Programs

The church in Asia is in the process of developing its own sense of self-identity. it is defining those characteristics that make it unique. In 2015, the communion in Asia will create a model for studying Lutheran identity. In doing so, it aims to strengthen the bond between Lutheran theology and the life of church communities. Good governance is a prominent aspect of this program. The LWF in Asia will place special focus on young churches and new leaders, with theological reflection on governance in the Asia communion. A youth leadership network will be established to equip young people to go into the world and strengthen their churches.

Lutheran identity and self-understanding

As part of the Church Growth program, Lutheran identity and self-understanding aims to develop the unique aspects of the church and ensure the continuity of churches in effective holistic mission. That is, to empower the churches to remain on the cutting edge of church and society. This program addresses the challenges brought about by the changing environment in which the church works through annual conferences. The program has developed the core areas of work (doctrinal, historical and contextual), staff have been appointed and the outcomes of the last three conferences made public. The program continues until the 500th anniversary of the Reformation in 2017.

Good governance and sustainability is another element of this program. It aims to press upon governance the biblical and organizational concept of good governance so the churches are well-placed for sustainability. A follow-up workshop is planned for 2016.

Asia is prone to particularly devastating natural disasters, such as earthquakes, typhoons, landslides and tsunamis. In 2014, the LWF organized courses to improve the ability of members to prepare for disaster and be better at emergency response should the worst occur. The workshops were aimed at the smaller LWF member churches, in particular those in Bangladesh, Malaysia, Nepal and Cambodia. In 2015, support to churches continues by developing their capacity for psychosocial assistance in times of disaster and in strengthening regional support mechanisms. Seven churches work together across the region to combat stigmatisation against people living with HIV and AIDS and to defend their rights.

Contextual prophetic diakonia

Under the Capacity for Diakonia program, this area of work strengthens the understanding of Biblical diakonia and how it should be carried out in the Asia context so that it is prophetic in nature. Many churches working in diakonia have lost the biblical and prophetic dimension of service. Through workshops - primarily oriented toward practitioners - content has been developed and staff appointed. A follow-up workshop will be organised for both theologians and practitioners.

The churches in Asia places strong emphasis on efforts to strengthen the communion. The Asia Church Leadership Conference is a clear expression of communion-building, the focus of which is the sustainability of Asian churches. Conference themes include: Lutheran self-understanding, the relevance of the Christian faith in people's daily lives, good church governance, and mission and discipleship. The communion in Asia is strengthened by a regional officer who galvanises the work of member churches, brings them closer to federation work in Geneva and publicises their work.

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