Lutheran Women's Missionary League

The Lutheran Women's Missionary League (LWML) is the official women's auxiliary of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS). It was established on July 7-8, 1942, at St. Stephan's Lutheran Church in Chicago, Illinois, after district and regional groups of congregational women's societies had formed in the 1920s[5].

History

The early beginnings of women's mission efforts within the Lutheran Church date back to the 1830s, where women banded together to support the education of missionaries[1]. However, the LWML's unofficial roots began in 1929 when individual organizations from states like Oklahoma and Kansas joined forces during a Synodical convention. This movement gained momentum until it was officially recognized by the LCMS in 1941, leading to its formal establishment in 1942[1][5].

Mission and Objectives

The LWML focuses on several key objectives:

• Developing Mission Consciousness: Through missionary education, inspiration, and service, it aims to foster a greater awareness of mission work among LCMS women[1].
• Supporting Missions: The organization supports missions through prayer, cooperation, and financial support, particularly for projects not adequately funded by the LCMS[2][4].
• Equipping Women: It encourages and equips women to live out their Christian lives in active mission ministries[3][4].

Activities and Impact

LWML members use Mite Boxes as a method for collecting funds. These contributions have supported extensive Christian outreach across 42 countries on five continents, including building chapels, hospitals, funding Bible translations, and providing aid during disasters[2]. By 2005, LWML mission grants totaled over $18.5 million, with total gifts exceeding $76 million when including district grants and other contributions[2].

The LWML is also known for organizing annual Bible studies, leadership training, and fostering international missionary relations. It emphasizes building faith through Bible studies, leadership development, and public outreach like providing clothing and food to the needy[2][3].

Structure

The organization is divided into 40 districts across four convention regions: Western, Northern, Eastern, and Southern. National conventions rotate among these regions, promoting a unified mission effort across the United States[5].

In addition to its core activities, the LWML publishes the Lutheran Woman's Quarterly, a publication that further supports its mission objectives[5]. Since 1998, it has also been known as Lutheran Women in Mission[5].

Mission Statement

The LWML's mission statement reflects its commitment to proclaiming Christ, supporting missions, and equipping women to serve others[3][4]. Its vision emphasizes welcoming every woman to use her unique gifts in supporting global missions and serving the Lord with gladness[4].

Core Values

The LWML's core values include living as redeemed children of God, relying on God's Word, being mission-focused, embracing diversity, and serving as leaders in service to others[3].

Beliefs

As an auxiliary of the LCMS, the LWML aligns its beliefs with the statements found on the LCMS website[4].

Motto

The organization's motto, "Serve the Lord with gladness!" (Psalm 100:2), reflects its joy and commitment to service in proclaiming Christ and supporting missions[4].