Governance and Oversight

The member churches from our seven regions nominate representatives to our highest governing body, the Assembly.

The Assembly elects the LWF President and the Council which governs between Assemblies and approves the LWF Strategy which gives direction for the Communion's work. The LWF Communion Office carries out tasks mandated by our Council. 

Global Commemoration of the 500 years of Reformation. Photo: LWF/Johanan Celine Valeriano

Global Commemoration of the 500 years of Reformation. Photo: LWF/Johanan Celine Valeriano

The Assembly brings together delegates from all member churches of the communion. The Thirteenth Assembly will take place in Poland in 2023

LWF President Musa

LWF President, Archbishop Dr Panti Filibus Musa, from the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria. Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Archbishop Dr Panti Filibus Musa, our current President, is Archbishop of the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria. 

Twelfth LWF Assembly: Plenary

Opening Plenary of the Twelfth LWF Assembly. Photo: LWF/ Brenda Platero

We have seven vice-presidents, each representing one of the seven LWF regions. They are elected by the Council from among its members, and may be ordained or lay. Furthermore, a due representation of women and men shall be observed

LWF Executive Committee meeting in Geneva

LWF Executive Committee meeting in Geneva, 8 June 2022. Photo: LWF/S. Gallay

The Executive Committee oversees the proper functioning of the LWF between Council meetings. 

Council 2019 vote

Vote during the 2019 LWF Council meeting in Geneva, Switzerland. Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

The Council has the responsibility to ensure that LWF is satisfactorily organized and run according to its defined purpose and in accordance with resolutions made by the Assembly. 

It also appoints from its membership committees and sub-committees to direct specific areas of work:

  • Council Committees
    • Committee for World Service
    • Finance Committee
    • Committee for Advocacy and Public Voice
    • Committee for Communications
    • Committee for Communion Relations
    • Committee for Ecumenical Relations
    • Committee for Theology
    • Mission and Justice
    • Standing Committee for Constitution and Membership