LWF Annual Report 2021 EN 20220528v2

Solidarity in
challenging times
Annual Report 2021
Contents
Solidarity in difficult times............................................ 3 Upholding dignity in times of emergency.................... 26
Skills and tools that empower communities................ 28
CHURCHES' PRESENCE AND VIBRANT WITNESS Quality services, a basic right for all.............................31
Assembly preparations take shape............................... 4
Increased contact with member churches.................... 8 ORGANIZATIONAL SUSTAINABILITY
Toward practical ecumenical cooperation................... 12 AND EFFECTIVENESS
Building a theological vision that leads to Executive Committee................................................. 32
transformation ....................................................... 14 Called to lead the Communion of Churches................ 34
A continuous journey of life-long learning ................... 16 Leadership Team....................................................... 35
Pillars of hope in times of need .................................. 18 Deep commitment to serving the church and the
neighbor................................................................. 36
PROMOTING HUMAN DIGNTITY, JUSTICE AND PEACE Staff ...........................................................................37
A global communion.................................................. 20 Solid principles safeguard financial stability................ 38
Growing faith-based influence for human rights.......... 23 The LWF Endowment Fund ........................................ 40
© The Lutheran World Federation, 2022
Contributors: Julia Brümmer, Maryssa Camaddo, Véronique Debal, Katariina Kiilunen, Sivin Kit, Dirk Lange, Philip Lok,
Ireneusz Lukas, Chey Mattner, Elieshi Mungure, Agnès Page-Livron, Pius Perangatt, Tsiry Rakoto, Chad
Rimmer, Sonia Skupch, Isaiah Toroitich
Editor: Pauline Mumia
Layout: Stéphane Gallay
Editor-in-Chief: Árni Daníelsson
Cover photo: LWF/Albin Hillert
Publisher: The Lutheran World Federation – A Communion of Churches

Route de Ferney 150, P. O. Box 2100, 1211 Geneva 2, Switzerland
ISBN 978-2-940642-38-0
LWF ANNUAL REPORT 2021
Liberated by God’s grace,

a communion in Christ
living and working together
for a just, peaceful, and
reconciled world.
LWF Vision
Photo: LWF/Johanan Celine P. Valeriano
1
LWF President Archbishop Dr Panti

Filibus Musa (left) and LWF General
Secretary Rev. Anne Burghardt.
Photo: LWF/M. Renaux
2
Solidarity in difficult times

“If one member suffers, all suffer together with it; if one
member is honored, all rejoice together with it.” (1 Cor 12:26)
In 2021, The Lutheran World and a future. Staff continued to work

Federation (LWF) member churches from home mostly, collaborating ef-
showed remarkable solidarity with fectively during times of uncertainty.
one another, standing close, support- A leadership transition marked the
ing, and affirming one another as they year, bidding farewell to former General
continued to respond to the COVID-19 Secretary Rev. Dr Martin Junge, who
pandemic and make a difference lo- concluded his service on 31 October,
cally through service and witness. and welcoming General Secretary Rev.
It was a year of learning for the Anne Burghardt on 1 November.
LWF as an organization. Travel con- In spite of the challenges of a
tinued to be limited, which meant global pandemic and other difficult
that the programmatic work on realities, there were many memo-
communion relations, theology, mis- rable moments to expreinece the
sion, and justice was primarily imple- strong witness of the communion
mented online. Work in the humani- of churches, offered with great pas-
tarian and development programs sion for the church and the world.
continued with some adjustments, We invite you to read this report and
focusing on responding to the urgent learn about this work and witness in
needs of people seeking safety, hope a memorable year.
Archbishop Dr Panti Filibus Musa, President

Rev. Anne Burghardt, General Secretary
3
CHURCHES' PRESENCE AND VIBRANT WITNESS
Assembly preparations take shape

Preparations are on track for the September 2023 gathering
of LWF’s highest decision-making body in Poland.
Guided by the Assembly Planning ing, the International Worship Planning

Committee (APC), the LWF intensified Committee that leads preparations
preparations toward its Thirteenth for daily worship and prayer life, be-
Assembly, which will be hosted by the gan to explore key symbols, visual im-
Evangelical Church of the Augsburg ages and additional biblical texts that
Confession in Poland (ECACP) in might compliment understanding of
Krakow, from 13-19 September 2023. the assembly theme. “The liturgical
A resource, One Body, One Spirit, expression of worship at the Assembly
One Hope was published and distrib- can deepen an understanding of the
uted to all the member churches. It Assembly theme and its unity, and
introduces the assembly theme and at the same time reflect the LWF’s
encourages the member churches confessional identity,” said Presiding
to get involved. The Assembly web- Bishop Dr. Tamás Fabiny, APC chair-
site was launched in LWF’s four lan- person.
guages as well as in Polish. The vi- The host church is excited to
sual identity was also introduced in welcome the Lutheran communion.
the five languages, including a pack- An eight-person Local Assembly
age of posters, backdrops and letter- Planning Committee (LACP) made
heads with the assembly logo. up of ECACP members is a very active
Meetings of the respective com- and committed group that continued
mittees responsible for developing the to meet twice a month to discuss and
study content and worship materials, plan the local arrangements. The ICE
and local hosting took place online Krakow Congress Center has been
and onsite in Krakow. At its first meet- secured as the Assembly venue, and
4
Members of the APC and LAPC met

in October in Krakow. Photo: LWF/A.
Danielsson
“The LWF Assembly is a significant

gathering of Lutheran churches
worldwide. We are looking forward
to hosting so many representatives
from around the world.”
Presiding Bishop Jerzy Samiec, Evangelical
Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland.
5
The resource One Body, One Spirit, One Hope introduces

the assembly theme and encourages member churches to
get involved. Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert
6
the City of Krakow has committed to donate two

days free use of the convention center, and to ex-
tend free use of the public transportation within
the city to all official participants.
355 delegates, regional Pre-Assemblies

