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    Practical Information

    LWF Youth Pre-Assembly at the Heja Game Lodge. Photo: LWF/JC Valeriano

    A wealth of advice and instruction for attendees, to ensure the Assembly is smooth-running and that attendees get the most out of their experience.

    • What is an Assembly
      • How to prepare
        • Registration
        • Visas
        • Accommodation
        • Meals
      • Code of Conduct
        • Reporting Misconduct
      • Health recommendations
    • Arriving in Poland
      • Airport instructions
      • Transportation
      • Currency
  • Assembly

    Assembly

    10 May 2017, Windhoek, Namibia: Delegates respond to the opening session of the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation. Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

    Overview of the host church, country, protocol and formalities requested of attendees, information about the visual identity of the Assembly, the way in which an Assembly is prepared, and extensive information on the pre-Assemblies

    • Outcomes
    • For delegates
    • Host country
    • Host Church
    • Pre-Assemblies
      • Regional Pre-Assemblies
        • Europe Pre-Assembly
        • Americas Pre-Assembly
        • Africa Pre-Assembly
        • Asia Pre-Assembly
      • Youth Pre-Assembly
      • Women’s Pre-Assembly
      • Men's Pre-Assembly
    • Stewards program
    • Visual Identity
    • History
  • Theme

    Assembly Theme

    Messages from the Pre-Assemblies take up the theme of the Thirteenth Assembly. Photo: LWF/Jotham Lee

    The Assembly theme, One Body, One Spirit, One Hope, reminds us that in a fragmented world, we are called to unity in the one body of Christ. The theme is drawn from Ephesians 4:4 (NRSV)

    • Explaining the theme
  • Program

    Program

    Thirteenth Assembly of The Lutheran World Federation, Krakow, Poland, 13-19 September 2023, at the ICE center

    The Assembly program comprises a rich array of events: from the opening ceremony, worship, prayers, Bible study and visits, to plenary sessions and the business of the Assembly.

    • Schedule
    • Worship
    • Jarmark (Marketplace)
    • Visitors Program
    • Speakers
  • News
  • Press
  • Resources
  • Feed
  • Livestreams

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News

Instrucciones sobre el aeropuerto

Image
The arrival terminal of Kraków John Paul II International Airport. Photo: piviso.com

The arrival terminal of Kraków John Paul II International Airport. Photo: piviso.com

Assembly participants will arrive at the Kraków John Paul II International Airport, 11km west of the city center. Further instructions are available here Arriving at Krakow airport.

Read
Image
Delegates of the LWF Asia Pre-Assembly, Thailand, August 2016 relax in the bus following a pre-Assembly session. Photo: LWF/Arni Danielsson

Delegates of the LWF Asia Pre-Assembly, Thailand, August 2016 relax in the bus following a pre-Assembly session. Photo: LWF/Arni Danielsson

Transportation

Ensuring delegates are at the right place at the right time

Assembly delegates and other participants will be received at the airport and brought to either the ICE Kraków Congress Centre for registration or their respective hostel of the…

Image
The Polish currency, the złoty. Photo: pxhere.com

The Polish currency, the złoty. Photo: pxhere.com

Currency

The official currency of Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN or zł). One euro is equal to 4.62 zł. Debit and credit cards are widely accepted in Poland, particularly Visa and Mastercard.

How to prepare

Journey toward the Assembly

Prior to an assembly, there are Pre-Assembly meetings for LWF member churches in their respective regions, and global gatherings in a Women’s Pre-Assembly and Youth Pre-Assembly.

These are important…

Instructions concernant l’aéroport

Image
The arrival terminal of Kraków John Paul II International Airport. Photo: piviso.com

The arrival terminal of Kraków John Paul II International Airport. Photo: piviso.com

Assembly participants will arrive at the Kraków John Paul II International Airport, 11km west of the city center. Further instructions are available here Arriving at Krakow airport.

