Evangelical Lutheran Church in Baden Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church Germany Finland Estonia

MENETTE, Nghinanavo NAINGGOLAN, Pasti PAJUNEN, Mika Evangelical Lutheran Church of Angola Protestant Christian Batak Church Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Angola Indonesia Finland

MGEYEKWA, Zephania NAMUNYEKWA, Titus PANG, Ken Phin Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Evangelical Lutheran Church of Angola Basel Christian Church of Malaysia Tanzania Angola Malaysia

MOGENSEN, Mogens NAPITUPULU, Bonar PARADA FERNÁNDEZ, Nehemías Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Protestant Christian Batak Church Evangelical Lutheran Church of Colombia Denmark Indonesia Colombia

MOOLMAN, Silke NATERSTAD, Inger Anne PARDEDE, Ria Budiweni Sumiati Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Church of Norway Protestant Christian Batak Church Africa (Cape Church) Norway Indonesia South Africa NEGA TESSO, Alemu PARTAJ, Hedwig MOORE, Gladys The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Mekane Yesus Confession in Austria USA Ethiopia Austria

MORROW, Christie NIELSEN, Lars Bom PASTOR, Alexander Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Canada Denmark and Other States Russian Federation MOTSUMI, Lesley G. NILSEN, Ingrid Vad Evangelical Lutheran Church in Botswana Church of Norway PAUL, Julius D. Botswana Norway Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia Malaysia MSANGI, Stephano Ombeni NINGSIH, Apulria Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania The Indonesian Christian Church PETERSEN, Sofie Tanzania Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Greenland

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 199 PETERSOO, Udo RAMANANTSOA, Flore Jacqueline ROTH, Daniele Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church Malagasy Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Abroad Madagascar Germany Canada RAMOS SALAZAR, Humberto ROY, Kalpona Rani PHILIPPI, Ilse Bolivian Evangelical Lutheran Church Bangladesh Lutheran Church Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Bolivia Bangladesh Confession in Romania Romania RANDRIANANDRASANA, Emma ROZITIS, Elmars Malagasy Protestant Church in France Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church PISO, David P. France Abroad Gutnius Lutheran Church-Papua New Germany Guinea RATZ, Edmund W.H. Papua New Guinea Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia RWEYEMAMU, Christa P.K. and Other States Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania POŠKIENE, Milita Ukraine Tanzania Evangelical Lutheran Church of Lithuania Lithuania RAUMA, Kaisa Maria Elina SAARINEN, Risto Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland PRADEL, Margarete Finland Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Germany REPO, Matti SAMOELA, Georges Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Malagasy Lutheran Church PROSTREDNIK, Ondrej Finland Madagascar Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in the Slovak Republic RICHTER, Sabine SAMUEL, Bernice Prema Slovak Republic Evangelical Lutheran Church in Brunswick India Evangelical Lutheran Church Germany Canada PRYTZ, Gunnar Church of Sweden RICHTER, Susanne SANDER, Siegfried Sweden Evangelical Church in Württemberg Lutheran Church in Chile Germany Chile PUKY, Akos A. Evangelical Lutheran Church in Venezuela RIEDEWALD, Steven SANHUEZA RODRIGUEZ, Oscar Mateo Venezuela Evangelical Lutheran Church in Suriname Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chile Suriname Chile PURBA, Burju The Indonesian Christian Church RINDERKNECHT, Jakob SÄRS, Kåre Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland USA Finland PURBA, Erni Julianti Simalungun Protestant Christian Church ROBERT, Marie-France SCHÄFER, Federico Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church of France Evangelical Church of the River Plate France Argentina PURBA, Esther Fomi Simalungun Protestant Christian Church ROEHRS, Petra SCHINDEHÜTTE, Martin Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Africa (N-T) Germany RABENOROLAHY, Benjamin South Africa Malagasy Lutheran Church SCHMIDT, Roger Madagascar ROHLFS, Ulrike Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Evangelical Lutheran Church in Brunswick Germany RABENOROLAHY, Rahantanirina Germany Malagasy Lutheran Church SCHORLING, Christof Madagascar ROHWER, Nils Evangelical Lutheran Church in Baden Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Germany RAKOTOMALALA, Rasoanaivo Africa (Cape Church) Malagasy Protestant Church in France South Africa SCHÜLKE, Heidi France Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria RÖNNBÄCK, Nils Germany RAKOTOMARO, Jean Baptiste Church of Sweden Malagasy Lutheran Church Sweden SCHULTZ, Raymond Madagascar Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada RÖSEL, Kerstin Canada RALIVAO, Helene Evangelical Lutheran Church in Thuringia Malagasy Lutheran Church Germany SCHWEKENDIEK, Michael Madagascar Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover ROSENKVIST, Helle Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Denmark

200 The Lutheran World Federation SCOGGINS, Lillian SIMARMATA, Willem T.P. STÖCKIGT, Beate Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Protestant Christian Batak Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in USA Indonesia Thuringia Germany SEEGER, Heidrun SINAGA, Benny Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia Protestant Christian Batak Church STOFFELS-GRÖHL, Antje (ELCIN-GELC) Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church of Namibia Schaumburg-Lippe SINAGA, Dewi Sri T. Germany SEITZ, Ursula Protestant Christian Batak Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Indonesia STOLL, Peter Germany Evangelical Church in Württemberg SINAMO, Arta Peto Germany SELLE, Esther Pakpak Dairi Christian Protestant Church Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Indonesia STURM, Herwig Germany Evangelical Church of the Augsburg SINGH, Jason Confession in Austria SEMMLER, Margrit The Tamil Evangelical Lutheran Church Austria North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran India Church SUPIRID, Masandu Germany SITIO, Aladin The Protestant Church in Sabah Indonesian Christian Lutheran Church Malaysia SHENGENA, Naomi Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania SWART, Angelene Tanzania SKAERVED, Paul Verner Moravian Church in South Africa Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark South Africa SHILEKA, Suama Naita Denmark The Evangelical Lutheran Church in SZEBIK, Imre Namibia (ELCIN) SKLENAR, Pavel The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia Slovak Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Hungary Confession in Serbia and Montenegro Hungary SIAHAAN, Lydia [formerly Slovak Evangelical Church of Protestant Christian Batak Church the Augsburg Confession in the FR of SZEVERENYIOVA, Renata Indonesia Yugoslavia] Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Serbia-Montenegro Confession in the Slovak Republic SIAHAAN, Marihot Slovak Republic Batak Christian Community Church SKUPCH, Sonia Andrea Indonesia Evangelical Church of the River Plate TAKEMORI, Yoko Argentina Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church SIANTURI, T.R. Mercy Japan Batak Christian Community Church SMOLKA, Katrin Indonesia Church of Sweden TAN, John Yok Han Sweden Lutheran Church in Singapore SIBIYA, Louis Singapore Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern SÖDERBERG, Thomas Africa Church of Sweden TETAC, Lakele South Africa Sweden Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea SIBIYA, Selina SOLLI-SCHØIEN BRODIN, Katinka Papua New Guinea Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Church of Norway Africa Norway THAKURDYAL, Roy South Africa Evangelical Lutheran Church in Guyana SOLOMON, Meenakshi Guyana SIGURBJÖRNSSON, Karl Evangelical Lutheran Church in Madhya The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Pradesh TIMM, Jens Iceland India Evangelical Church in Württemberg Iceland Germany SOREN, Shiblal SILOI, Nakei Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church TJORNEHOJ, Susan E. Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua India Evangelical Lutheran Church in America New Guinea USA Papua New Guinea SØRHEIM, Marita Church of Norway TOBING, Lely SIMANGUNSONG, Harlen Norway The United Protestant Church The Indonesian Christian Church Indonesia Indonesia STEINVALL, Erik Church of Sweden TÓMASDÓTTIR, Kristín SIMANJUNTAK, Rosalina Sweden The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland Indonesian Christian Lutheran Church Iceland Indonesia

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 201 TRANSTRÖMER, Nanna WENZ, Gunther DIETER, Theodor Church of Sweden Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria France Sweden Germany

TSO, Josephine (Shui-Wan) WIEGER, Madeleine DYCK, Eric The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hong Church of the Augsburg Confession of Canada Kong Alsace and Lorraine Hong Kong, China France FERRERO, Emilde Switzerland UIMONEN, Seija WIETZKE, Joachim Evangelical Church in the Republic of North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Church FRADO, Dennis Croatia Germany USA Croatia WONG, William E. GREENAWAY, Kristine UMOFFIA, Dorcas Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Switzerland The Lutheran Church of Nigeria USA Nigeria HARRISON, John YAM, Yuk Ming Christina Canada UPAMA, Visanukorn The Chinese Rhenish Church, Hong Kong The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Synod MATTOX, Mickey Thailand Hong Kong, China France Thailand YAMANOUCHI, Masatoshi PUIPPE, Jean-Charles UTECH, Ilo Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church Switzerland The Nicaraguan Lutheran Church of Faith Japan and Hope ROBERTS, Margaret Nicaragua YAMATSUI, Haruko Guyana Kinki Evangelical Lutheran Church UTURUNCO, Bertha Japan ROOT, Michael Bolivian Evangelical Lutheran Church USA Bolivia YIMAM, Rahel The Ethiopian Evangelical Church SCHRECK, Paul VANAGS, Janis Mekane Yesus USA Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia Ethiopia Latvia SJOBERG, Donald W. YOSHIKAWA, Kiyokazu Canada VIGOUROUX PUSCHMANN, Melanie Kinki Evangelical Lutheran Church Lutheran Church in Chile Japan WECKWERTH, Larry J. Chile Canada YOUNAN, Munib VILANDER, Charlotte Bellinda The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Jerusalem Coopted Staff, Press Africa South Africa ZANG, Abigail BLEZARD, Robert Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA VOIPIO-PULKKI, Liisa-Maria USA Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland EDISON-SWIFT, Paul Finland USA Coopted Staff VOLNY, Vladislav FAST, Barbara Silesian Evangelical Church of the Canada are persons other than paid staff who are Augsburg Confession Czech Republic invited to render certain specific staff HAVINGA, Frerk Andreas Netherlands tasks at the Assembly. VORLÄNDER, Hermann Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria HUNTER, Elizabeth Germany In some cases, the right to speak is USA granted, but not to vote. VRIES, Leonie IMHOFF, Frank Evangelical Lutheran Church in the USA BACH, Sandra Republic of Namibia (ELCRN) Germany Namibia JAENICKE, Alexandra France BALTRUWEIT, Fritz WARTENBERG-POTTER, Bärbel Germany North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Church KARASCH, Regina Germany Germany BRUGH, Lorraine USA WEJRYD, Anders KEMPF, Christian Church of Sweden France Sweden

202 The Lutheran World Federation KITANGE, Seth CUTHBERT, Raymond NYOMI, Setri Tanzania Disciples of Christ World Alliance of Reformed Churches Canada Switzerland KRARUP, Niels Thure Denmark FREEMAN, George PEERS, Michael World Methodist Council Anglican Church of Canada KRIEGER, Mary USA Canada Canada FREY-REININGHAUS, Gerhard PETERSON, John L. LANG, Rainer Evangelical Church of Czech Brethren The Anglican Communion Germany Czech Republic United Kingdom

