Delegates to the 47th convention of the Alberta-British Columbia District of Lutheran Church–Canada April 22 elected Rev. Donald Schiemann to his third term as district president. The convention took place April 21-24 in Red Deer, Alberta, under the theme “Proclaiming His Faithfulness … To Every Nation, Tribe, People, and Language,” from Rev. 7:9.
Schiemann, 54, thanked delegates for the confidence they placed in him, saying that it was a “joy and privilege” to serve the church and he prayed for God’s continued grace and strength.
Also elected were Rev. Mark Ruf of Calgary, Alberta, first vice president; Rev. Harry Haberstock of Creston, B.C., second vice president; Rev. Forrest Stroup of Edmonton, third vice president; and Rev. Wayne Lunderby of Chilliwack, B.C., secretary.
Among adopted resolutions, delegates voted to:
- affirm the “Scriptural definition of marriage,” encouraging congregations to conduct related Bible studies, provide educational materials, deliver sermons, and pass resolutions so that all members can speak to the issue. Last June Canada’s government voted to recognize same-sex marriage.
- adopt a 12-year program to help congregations multiply their outreach efforts. The movement would peak in 2017, the 500th anniversary of the Reformation.
- encourage congregations to consider increasing their mission funding to the district.
The convention also offered workshops, information sessions, a mission festival, and worship.
Also meeting in convention this year are the LCC’s Central District, April 24-26 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and East District, May 28-31 in Ancaster, Ontario. Reports on those conventions will appear in the June and July issues of Reporter and Reporter Online.
Posted April 28, 2006
