First full meeting of new LWF governing body
(LWI) – The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) annual governing body has concluded its first full meeting with key decisions on the communion’s work in theology, ecumenical relations, and advocacy on global crises including war and conflicts, religious freedom, peace, justice and accountable governance and leadership.
The Council met 13-18 June at Chavannes-de-Bogis near Geneva, under the theme “Abound in Hope – Rom. 15:13.”
Hope at center of new strategy
The LWF governing body unanimously approved the new 2025-2031 strategy titled “Sharing Hope.” Building on resolutions made by the Thirteenth Assembly, it was developed following several months of consultations with church leaders, representatives of LWF’s partners, and staff.
The Council also approved program and budget plans for the coming year, including the budget of EUR 184.2 million for 2025.
Lutheran – Orthodox statement on Nicene Creed
The decision-making body received two joint statements from the Lutheran-Orthodox Joint Commission: on the Holy Spirit and on the issue of Filioque (a clause added to the Nicene Creed in Western Christianity). The dialogue commission approached the question on filioque from a perspective of “differentiated consensus.” The outcome could have significant impact on relations between churches in the Eastern and Western traditions.
Public statements freedom of religion, conflict and war, and accountable governance
LWF Council members approved five public statements: on the freedom of religion or belief; justice and peace in the context of global conflicts; the war in Ukraine; the crisis in Gaza, the Occupied Palestinian Territories, and Israel; and on transparent, participatory and accountable governance.
Study processes on theology of the cross, peace and reconciliation
The Council also initiated two new study processes: on the Theology of the Cross in the context of the 21st century and on Peace and Reconciliation in the context of conflict and war. It also approved the establishment of task forces to prepare a Mutual Responsibility Framework for member churches and to develop policies on two other areas identified as priorities by Assembly participants: intergenerational justice and climate justice.
The Council welcomed the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Russia as an individual member church of the LWF. Until now, its membership in the Lutheran communion was through the Federation of Evangelical Lutheran Churches in Russia and Other States (ELCROS).