MARTIN, Ava Odom FRIES, Paul PIRRI-SIMONIAN, Teny USA Reformed Church in America World Council of Churches USA Switzerland MAVUNDUSE, Diana Canada GRAZ, John ROBINSON, Earl General Conference of Seventh-day The Salvation Army MÉNDEZ, Suecia Adventists Canada Cuba USA ROBINSON, Benita MESHACK, Samuel HARDER, Helmut The Salvation Army India Mennonite World Conference Canada Canada PAISLEY, Rex TÜRK, Matthias USA JARMUS, Andrew Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Ecumenical Patriarchate Unity RICHTER, Konstanze Canada Vatican City Germany JOSLIN, David B. WEISGERBER, James RIETH, Klaus The International Old Catholic Bishop’s Archdiocese of Winnipeg Germany Conference Canada USA SHAFER, Eric WIEBE, David USA KASPER, Walter Mennonite World Conference Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Canada TAYLOR, Susan Unity Canada Vatican City WINBUSH, Robina M. Presbyterian Church (USA) WESTPHAL, Fritz KIESCHNICK, Gerald B. USA France The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod USA Ex-Officio Participants Ecumenical Representatives MAYAN, Ralph E. Lutheran Church-Canada are members of the Council (voting and Canada are persons invited by the LWF to partici- Advisers) who are not otherwise del- pate in the Assembly part of the time or MBANG, Sunday egates from their churches. full time. Normally, they have neither the World Methodist Council Nigeria right to speak nor to vote, except if re- They have the right to speak, but not to MCDONALD, Sandy quested to address the Assembly with a vote at the Assembly. Presbyterian Church in Canada greeting or such. Canada AKPAN, Brenda BARKO, Kwame The Lutheran Church of Nigeria MCKAY, Stan Friends World Committee for Consultation Nigeria United Church of Canada Canada Canada ARNASON, Thorbjörn BARNETT-COWAN, Alyson The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland MÉNDEZ, Héctor Anglican Church of Canada Iceland World Council of Churches Canada Cuba CORZO, Alfonso BEALS, Cheryl Ann Evangelical Lutheran Church of Colombia NAFZGER, Samuel Baptist World Alliance Colombia International Lutheran Council Canada USA DEIFELT, Wanda CAMERON, Gregory Evangelical Church of the Lutheran NIGHSWANDER, Dan The Anglican Communion Confession in Brazil Mennonite Church in Canada United Kingdom Brazil Canada

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 203 DERESSA, Belletech MEURER, Heitor Joerci they have neither the right to speak nor Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Church of the Lutheran USA Confession in Brazil to vote, except if requested to address Brazil the Assembly with a greeting or such. ETO, Naozumi Former LWF presidents and general sec- Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church MUSHEMBA, Samson Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania retaries may be granted the right to Tanzania speak during the entire Assembly. GERHOLD, Ernst-Christian Evangelical Church of the Augsburg NAGLE, Susan APPEL, André Confession in Austria Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Church of the Augsburg Confession of Austria USA Alsace and Lorraine France GRANTSON, Emmanuel NORDSTOKKE, Kjell Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Church of Norway DÖMER, Cornelia USA Norway Luther Center Wittenberg Germany HANSEN, Guillermo ORTEGA-EHRETH, Dianha United Evangelical Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in America ECHOLS, James K. Argentina USA Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago USA HARMATI, Béla PAZA, Anita Varsbergs The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hungary Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church Abroad HALMARSON, Cindy Hungary USA Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Canada HINRICHS, Renata PORVARI, Markku Silesian Evangelical Church of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland KÖHLER, Katja Augsburg Confession Finland Luther Center Wittenberg Czech Republic Germany RICHTER-REIMER, Ivoni JANSSEN VAN RAAY, Mary E. Evangelical Church of the Lutheran KRISTENSON, Stephen P. Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Confession in Brazil Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Kingdom of the Netherlands Brazil Canada Netherlands ROBINSON, Philip J. PEDERSEN, Jeffrey JEUTNER, Thomas Evangelical Lutheran Church in Botswana Luther Center Wittenberg Evangelical Church of Pomerania Botswana USA Germany TATSENKO, Tamara PHILLIPS, Donald KAMAU, Paul Mbugua Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Anglican Church of Canada Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church and Other States Canada Kenya Russian Federation PREIBISCH, Gerhard KIRCHHEIM, Huberto TRACK, Joachim Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Canada Confession in Brazil Germany Germany PRYSE, Michael WREMER, Inger Johanne Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada KLEIN, Christoph Church of Norway Canada Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Norway Confession in Romania ROTH, Diethardt Romania ZARI-DOKA, Madeleine Independent Evangelical Lutheran Church Lutheran Church of the Central African Germany KRAUSE, Christian Republic Evangelical Lutheran Church in Brunswick Central African Republic SMITH, Richard M. Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Canada KUSAWADEE, Banjob Guests The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Thailand Thailand are persons invited by the LWF to par- International Volunteer

LAM, Tak Ho ticipate in the Assembly part of the time SMITH, Paul The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hong or full time, i.e. former LWF presidents, Australia Kong Hong Kong, China general secretaries, representatives from other faith communities, host church LINDNER, Wolfgang guests, officials of the government in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Thuringia Germany host country or international organiza- tions (e.g. United Nations). Normally,

204 The Lutheran World Federation Interpreters / Translators Local Staff LWF Staff are persons invited by the LWF to facili- are persons invited from the host church, are staff at headquarters or in the field who tate discussion at the Assembly through the Evangelical Lutheran Church in are needed for specific tasks. interpretation and translation. Canada, to provide staff work at the Assembly. In some cases the right to speak is They have neither the right to speak nor granted, but not to vote. to vote. In some cases the right to speak is granted, but not to vote. The following are headquarters staff ARROYABE, Estanislao Austria unless otherwise indicated: BERGLUND, Gerlinde Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada BAYERLEIN, Birgit ACHTELSTETTER, Karin Canada Germany BENESCH, Iris FOMGBAMI, Etienne BEAUDRY, Albert Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Canada BENGTSSON, Béatrice Canada

BROWN, Manuela BLOOMQUIST, Karen HALMARSON, Jim Switzerland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada BOND-NASH, Janet Canada FISCHER-DUCHÂBLE, Nicole Switzerland BÖTTCHER, Reinhard JOHNSON, Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada GINGLAS-POULET, Roswitha BUMM, Michael Canada France CAMADDO, Maryssa KRIEGER, Kelvin GRIFFITHS, Elaine Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Germany COERVER, Arno Canada Department for World Service KELLERSCH, Claudia Mauritania LECUYER, Doreen USA Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada DAMERELL, John Canada KULL, Margrit USA DEGEFA, Lemma LONG, Judy Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada LINDENBERG DE DELMONTE, Maria EGGERT, Margit Canada C. Elisabeth Uruguay EGLI, Marlise LORCH, Rhonda Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada NAGY, Françoise FELLER, Catherine Canada Switzerland FILIBUS, Musa MANN, Caroline OTZINGER, Dagmar T. L. Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Canada FISTAROL, Beate Canada

PATER, Margaret A. FRIEDLI, Shelagh SAUER, Elaine Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada GALLAY, Stéphane Canada PAUL, Tatjana Canada GRANKE, Robert SCHNEIDER, Juliann Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada RENAUD, M.-Christine GRAUMANN, Sybille Canada Canada GRÖTZSCH, Dirk-Michael SCHULTZ, Faye RICHTER, Dorothee-Madeleine Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Switzerland HARAHAP, Ginda Canada

SALA-SKUP, Magaly JOACHIM, Angelika VINCE, Ruth Canada Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada JOST, Howard Canada TATU, Evelyne Lutheran World Service (India) Switzerland India WILKER, Heidi Blessed Events VÁZQUEZ, Leonor Angela JUNGE, Martin Canada Switzerland JUSSILA, Päivi

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 205 KLAAS, Inge Observers ALBARRACIN, Roberto Carlos United Evangelical Lutheran Church KRÄHENBÜHL SCHULTZ, Ingrid Argentina are representatives of LWF Recognized LEICHNITZ, Arthur AUGUSTINE, Akilan Arunkumar Congregations and Councils as provided The Arcot Lutheran Church LUKAS, Ireneusz for in the LWF Constitution. India Regional Office in Central and Eastern Europe (ROCEE) CHKOURLIATIEVA, Olga Slovak Republic They have neither the right to speak nor Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia to vote. and Other States MAGNUS, Kathy Russian Federation Regional Office in North America (RONA) BRUCH, Thomas USA The Lutheran Council of Great Britain CHOU, Jason United Kingdom The Lutheran Church of Taiwan (Republic MAUGUÉ, Marianne of Taiwan) TORRES, Adita Taiwan MILLS, Daranne Peruvian Evangelical Lutheran Church Peru ERNIŠA, Aleksander MOYO, Enos Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Zambia Christian Refugee Service Confession in Slovenia Zambia Representatives Slovenia

MUMIA, Pauline FOMGBAMI, Samuel are representatives from associate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Cameroon NIEDERBERGER, Stéfan member churches as provided for in the Canada LWF Constitution. NIKOLAISEN, Hermine GULDANOVA, Eva DWS Balkans Program Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Serbia-Montenegro Representatives have the right to speak, Confession in the Slovak Republic Slovak Republic NOKO, Ishmael but not to vote at the Assembly, and cannot hold elective office in the LWF. GUNDERSEN, Harald OPPEGAARD, Sven Church of Norway KIMURA, Shigeo Norway PIMPIN, Wendy Japan Lutheran Church Japan GUNNARSSON, Jon Omar PROVE, Peter The Evangelical Lutheran Church of LØYNING, Arnfinn Iceland RANTANEN, Pauli The Evangelical Lutheran Free Church of Iceland Norway RASOLONDRAIBE, Péri Norway JAESCHKE, Dion Lutheran Church of Australia RENFER, Rudolf SEMMLER, Michael Australia Lutheran Church of Australia ROALDSETH MOYER, Kristin Australia KADZAKO, Anthony Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malawi SINGH, Priscilla SMITH, Heidi Maree Malawi Lutheran Church of Australia SMITH, Pauline A. Australia KAUKO, Jaakko Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland SYLLA, Jeannette Finland Stewards TYLER, Peter KAVIKANDO, Hans Joacquim Evangelical Lutheran Church in Botswana VALERIANO, Teresita are persons invited by the LWF from Botswana member churches, which appointed WÖHLE, Andreas KOSZTA, Emese them, to serve as stewards at the As- Evangelical Lutheran Church of the WULFHORST, Ingo sembly. Augsburg Confession in Romania Romania YIP, Man Hei They have neither the right to speak nor LIVERPOOL, Diana. B. M to vote. Evangelical Lutheran Church in Guyana Guyana AARTSEN, Marieke Evangelical Lutheran Church in the LÜTGE, Udo Werner Kingdom of the Netherlands Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Netherlands Africa (N-T) South Africa

