Vicars learn about Lutheran women’s organization

by Judi Luckhardt

“Christ is our cornerstone, On Him alone we build.” Singing these words Judy Grande, president of LWML–Canada opened the annual Vicars Dinners for 2011. Students from Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary, St. Catharines and Concordia Lutheran Seminary, Edmonton each gathered to enjoy an evening of fun, food and fellowship before embarking on their vicarage year.

This year the soon-to be vicars, spouses and special guests from Concordia Lutheran Theological Seminary (CLTS) were hosted by Resurrection Lutheran in St. Catherine’s while those from Concordia Lutheran Seminary (CLS) met at All Saints Lutheran in Edmonton. Local LWMLC societies provided a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a delicious evening meal.      

In her program, President Grande touched briefly on the history of LWML and how LWML–Canada now relates to Lutheran Church–Canada. By using well-known hymn lyrics she went on to give more insight into the league’s purpose, its values as well as its relationships with others. Outlining the newly adopted mission statement—equipping, encouraging and motivating women to grow in God’s Word, serve God’s people and share God’s Son—the president shared how the league plans to achieve those goals.

Bible studies, devotions, retreat programs, the new Inspirational seminar, “Dear Lord, What do I do…God’s Direction Your Decisions,” are some of the tools available through the LWML–Canada Resource Centre to encourage women “to grow in God’s Word,” the league’s number one focus because it is the foundation for the other two parts of its mission—“serving God’s people” and “sharing God’s Son.”

LWMLC encourages its members to serve God’s people, not only in their congregations, but by stepping outside their comfort zone and into their community and the world. Witnessing actions such as supporting local food banks, nursing homes and pregnancy crises centres, all lay stepping-stones that will lead to chances for witnessing words. Organizations such as CLWR, LAMP and MOST ministries provide for world-wide volunteer opportunities.     

LWMLC members use the "Mite Box" to collect change to support the organization's mission projects.

”The majority of LWMLC members have, I believe, a heart for missions—both at home and around the world—but for each of us that begins with sharing our faith on a personal level,” President Judy stated. “However, our mission grant program is most likely what LWMLC is best known for in our churches,” she added. By supplying grant support to mission projects, LWMLC provides the finances and prayers for others to carry out the work members of LWML–Canada are unable to do personally. These grants are supported by offerings through the league’s Mite Boxes.

In closing President Grande encouraged vicars and pastors to call on their local LWMLC and engage the ladies in ways that will help support the ministry of their congregation. As LWML–Canada’s motto states, they are “called to serve.”         

Judi Luckhardt is public relations director for LWML–Canada.   

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