International Relationships

God is blessing us and enriching our lives together.  Not only are we growing in size and relationship here in America, but we are becoming ever more connected globally.  You may remember that a group of us went to Ethiopia in February.  We participated in their Theological and Mission Conference.  We also met with the leadership of the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus.  That is beginning to bear fruit. 

At our Convocation, we will act on two recommendations from the Executive Council.  It is proposed that we enter into full communion with the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Uganda.  If the Convocation approves, congregations will have to ratify the decision.

According to our provisional constitution, full communion means:  1) The recognition that each church is an authentic churchbody within the one Church of Christ according to the Lutheran confession; 2) The admission of members in the one churchbody to the Lord's Table in the other churchbody; 3) The permission  of pastors in the one church to preach and preside at worship services in the other church; and 4) The interchangeability of pastors in one church to serve as pastors in the other church.

God is blessing us with relationships around the globe.  Other African Lutherans are watching and drawing strength from our common work of the Gospel.  We can learn from each other.  We are not in this alone.  The Holy Spirit provides for us!

Pr. Jim Lehmann -- provisional dean