Several decisions pertaining to the assembly were
made during the year. At its meeting in June, the
LWF Council approved the categories and number
of participants at the assembly. Around 355 offi-
cial delegates representing the member church-
es are expected to participate. Their distribution
will comply with LWF’s participation quota of 40
percent women, 40 percent men and 20 percent
youth. In addition, there will be 700 other partici-
pants including visitors and local volunteers.
The regional Pre-Assemblies for churches in
Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas will take
place in the respective regions in early 2023,
while the international Pre-Assemblies for women
and youth will take place in Poland, prior to the
Assembly itself. These gatherings play a vital role
in preparing churches to participate actively in the
Assembly, and nominate leaders for the next pe-
riod in the life of the LWF communion.
The Thirteenth Assembly budget was ap-
proved. The APC concluded its work in October,
having met four times since it was appointed in
2020.
7
Increased contact
with member churches
When churches reflect together on the
gift of being in communion, they deepen
understanding of their need for each other
as members of the one Body of Christ.
In a year when in-person regional conferences,

workshops and visits were mostly limited by the
pandemic’s restrictions, the LWF intensified ac-
companiment to its 148 member churches in
other forms.
In addition to online meetings with individual
heads of churches and others in leadership, LWF
offered counseling, shared prayers, liturgy or scrip-
ture messages and letters of encouragement. Staff
participated virtually in significant events in the life
of the church such as anniversaries and assemblies
or conferences. During the year, the LWF engaged
with a total of 580 leaders in decision-making posi-
tions, including Council members.
In Asia, an example was the online meeting
with Japanese church leaders. It was an opportu-
nity to learn about the Japan Lutheran Church’s
decision to allow women’s ordination, express
solidarity with Kinki Evangelical Lutheran Church
over the pandemic’s impact on its financial health,
8
Sister Elistaha Mlay, director of the Lutheran Sisters’
Convent Ushirika wa Neema, explains the community’s
work to delegates of the EECMY-ELCT exchange seminar.
Photo: ELCT/Erick Adolph

99
Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert
10
and applaud Japan Evangelical Lutheran the church’s role in the public space amid the
Church for its COVID-19 guidelines, remind- pandemic and other tragedies.
ing its members “to protect life and to keep The Nordic region held a number of we-
life safe.” binars on “Baptism in times of change” for
LWF also provided platforms for reflection, churches in Denmark, Finland, Iceland,
prayer and peer support to leaders of church- Norway and Sweden. Participants analyzed
es facing difficult political and social contexts surveys and research materials that re-
in the Latin America and Caribbean region. spond to a 2017 LWF Assembly resolution
This was the case for the Evangelical Church inviting churches to create platforms for
of the Lutheran Confession in Brazil, United exchange and learning about the chang-
Evangelical Church in Cuba Lutheran Synod, ing church in the face of secularization and
Salvadoran Lutheran Church, Nicaraguan other societal and demographic factors.
Lutheran Church of Faith and Hope, and the In spite of the additional burden the pan-
Guatemala Lutheran Church. demic placed on leaders and the congrega-
tions they serve, almost all LWF churches
LWF’s accompaniment remains critical were able to adapt their mission and min-
Some sub-regional and regional events took istries to new formats according to the pan-
place, bringing together church leaders and demic’s restrictions. By constantly monitor-
networks to reflect and work together on coming the situation in churches through close
mon initiatives and global processes. Africa’s contact with the leadership, LWF was able
largest Lutheran churches—Evangelical to apply the mechanisms it has developed
Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT) and to provide quick and efficient support.
the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane It was a challenging year in many re-
Yesus—signed a joint initiative to enhance spects. Numerous churches lost their bish-
learning and experience sharing in order to ops, pastors and members to the deadly vi-
enrich their respective ministries, following a rus, while others experienced a significant
seminar hosted by the ELCT. The Lutheran drop in their income. The majority continue
Council in Africa met in-person in Ethiopia, to struggle with the issue of re-opening for
with 44 delegates discussing the theme physical worship services. In these times,
“Being church in the times of COVID-19” and LWF’s accompaniment remains critical.
11
Toward practical
ecumenical cooperation
With a shifting “center of gravity” compelling reflection on the nature,
methods and topics of ecumenical dialogues, the LWF remains
committed to strengthening collaboration on the way to Christian unity.
Inner conversion and reception of 500th anniversary in 2030 will become