Read
Image
Delegates of the LWF Asia Pre-Assembly, Thailand, August 2016 relax in the bus following a pre-Assembly session. Photo: LWF/Arni Danielsson

Delegates of the LWF Asia Pre-Assembly, Thailand, August 2016 relax in the bus following a pre-Assembly session. Photo: LWF/Arni Danielsson

Transportation

Ensuring delegates are at the right place at the right time

Assembly delegates and other participants will be received at the airport and brought to either the ICE Kraków Congress Centre for registration or their respective hostel of the…

Image
The Polish currency, the złoty. Photo: pxhere.com

The Polish currency, the złoty. Photo: pxhere.com

Currency

The official currency of Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN or zł). One euro is equal to 4.62 zł. Debit and credit cards are widely accepted in Poland, particularly Visa and Mastercard.

How to prepare

Journey toward the Assembly

Prior to an assembly, there are Pre-Assembly meetings for LWF member churches in their respective regions, and global gatherings in a Women’s Pre-Assembly and Youth Pre-Assembly.

These are important…

Währung

Image
The Polish currency, the złoty. Photo: pxhere.com

The Polish currency, the złoty. Photo: pxhere.com

The official currency of Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN or zł). One euro is equal to 4.62 zł. Debit and credit cards are widely accepted in Poland, particularly Visa and Mastercard.

Read more
Image
The arrival terminal of Kraków John Paul II International Airport. Photo: piviso.com

The arrival terminal of Kraków John Paul II International Airport. Photo: piviso.com

Airport instructions

Assembly participants will arrive at the Kraków John Paul II International Airport, 11km west of the city center. Further instructions are available here…

Image
Delegates of the LWF Asia Pre-Assembly, Thailand, August 2016 relax in the bus following a pre-Assembly session. Photo: LWF/Arni Danielsson

Delegates of the LWF Asia Pre-Assembly, Thailand, August 2016 relax in the bus following a pre-Assembly session. Photo: LWF/Arni Danielsson

Transportation

Ensuring delegates are at the right place at the right time

Assembly delegates and other participants will be received at the airport and brought to either the ICE Kraków Congress Centre for registration or their respective hostel of the…

How to prepare

Journey toward the Assembly

Prior to an assembly, there are Pre-Assembly meetings for LWF member churches in their respective regions, and global gatherings in a Women’s Pre-Assembly and Youth Pre-Assembly.

These are important…

Moneda

Image
The Polish currency, the złoty. Photo: pxhere.com

The Polish currency, the złoty. Photo: pxhere.com

The official currency of Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN or zł). One euro is equal to 4.62 zł. Debit and credit cards are widely accepted in Poland, particularly Visa and Mastercard.

Read more
Image
The arrival terminal of Kraków John Paul II International Airport. Photo: piviso.com

The arrival terminal of Kraków John Paul II International Airport. Photo: piviso.com

Airport instructions

Assembly participants will arrive at the Kraków John Paul II International Airport, 11km west of the city center. Further instructions are available here…

Image
Delegates of the LWF Asia Pre-Assembly, Thailand, August 2016 relax in the bus following a pre-Assembly session. Photo: LWF/Arni Danielsson

Delegates of the LWF Asia Pre-Assembly, Thailand, August 2016 relax in the bus following a pre-Assembly session. Photo: LWF/Arni Danielsson

Transportation

Ensuring delegates are at the right place at the right time

Assembly delegates and other participants will be received at the airport and brought to either the ICE Kraków Congress Centre for registration or their respective hostel of the…

How to prepare

Journey toward the Assembly

Prior to an assembly, there are Pre-Assembly meetings for LWF member churches in their respective regions, and global gatherings in a Women’s Pre-Assembly and Youth Pre-Assembly.

These are important…

Monnaie

Image
The Polish currency, the złoty. Photo: pxhere.com

The Polish currency, the złoty. Photo: pxhere.com

The official currency of Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN or zł). One euro is equal to 4.62 zł. Debit and credit cards are widely accepted in Poland, particularly Visa and Mastercard.

