Opening remarks by Aman Ababu (Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)
Dear Holger Siebert,
Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ!
On behalf of the EECMY Development and Social Services Commission (EECMY-DASSC) Central Ethiopia Synod Branch Office, the leadership and staff of the Ethiopian Evangelical Church Mekane Yesus Central Ethiopia Synod, and on my own behalf, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to you on your appointment as Director of the Evangelical Lutheran Mission in Lower Saxony (ELM).
We rejoice with you as you take on this important leadership responsibility at a time when the global context of mission presents both serious challenges and meaningful opportunities. Humanitarian crises, climate change, social fragmentation, and economic uncertainties call for renewed vision, courage, and wisdom in mission leadership.
In such a complex environment, mission increasingly requires strong collaboration among churches, faith-based organisations, development actors, and other partners. Serving the whole person spiritually, socially, and materially whilst caring for God’s creation invites us to listen carefully, discern together, and seek innovative and compassionate ways of responding to the needs of our time.
At the same time, the realities of our world call for a necessary paradigm shift in how we understand and practise mission. Remaining faithful to the Gospel whilst responding to the signs of the times requires renewed theological reflection, innovative partnerships, and courageous leadership. Such transformation is not a departure from our faith foundations but a faithful response to God’s continuing work in history.
In this renewed understanding of mission, the Church is also called to stand firmly for social justice, human dignity, equality, and solidarity with the vulnerable and marginalised. Our mission must continue to bear witness to God’s love by promoting peace, strengthening communities, and working towards a world where justice and compassion prevail.
Leadership in mission today therefore calls not only for strategic insight but also for spiritual discernment. The biblical understanding of Kairos reminds us that God provides appointed moments for faithful action. As you begin this important responsibility, we pray that you will recognise these moments and lead with wisdom, courage, and faithfulness.
History reminds us, through courageous reformers such as Martin Luther, that faithful leadership sometimes requires bold steps of renewal and transformation for the sake of the Gospel and the mission of the Church.
As Scripture reminds us: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9) “And of the children of Issachar, who were men of insight, able to discern the times and know what Israel ought to do; their leaders numbered two hundred, and all their brothers were at their command.” (1 Chronicles 12:32)
May God grant you wisdom to discern the times, humility to listen, courage to lead, and perseverance in your ministry. May your leadership strengthen partnerships, deepen solidarity among churches, and advance our shared mission of serving humanity and caring for creation.
Please know that we stand with you in prayer and partnership. Once again, congratulations on this important milestone. May God richly bless your leadership and ministry!
With heartfelt greetings and prayers,
Aman Ababu Urgie
Manager EECMY Development and Social Services Commission (EECMY-DASSC)
Central Ethiopia Synod Branch Office
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