ecumenical agreements can perhaps common ground on which to strength-
only be measured by the long-term en working together toward unity and
commitment of individuals, churches reconciliation. LWF World Service and
and communities to the journey of Caritas Internationalis signed a Common
moving from conflict to communion. Vision to explore ways of linking humani-
For LWF’s ecumenical relations, tarian work and ecumenical initiatives
2020-2021 was a period to consoli- more closely.
date and lay new groundwork for on- Ecumenical officers of the five ad-
going and new conversations. herents of the Joint Declaration on
The Joint Catholic-Lutheran Comme the Doctrine of Justification (JDDJ)—
moration of the Reformation in 2016 and Lutherans, Catholics, Methodists,
the commitment by the LWF and the Anglicans and the Reformed—be-
Roman Catholic to witness together and gan developing a first study guide for
respond jointly to human need through- the milestone agreement. The guide
out the world continued to bear fruit. is aimed at encouraging greater col-
In June, LWF President Archbishop Dr laboration in mission between local
Panti Filibus Musa led a delegation to churches of the five world commu-
an audience with Pope Francis in the nions. Increased mutual cooperation
Vatican. Both sides acknowledged the continued through the Lutheran-
ecumenical potential of the Augsburg Orthodox Commission with an online
Confession and expressed hope that its meeting discussing the role of sacra-
12
mentals, especially during the pan-

demic.
A study group was formed to explore
the challenges posed to Lutherans
in the Lutheran-Mennonite-Roman
Catholic trilateral dialogue report on
Baptism and Incorporation into the Body
of Christ, the Church.
The World Communion of
Reformed Churches and LWF es-
tablished a concept note for a
study group on the right of religious
freedom. This builds on the 2017
Wittenberg Witness commitment to
continued renewal and collaboration.
The possibility of dialogue with three
new partners was explored. During a first
visit to the leader of the Orient Orthodox
His Holiness Aram I in Lebanon,
the Assistant General Secretary for
Ecumenical Relations discussed poten-
tial areas of common interest and ser-
vice. Online meetings were held with the
Salvation Army ecumenical officer, and
initial contact was taken up with the New
Apostolic Church.
Within the LWF, work is being fo-
cused on developing an ecumenical
officers’ network that links local, re-
13
Building a theological vision

that leads to transformation
LWF is committed to a theological vision and values that
lead to transformation in church and society.
By grounding creative, critical, and contex- An open-access online theological re-

tual reflection in concrete action, the LWF’s source was launched, offering video and audio
theological work aimed to strengthen the self- lectures aimed at equipping member church-
understanding and transformational capac- es to doing theology for the common good.
ity of its member churches. Through online The series was developed in collaboration
methodologies, the LWF engaged with over with the Berlin Institute for Public Theology in
3,500 individuals from the member churches Germany, and the Beyers Naudé Institute for
on contemporary theological questions, spiri- Public Theology in Stellenbosch, South Africa.
tuality and practice, inclusion in the ordained Also, a task force was established to develop
ministry, economy of life, interreligious rela- a Jewish-Christian relations study document
tions and engagement in the public space. for member churches, which is part of the
More than 2,600 people responded to a Thirteenth Assembly preparations.
‘Global Survey on Being Lutheran’ inviting in- LWF’s commitment to transformative
dividuals in all the member churches to reflect theology includes promoting the full and
about their beliefs, experiences, and how faith meaningful participation of women in the
transforms their experience of daily life. In addi- ordained ministry. A highlight in the year
tion, representatives from 53 member church- was the launch of the Hélène Ralivao Fund
es participated in diverse activities on Lutheran for theological training, leadership devel-
identity. Papers presented at the 2019 global opment and research for women in Africa.
consultation that kicked off the entire process LWF congratulated three of its churches—
were published in the book We Believe in the in Malawi, Poland and South Africa—for
Holy Spirit: Global Perspectives on Lutheran milestone decisions on women’s ordination
Identities (LWF Documentation 63). and leadership.
14
Bishop Naledzani Josephine

Sikhwari was consecrated on 23
May 2021, becoming the first
woman to head the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in Southern
Africa (ELCSA) Northern Diocese.
Photo: David Mang’enda/ALCINET
“I trust that with the support of the church

members and the current leadership, we can
transform the image of the church and make
it a relevant institution in the community.”
– Bishop Naledzani Josephine Sikhwari

15
15
A continuous journey of In 2021 most meetings were held online. In this photo,
participants in the 2019 Lay Leaders Seminar in Wittenberg,
life-long learning
Germany: from left, Quelen Angudampai (Malaysia), Manoj
Kumar Hial (India) and Mildred Buyiswa Sambane (South
Africa).
Leadership development fosters principles which build churches

that are sustainable and a communion that is inclusive.
In yet another year when face-to-face diaconal project coordinators partici-