206 The Lutheran World Federation LUUP, Silja YOUNAN, Anna Liza FISHER, David Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan USA Estonia Jerusalem GRISLIS, Egil MANGALE, Christine Kinyavu Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church Visitors Canada Kenya GUECK, Martin are persons attending the Assembly part MILIAUSKAS, Liudas Kairos Europa Evangelical Lutheran Church of Lithuania of the time or full time. Normally, these Germany Lithuania persons are individual members of a HANSON, Ione MOORE LESKO, Kristine Cecilia member church, from which an endorse- Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Lutheran Church in ment is requested. They have neither USA Venezuela the right to speak nor to vote. Venezuela HORTON, Loretta Elisa Evangelical Lutheran Church in America ALBERTSON, Elizabeth PASTERNY, Natalia USA Wartburg Theological Seminary Evangelical Church of the Augsburg USA Confession in Poland HOUGEN, Philip Poland Evangelical Lutheran Church in America BENZ, Paul USA Lutheran Public Policy Office PEAWONG, Nittaya USA The Evangelical Lutheran Church in JENSEN, Richard A. Thailand USA BERGQUIST, Angela Thailand Luther Theological Seminary Saskatoon JOHNSON, Carl Canada RANKER, Raymond USA Evangelical Lutheran Church in America BIANCHI, Ed USA JOHNSON, Sue Kairos USA Canada RAVELOARIJAONA, Vola Olisoa Malagasy Protestant Church in France KERSTEN, Thomas BRAATEN, Conrad France Christ Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in America British Columbia Synod USA RAZANAPARANY, Erica Canada Malagasy Protestant Church in France BRANDSTORP, Helen France KIRSONS, Maris Norway Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church SAKAMOTO, Noriko Abroad BROWN, Mark B. Kinki Evangelical Lutheran Church Canada Lutheran Office for Governmental Affairs Japan USA KNUTSON, Lanny SCHELDE CHRISTENSEN, Kåre Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada DAHLEN, Rey Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Canada Canada Denmark KRISTENSEN BOLET, Linda DAHLSENG, Brent SOLNTSEVA, Alina Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Evangelical Lutheran Church in America The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Canada USA Ingria in Russia Russian Federation KUHNERT, Karen DUCHROW, Ulrich Canada Kairos Europa TAN, James Germany Lutheran Church in Malaysia and KUHNERT, Peter Singapore Canada DUMPYS, Donna Malaysia Lithuanian Evangelical Lutheran Church LEFFLER, Lois in Diaspora THURNIM, Kelly USA USA Evangelical Lutheran Church in Suriname Suriname LEWIS, Beth ELLINGER, Annemarie Evangelical Lutheran Church in America/ Germany WANJA, Grace Augsburg Fortress Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya USA ERDMAN, James W. Kenya Living Lord Lutheran Church LINDNER, Peter USA WEISS, Kathrin Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church of ERDMAN, Johanna L. Mecklenburg MAGNUS, Richard Living Lord Lutheran Church Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA USA

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 207 MCCORMICK, Paul ROHLFS, Wolfgang TRUMM, Sara Canada Germany Wartburg Theological Seminary USA NELSON, Sidney SAYLER, Gwen Canada Wartburg Theological Seminary VANKER, Carol USA Canada OPPEGAARD HILL, Susan Switzerland SCHOCK, Twila VANKER, Peeter Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Canada OST, Debra Wittenberg Center Wartburg Theological Seminary Germany WACHOWIAK, Heidi USA Canada SCHULZ LAMAR, Sabine OSTERCAMP, Kristin Emma Wartburg Theological Seminary WALLACE, Gregg Wartburg Theological Seminary USA USA USA SEMMLER, Christine WALLACE, Robert PATTERSON, Patrick A. Lutheran Church of Australia Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA Australia USA

POST BUSHKOFSKY, Linda STARR, Valora WEBSTER, Linda Eileen Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Wartburg Theological Seminary USA USA USA

PRADEL, Hans-Eberhard STUCKEY Sr, Gene WILLIAMSON, Susan Germany Zion’s Lutheran Church Wartburg Theological Seminary USA USA RATZ, Dorothea Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia SWANSON, William WUSHKE, Ralph Carl and Other States Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Canada Ukraine Wittenberg Center Germany RAUSCH, Carl Kairos TICKNOR, Jay Canada Wartburg Theological Seminary USA REES-ROHRBACHER, Paul St John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church TIDEMANN MINNICK, Lynda M. USA USA

208 The Lutheran World Federation Assembly Participants

Alphabetical List

AANO, Kjetil ALBARRACIN, Roberto Carlos Delegate Steward Church of Norway United Evangelical Lutheran Church Norway Argentina

AARSETH, Helge ALBERTSON, Elizabeth Delegate Visitor Church of Norway Wartburg Theological Seminary Norway USA

AARTSEN, Marieke ALEMU, Netsanet Steward Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Kingdom of The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus the Netherlands Ethiopia Netherlands ALFARO ORELLANA, Cecilia ABELI, Beatrice Elinami Delegate Delegate Salvadoran Lutheran Synod Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church El Salvador Kenya ALMUSA, Pirjo ABROMEIT, Hans-Jürgen Accredited Press Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Evangelical Church of Pomerania Finland Germany ALTMANN, Walter ACHTELSTETTER, Karin Delegate LWF Staff Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Confession in Brazil ADNAMS, Ian Brazil Accredited Press The Canadian Lutheran AMAAMBO, Filemon Canada Delegate The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia ADORJÁNI, Dezsö Z. (ELCIN) Delegate Namibia Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Augsburg Confession in Romania ANDERSON, Ralph Romania Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in America AHLSTRAND, Kajsa USA Delegate Church of Sweden ANDREAS, Richard Tsitohafison Sweden Delegate Malagasy Lutheran Church AHONEN, Risto Madagascar Adviser Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland ANDREWS, Jenson Raja Finland Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Myanmar AKPAN, Brenda (Lutheran Bethlehem Church) Ex-Officio Participant Myanmar The Lutheran Church of Nigeria Nigeria ANKARSTRAND, Cecilia Delegate Church of Sweden Sweden

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 209 ANKE, Hans Ulrich BAILABAR, Hawa Vamoulke BELOW, Jerzy Delegate Delegate Accredited Press Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Church of the Lutheran Brethren of Zwiastun Ewangelicki Germany Cameroon Poland Cameroon APPEL, André BENESCH, Iris Guest BALICZA, Klára LWF Staff Church of the Augsburg Confession of Delegate Alsace and Lorraine The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hungary BENGTSSON, Béatrice France Hungary LWF Staff

ARNASON, Thorbjörn BALTRUWEIT, Fritz BENNETT, Josselyn Ex-Officio Participant Coopted Staff Adviser The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Iceland Germany USA

ARNDT-SANDROCK, Gabriele BANCIN, Timur P. BENZ, Paul Delegate Delegate Visitor Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Pakpak Dairi Christian Protestant Church Lutheran Public Policy Office Germany Indonesia USA

ARNDT-SANDROCK, Gabriele BANDA, Matildah BERGBUSCH, Katharine Accredited Press Delegate Adviser Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zambia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Germany Zambia Canada

ARROYABE, Estanislao BÁRDOSSY, Tamás BERGE, Gweneth Interpreter/Translator Delegate Adviser Austria The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Norwegian Church Aid Hungary Norway ASANO, Naoki Hungary Adviser BERGLUND, Gerlinde Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church BARKO, Kwame Local Staff Japan Ecumenical Representative Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Friends World Committee for Consultation Canada ASTFALK, Jürgen Canada Delegate BERGQUIST, Angela Evangelical Lutheran Church in Italy BARNETT, Thomas J. Visitor Italy Delegate Luther Theological Seminary Saskatoon Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sierra Canada AUGUSTINE, Akilan Arunkumar Leone Steward Sierra Leone BESTE, Hermann The Arcot Lutheran Church Delegate India BARNETT-COWAN, Alyson Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ecumenical Representative Mecklenburg BAASLAND, Ernst Anglican Church of Canada Germany Delegate Canada Church of Norway BESTE, Ingeborg Norway BAYERLEIN, Birgit Accompanying Person Interpreter/Translator Germany BABBA, Nemuel A. Germany Delegate BIANCHI, Ed The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria BEALS, Cheryl Ann Visitor Nigeria Ecumenical Representative Kairos Baptist World Alliance Canada BACH, Sandra Canada Coopted Staff BIRK, Jette Walther Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria BEAUDRY, Albert Delegate Germany Interpreter/Translator Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Canada Denmark BAÏGO-DARI, Simone-Agathe Delegate BECK, Lilian Carmen BLEZARD, Robert Lutheran Church of the Central African Delegate Coopted Staff, Press Republic United Evangelical Lutheran Church USA Central African Republic Argentina BLOOMQUIST, Karen BELL, Jason LWF Staff Accredited Press Winnipeg Free Press Canada

210 The Lutheran World Federation BLÜMEL, Matthias BRINE, Trevor CARDOZO CARREIRA, Cloves Delegate Accredited Press/Camera Operator Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in A Channel Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Brunswick Canada Confession in Brazil Germany Brazil BROCKMANN, Manfred BÖHLANDT, Kristina Adviser CHADWICK, Joanne Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Adviser Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony and Other States Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Germany Russian Federation USA

BOLAÑOS ZÚÑIGA, Cindy BROWN, Manuela CHAN, Kai Yuen Delegate Interpreter/Translator Delegate Lutheran Costarican Church Switzerland The Chinese Rhenish Church, Hong Kong Costa Rica Synod BROWN, Mark B. Hong Kong, China BOND-NASH, Janet Visitor LWF Staff Lutheran Office for Governmental Affairs CHAVEZ, Mark USA Accredited Press BONGI, Michal The Word Alone Network Delegate BRUCH, Thomas USA The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria Observer Nigeria The Lutheran Council of Great Britain CHELL, Dave United Kingdom Accredited Press BORCHOLT, Hans-Peter Canada Lutheran Delegate BRUGH, Lorraine Canada Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Coopted Staff Germany USA CHEN, Shu-Chen (Selma) Delegate BORE, Thor Bjarne BUJNICKA, Urszula The Lutheran Church of Taiwan (Republic Delegate Adviser of China) Church of Norway Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Taiwan Norway Confession in Poland Poland CHILDS, Jim BORGOARY, Ipendra Adviser Delegate BULLOCK, M. Wyvetta Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church Adviser USA India Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA CHKOURLIATIEVA, Olga BOTLHOLE, Basetsana Steward Delegate BUMM, Michael Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Botswana LWF Staff and Other States Botswana Russian Federation BUTLER, Addie BÖTTCHER, Reinhard Delegate CHOU, Jason LWF Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Steward USA The Lutheran Church of Taiwan (Republic BRAATEN, Jennifer of China) Delegate BVUMBWE, Joseph Paul Taiwan Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Delegate USA Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malawi CLESS, Eva Malawi Delegate BRAATEN, Conrad Federation of Evangelical Lutheran Visitor CAMADDO, Maryssa Churches in Switzerland and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America LWF Staff Principality of Liechtenstein USA Switzerland CAMERON, Gregory BRANDSTORP, Helen Ecumenical Representative COERVER, Arno Visitor The Anglican Communion LWF Staff Norway United Kingdom Department for World Service Mauritania BRANDY, Hans-Christian CANTELL, Risto Delegate Adviser COREY, Whitford Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Accredited Press Germany Finland Native Communications Inc. Canada BREVIK, Synnøve Adviser Church of Norway Norway

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 211 CORTES TORRES, Rosa Elena DAVIES, Sarojini DÖRR, Kilian Delegate Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Colombia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Colombia Malaysia Confession in Romania Romania CORTEZ RODRÍGUEZ, Victoria DE BOON, Jeff Delegate Accredited Press/photographer DUBE, Litsietsi M. The Nicaraguan Lutheran Church of Faith Winnipeg Free Press Delegate and Hope Canada Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe Nicaragua Zimbabwe DEFFENBAUGH, Ralston CORZO, Alfonso Adviser DUCHROW, Ulrich Ex-Officio Participant Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Visitor Evangelical Lutheran Church of Colombia Service Kairos Europa Colombia USA Germany

