The LWF (Lutheran World Federation) is a communion of 153 member churches. Pastors from various churches throughout the communion are attending the 31st Theological Seminar for Pastors.
Getting
to know each other we were asked to make a line, placing ourselves on a global North-South
line. Then asked to arrange selves by age; years ordained; and our favourite
gospel.
What
we learned is that we are diverse! Where we are from, our experiences, our
likes, our theological perspectives --- we represent a wealth of treasure.
Katarina
von Bora (Luther’s wife) took us back in time for a walk through the alt town
of Wittenberg. In what was once Lucas Cranach’s courtyard, there is an ancient
building where modern quilt like patches have been painted on the exterior
wall. In a way it represented our group. We all carry Luther with us because we
all studied Luther. The theology we teach, preach, and confess started with
Luther --- maybe even in conversation beside this very wall.
Katarina
showcased for us the number of bright academics who became friends. Passionate
about education these professors challenged each other, the empire of the time,
and hierarchy of the church. Difference of opinion led to lively debate, honest
study, and continued conversation.
May
this continue to be so for the church today and for the next two weeks of
study.
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