encounters and exposure to local con- pated in various training programs.
texts could not occur, the LWF tapped Two online platforms were estab-
into the increased online engagement lished to provide space where LWF
with the churches to continue lead- scholarship holders from churches
ership formation programs. More across the communion meet to
than 620 people took part including empower and inspire each other,
youth, scholarship holders, women, develop new ideas to strengthen
ordained and lay church leaders, and churches, and bring a global voice
16
into local contexts. More than 160 Conference of the Parties (COP 26) cli-
students participated in the quar- mate conference in Glasgow, Scotland.
terly “Coming together meetings” for The annual Lay Leaders Seminar
scholars in theological studies and gathered 18 participants online,
in development and diakonia fields. who in a follow-up survey indicated
In addition, the students themselves they had gained more knowledge on
initiated a virtual platform where they Lutheran theology and the biblical
meet weekly for networking, sharing basis for church leadership. A similar
academic experiences and learning number took part in the online Retreat
new skills such as communication. for Newly Elected Leaders (RONEL) for
More than 150 young people di- heads of churches who have recently
rectly took part in leadership activities assumed office. In two workshops for
involving youth during the year, and diaconal leaders in Africa and Asia, a
hundreds more were added through total of 72 participants discussed the
the local-based initiatives. The Global theological basis of a diaconal church.
Young Reformers Network (GYRN) was The leadership accompaniment
reactivated including a new Steering also involves sharing principles of
Committee, and regular online meet- management and good governance
ings to strengthen relationships. The for LWF-supported member church
program provided targeted leadership initiatives. At two online capacity
capacity building components such building workshops, 38 participants
as small grants for youth climate ac- gained skills on strengthening the
tion. Following training in advocacy planning, monitoring, evaluation and
and communication skills, Young reporting (PMER) processes of long-
Reformers planned and led the LWF term projects.
Green Reformation Day Service, or- A study on the ‘Reception and
ganized a Peace on Earth Advent Use of the LWF Gender Justice
Gathering attended by 50 youth from Policy’ finalized during the year, will
all regions, and continued their leader- inform LWF’s further support to the
ship role as LWF’s delegation to the 26th member churches in this area.
17
PROMOTING HUMAN DIGNTITY, JUSTICE AND PEACE
Pillars of hope in
times of need
Churches that are well equipped respond effectively
to the needs of the most vulnerable people.
With LWF’s support, churches continued to pro-

vide hands-on solutions to pressing needs in
their congregations and wider community, as the
COVID-19 pandemic put additional pressure on
the most vulnerable people.
LWF shifted its COVID-19 rapid response assis-
tance to a Rapid Recovery Fund (RRF) to address
ongoing needs and rebuild livelihoods. By the end
of 2021, the fund established in April 2020 had
provided short-term grants for 181 projects by 87
member churches in 53 countries, bringing relief
to tens of thousands of people. This included sup-
port to livelihood and income generating activities.
“My tiffin [light lunch and tea] shop has become
extremely popular, and it continues to provide an
income for me,” said Sagara, who was accompa-
nied by the Gossner Evangelical Lutheran Church
in Chotanagpur and Assam in India.
In May, the LWF launched a ‘Guidance Note’ to LWF’s Rapid Recovery Fund supports
livelihood and income generating
promote joint engagement and practical collabo- activities. In India, a food shop
ration between the member churches and World owner serves lunch. Photo: United
Evangelical Lutheran Churches in India
Service programs. At two subsequent regional
18
meetings online, 72 church repre-

sentatives and country program staff
in Africa, Asia, and Latin America
and the Caribbean affirmed com-
mitment to strengthen joint work in
serving the most vulnerable people.
“That space of working together has
been good also in getting to know
each other,” noted Honduran church
leader Rev. Julio César Cabellero,
referring to joint humanitarian re-
sponse following hurricanes Eta and
Iota in 2020.
Work on migration under the
Symbols of Hope program with three
LWF member churches in Ethiopia,
Nigeria and Zimbabwe (new country)
focused on increasing awareness in
congregations and local communi-
ties, and psychosocial care and live-
lihood support to potential migrants
and returnees. The country program
coordinators also visited the Ethiopia
program for best practice exchange.
In addition, LWF’s funding and tech-
nical support continued for long-
term projects among its member
churches, and for emergencies.
19
GREENLAND
ICELAND
N
CANADA
UNITED
KINGDO
NETH
FRAN
SWITZ
UNITED STATES
MEXICO CUBA
HAITI
MAURITANIA
HONDURAS
SENEGAL
GUATEMALA NICARAGUA
A global
EL SALVADOR
COSTA RICA VENEZUELA SIERRA LEONE
GUYANA GHAN
SURINAME LIBERIA
communion
COLOMBIA
PERU BRAZIL
148 Member Churches BOLIVIA

7 Regions
27 Countries (World Service) PARAGUAY
CHILE
URUGUAY
ARGENTINA
Member churches
Member churches and World Service
World Service
20
SWEDEN
NORWAY FINLAND
RUSSIA
ESTONIA
D DENMARK LATVIA
M LITHUANIA
HERLANDS POLAND BELARUS
GERMANY CZECH REPUBLIC
SLOVAKIA
NCE AUSTRIA HUNGARY UKRAINE KAZAKHSTAN
ZERLANDLIECHTENSTEIN
SLOVENIA ROMANIA
CROATIA
SERBIA GEORGIA UZBEKISTAN KYRGYZSTAN
ITALY
AZERBAIJAN
TURKMENISTAN TAJIKISTAN
SYRIA SOUTH JAPAN
IRAQ KOREA
PALESTINIAN
TERRITORY JORDAN
NEPAL
BANGLADESH TAIWAN
INDIA HONG
MYANMAR KONG
LAOS
CHAD ERITREA THAILAND
DJIBOUTI PHILIPPINES
NIGERIA CENTRAL SOUTH ETHIOPIA
NA AFRICAN SUDAN SRI LANKA
REPUBLIC SOMALIA MALAYSIA
CAMEROON
UGANDA SINGAPORE
KENYA
DEMOCRATIC
RWANDA
REPUBLIC REPUBLIC OF BURUNDI INDONESIA
OF THE THE CONGO PAPUA NEW
CONGO TANZANIA GUINEA
ANGOLA MALAWI
ZAMBIA
MOZAMBIQUE
NAMIBIA ZIMBABWE
MADAGASCAR
BOTSWANA
AUSTRALIA
SOUTH AFRICA
NEW ZEALAND
21
22
Growing faith-based influence

for human rights
Empowering local churches and communities for advocacy
increases their capacity to hold duty bearers to account.
The development of a new LWF As part of its commitment to gen-