CRAFT, Aimée DEGEFA, Lemma DUMPYS, Donna Accredited Press LWF Staff Visitor CBC Radio Canada Lithuanian Evangelical Lutheran Church Canada DEIFELT, Wanda in Diaspora Ex-Officio Participant USA CUTHBERT, Raymond Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Ecumenical Representative Confession in Brazil DUMPYS, Hans Disciples of Christ Brazil Delegate Canada Lithuanian Evangelical Lutheran Church DEISS, Annelise in Diaspora CZAUDERNA, Dorota Delegate USA Delegate Church of the Augsburg Confession of Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Alsace and Lorraine DYCK, Eric Confession in Poland France Coopted Staff Poland Canada DENECKE, Norbert DAHL, Madeleine Adviser ECHOLS, James K. Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Italy Guest Church of Sweden Italy Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago Sweden USA DEPAYSO, Diadem DAHLEN, Rey Delegate EDISON-SWIFT, Paul Visitor Lutheran Church in the Philippines Coopted Staff, Press Canada Philippines Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA DAHLKE, Marlon DERESSA, Belletech Accredited Press Ex-Officio Participant EDOY, Torill Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Adviser Confession in Brazil USA Church of Norway Brazil Norway DIETER, Theodor DAHLSENG, Brent Coopted Staff EGGERT, Margit Visitor Institute for Ecumenical Research, LWF Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Strasbourg USA France EGLI, Marlise LWF Staff DAMBMANN, Martin DINSA, Aberash Delegate Delegate EKANEM, Effiong Etim Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Delegate Denmark Mekane Yesus The Lutheran Church of Nigeria Ethiopia Nigeria DAMERELL, John LWF Staff DLAMINI, Doreen T. ELLINGER, Annemarie Delegate Visitor DASGUPTA, Ashoke Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Germany Accredited Press/freelance Africa Canada South Africa ELLINGER, Hartmut Delegate DAUTHEVILLE, Joël DÖMER, Cornelia Evangelical Church in Württemberg Delegate Guest Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church of France Luther Center Wittenberg France Germany

212 The Lutheran World Federation ENTE, Eva Katharina FILO, Július FREYTAG, Ermina Delegate Delegate Delegate North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Church Evangelical Church of the Augsburg North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Church Germany Confession in the Slovak Republic Germany Slovak Republic ERDMAN, James W. FREYTAG, Susanne Visitor FISCHER-DUCHÂBLE, Nicole Delegate Living Lord Lutheran Church Interpreter/Translator Evangelical Lutheran Church in the USA Switzerland Kingdom of the Netherlands Netherlands ERDMAN, Johanna L. FISHER, David Visitor Visitor FRIEDLI, Shelagh Living Lord Lutheran Church USA LWF Staff USA FISTAROL, Beate FRIEDRICH, Johannes ERKKILÄ, Kristiina LWF Staff Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland FLORES VELASQUEZ, J. Guillermo Germany Finland Delegate Christian Lutheran Church of Honduras FRIES, Paul ERNIŠA, Aleksander Honduras Ecumenical Representative Steward Reformed Church in America Evangelical Church of the Augsburg FOMGBAMI, Etienne USA Confession in Slovenia Local Staff Slovenia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada FRITZ, Ilona Canada Delegate ERNIŠA, Geza Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Delegate FOMGBAMI, Samuel Kingdom of the Netherlands Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Steward Netherlands Confession in Slovenia Evangelical Lutheran Church of Cameroon Slovenia Canada FURLAN, Ángel F. Delegate ERNSTING, Ute FOMGBAMI, Zita United Evangelical Lutheran Church Delegate Delegate Argentina Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Evangelical Lutheran Church of Cameroon Germany Canada GABEL, Elfriede Delegate ERTMAN, Irma FORSBRING, Curt Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Delegate Delegate Confession in Brazil Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Church of Sweden Brazil Finland Sweden GABUNA, ROBERT ETO, Naozumi FOYLE, Sarah Accredited Press Ex-Officio Participant Delegate The Filipino Journal Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church Lutheran Church in Great Britain Canada Japan United Kingdom GÄFGEN-TRACK, Kerstin FABINY, Tamás FRADO, Dennis Adviser Accredited Press Coopted Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Duna TV Lutheran Office for World Community Germany Hungary USA GAJDA, Bogumil FAST, Barbara FREEMAN, Comfort M. Accredited Press Coopted Staff, Press Delegate CZAS - Polish Press Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Lutheran Church in Liberia Canada Canada Liberia GAJDA, Krystyna FELLER, Catherine FREEMAN, George Accredited Press LWF Staff Ecumenical Representative CZAS - Polish Press World Methodist Council Canada FERRERO, Emilde USA Coopted Staff GALLANT, Marc Raptim S.A. FREY-REININGHAUS, Gerhard Accredited Press/photographer Switzerland Ecumenical Representative Winnipeg Free Press Evangelical Church of Czech Brethren Canada FILIBUS, Musa Czech Republic LWF Staff GALLAY, Stéphane LWF Staff

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 213 GEA, Fatisokhi GÓMEZ SOTO, Medardo E. GRISLIS, Egil Delegate Delegate Visitor Christian Communion of Indonesia Church Salvadoran Lutheran Synod Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada in Nias (Gereja AMIN) El Salvador Canada Indonesia GOSSELIN, Remi GROEBEN, Christiane GEIL, Mette Accredited Press Delegate Delegate CBC TV Evangelical Lutheran Church in Italy Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Canada Italy Denmark GOYEK DAGA, Robert GRÖTZSCH, Dirk-Michael GELENCSÉR, György Delegate LWF Staff Accredited Press Church of the Lutheran Brethren of Duna TV Cameroon GUDIEL PINEDA, Angelina Hungary Cameroon Delegate Christian Lutheran Church of Honduras GEMEDA, Yeshimebet GRAGNE, Hunduma Honduras Delegate Delegate The Ethiopian Evangelical Church The Ethiopian Evangelical Church GUECK, Martin Mekane Yesus Mekane Yesus Visitor Ethiopia Ethiopia Kairos Europa Germany GENA HUGO, Kamen GRANKE, Robert Delegate LWF Staff GULDANOVA, Eva Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua Steward New Guinea GRANTSON, Emmanuel Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Papua New Guinea Ex-Officio Participant Confession in the Slovak Republic Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Slovak Republic GERHOLD, Ernst-Christian USA Ex-Officio Participant GUNDERSEN, Harald Evangelical Church of the Augsburg GRAPE, Margareta Steward Confession in Austria Delegate Church of Norway Austria Church of Sweden Norway Sweden GHEBREKRISTOS OGBALIDET, GUNNARSSON, Jon Omar Fikreyesus GRAUMANN, Sybille Steward Delegate LWF Staff The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland The Evangelical Church of Eritrea Iceland Eritrea GRAZ, John Ecumenical Representative HAAG, Susanne GIGLIOTTI, Ken General Conference of Seventh-day Delegate Accredited Press Adventists Evangelical Church in Württemberg Winnipeg Free Press USA Germany Canada GREENAWAY, Kristine HABASH, Dalia GINGLAS-POULET, Roswitha Coopted Staff Delegate Interpreter/Translator World Council of Churches The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan France Switzerland Jerusalem

GINTERE, Sandra GREGERSEN, Niels Henrik HAHN, Udo Delegate Delegate Accredited Press Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark United Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia Denmark Germany Germany GOBENA, Iteffa GRESSEL-HICHERT, Jürgen Delegate Accredited Press HAHN, Udo The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Rundfunk Berlin-Brandenburg Adviser Mekane Yesus Germany United Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ethiopia Germany GRIFFITHS, Elaine Germany GOBIN, Bibi Zabeida Interpreter/Translator Delegate Germany HALMARSON, Cindy Evangelical Lutheran Church in Guyana Guest Guyana GRILLANDA, Jessica Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Accredited Press Canada GOLOSHCHAPOVA, Maria CBC Delegate Canada HALMARSON, Jim Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Local Staff and Other States Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Russian Federation Canada

214 The Lutheran World Federation HAMMAR, Anna Karin HAUSCHILDT, Friedrich HJERRILD, Ane Delegate Adviser Accredited Press/freelance Church of Sweden United Evangelical Lutheran Church of Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Sweden Germany Denmark Germany HJERRILD, Ane HAMMAR, Karl Gustav HAUSKELLER, Christine Delegate Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Church of Sweden Evangelical Lutheran Church in Congo Denmark Sweden Democratic Republic of the Congo HOFFMANN, Annegret HAMUKWAYA, Hilja HAUSKELLER, Juergen Delegate Delegate Accompanying Person Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chile The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Democratic Republic of the Congo Chile Namibia (ELCIN) Namibia HAVINGA, Frerk Andreas HOLLOWAY, Callon Coopted Staff, Press Delegate HANAK, Ilse Netherlands Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Accredited Press USA Die Brücke - Evangelischer Arbeitskreis HAWRYLUK, Alexandra für Weltmission Radio Canada International HOLSTENKAMP, Lars Austria Canada Delegate North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran HANAK, Julius HEITMANN, F. Michael Church Accredited Press Accredited Press Germany “SAAT”- Evangelische Kirchenzeitung CKJS Radio 810 AM Winnipeg Austria Canada HOLZE-STÄBLEIN, Oda-Gebbine Delegate HANSEN, Guillermo HELMKE, Julia Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Ex-Officio Participant Delegate Germany United Evangelical Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Argentina Germany HORSFJORD, Vebjorn Adviser HANSON, Ione HEMBROM, Ismael Church of Norway Visitor Delegate Norway Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Bangladesh Northern Evangelical USA Lutheran Church HORTON, Loretta Elisa Bangladesh Visitor HANSON, Mark S. Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Delegate HEMBROM, Jubily USA Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Delegate USA Bangladesh Northern Evangelical HORVÁTH, Tamás Lutheran Church Accredited Press HANSSON, Klas Bangladesh Duna TV Delegate Hungary Church of Sweden HENRIKSEN, Jan Olav Sweden Delegate HOUGEN, Philip Church of Norway Visitor HARAHAP, Ginda Norway Evangelical Lutheran Church in America LWF Staff USA HERBERMANN, Jan Dirk HARDER, Helmut Accredited Press HRYTSAK, Lisa Ecumenical Representative Evangelischer Pressedienst (epd) Accredited Press Mennonite World Conference Switzerland Global News Winnipeg Canada Canada HERMELINK, Jan HARMATI, Béla Delegate HUBER, Ivo Ex-Officio Participant Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Delegate The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hungary Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Hungary Germany HINOJOSA, Ernie HARRIS, Sumoward E. Delegate HUBER, John George Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Accredited Press Lutheran Church in Liberia USA The Southern Cross/Catholic newspaper Liberia USA HINRICHS, Renata HARRISON, John Ex-Officio Participant HÜBERTZ, Erik Coopted Staff Silesian Evangelical Church of the Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Augsburg Confession Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Canada Czech Republic Denmark

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 215 HUNTER, Elizabeth JAENICKE, Alexandra JENSEN, Ruth Coopted Staff, Press Coopted Staff, Press Adviser Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, France Canadian Lutheran World Relief The Lutheran Canada USA JAESCHKE, Dion Steward JEPSEN, Holger HUOVINEN, Eero Lutheran Church of Australia Delegate Delegate Australia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Denmark Finland JAGUCKI, Janusz Delegate JEPSEN, Maria HUTABARAT, Damseria Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Delegate Delegate Confession in Poland North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Protestant Christian Batak Church Poland Church Indonesia Germany JAGUCKI, Walter HUTAGALUNG, Saut Pardamean Delegate JEUTNER, Thomas Delegate Lutheran Church in Great Britain Accredited Press/freelance Christian Protestant Church in Indonesia United Kingdom Evangelical Church of Pomerania Indonesia Germany JAIQUIRA, Armando HUTAGALUNG, Sophia Judika Delegate JEUTNER, Thomas Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Ex-Officio Participant Christian Protestant Church in Indonesia Mozambique Evangelical Church of Pomerania Indonesia Mozambique Germany

