“In Christ all things hold together” is the theme of first in-person Council meeting in three years
(LWI) – The Council of The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) will hold its annual meeting in Geneva, 9-14 June, under the theme “In Christ all things hold together." This marks the first time since 2019 that the full governing body will be meeting physically following the COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.
On the agenda are updates on preparations toward the Thirteenth Assembly in 2023 in Poland, launch of a digital exhibition on LWF’s 75th anniversary this year, discussion of reports from the communion’s global leaders, and sharing in worship and prayer life.
The Council will begin with worship at the Ecumenical Center Chapel. LWF President Archbishop Dr Panti Filibus Musa, head of the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria, will formally open the meeting, after which he will deliver his address. This will be followed by reports of the General Secretary Rev. Anne Burghardt, and of the Finance Committee Chairperson Oberkirchenrat Olaf Johannes Mirgeler. In the next days, Council members will discuss these reports in their respective committees and bring back recommendations for action.
Pre-Council meetings for youth and women delegates held a day prior, also highlight issues of specific concern. Official guests at LWF’s governing bodies include representatives of other Christian World Communions, who will present greetings.
The gathering is a time for participants to reflect together on their spiritual life. Each day begins with Bible study and prayer and closes with an evening prayer prepared by Council members. This will be the last full meeting of the LWF Council before the 2023 Assembly.
Follow the LWF Council at https://www.lutheranworld.org/content/council-2022
The LWF Council is the highest authority of the LWF between Assemblies. It consists of the President, the Chairperson of the Finance Committee, and 48 members from LWF member churches in seven regions. The current governing body was elected at the May 2017 Twelfth Assembly in Windhoek, Namibia.