Advocacy Framework in 2021 reiter- der responsive programming, the LWF
ated the organization’s commitment launched a new module on its FABO
to its ‘local to global to local’ (L2G2L) training platform, with more than 150
approach. Emphasis was put on people registered for the course rat-
strengthening the capacity of member ing it as helpful or very helpful.
churches and local communities to di- At the annual women’s human
rectly take part in monitoring the pro- rights training attended by 60 women
gressive implementation of their coun- and men, focus shifted to region-
tries’ human rights commitments. based advocacy, and participants
At the UN Human Rights Council, it from Africa followed up with a pilot
was encouraging to witness the recom- training. LWF’s support toward pro-
mendation for government action most motion of 16 Days of Activism against
of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) sexual and gender-based violence
proposals by churches. In Namibia for (SGBV) saw “365 days of zero toler-
example, the government now consid- ance” launched in Mberengwa district,
ers the Evangelical Lutheran Church in central Zimbabwe. In Kathmandu,
the Republic of Namibia as a key civil so- Nepal, government officials explained
ciety partner in its UPR process. It was the state’s role in promoting the safety
similar in Sierra Leone, where the death and security of human rights’ work-
sentence has been abolished, follow- ers, and thanked them for their work.
ing submissions from the Evangelical In Kismayu, Somalia, inter-school
Lutheran Church in Sierra Leone. debates involving 80 pupils and 30
23
teachers provided a platform for SGBV awareness

and inclusion of children with disabilities.
Innovative approaches and interfaith collabora-
tion in peacebuilding connected local faith actors
to regional and global platforms. Online and hybrid
meetings to promote the “Welcoming the Stranger,
Shaping the Future” initiative reached over 280
participants representing 135 organizations in 148
countries. Further, the LWF demonstrated the vital
role of film in building capacity for social cohesion
by partnering in a film festival to counteract the ris-
ing tide of extremism and xenophobia around the
world. At side event of the UN High Level Political
Forum attended by 155 participants, LWF featured
the work of its member churches in Colombia,
Indonesia and Namibia around the Sustainable
Development Goals 13 (climate action) and 16
(peace, justice and strong institutions).
Young people inspired to lead for change have con-
tributed to recognition of LWF’s advocacy for climate
justice. The 32-person delegation at COP26, both in-
person and online, led interfaith and other side events
of the conference. What also stood out, was how the
youth utilized their advocacy and communication skills
to increase LWF’s social media engagement on climate
and host online activities in their churches. For exam-
ple, they created highly effective and innovative edu- At COP 26, delegates from the LWF and its partner ACT
cational materials and grew the reach of LWF’s Youth Alliance join hands under the message, “Creation - Not for
Sale.” Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert
Facebook account by 10,000 users.
24
“We demand climate justice

for all and care for the
earth we depend on.”
COP 26 delegate, Nora Antonsen,
Church of Norway
25
Upholding dignity in
times of emergency
LWF’s response to natural and human-made disasters
is swift, thanks to the local presence of its international
humanitarian and development arm, World Service.
In 2021 LWF reached nearly 2.5 ment and famine-like condi-

million people, including more tions, LWF assisted 147,607 in-
than 385,200 who needed di- dividuals. LWF responded with
rect emergency assistance. food security and nutrition pro-
The situation of Rohingya grams, livelihoods’ cash grants,
people from Myanmar remained protection programs, emergen-
precarious. Through its former cy shelter, NFIs and WASH, and
country program in Bangladesh, deployed additional staff.
RDRS, LWF provided food se- A 7.2-magnitude earthquake
curity and nutrition, education, in Haiti left over 650,000 people
means of earning a living, non- in need of humanitarian assis-
food items (NFIs) and acces- tance, amid massive destruction
sibility to water, sanitation and and deaths. LWF and its part-
hygiene (WASH) to over 33,308 ners assisted 182,826 individu-
individuals. Over 65,533 locally als with emergency shelter, liveli-
adapted tree saplings were plant- hoods through cash distribution,
ed at the Cox’s Bazar refugee skills for disaster risk reduction
camp, contributing to the camp’s and prevention of gender-based AVH receives support from local
green initiative, which extends to violence (GBV). Palestinian institutions and
communities, and volunteers are
the nearby host communities. LWF sustained its commit- a large part of the hospital and its
In Tigray, northern Ethiopia, ment to Syrian refugees, provid- patients. Photo: AVH/ Palestinian
Telecommunication Group (Paltel)
where conflict fueled displace- ing shelter, psychosocial care
26
and other basic needs to 7,734 Syrians

and vulnerable Jordanians. In Iraq,
11,149 refugees had access to potable
water, COVID-19 WASH kits, business
recovery services and better social co-
hesion. In Mosul and Duhok governor-
ates 29,090 internally displaced Iraqis
and 23,868 returnees and host com-
munity members received support.
LWF and local partners in
Venezuela including the Evangelical
Lutheran Church in Valencia, support-
ed 15,726 individuals—two-thirds of
whom were women—to access bet-
ter protection, health and nutrition, as
well as hygiene and GBV prevention.
The Augusta Victoria Hospital
(AVH) in Jerusalem faced an acute
cash crisis. Despite a forced halt in
patient intake, it continued to “imple-
ment the vision of the LWF to give care
and dignity to all people,” remarked
Dr Fadi Atrash, acting Chief Executive
Officer. The mammography mobile
unit alone reached 9,185 vulnerable
women with screening services and
training on how to self-examine for
breast cancer. Furthermore, AVH
trained 96 frontline workers in diag-
nosing and treating diabetes.
27
Skills and tools that empower communities