HUTAGAOL, Rambio Junison JAKOBSONE, Anita JIMÉNEZ MARÍN, Melvin Delegate Accredited Press Delegate Protestant Christian Batak Church Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia Lutheran Costarican Church Indonesia Latvia Costa Rica

HUTAURUK, Jubil Raplan JANSSEN VAN RAAY, Mary E. JOACHIM, Angelika Delegate Ex-Officio Participant LWF Staff Protestant Christian Batak Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Indonesia Kingdom of the Netherlands JOHANNESDOTTER, Jürgen Netherlands Delegate IJÄS, Johannes Evangelical Lutheran Church of Accredited Press JARMUS, Andrew Schaumburg-Lippe Kotimaa Ecumenical Representative Germany Finland Ecumenical Patriarchate Canada JOHANNESSON, Gayle IMHOFF, Frank Accredited Press Coopted Staff, Press JÄRVINEN, Veli-Pekka Esprit, Magazine of Evangelical Lutheran Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Delegate Women USA Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Canada Finland IMMONEN, Maria JOHNSEN, Tore Delegate JENSCH, Thomas Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Delegate Church of Norway Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Thuringia Norway Germany ISHAYA, Musa Edward JOHNSON, Carl Delegate JENSEN, Bonnie Visitor The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria Adviser USA Nigeria Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA JOHNSON, Sue ISHAYA, Parmata Visitor Delegate JENSEN, Carol USA The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria Delegate Nigeria Evangelical Lutheran Church in America JOHNSON, Paul USA Local Staff IVAÑEZ DE NEYELOFF, Virginia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Delegate JENSEN, Gordon Canada Evangelical Lutheran Church in Venezuela Adviser Venezuela Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada JOHNSON, Susan Canada Delegate JACKSON, Marilyn Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Accredited Press JENSEN, Richard A. Canada Rupert’s Land News Visitor Canada USA

216 The Lutheran World Federation JOLKKONEN, Jari KAHUTHU, Zachariah KAULINGE, Apollos Adviser Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Finland Kenya Namibia (ELCIN) Namibia JONGOLO, Mnyamana Witness Joe KAINULAINEN, Pauliina Delegate Delegate KAUMBA KALUNJELE, Robert Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Delegate Africa Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zambia South Africa Zambia KALIISA, George Wilson JONSDOTTIR, Astridur Delegate KAVIKANDO, Hans Joacquim Delegate Lutheran Church of Rwanda Steward The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Rwanda Evangelical Lutheran Church in Botswana Iceland Botswana Iceland KAMAU, Paul Mbugua Ex-Officio Participant KAYALES, Christina JÖNSSON, Tobias Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church Adviser Delegate Kenya LWF National Committee in Germany Church of Sweden Germany Sweden KAMEETA, Zephania Delegate KAYEMO, Feyessa JØRGENSEN, Knud Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Delegate Adviser Republic of Namibia (ELCRN) The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Areopagos Namibia Mekane Yesus Norway Ethiopia KAMHO, Henog Shituuete JOSLIN, David B. Delegate KEDING, Reinhard Ecumenical Representative Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Delegate The International Old Catholic Bishop’s Republic of Namibia (ELCRN) Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia Conference Namibia (ELCIN-GELC) USA Namibia KAO, Yin-Mao JOST, Howard Delegate KELLERSCH, Claudia LWF Staff The Lutheran Church of Taiwan (Republic Interpreter/Translator Lutheran World Service (India) of China) USA India Taiwan KEMPF, Christian JUNGE, Martin KARASCH, Regina Coopted Staff, Press LWF Staff Coopted Staff, Press France LWF National Committee in Germany JUOZAITS, Saulius Main Board for Church Cooperation and KENNY, Peter Delegate World Service Accredited Press Evangelical Lutheran Church of Lithuania Germany Ecumenical News International Lithuania Switzerland KASCH, Hans-Wilhelm JUSSILA, Päivi Delegate KERSTEN, Thomas LWF Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church of Visitor Mecklenburg Christ Lutheran Church, British Columbia KABAMBA MUKALA WAKASONKU, Germany Synod Daniel Canada Delegate KASPER, Walter Evangelical Lutheran Church in Congo Ecumenical Representative KIÆRBECH, Henrik M. Democratic Republic of the Congo Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Delegate Unity Church of Norway KADZAKO, Anthony Vatican City Norway Steward Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malawi KÄSSMANN, Margot KIEFER, Rainer Malawi Delegate Adviser Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover LWF National Committee in Germany KAHLANA, Amanda Portia Germany Main Board for Church Cooperation and Delegate World Service Moravian Church in South Africa KAUKO, Jaakko Germany South Africa Steward Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland KIESCHNICK, Gerald B. KÄHLER, Christoph Finland Ecumenical Representative Delegate Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod Evangelical Lutheran Church in USA Thuringia Germany

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 217 KIGASUNG, Wesley KÖHLER, Katja KRETSCHMAR, Georg Delegate Guest Adviser Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua Luther Center Wittenberg Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia New Guinea Germany and Other States Papua New Guinea Russian Federation KOLAKOWSKI, Anna KIIVIT, Jaan Delegate KRIEGER, Kelvin Delegate Church of Lippe [Lutheran Section] Local Staff Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Estonia Canada KOLLMAR, Peter KIMURA, Shigeo Delegate KRIEGER, Mary Representative Evangelical Lutheran Church of Coopted Staff, Press Japan Lutheran Church Mecklenburg Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Japan Germany Canada

KING CHEW (CHANG), Teo (Gideon) KOMPROE, Lilian KRISTENSEN, Vidar Delegate Delegate Accredited Press Lutheran Church in Malaysia and Evangelical Lutheran Church in Suriname Church of Norway Singapore Suriname Norway Malaysia KÖNIG, Elke KRISTENSEN BOLET, Linda KIRCHHEIM, Huberto Delegate Visitor Ex-Officio Participant Evangelical Church of Pomerania Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Germany Canada Confession in Brazil Brazil KOOP, Doug KRISTENSON, Stephen P. Accredited Press Guest KIRSONS, Maris Christian Week Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Visitor Canada Canada Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church Abroad Canada KOPPE, Rolf KROEKER, Irvin Adviser Accredited Press KITANGE, Seth Evangelical Church in Germany Rupert’s Land News Coopted Staff, Press Germany Canada Tanzania KOSZTA, Emese KRUSCHE-RÄDER, Uta KITUTU, Doris Stephen Steward Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Augsburg Confession in Romania Germany Tanzania Romania KUBISZOVÁ, Ingrid KJÆR, Mogens KOVÀCS, Elisabeta Delegate Adviser Delegate Silesian Evangelical Church of the Danmission Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Augsburg Confession Denmark Augsburg Confession in Romania Czech Republic Romania KLAAS, Inge KÜENZLEN, Heiner LWF Staff KOVÀCS-TÓTH, Márta Delegate Delegate Evangelical Church in Württemberg KLEIN, Christoph The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Germany Ex-Officio Participant Hungary Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Hungary KUGAPPI, Arri Confession in Romania Delegate Romania KRÄHENBÜHL-SCHULTZ, Ingrid The Evangelical Lutheran Church of LWF Staff Ingria in Russia KLEIVANE, Svein Harald Russian Federation Adviser KRARUP, Niels Thure Church of Norway Coopted Staff, Press KUHNERT, Karen Norway Denmark Visitor Canada KNUTH, Hans Christian KRAUSE, Christian Adviser Ex-Officio Participant KUHNERT, Peter LWF National Committee in Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Visitor Germany Brunswick Canada Germany KNUTSON, Lanny KULL, Margrit Visitor KRAUSE, Gertrud Interpreter/Translator Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Accompanying Person USA Canada Germany

218 The Lutheran World Federation KUMARI, Prasanna LANGE, Änne LEE, Joanne Delegate Delegate Delegate The Arcot Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church of Lutheran Church in Singapore India Mecklenburg Singapore Germany KURTJAKOVA, Julia LEE, Lap Yan Delegate LAPSA, Allison Delegate The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Delegate Hong Kong and Macau Lutheran Church Ingria in Russia Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church Hong Kong, China Russian Federation Abroad Canada LEE, Mi-Seon KUSAWADEE, Banjob Delegate Ex-Officio Participant Lutheran Church in Korea The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Republic of Korea Thailand LARSON, Duane H. Thailand Adviser LEE, Randall Wartburg Theological Seminary Adviser KVAMMEN, Ingeborg USA Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Delegate USA Church of Norway LARSON, Rebecca Norway Adviser LEFFLER, Lois Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Visitor LÄÄS, Kadri USA USA Delegate Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church LARSSON, Bo LEICHNITZ, Arthur Estonia Delegate LWF Staff Church of Sweden LABLANC, Sandra Sweden LERUM, Isaiah Isa Adviser Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in America LASEGAN, Benjamin The Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria USA Delegate Nigeria Lutheran Church in the Philippines LAGODA, Ekkehard Philippines LESCHASIN, Les Delegate Accredited Press Federation of Evangelical Lutheran LASKE, Milton CKY/TV Churches in Switzerland and the Delegate Canada Principality of Liechtenstein Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Switzerland Confession in Brazil LEWIS, Beth Brazil Visitor LAI, Yoke Kiew Evangelical Lutheran Church in America/ Delegate LATHROP, John Augsburg Fortress Lutheran Church in Malaysia and Accredited Press USA Singapore Episcopal Life Malaysia USA LIEBICH, Hartwig Delegate LAM, Tak Ho LAU, Pui-Ting Christine North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Ex-Officio Participant Delegate Church The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hong Tsung Tsin Mission of Hong Kong Germany Kong Hong Kong, China Hong Kong, China LIENHARD, Marc LAURENCE, Sarah Delegate LAMBERT, Steve Accredited Press Church of the Augsburg Confession of Accredited Press CJOB Alsace and Lorraine Canadian Press Canada France Canada LAUSMANN, Carin Freitag LILJE, Dieter Reinhard LANDGRAF, Gerhard Delegate Delegate Delegate Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Confession in Brazil Africa (N-T) Germany Brazil South Africa

LANDGRAF, Katharina LECUYER, Doreen LINDENBERG DE DELMONTE, Maria Accompanying Person Local Staff C. Elisabeth Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Interpreter/Translator Canada Uruguay LANG, Rainer Coopted Staff, Press LEE, Hong-Yeol LINDNER, Gudrun Germany Delegate Delegate Lutheran Church in Korea Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Republic of Korea Germany

