Members of the liga misional de damas luteranas (an Argentinean organization similar to the Lutheran Women's Missionary League) plan the first Lutheran deaconess gathering - Latin America and Caribbean, April 30-May 4, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The event is hosted by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Argentina with support provided by LCMS World Relief and Human Care and LCMS World Mission.

By Kim Krull

Throughout the history of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Argentina (IELA), women have worked tirelessly on behalf of diakonal endeavors — mercy works. But only a few of those women have had the benefit of theological training.

Today, the IELA and Latin American Lutheran women are joining forces with LCMS supporters to raise awareness of the role of deaconesses and diakonal ministry at a first-time gathering this spring in Buenos Aires.

Nuestro deseo es servir ("Our want is to serve," in Spanish) is the theme for the First Lutheran Deaconess Gathering — Latin America and Caribbean, April 30-May 4. Latin American partner church leaders, pastors, LCMS representatives and, of course, deaconesses are among those expected to participate in the event hosted by the IELA with support provided by LCMS World Relief Human Care and LCMS World Mission.

Members of the Liga Misional de Damas Luteranas (an Argentinean organization similar to the LWML) are assisting the IELA. "These ladies are already working with wholehearted joy and excitement in all planning and preparations onsite," said Olga Groh, director, project management in Latin America and the Caribbean, with LCMS World Mission and LCMS World Relief and Human Care.

The gathering will include participation in Seminary Day on May 1, a cherished annual event where IELA members spotlight the theological institution that prepares pastors and church workers. Deaconess Gathering participants will join in that celebration and address the importance of deaconess training and ministry opportunities.

LCMS World Relief and Human Care Executive Director Rev. Matthew Harrison is the gathering's keynote speaker. Rev. David Birner, associate executive director, International Missions, LCMS World Mission, also will take part. To learn more, contact Groh at olga.groh@lcms.org.