LWF provides skills and tools that empower individuals
and communities to live dignified lives.
An important component of LWF’s work is technologies to boost agricultural produc-

strengthening child safeguarding and child tion. In Hamdanya, Sinjar and Mosul dis-
protection capacities, for which work on a tricts, LWF in partnership with its local part-
new safeguarding policy began in 2021. ners distributed farming equipment, and
In Uganda alone, over 50,000 refugees 10 greenhouses with drip irrigation systems
are children with specific child protection along with seeds, fertilizers and pesticides,
needs. The country program there served and seed capital to 35 micro, small and me-
nearly 500,000 South Sudanese and dium enterprises.
Congolese refugees in 21 settlements, pro- After years of living as refugees in neigh-
viding psychosocial services, child friendly boring Tanzania, thousands of Burundians
spaces and advocacy platforms. returned to impoverished host communi-
In South Sudan, training on protection ties. LWF supported especially female-
from sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA) headed households with small-income
was conducted for all LWF personnel, who generating activities, as women have no
besides national staff included over 1,360 formal right to land ownership. Such return-
incentive workers from the refugee popula- ees were also allocated a plot to cultivate
tion in Maban and Ajuong Thok. while host communities got seeds and ba-
The COVID-19 disruptions to economic sic tools, and both groups received emer-
systems called for additional livelihoods’ gency food vouchers.
support to the most vulnerable people. In In Myanmar’s southeastern state of
Dohuk, Iraq, a group of women and girls Kayin, LWF trained 37 farmers in new plant-
from Zawita sub-district began generating ing techniques that produce higher yields
income after training in sewing. Over 100 and better-quality.
farmers were trained to use new farming
28
In Burundi, LWF’ support includes

equipment to process food, an added
value to agricultural production.
Photo: LWF Burundi/RAM
29
Following the earthquake in Haiti, LWF prioritized bringing

potable water to local communities. Photo: LWF Haiti
30
Quality services, a basic right for all

When service provision breaks down, LWF steps in to ensure
equitable access to quality education, water, energy and health care.
In northern Cameroon where LWF age of 140 cubic meters of water

supports Nigerian refugees and IDPs produced daily meets the needs of
fleeing the Boko Haram insurgency, potable water for drinking and cook-
the focus is on livelihoods, educa- ing for up to 12,000 people.
tion, peace and social cohesion, An earthquake, political instabil-
WASH, energy and preserving the ity and the COVID-19 pandemic in
environment. During the year 6,615 Haiti put pressure on an already frag-
students received educational kits, ile system. In a partnership involving
tricycles, wheelchairs and crutches, NCA, Diakonie Katastrophenhilfe
which boosts school attendance and and LWF, hand pumps transformed
performance. into solar-powered pumps brought
The long dry season—December water to over 2,000 families in
to May or April—decreases availabil- Basse-Voldrogue in the commune of
ity of potable water, pushing locals to Jérémie. In the market town of Leon,
rivers that are likely contaminated. a rehabilitated water supply system
The LWF in partnership with the serves five communities. Despite the
United Nations High Commissioner challenges in the country, a number
for Refugees (UNHCR) built seven of LWF-constructed houses follow-
solar-powered boreholes in the ing hurricane Matthew in 2016 with-
Minawao refugee camp and sur- stood the 2021 earthquake, serving
rounding localities. The increased as a reminder of the enduring hope
water supply nearly covered the and resilience in the country.
standard requirement of 20 liters of
water per person per day. The aver-
31
ORGANIZATIONAL SUSTAINABILITY AND EFFECTIVENESS
Executive Committee
The Executive Committee oversees mittee serve a six-year term. It is

the proper functioning of the LWF made up of the President, seven
between Council meetings. It con- Vice-Presidents, chairpersons of
venes twice a year. Elected at the the Finance Committee, Committee
2017 LWF Assembly in Windhoek, for World Service and the specified
Namibia, members of the com- Committees respectively.
President Vice-Presidents
Archbishop Dr Panti Africa - Rev. Dr Jeannette Ada
Filibus Musa. Head, Epse Maina. Pastor, Evangelical
Lutheran Church of Lutheran Church in Cameroon,
Christ in Nigeria since and women’s executive sec-
2017, former diocesan retary, Council of Protestant
bishop, past LWF de- Churches in Cameroon.
partment director.
Asia - Ms Desri Maria Central Eastern

Sumbayak. Advisor for Europe - Archbishop
women’s fellowship, Urmas Viilma. Head
Indonesian Christian of the Estonian
Church (HKI), and English Evangelical Lutheran
lecturer, Pekanbaru State Church since 2015,
University.
former school chaplain Central Western Europe

and teacher. - Pröpstin Astrid Kleist.
Provost, Evangelical
Lutheran Church in
Northern Germany
Hamburg district since
2013, chair of city forum
on social issues.
32
Nordic Countries - Latin America and the

