Message of encouragement at the Leadership Conference of the Americas
(LWI) - „Do not be afraid!“ was the message of the opening service of the Leadership Conference of the Americas (COL). „God rekindles in us, through faith, the flame of hope!“
The conference brings together Church leaders, youth and women, representatives of theological education institutions, Council members and partners from Latin America and the Caribbean and North America in São Leopoldo, Brazil, from 15 to 19 April. The theme of the conference is “Do not be afraid! There is Good News!”
In her sermon, Rev. Sílvia Genz, Pastor President of the hosting Evangelical Church of the Lutheran Confession in Brazil (IELCB), said, „Do not be afraid! The Risen One, God, summons all people, humanity, and creation to be part of God’s saving project, leading them to life in fullness. The invitation is inclusive and unconditional.“
Sharing fear, worries, inspiration, and hope
A thematic session on the conference theme was aimed at encouraging joint reflection on the challenges the churches face and encouraging them to overcome these challenges to move forward.
A world café session took participants through four stations: fear, worries, inspiration, and hope.