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 219 LINDNER, Peter LÜTGE, Udo Werner MANN, Caroline Visitor Steward Local Staff Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Africa (N-T) Canada LINDNER, Wolfgang South Africa Ex-Officio Participant MANNAVA, Raja Kishore Evangelical Lutheran Church in Thuringia LUUP, Silja Delegate Germany Steward Andhra Evangelical Lutheran Church Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church India LINDQVIST, Ingmar Estonia Accredited Press MANSKE, Friedrich Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland MACK, Lindsay Adviser Finland Delegate United Evangelical Mission - Communion Evangelical Lutheran Church in America of Churches in Three Continents LINTON, Mike USA Germany Accredited Press CBC Radio Canada MADINGA, Mabel MANURUNG, German Oloan Pinda Canada Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malawi Christian Protestant Church in Indonesia LIVERPOOL, Diana. B. M. Malawi Indonesia Steward Evangelical Lutheran Church in Guyana MAGNUS, Kathy MANURUNG, John Hasiholan Guyana LWF Staff Delegate Regional Office in North America (RONA) The United Protestant Church LO, Bob USA Indonesia Delegate Tsung Tsin Mission of Hong Kong MAGNUS, Richard MARAINEN, Johannes Hong Kong, China Visitor Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Church of Sweden LODBERG, Peter USA Sweden Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark MAHN, Käte MARPLE, Dorothy J. Denmark Adviser Adviser LWF National Committee in Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in America LONG, Judy Germany USA Local Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada MAIER, Gerhard MARTIN, Ava Odom Canada Delegate Coopted Staff, Press Evangelical Church in Württemberg Evangelical Lutheran Church in America LORCH, Rhonda Germany USA Local Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada MAJAMAN, Noria MARTINEZ, Margarita Canada Delegate Delegate The Protestant Church in Sabah Evangelical Lutheran Church in America LORENZ, Dieter Malaysia Puerto Rico Delegate Church of Lippe [Lutheran Section] MALANGEN, Edward MASSON, MarcAndre Germany Delegate Accredited Press Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua CBC Radio Canada LØYNING, Arnfinn New Canada Representative Guinea The Evangelical Lutheran Free Church of Papua New Guinea MATONDANG, Bonar Norway Delegate Norway MALKAVAARA-JAASKELAINEN, Mari Christian Protestant Angkola Church Accredited Press Indonesia LUBIS, Martina Siregar Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Delegate Finland MATTOX, Mickey Christian Protestant Angkola Church Coopted Staff Indonesia MALPICA-PADILLA, Rafael Institute for Ecumenical Research, Adviser Strasbourg LUKAS, Ireneusz Evangelical Lutheran Church in America France LWF Staff USA Regional Office in Central and Eastern MAUDLIN, Timothy Europe (ROCEE) MANGALE, Christine Kinyavu Delegate Slovak Republic Steward Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Kenya Evangelical Lutheran Church USA LUPANG, Silisia Kenya Delegate MAUGUÉ, Marianne Basel Christian Church of Malaysia LWF Staff Malaysia

220 The Lutheran World Federation MAVUNDUSE, Diana MEURER, Heitor Joerci MORROW, Christie Coopted Staff, Press Ex-Officio Participant Delegate Canada Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Confession in Brazil Canada MAYAN, Ralph E. Brazil Ecumenical Representative MOTSUMI, Lesley G. Lutheran Church - Canada MGEYEKWA, Zephania Delegate Canada Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Botswana Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Botswana MBANG, Sunday Tanzania Ecumenical Representative MOYO, Ambrose World Methodist Council MIDE, Bjorg Adviser Nigeria Adviser Lutheran Communion in Southern Africa Norwegian Church Aid (LUCSA) MCCORMICK, Paul Norway South Africa Visitor Canada MILIAUSKAS, Liudas MOYO, Enos Steward LWF Staff MCDONALD, Sandy Evangelical Lutheran Church of Lithuania Zambia Christian Refugee Service Ecumenical Representative Lithuania Zambia Presbyterian Church in Canada Canada MILLER, Charles MSANGI, Stephano Ombeni Adviser Delegate MCKAY, Stan Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Ecumenical Representative USA Tanzania United Church of Canada Canada MILLER, David MÜLLER, Luise Accredited Press Delegate MEINECKE, Renate Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Delegate The Lutheran Confession in Austria Evangelical Lutheran Church in Baden USA Austria Germany MILLS, Daranne MUMIA, Pauline MEISSNER, Herbert LWF Staff LWF Staff Adviser Association of Protestant Churches and MIRANDA MARTINS, Luciano MÜNCHOW, Christoph Missions in Germany Accredited Press/TV Delegate Germany Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Confession in Brazil Germany MELIN, Olav S. Brazil Accredited Press MUNGURE, Irene Doreen Kyrkans Tidning MOE-LOBEDA, Cynthia Delegate Sweden Adviser Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Tanzania MÉNDEZ, Suecia USA Coopted Staff, Press MUNTHE, Edison Cuba MOGENSEN, Mogens Delegate Delegate Simalungun Protestant Christian Church MÉNDEZ, Héctor Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Indonesia Ecumenical Representative Denmark World Council of Churches MUSHEMBA, Samson Cuba MOOLMAN, Silke Ex-Officio Participant Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania MENETTE, Nghinanavo Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Tanzania Delegate Africa (Cape Church) Evangelical Lutheran Church of Angola South Africa MUTIMUREFU, Martin Angola Accredited Press MOORE, Gladys EDICISA NEWS MESHACK, Samuel Delegate Zimbabwe Coopted Staff, Press Evangelical Lutheran Church in America India USA MWAIPOPO, Ambele Delegate MOORE LESKO, Kristine Cecilia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania MEURER, Heitor Joerci Steward Tanzania Accredited Press Evangelical Lutheran Church in Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Venezuela MWAMUGOBOLE, Ipyana A. Confession in Brazil Venezuela Delegate Brazil Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Tanzania

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 221 MWAURA, Mary NIEDERBERGER, Stéfan NYLAND, Kjell B. Delegate LWF Staff Adviser Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya Church of Norway Kenya NIELSEN, Lars Bom Norway Delegate MYLLYMÄKI, Katriina Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark NYOMI, Setri Delegate Denmark Ecumenical Representative Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland World Alliance of Reformed Churches Finland NIGHSWANDER, Dan Switzerland Ecumenical Representative MYLLYS, Riikka Mennonite Church in Canada OBARE OMWANZA, Walter E. Delegate Canada Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya Finland NIKOLAISEN, Hermine Kenya LWF Staff NAFZGER, Samuel DWS Balkans Program OLSEN, Eric O. Ecumenical Representative Serbia-Montenegro Delegate International Lutheran Council Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA NIKOLOU, Joni USA Accredited Press NAGLE, Susan CBC TV OLSSON, Tobias Ex-Officio Participant Canada Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Church of Sweden USA NILSEN, Ingrid Vad Sweden Delegate NAGY, Françoise Church of Norway OPPEGAARD, Sven Interpreter/Translator Norway LWF Staff Switzerland NINGSIH, Apulria OPPEGAARD HILL, Susan NAINGGOLAN, Pasti Delegate Visitor Delegate The Indonesian Christian Church Switzerland Protestant Christian Batak Church Indonesia Indonesia ORTEGA-EHRETH, Dianha NISBET, T. Michael Ex-Officio Participant NAMUNYEKWA, Titus Adviser Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA Evangelical Lutheran Church of Angola USA Angola OSBERG, Ingvild NIXON-PAULS, Carol Delegate NAPITUPULU, Bonar Accredited Press/freelance Church of Norway Delegate Winnipeg Free Press Norway Protestant Christian Batak Church Canada Indonesia OST, Debra NOKO, Ishmael Visitor NATERSTAD, Inger Anne LWF Staff Wartburg Theological Seminary Delegate USA Church of Norway NOKO, Gladys Norway Accompanying Person OSTERCAMP, Kristin Emma Switzerland Visitor NDLOVY, Mzilikazi Wartburg Theological Seminary Accredited Press NORDIN, Jennie USA CKYN 95.9 FM (The African Summit Delegate Radio) Church of Sweden OTZINGER, Dagmar T. L. Canada Sweden Interpreter/Translator Canada NEETZ, Norbert NORDSTOKKE, Kjell Accredited Press/photographer Ex-Officio Participant PAARMA, Jukka Evangelischer Pressedienst (epd) Church of Norway Delegate Germany Norway Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Finland NEGA TESSO, Alemu NORVAISA, Vanda Delegate Delegate PÄDAM, Tiit The Ethiopian Evangelical Church Lithuanian Evangelical Lutheran Church Delegate Mekane Yesus in Diaspora Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church Ethiopia Canada Estonia

NELSON, Sidney NYIWE, Thomas PAISLEY, Rex Visitor Delegate Coopted Staff, Press Canada Evangelical Lutheran Church of Cameroon Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Cameroon USA

222 The Lutheran World Federation PAJUNEN, Mika PEDERSEN, Jeffrey POŠKIENE, Milita Delegate Guest Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Luther Center Wittenberg Evangelical Lutheran Church of Lithuania Finland USA Lithuania

PANG, Ken Phin PEERS, Michael POST BUSHKOFSKY, Linda Delegate Ecumenical Representative Visitor Basel Christian Church of Malaysia Anglican Church of Canada Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Malaysia Canada USA

PARADA FERNÁNDEZ, Nehemías PETERSEN, Sofie PRADEL, Margarete Delegate Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Colombia Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Colombia Greenland Germany

PARDEDE, Ria Budiweni Sumiati PETERSON, John L. PRADEL, Hans-Eberhard Delegate Ecumenical Representative Visitor Protestant Christian Batak Church The Anglican Communion Germany Indonesia United Kingdom PREIBISCH, Gerhard PARTAJ, Hedwig PETERSOO, Udo Guest Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church Canada Confession in Austria Abroad Austria Canada PRILOUTSKI, Alexander Adviser PASTERNY, Natalia PFRIMMER, David The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Steward Adviser Ingria in Russia Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Lutheran Office for Public Policy Russian Federation Confession in Poland Canada Poland PROSTREDNIK, Ondrej PHILIPPI, Ilse Accredited Press/external editor for PASTOR, Alexander Delegate ecumenical news Delegate Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Slovak Radio Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Confession in Romania Slovak Republic and Other States Romania Russian Federation PROSTREDNIK, Ondrej PHILLIPS, Donald Delegate PATER, Margaret A. Guest Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Interpreter/Translator Anglican Church of Canada Confession in the Slovak Republic Germany Canada Slovak Republic

PATTERSON, Patrick A. PIMPIN, Wendy PROVE, Peter Visitor LWF Staff LWF Staff USA PIRRI-SIMONIAN, Teny PRYSE, Michael PAUL, Alexandra Ecumenical Representative Guest Accredited Press World Council of Churches Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Winnipeg Free Press Switzerland Canada Canada PISO, David P. PRYTZ, Gunnar PAUL, Julius D. Delegate Delegate Delegate Gutnius Lutheran Church - Papua New Church of Sweden Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia Guinea Sweden Malaysia Papua New Guinea PUIPPE, Jean-Charles PAUL, Tatjana PLAISIER, Bas Coopted Staff Interpreter/Translator Adviser Raptim S.A. Canada Uniting Protestant Churches in the Switzerland Netherlands PAZA, Anita Varsbergs Netherlands PUKY, Akos A. Ex-Officio Participant Delegate Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church Abroad PORVARI, Markku Evangelical Lutheran Church in Venezuela USA Ex-Officio Participant Venezuela Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland PEAWONG, Nittaya Finland PURBA, Burju Steward Delegate The Evangelical Lutheran Church in The Indonesian Christian Church Thailand Indonesia Thailand

