The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) has awarded scholarships to more than a hundred men and women from its member churches across Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America. These scholarships will support students as they pursue studies in theology and various areas of diaconal work over the coming year. This initiative continues the LWF’s longstanding commitment to academic and leadership formation, which has supported over 4,000 individuals since the program’s inception in the 1950s.
This year’s scholarship recipients include 53 theology students from 30 different member churches, as well as 49 students focused on diaconia-related subjects from 33 member churches. While the majority of applicants come from African and Asian countries, a smaller percentage come from Europe and Latin America. A key feature of the selection process is ensuring a balanced representation of regions, with a strong emphasis on gender equality. Over half of the awarded scholarships have been granted to women, and the majority of recipients are aged 30 or under.
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Rev. Katariina Kiilunen, LWF Program Executive for Capacity Building and Leadership Development, shared the organization’s belief in education as a powerful tool for social change. “LWF continues its tradition of supporting theological and development-oriented education to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to think critically about the world around them,” she said. “Education is a catalyst for positive change, not only transforming individuals but also enabling them to contribute meaningfully to their communities and societies.”
Among the recipients is Jávori Fülöp, a student from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hungary, who is pursuing a master’s in theology in Budapest. Fülöp, who also leads church services and tutors university students, believes his studies will deepen his understanding of compassionate leadership. “The church needs to be present in society with well-prepared pastors who are open to the challenges of the day,” he said, emphasizing the importance of his theological education in addressing real-world issues.
Another scholarship recipient, Macarena Paloma Solís de Ovando Gómez from the Lutheran Church in Chile, is pursuing a PhD related to reparations for victims of war crimes and crimes against humanity. With a background in international law and current work at the International Criminal Court, Gómez is determined to use her research to contribute to stronger systems of justice for victims. “I am grateful for this scholarship, which will support my research on reparation systems, and I hope my work will have a lasting impact on international human rights,” she said.
These scholarships not only provide financial support but also create opportunities for students to enhance their leadership capabilities and make a positive impact in their communities and the world. Through this program, the LWF continues to uphold its mission of fostering education and leadership that fosters both personal growth and social transformation.
