A message from Regional Bishop Ralf Meister (Evangelical Lutheran Regional Church of Hanover)

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9)

The appointment of Holger Siebert as the new director of the Evangelical Lutheran Mission in Lower Saxony comes at a time of massive global upheaval. In such a world, the question of the meaning and purpose of global mission is being raised anew. Today, more than ever, mission cannot be viewed in triumphalist terms. It does not thrive on cultural superiority or the claim to possess definitive answers. Rather, Christian mission proves its worth where it strengthens the ability to perceive others in their individual histories and spiritual orientations.

The Gospel points us to a truth that is greater than national or denominational self-assertion. That is why a worldwide church is not a religious side project of globalisation, but a space for spiritual learning. Those who live in connection with Christians in other parts of the world learn to put their own perspective into perspective and to take on shared responsibility for peace and justice.

We need places where enemy stereotypes are not fostered, but where relationships are made possible. This is what the ELM has stood for for many years: dialogue between churches, mutual learning, and the realisation that the Christian faith can only be understood within the context of the global community.

I wish Director Siebert theological clarity, spiritual breadth and the strength to bring together different people and perspectives in his ministry. May God’s blessing be with him and all those who bear responsibility in this work.

Ralf Meister
Regional Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Regional Church of Hanover
Chair of the ELM Mission Committee