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 223 PURBA, Erni Julianti RATZ, Edmund W.H. RICHTER, Dorothee-Madeleine Delegate Delegate Interpreter/Translator Simalungun Protestant Christian Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Switzerland Indonesia and Other States Ukraine RICHTER, Konstanze PURBA, Esther Fomi Coopted Staff, Press Delegate RAUMA, Kaisa Maria Elina Germany Simalungun Protestant Christian Church Delegate Indonesia Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland RICHTER, Sabine Finland Delegate RABENOROLAHY, Benjamin Evangelical Lutheran Church in Brunswick Delegate RAUSCH, Carl Germany Malagasy Lutheran Church Visitor Madagascar Kairos RICHTER, Susanne Canada Delegate RABENOROLAHY, Rahantanirina Evangelical Church in Württemberg Delegate RAUSTØL, Leila Valvik Germany Malagasy Lutheran Church Adviser Madagascar Norwegian Church Aid RICHTER-REIMER, Ivoni Norway Ex-Officio Participant RAKOTOMALALA, Rasoanaivo Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Delegate RAVELOARIJAONA, Vola Olisoa Confession in Brazil Malagasy Protestant Church in France Steward Brazil France Malagasy Protestant Church in France France RIEDEWALD, Steven RAKOTOMARO, Jean Baptiste Delegate Delegate RAZANAPARANY, Erica Evangelical Lutheran Church in Suriname Malagasy Lutheran Church Steward Suriname Madagascar Malagasy Protestant Church in France France RIEMER, Hilbert RALIVAO, Helene Adviser Delegate REES-ROHRBACHER, Paul Lutheran Church in Korea Malagasy Lutheran Church Visitor Republic of Korea Madagascar St John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church USA RIETH, Klaus RAMANANTSOA, Flore Jacqueline Coopted Staff, Press Delegate REICHARDT BACKMAN, Ida Germany Malagasy Lutheran Church Accredited Press Madagascar Canada Lutheran RINDERKNECHT, Jakob Canada Delegate RAMOS SALAZAR, Humberto Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Delegate RENAUD, M.-Christine USA Bolivian Evangelical Lutheran Church Interpreter/Translator Bolivia Canada RISSANEN, Seppo Adviser RANDRIANANDRASANA, Emma RENFER, Rudolf The Finnish Evangelical Lutheran Mission Delegate LWF Staff Finland Malagasy Protestant Church in France France REPO, Matti ROALDSETH MOYER, Kristin Delegate LWF Staff RANKER, Raymond Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Steward Finland ROBERT, Marie-France Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Delegate USA REYNISSON, Halldór Evangelical Lutheran Church of France Accredited Press France RANTANEN, Pauli The Evangelical Lutheran Church of LWF Staff Iceland ROBERTS, Margaret Iceland Coopted Staff RASOLONDRAIBE, Péri Evangelical Lutheran Church in Guyana LWF Staff REYNISSON, Halldór Guyana Adviser RATZ, Dorothea The Evangelical Lutheran Church of ROBINSON, Benita Visitor Iceland Ecumenical Representative Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia Iceland The Salvation Army and Other States Canada Ukraine RICHTER, Daniel Streb Accredited Press/TV ROBINSON, Earl Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Ecumenical Representative Confession in Brazil The Salvation Army Brazil Canada

224 The Lutheran World Federation ROBINSON, Philip J. ROY, Kalpona Rani SÄRS, Kåre Ex-Officio Participant Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Botswana Bangladesh Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Botswana Bangladesh Finland

ROEHRS, Petra ROZITIS, Elmars SAUER, Elaine Delegate Delegate Local Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Africa (N-T) Abroad Canada South Africa Germany SAUL, Burkhard ROHLFS, Ulrike RUDE, Brian Accredited Press Delegate Adviser Evangelischer Pressedienst (epd) Evangelical Lutheran Church in Brunswick Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Germany Germany El Salvador SAYLER, Gwen ROHLFS, Wolfgang RWEYEMAMU, Christa P.K. Visitor Visitor Delegate Wartburg Theological Seminary Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania USA Tanzania ROHRBOUGH, Faith SCHÄFER, Federico Adviser SAARINEN, Risto Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Delegate Evangelical Church of the River Plate Canada Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Argentina Finland ROHWER, Nils SCHELDE CHRISTENSEN, Kåre Delegate SAKAMOTO, Noriko Steward Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Steward Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Africa (Cape Church) Kinki Evangelical Lutheran Church Denmark South Africa Japan SCHINDEHÜTTE, Martin ROLLASON, Kevin SALA-SKUP, Magaly Delegate Accredited Press Interpreter/Translator Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Winnipeg Free Press Canada Germany Canada SAMOELA, Georges SCHMIDT, Jerker RÖNNBÄCK, Nils Delegate Adviser Delegate Malagasy Lutheran Church Church of Sweden Church of Sweden Madagascar Sweden Sweden SAMSONOW, Jeff SCHMIDT, Roger ROOT, Michael Accredited Press Delegate Coopted Staff CJOB-68 Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria USA Canada Germany

RÖSEL, Kerstin SAMUEL, Bernice Prema SCHNEIDER, Juliann Delegate Delegate Local Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church in India Evangelical Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Thuringia Canada Canada Germany SANDER, Siegfried SCHOCK, Twila ROSENKVIST, Helle Delegate Visitor Delegate Lutheran Church in Chile Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark Chile Wittenberg Center Denmark Germany SANDERS, Carol ROSSING, Barbara Accredited Press SCHORLING, Christof Adviser Winnipeg Free Press Delegate Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago Canada Evangelical Lutheran Church in Baden USA Germany SANDVAND, Leif Gunnar ROTH, Daniele Adviser SCHRECK, Paul Delegate The Evangelical Lutheran Free Church of Coopted Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Norway Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Germany Norway USA

ROTH, Diethardt SANHUEZA RODRÍGUEZ, Oscar Mateo SCHÜLKE, Heidi Guest Delegate Delegate Independent Evangelical Lutheran Church Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chile Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Germany Chile Germany

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 225 SCHULTZ, Faye SHENGENA, Naomi SINAGA, Benny Local Staff Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania Protestant Christian Batak Church Canada Tanzania Indonesia

SCHULTZ, Raymond SHILEKA, Suama Naita SINAGA, Dewi Sri T. Delegate Delegate Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Protestant Christian Batak Church Canada Namibia (ELCIN) Indonesia Namibia SCHULZ LAMAR, Sabine SINAGA, Sahala Visitor SIAHAAN, Lydia Adviser Wartburg Theological Seminary Delegate Indonesian Christian Lutheran Church USA Protestant Christian Batak Church Indonesia Indonesia SCHWEKENDIEK, Michael SINAMO, Arta Peto Delegate SIAHAAN, Marihot Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hanover Delegate Pakpak Dairi Christian Protestant Church Germany Batak Christian Community Church Indonesia Indonesia SCOGGINS, Lillian SINGH, Jason Delegate SIANTURI, T.R. Mercy Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Delegate The Tamil Evangelical Lutheran Church USA Batak Christian Community Church India Indonesia SEEGER, Heidrun SINGH, Priscilla Delegate SIBIYA, Louis LWF Staff Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia Delegate (ELCIN-GELC) Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern SITIO, Aladin Namibia Africa Delegate South Africa Indonesian Christian Lutheran Church SEITZ, Ursula Indonesia Delegate SIBIYA, Selina Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Delegate SJOBERG, Donald W. Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern Coopted Staff Africa Canada SEKINO, Kazuhiro South Africa Adviser SKAERVED, Paul Verner Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church SIGURBJÖRNSSON, Karl Delegate Japan Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in Denmark The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Denmark SELLE, Esther Iceland Delegate Iceland SKLENAR, Pavel Evangelical Lutheran Church of Saxony Delegate Germany SILIÄMAA, Leo Slovak Evangelical Church of the Adviser Augsburg Confession in Serbia and SEMMLER, Christine FinnChurchAid Montenegro Visitor Finland [formerly Slovak Evangelical Church of Lutheran Church of Australia the Augsburg Confession in the FR of Australia SILOI, Nakei Yugoslavia] Delegate Serbia-Montenegro SEMMLER, Margrit Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua Delegate New Guinea SKUJA-GRISLIS, Indra North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Church Papua New Guinea Accredited Press Germany Cela Biedrs, monthly journal SIMANGUNSONG, Harlen Canada SEMMLER, Michael Delegate Representative The Indonesian Christian Church SKUPCH, Sonia Andrea Lutheran Church of Australia Indonesia Delegate Australia Evangelical Church of the River Plate SIMANJUNTAK, Rosalina Argentina SHAFER, Eric Delegate Coopted Staff, Press Indonesian Christian Lutheran Church SMITH, Heidi Maree Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Indonesia Representative USA Lutheran Church of Australia SIMARMATA, Willem T.P. Australia SHAFER, Kris Delegate Accompanying Person Protestant Christian Batak Church SMITH, Paul USA Indonesia International Volunteer Australia

226 The Lutheran World Federation SMITH, Pauline A. STEINVALL, Erik SZEBIK, Imre LWF Staff Delegate Delegate Church of Sweden The Evangelical Lutheran Church in SMITH, Richard M. Sweden Hungary Guest Hungary Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada STOCKER, Andrea Canada Accredited Press SZEVERENYIOVA, Renata Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria, Delegate SMOLKA, Katrin Press Office Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Delegate Germany Confession in the Slovak Republic Church of Sweden Slovak Republic Sweden STÖCKIGT, Beate Delegate TAKEMORI, Yoko SÖDERBERG, Thomas Evangelical Lutheran Church in Delegate Delegate Thuringia Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church Church of Sweden Germany Japan Sweden STOFFELS-GRÖHL, Antje TAN, James SOLBERG, Terje Delegate Steward Adviser Evangelical Lutheran Church of Lutheran Church in Malaysia and The Evangelical Lutheran Free Church of Schaumburg-Lippe Singapore Norway Germany Malaysia Norway STOLL, Peter TAN, John Yok Han SOLLI-SCHØIEN BRODIN, Katinka Delegate Delegate Delegate Evangelical Church in Württemberg Lutheran Church in Singapore Church of Norway Germany Singapore Norway STREHLOW, William TATSENKO, Tamara SOLNTSEVA, Alina Accompanying Person Ex-Officio Participant Steward Switzerland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Russia The Evangelical Lutheran Church of and Other States Ingria in Russia STUCKEY Sr, Gene Russian Federation Russian Federation Visitor Zion’s Lutheran Church TATU, Evelyne SOLOMON, Meenakshi USA Interpreter/Translator Delegate Switzerland Evangelical Lutheran Church in Madhya STURM, Herwig Pradesh Delegate TAYLOR, Susan India Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Coopted Staff, Press Confession in Austria Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada SOMMERFELDT, Atle Austria Canada Adviser Norwegian Church Aid SUPIRID, Masandu TEINILÄ, Mari Norway Delegate Accredited Press The Protestant Church in Sabah Kotimaa SOREN, Shiblal Malaysia Finland Delegate Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church SWANSON, Mark TETAC, Lakele India Adviser Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua SØRHEIM, Marita USA New Guinea Delegate Papua New Guinea Church of Norway SWANSON, William Norway Visitor THAKURDYAL, Roy Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Delegate STARR, Valora Wittenberg Center Evangelical Lutheran Church in Guyana Visitor Germany Guyana Evangelical Lutheran Church in America USA SWART, Angelene THURNIM, Kelly Delegate Steward STAUFFER, Daniel Moravian Church in South Africa Evangelical Lutheran Church in Suriname Accredited Press South Africa Suriname Lutheran Laity Movement in Canada/ newsletter SYLLA, Jeannette TICKNOR, Jay Canada LWF Staff Visitor Wartburg Theological Seminary USA

