Small group discussions at the first LWF leadership seminar for general secretaries in the African region churches were an opportunity for participants to share good practices and challenges. Photo: LWF/Maro Maua
“Enriching discussions” among general secretaries in LWF Africa region
(LWI) - The first Leadership Seminar for General Secretaries of The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) member churches in Africa concluded with participants affirming strengthened communion relations, clearer leadership roles, and a renewed commitment to effective church governance. Held 17-21 March, in Nairobi, Kenya, under the theme “Thriving Churches,” the seminar brought together 30 participants from across the continent.
The seminar’s aim was to clarify leadership functions, particularly the distinction between the role of the head of the church—Bishop or President in most LWF member churches—and that of a General Secretary. Discussions focused on strengthening governance, understanding leadership values, and collaboration within the LWF communion. LWF Program Executive for Capacity Building and Leadership Development Rev. Katariina Kiilunen facilitated the seminar alongside the Regional Secretary for Africa Rev. Dr Samuel Dawai and the Head of Global Advocacy Mr Isaiah Toroitich.
Rev. Bertha Godfrey Munkhondya, General Secretary, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malawi (left) called on churches to consider gender justice as a cross-cutting issue that should be viewed positively.
LWF Program Executive for Capacity Building and Leadership Development Rev. Katariina Kiilunen and Mr Isaiah Toroitich, Head of Global Advocacy. Photo: LWF/Maro Maua
It also provided networking opportunities and insights into the LWF Strategy 2025-2031, reinforcing the general secretaries’ roles in shaping the future of their churches.
A first-time opportunity
For many, the gathering was a first-time opportunity to connect with peers. Rev. Pierre Lademba Faye, General Secretary of the Lutheran Church of Senegal (Église Luthérienne du Senegal – ELS), said “the discussions were enriching and allowed us to have a much clearer understanding of the foundation of our Lutheran tradition and how the LWF is organized.”
Faye, pastor of the ELS Fatick parish noted that while the leadership functions of a church bishop or president and general secretary are more often defined in church constitutions, “the practice and respect accorded to each office can present some challenges.” An opportunity “to look deeper into these roles today benefits both church leaders,” he added.
The discussions were enriching and allowed us to have a much clearer understanding of the foundation of our Lutheran tradition and how the LWF is organized.
Rev. Pierre Lademba Faye, General Secretary, Lutheran Church of Senegal
Rev. Bertha Godfrey Munkhondya, General Secretary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malawi (ELCM), said the small group sessions created room to share different experiences and challenges and to affirm servant leadership with dedication. The ELCM’s first ordained woman and first woman general secretary called on churches to consider gender justice as a cross-cutting issue that should be viewed positively. “It is not necessarily something to induce competition among women and men but to compliment and work today with determination to get rid of all forms of injustices,” she added.
Several participants said the seminar had forged stronger connection between the region’s general secretaries and the LWF Communion Office, which would foster a more collaborative leadership environment. “I go back with a lot of hope. I am not alone in this position, and I have been encouraged by colleagues,” one participant shared.
LWF Regional Secretary for Africa Rev. Dr Samuel Dawai (left) and Ms LoeRose Mbise, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania. Photo: LWF/Maro Maua
A group discussion on key positive trends of leadership and governance in the region. Photo: LWF/Maro Maua
LWF Regional Secretary Dawai affirmed the seminar "will undoubtedly leave a positive impact on the participants who are now better equipped to understand the LWF and its values.”