Archbishop Dr Antje Caribbean - Rev. Dr
Jackelén. Head of Nestor Paulo Friedrich.
Church of Sweden since Former president,
2014, former Bishop Evangelical Church of the
of Lund, past profes- Lutheran Confession in
sor, Lutheran School of Brazil, theology professor
Theology, Chicago, USA. at EST/Sao Leopoldo.
North America -
Presiding Bishop Committee Chairpersons
Elizabeth A. Eaton. Finance - Oberkirchenrat
Head of the Evangelical Olaf Johannes Mirgeler.
Lutheran Church in Member of the Evangelical
America (USA) since Lutheran Church in
2013, former bishop, Northern Germany,
Northeastern Ohio Synod.
Communications - Ms treasurer, LWF German

Vera Tkach. Regional National Committee.
church youth coordi-
nator, Federation of
Evangelical Lutheran
Churches in Russia
and Other States, and
English teacher. Communion Relations -

& Mr Johanan Celine Rev. Karla M. Steilmann
Valeriano. Former youth Franco. Assistant pastor,
leader and communi- Evangelical Church of the
cations’ coordinator, River Plate, Missiones,
Lutheran Church in the Argentina, and school
Philippines. chaplain.
Ecumenical Relations - Rev. Theology, Mission and

Dr Robin Steinke. Member Justice - Rev. Yonas Yigezu
of the Evangelical Lutheran Dibisa. President, Ethiopian
Church in America, President, Evangelical Church Mekane
Luther Seminary, St Paul Yesus since 2017, former
Minnesota. mission and theology
director.
World Service - Bishop

Henrik Stubkjaer. Head of
Viborg Diocese, Evangelical Photos: LWF/Albin Hillert
33
Called to lead the

Communion of Churches LWF General Secretary Rev. Anne
Burghardt. Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert
In June 2021, the Council elected Rev. Anne “The life of the LWF is
Burghardt as General Secretary of the LWF, the
first woman to head the organization.
a life of communion, of
An ordained pastor of the Estonian Evangelical churches witnessing
Lutheran Church, Burghardt was installed on 17 and working together
November at the Ecumenical Center Chapel in for justice, peace and
Geneva. dignity for all people.”
34
Leadership Team
The Communion Office Leadership Team supports the General

Secretary in leading and managing the LWF Communion Office.
Rev. Anne Burghardt Ms Eva Christina Nilsson Ms Maria Immonen

– General Secretary – Director, Department – Director, Department
for Theology, Mission and Justice for World Service
Mr Szabolcs Lörincz Rev. Árni Svanur Daníelsson

– Director, Department – Head of Communication Photos: LWF/M. Renaux
for Planning and Coordination and LWF/S. Gallay
35
Deep commitment to serving

the church and the neighbor
On 31 October, the LWF communion bid farewell

to General Secretary Rev. Dr Martin Junge, who
had served in this position since 1 November
2010. Ahead of his departure, Junge said it had
been a privilege and honor to serve the LWF.
“I cherish unforgettable
memories from visits to
member churches and
continue to give thanks
for each of them and […]
their witness to the good
news of God’s liberating
grace in Christ.”
Rev. Dr Martin Junge, Evangelical

Lutheran Church in Chile, LWF
General Secretary 2010-2021.
Photo: LWF/M. Renaux
36
Staff LWF staff during the farewell for General Secretary Rev. Dr
Martin Junge. Photo: LWF/M. Renaux
In 2021, the work continued under difficult con-

ditions due to the global health pandemic and a 88 53
number of security situations. Despite restricted
travel possibilities and intensive remote work, LWF
remained close to the populations it serves and Geneva International
committed to its programmatic activities. Communion Office staff
Staff hosted and participated in multiple we-
binars and online conferences, and program im-
plementation was consistently followed through.
The achievements highlighted in this report are 2,757 5,564
the result of a collective effort of a competent and
dedicated staff team, working from more than 40
different countries. National staff Incentive and
volunteers
37
Solid principles safeguard financial stability

Even in difficult times, the LWF ensures its finances are
managed according to the organization’s solid principles and
policies that safeguard economic stability at all times.
The extended COVID-19 restrictions • Successful discussion with gov-

made it difficult to implement the orga- ernance, funding partners, agen-
nization’s work in its planned format. cies and back-donor govern-
Close cooperation between LWF’s ments to carry forward delayed
governing bodies and the Communion activities and funds to 2022
Office made it possible to incorporate • Liquidating part of the investments
adjustments and respond quickly and and increasing the cash balance
efficiently to the emerging needs of the as a precaution in case of delayed
people that the LWF serves. remittances by key donors
In 2021 implementation of ap-
proved and funded program and Augusta Victoria
Hospital
EUR 68,093,243
project activities slowed down due to 41.98% Other Income
the pandemic’s impact. This nega- EUR 5,741,996
3.54%
tively affected LWF’s financial per-

formance by 15 percent against the
Non-Project Income
approved budget. EUR 1,629,408
1.00%
Nonetheless, the LWF managed
the impact through various actions
by the Executive Committee and
Communion Office leadership, with
the highly valued support of member Other Program Member Churches and
churches and funding partners. This support
EUR 43,390,137
Related Organizations
EUR 43,342,091
included the following: 26.75% 26.72%
38
• Staff continuing to working in strengthening the churches’ ca-

