Photo: Aaron Burden, Unsplash
"A sustainable way to empower men and women" for the church's ministries
(LWI) - The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) is calling for scholarship applications for studies and training related to theological, diaconal and development work. “Education is a very sustainable way to empower men and women for their work in the church and its different ministries,” says Rev. Katariina Kiilunen, program executive for Capacity Building and Leadership Development.
“We encourage all churches to submit applications and provide suitable candidates with the opportunity to obtain good qualifications and develop their personal potential in order to serve their churches well.”
Applications can be made for a variety of study programs and courses, undergraduate as well as post-graduate studies. Short-term scholarships of up to one year for training courses, workshops, exchange programs, or research projects are also available.
The deadline for applications is 1 October 2020. “We have established a new online application system this year to help streamline the process,” says Kiilunen. Applications can only be submitted through LWF member churches. Individuals interested in a scholarship should contact their church office.
Diakonia and development scholarships
Applicants from LWF member churches from developing countries in the LWF regions of Africa, Asia, and Latin America and the Caribbean are eligible for the diaconal and development scholarships.
“This scholarship program provides opportunities to churches and students for working in fields such as human rights, gender justice, climate justice, psycho-social support or the medical field,” Kiilunen explains the wide range of possibilities. Students’ qualifications should directly benefit the ministries of their churches. Fields of studies can include health, education, sustainability, human rights, gender, environmental studies, food security, and international relations.
Theological scholarships
The theological scholarships are open to all LWF member churches. However, 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 church leaders.
In total, 50 scholarships are awarded for studies in diakonia and development, and 30 for theological studies.
Each LWF member church may 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 are considered.