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 227 TIDEMANN MINNICK, Lynda M. TYLER, Peter VILANDER, Charlotte Bellinda Visitor LWF Staff Delegate USA Evangelical Lutheran Church in Southern ÜCKER, Bianca Daiana Africa TIMM, Dorothea Accredited Press South Africa Accompanying Person Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Germany Confession in Brazil VINCE, Ruth Brazil Local Staff TIMM, Jens Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada Delegate UIMONEN, Seija Canada Evangelical Church in Württemberg Delegate Germany Evangelical Church in the Republic of VOIPIO-PULKKI, Liisa-Maria Croatia Delegate TJORNEHOJ, Susan E. Croatia Evangelical Lutheran Church of Finland Delegate Finland Evangelical Lutheran Church in America UMOFFIA, Dorcas USA Delegate VOLNY, Vladislav The Lutheran Church of Nigeria Delegate TOBING, Lely Nigeria Silesian Evangelical Church of the Delegate Augsburg Confession The United Protestant Church UMOFFIA, Ekaete Czech Republic Indonesia Accompanying Person Nigeria VON BONIN, Konrad TÓMASDÓTTIR, Kristín Adviser Delegate UPAMA, Visanukorn Church Development Service (EED) The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Delegate Germany Iceland The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Iceland Thailand VON EHRENHEIM, Carl Gustaf Thailand Adviser TORRES, Adita Church of Sweden Observer UTECH, Ilo Sweden Peruvian Evangelical Lutheran Church Delegate Peru The Nicaraguan Lutheran Church of Faith VORLÄNDER, Hermann and Hope Delegate TRACK, Joachim Nicaragua Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Ex-Officio Participant Germany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria UTURUNCO, Bertha Germany Delegate VRIES, Leonie Bolivian Evangelical Lutheran Church Delegate TRANSTRÖMER, Nanna Bolivia Evangelical Lutheran Church in the Delegate Republic of Namibia (ELCRN) Church of Sweden VALERIANO, Teresita Namibia Sweden LWF Staff WACHOWIAK, Heidi TRESELER, Tobias VAN STRAATEN, Tess Visitor Adviser Accredited Press Canada LWF National Committee in Germany A Channel Germany Canada WALLACE, Gregg Visitor TRUMM, Sara VANAGS, Janis USA Visitor Delegate Wartburg Theological Seminary Evangelical Lutheran Church of Latvia WALLACE, Robert USA Latvia Visitor Evangelical Lutheran Church in America TSO, Josephine (Shui-Wan) VANKER, Carol USA Delegate Visitor The Evangelical Lutheran Church of Hong Canada WANJA, Grace Kong Steward Hong Kong, China VANKER, Peeter Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya Visitor Kenya TÜRK, Matthias Canada Ecumenical Representative WARTENBERG-POTTER, Bärbel Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian VÁZQUEZ, Leonor Angela Delegate Unity Interpreter/Translator North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Vatican City Switzerland Church Germany TVEIT, Olav Fykse VIGOUROUX PUSCHMANN, Melanie Adviser Delegate Church of Norway Lutheran Church in Chile Norway Chile

228 The Lutheran World Federation WEBER, Hartmut WIETZKE, Joachim YAMANOUCHI, Masatoshi Accredited Press Delegate Delegate Bayerischer Rundfunk North Elbian Evangelical Lutheran Church Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church Germany Germany Japan

WEBSTER, Linda Eileen WILKER, Heidi YAMATSUI, Haruko Visitor Local Staff Delegate Wartburg Theological Seminary Blessed Events Kinki Evangelical Lutheran Church USA Canada Japan

WECKWERTH, Larry J. WILLIAMS, Louise YIMAM, Rahel Coopted Staff Adviser Delegate Canada Evangelical Lutheran Church in America The Ethiopian Evangelical Church USA Mekane Yesus WEISGERBER, James Ethiopia Ecumenical Representative WILLIAMSON, Susan Archdiocese of Winnipeg Visitor YIP, Man Hei Canada Wartburg Theological Seminary LWF Staff USA WEISS, Kathrin YOSHIKAWA, Kiyokazu Steward WINBUSH, Robina M. Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church of Ecumenical Representative Kinki Evangelical Lutheran Church Mecklenburg Presbyterian Church (USA) Japan Germany USA YOUNAN, Anna Liza WEJRYD, Anders WÖHLE, Andreas Steward Delegate LWF Staff The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Church of Sweden Jordan Sweden WOLFORD, Kathryn Jerusalem Adviser WENGERT, Timothy J. Lutheran World Relief YOUNAN, Munib Adviser USA Delegate Evangelical Lutheran Church in America The Evangelical Lutheran Church in USA WONG, William E. Jordan Delegate Jerusalem WENZ, Gunther Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Delegate USA ZANG, Abigail Evangelical Lutheran Church in Bavaria Delegate Germany WREMER, Inger Johanne Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Ex-Officio Participant USA WESTPHAL, Fritz Church of Norway Coopted Staff, Press Norway ZARI-DOKA, Madeleine France Ex-Officio Participant WULFHORST, Ingo Lutheran Church of the Central African WHITE, Robert LWF Staff Republic Accredited Press Central African Republic Christian Current WUSHKE, Ralph Carl Canada Visitor ZWECK, Wayne Canada Adviser WIEBE, David Lutheran Church of Australia Ecumenical Representative YAM, Yuk Ming Christina Australia Mennonite World Conference Delegate Canada The Chinese Rhenish Church, Hong Kong Synod WIEGER, Madeleine Hong Kong, China Delegate Church of the Augsburg Confession of Alsace and Lorraine France

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 229 230 The Lutheran World Federation Index

A stigmatization 114 Drug abuse 47, 58, 59, 81 Advocacy 48, 56, 59, 60, 68, 69, 115, 123, 161 Alcohol and drug abuse 58, 59 E Anabaptists 53, 158 Anglican 15, 16, 32, 33, 44, 46, 47, 53, 103, Economic globalization 34, 47, 60, 61, 62, 70, 146, 148, 166, 167, 169, 170, 172 114, 115, 161 Armed violence 66 Ecumenical dialogue 21, 22, 45, 52, 53, 54, 114, 120, 160 B Ecumenical relations 23, 44, 45

Baptism 133, 136 F Barriers 22, 53, 56, 60, 67, 79, 114, 161, 171 Biotechnology 63 Fundamentalism 19, 22, 59, 60

C H

Catechesis 55 Healing 7, 8, 12, 14, 17, 21, 22, 23, 27, 28, 32, Charismatic movements 22, 54, 58, 89 33, 34, 35, 37, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 56, Civil society 59, 62, 72 57, 58, 59, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 69, 72, 75, 76, Communion 7, 8–9, 11–12, 12, 15, 16, 16–17, 82, 83, 85, 86, 88, 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 95, 96, 17–18, 22, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 97, 99, 101, 102, 104, 105, 106, 109, 110, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 50, 111, 113, 114, 120, 124, 134, 136, 138, 139, 51, 52, 53, 56, 57, 58, 61, 62, 63, 69, 71, 76, 141, 142, 143, 146, 157, 158, 159, 160, 161, 77, 79, 90, 91, 110, 113, 114, 119, 120, 122, 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 168, 170, 171, 172 123, 124, 125, 134, 139, 148, 159, 164, 165, Health care 56, 66, 68 166, 167, 168, 170, 172 HIV/AIDS 18, 22, 23, 35, 42, 47–48, 56, 58, 59, Communication 27, 29, 30, 32, 43, 52, 60, 85, 66, 67, 68, 73, 78, 88, 92, 113, 114, 115, 92, 118, 147, 152, 165, 168 137, 161, 167, 168–169, 169 Creation 13, 21, 23, 50, 53, 54, 55, 56, 62, 63, Human rights 21, 27, 35, 40, 46, 48, 56, 59, 62, 70, 74, 83, 90, 92, 93, 96, 97, 101, 110, 114, 67, 68, 71, 73, 74, 81, 108, 125, 152, 153 124, 134, 139, 142, 143, 161, 171 Humanitarian relief 66

D I

Dalits 17, 28, 56, 57, 76, 81, 118 Indigenous people(s) 36, 42, 48, 56, 57, 61, 63, Debt 27, 44, 48, 60, 61, 62, 67, 68, 69, 71, 72, 67, 81, 82, 90, 100, 106, 108, 109, 110, 141, 86, 92, 101, 102, 103 142, 169 Democratization 66 Interfaith dialogue 35, 46, 54, 55, 70 Denial of visas 117, 122, 123 International financial institutions 61, 68, 71, 72 Diaconia 33, 34, 46 International law 19, 57, 60, 72, 73, 81 Differently-abled 56, 57, 58, 78 International Lutheran Council (ILC) 31, 53, Discrimination 28, 30, 34, 56, 57 148, 165, 166, 168 exclusion 28, 31, 35, 56, 61, 67, 76, 79, Iraq 18, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 44, 48, 70, 84 100, 114, 119, 121, 122, 161 Israel/Palestine 26, 27

LWF Tenth Assembly – Assembly Report 231 J S

Justification 14, 15, 32, 38, 44, 47, 50, 51, 57, Sacraments 13, 28, 50, 51, 57, 64, 157 69, 77, 85, 113, 114, 159, 163 baptism 28, 29, 51, 53, 57, 123 eucharist 28, 29, 47, 51, 52, 53, 57, 90, L 133, 146, 160 Spirituality 17, 22, 28, 29, 34, 55, 87, 90, 160, 164 Liberia 19, 26, 47, 65, 66, 118, 119, 122, 125, Sustainable agriculture 42, 62 154, 156 Sustainable development 69, 70

M T

Malaria 35, 66 Trade 48, 61, 62, 63, 67, 68, 84, 100, 107, 126 Marriage 53, 59, 78 Trafficking 60, 61, 79, 84 family 12, 48, 59, 78, 81, 100, 111, 161 sexuality 48, 59, 114, 137 U Media 9, 25, 30, 43, 60, 92, 118, 119, 120, 122 Mennonite 53, 148, 158, 159 United Nations (UN) 27, 57, 60, 66, 72, 73, 74, Militarism 60, 80 75, 108 Militarization 62 United Nations High Commissioner for Mission 9, 23, 26, 31, 33, 34, 42, 46, 50, 53, 54, 55, Refugees (UNHCR) 12, 40 64, 69, 88, 114, 120, 122, 125, 147, 152, 154, 156, 161, 162, 163, 165, 166, 167, 169, 171 V

O Violence 13, 16, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 31, 49, 58, 59, 60, 65, 66, 67, 74, 75, 77, 78, 79, 81, 87, Orthodox 16, 32, 47, 53, 160 92, 93, 97, 100, 101, 108, 114, 115, 123, 124, 158, 159, 161, 162 P against women 31, 101, 108 in families 59, 78, 100 Participation 28, 31, 41, 42, 47, 51, 52, 54, 63, overcoming violence 59, 93, 114 72, 78, 79, 82, 115, 120, 146, 162 Pentecostal 54 W Prayer 22, 27, 34, 45, 47, 48, 64, 66, 75, 88, 94, 109, 123, 136, 139, 143, 157, 162, 164, 166, Water 21, 23, 28, 41, 63, 68, 70, 75, 81, 105, 168, 172 109, 110, 138, 142, 143 Priesthood of all believers 55, 69 Witness 13, 22, 26, 28, 29, 31, 33, 35, 45, 46, 50, 51, 53, 54, 55, 65, 75, 79, 85, 86, 87, 97, R 114, 119, 123, 124, 142, 148, 157, 161, 162, 164, 172 Reconciliation 12, 13, 16, 23, 31, 34, 36, 42, 54, Women 21, 29, 30, 31, 42, 47, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 60, 55, 56, 59, 60, 75, 79, 92, 96, 134, 143, 161, 61, 66, 67, 73, 76, 83, 84, 99, 100, 101, 102, 164 105, 106, 108, 114, 118, 160, 163, 165, 169 Reformed 26, 32, 33, 44, 46, 47, 53, 61, 148, gender equality 62, 106 162, 163, 171 ordination of 101, 165 Roman Catholic 14, 15, 16, 32, 38, 47, 50, 53, World Council of Churches (WCC) 12, 15, 17, 77, 114, 137, 142, 146, 170 31, 32, 33, 44, 45, 54, 60, 61, 64, 67, 68, 77, 78, 110, 114, 148, 161, 162 Worship 7, 8, 15, 17, 22, 51, 55, 59, 82, 133, 134, 139, 145, 146, 147, 160, 172

232 The Lutheran World Federation

ISBN 3-905676-34-6