mostly from home via remote pacity for holistic mission.
connections, while maintaining
efficient finance and treasury Income
functions. In spite of the difficulties that many
member churches and other partners
LWF’s consolidated financial reports faced during the year, they contributed
were prepared in compliance with generously to LWF’s work, resulting in
the International Financial Reporting a total income of EUR 162 million.
Standards (IFRS), International In 2021, the income increased by
Accounting Standards (IAS) and the 13 percent compared to 2020.
Swiss regulatory standards.
In 2021, the LWF spent 94 percent Expenditure
of its total operating expenses in activ- In 2021, the LWF spent EUR 153 mil-
ities that benefited people confronted lion to implement its programs and
with varying humanitarian needs, and projects around the world. The overall
annual expenditure increased—from
Augusta Victoria Hospital
EUR 139 million in 2020—due to the
EUR 60,422,854
39.45%
pandemic restrictions, which repre-
sents an increase of 10 percent.
There was more designated fund-
ing to LWF’s humanitarian response,
Fundraising Program & Projects
and increased revenue from patient
EUR 1,867,118
1.22%
EUR 84,138,934
54.94%
services provided by the Augusta
Victoria Hospital in East Jerusalem.
Management &
General Expenses
EUR 6,722,006
4.39%
Expenditure 2021
39
LWF ANNUAL REPORT 2021 Photo: Jason Leung/Unsplash
Youth work in an LWF-supported climate justice project to

transform 500 square meters of dry land into a “Lutheran
City Forest” at the Luther Study Center in Pematang Siantar,
Indonesia. Photo: LWF National Committee Indonesia
The LWF Endowment Fund

Established in 1999, the LWF funding gaps for key strategic pro-
Endowment Fund (LWB Stiftung) grams where donor support is no
provides financial stability for the longer available.
organization’s work. Investment in-
come is allocated annually to LWF’s LWF Endowment Fund
program and project activities. P.O. Box 2100
In 2021, the Endowment Fund CH-1211 Geneva 2
board approved a distribution of CHF Switzerland
968,438 to LWF programs in 2022. Email: info@lutheranworld.org
The yearly allocation helps the LWF Telephone: +41.22.791.6455
to present a budget without huge
40
Established in 1947,
The Lutheran World Federation is a global
communion of 148 member churches with
over 77 million members in 99 countries.
We share a common Lutheran heritage, shaped

by the diverse contexts in which we experience
and witness to God’s liberating grace.
Follow the LWF on the web and on social media
lutheranworld.org
facebook.com/lutheranworld
twitter.com/lutheranworld
instagram.com/lutheranworldfederation
flickr.com/lutheranworld
3
Liberated by God’s grace,
a communion in Christ
living and working together
for a just, peaceful,
and reconciled world.
ISBN 978-2-940642-38-0
lutheranworld.org

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Solidarity in

© The Lutheran World Federation, 2022

Editor: Pauline Mumia

Layout: Stéphane Gallay

Editor-in-Chief: Árni Daníelsson

Cover photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Publisher: The Lutheran World Federation – A Communion of Churches

Liberated by God’s grace,

Photo: LWF/Johanan Celine P. Valeriano

LWF President Archbishop Dr Panti

Solidarity in difficult times

In 2021, The Lutheran World and a future. Staff continued to work

Archbishop Dr Panti Filibus Musa, President

LWF ANNUAL REPORT 2021

Assembly preparations take shape

Guided by the Assembly Planning ing, the International Worship Planning

Members of the APC and LAPC met

“The LWF Assembly is a significant

The resource One Body, One Spirit, One Hope introduces

the City of Krakow has committed to donate two

355 delegates, regional Pre-Assemblies

In a year when in-person regional conferences,

Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Inner conversion and reception of 500th anniversary in 2030 will become

mentals, especially during the pan-

Building a theological vision

By grounding creative, critical, and contex- An open-access online theological re-

Bishop Naledzani Josephine

“I trust that with the support of the church

Leadership development fosters principles which build churches

In yet another year when face-to-face diaconal project coordinators partici-

LWF ANNUAL REPORT 2021

With LWF’s support, churches continued to pro-

meetings online, 72 church repre-

148 Member Churches BOLIVIA

Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Growing faith-based influence

The development of a new LWF As part of its commitment to gen-

teachers provided a platform for SGBV awareness

“We demand climate justice

In 2021 LWF reached nearly 2.5 ment and famine-like condi-

and other basic needs to 7,734 Syrians

Skills and tools that empower communities

An important component of LWF’s work is technologies to boost agricultural produc-

In Burundi, LWF’ support includes

Following the earthquake in Haiti, LWF prioritized bringing

Quality services, a basic right for all

In northern Cameroon where LWF age of 140 cubic meters of water

LWF ANNUAL REPORT 2021

The Executive Committee oversees mittee serve a six-year term. It is

Asia - Ms Desri Maria Central Eastern

former school chaplain Central Western Europe

Nordic Countries - Latin America and the

Communications - Ms treasurer, LWF German

English teacher. Communion Relations -

Ecumenical Relations - Rev. Theology, Mission and

World Service - Bishop

Called to lead the

The Communion Office Leadership Team supports the General