2018 Women Human's Right training. Photo: LWF/George Arende
Empowering through education
(LWI) - The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) is calling for scholarship applications for studies and training related to theological, diaconal and development work. “We encourage all churches to submit applications that respond well to existing capacity needs,” says Marina Doelker, LWF Secretary for Diakonia and Development. “We are specifically eager to see women being promoted – for diaconal, and particularly for theological scholarships,” she adds.
Short-term scholarships of up to one year for training courses, workshops, exchange programs or research projects in both areas are also available. Applications can only be submitted through LWF member churches. Individuals interested in a scholarship should contact their church office. The deadline for applications is 1 October 2019.
Diakonia/development scholarships
Eligible for the diaconal and development scholarships are applicants from LWF member churches from developing countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, whose studies will benefit the ministries of their church. Fields of studies can include health, education, sustainability, human rights, gender, environmental studies, food security and international relations. “Churches that need doctors or nurses for hospitals, for instance, may propose candidates for medical or nursing studies,” Doelker says. “Churches that need qualified staff or volunteers for the management of diaconal programs, can submit an application for project management or any other field relating to the work being done,” she adds.
Preference will be given to those who aim for a career supporting their church, which should be indicated in the current work, future position, and the church endorsement.
Theological scholarships
The theological scholarships are open to all LWF member churches, although preference will be given to applications from Africa, Asia, Central Eastern Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, and those recommended for higher degrees (masters and doctoral degrees) who intend to work as educators, pastors, and leaders.
In total, 50-70 scholarships will be awarded for studies in diaconia and development and 20-25 for theological studies. An endorsement by the respective LWF member church is required. The proposed study or training program has to respond well to the needs of the church, and the church has to explain well how the person would support the church with the new knowledge and skills.
Each LWF member church can submit up to five applications, respecting the LWF quota of 40 percent men/ women and 20 percent young adults below the age of 30 years. No applications from individuals will be considered.