Read more
Image
The arrival terminal of Kraków John Paul II International Airport. Photo: piviso.com

The arrival terminal of Kraków John Paul II International Airport. Photo: piviso.com

Airport instructions

Assembly participants will arrive at the Kraków John Paul II International Airport, 11km west of the city center. Further instructions are available here…

Image
Delegates of the LWF Asia Pre-Assembly, Thailand, August 2016 relax in the bus following a pre-Assembly session. Photo: LWF/Arni Danielsson

Delegates of the LWF Asia Pre-Assembly, Thailand, August 2016 relax in the bus following a pre-Assembly session. Photo: LWF/Arni Danielsson

Transportation

Ensuring delegates are at the right place at the right time

Assembly delegates and other participants will be received at the airport and brought to either the ICE Kraków Congress Centre for registration or their respective hostel of the…

How to prepare

Journey toward the Assembly

Prior to an assembly, there are Pre-Assembly meetings for LWF member churches in their respective regions, and global gatherings in a Women’s Pre-Assembly and Youth Pre-Assembly.

These are important…

Die Vollversammlung

Setting the scene for the Thirteenth LWF Assembly

The LWF welcomes delegates to the historic Polish city of Kraków, venue of the LWF Thirteenth Assembly, which is meeting under the theme of One Body, One Spirit, One Hope.

Image
10 May 2017, Windhoek, Namibia: Delegates respond to the opening session of the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation. Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

10 May 2017, Windhoek, Namibia: Delegates respond to the opening session of the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation. Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

This section offers an overview of the host church, country, protocol and formalities requested of attendees, information about the visual identity of the Assembly, the way in which an Assembly is prepared, and extensive information about the four regional pre-Assemblies as well as the women, youth and men pre-Assemblies.

In total, some 355 official delegates will attend. Also present will be representatives of associate members, ecumenical guests, official presenters, advisors, ex officio participants, volunteers and staff.

This week-long occasion, preceded by the pre-Assemblies, will not only celebrate the communion and the unique contexts of member churches but carry out the official functions of the Assembly.

Assembly Planning Committee

Our great thanks to the following members of the Assembly Planning Committee for establishing the concept of and making preparations for the Thirteenth Assembly, in conjunction with other committees, reference groups and staff members. 

Members
  • Ms Colleen Elizabeth CUNNINGHAM, Moravian Church in South Africa (Africa)
  • Mr Leon CHAU, Chinese Rhenish Church Hong Kong (Asia)
  • Rev. Gustavo GÓMEZ, United Evangelical Lutheran Church (Latin America & the Caribbean)
  • Rev. Katherine ALTENBURG, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (North America)
  • Presiding Bishop Dr Tamás FABINY, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hungary (Central Eastern Europe)
  • Ms Kadre ARIKAINEN, Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church (Central Eastern Europe)
  • Ms Amanda CARLSHAMRE, Church of Sweden (Nordic countries)
  • Rev. Klaus RIETH, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wuerttemberg, Germany (Central Western Europe) 
Consultants
  • Bishop Jerzy SAMIEC, Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland (host church)
  • Ms Ewa SLIWKA, Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland (host church)
  • Rev. Dr Emma NANGOLO, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia (Chair of the Local Assembly Planning Committee, LWF Twelfth Assembly in Namibia, 2017)
Read more
Image
Delegates at the first plenary session at the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, gathers in Windhoek, Namibia, on 10-16 May 2017. Photo: LWF/JC Velariano

Delegates at the first plenary session at the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, gathers in Windhoek, Namibia, on 10-16 May 2017. Photo: LWF/JC Velariano

For delegates

Information for those with voice and vote at the Assembly 

We expect at least 358 delegates to attend the Thirteenth Assembly. We look forward to your arrival in Kraków with excitement and anticipation. 

Image
Reformation Jubilee service in Warsaw, 2017. Photo: D. Bruncz

Reformation Jubilee service in Warsaw, 2017. Photo: D. Bruncz

Host Church

The Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland

The Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland is the largest evangelical Church in Poland with over 60,000 members.

Image
The Kraków Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) on the Market Square in Kraków. Photo: A. Godfrejów-Tarnogórska

The Kraków Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) on the Market Square in Kraków. Photo: A. Godfrejów-Tarnogórska

Host country

Poland

Poland is a large country in the central Europe with almost 38 million citizens, the capitol of which is Warsaw. It has a 1000-year history and is a land of rich culture and heritage.

Image
The first morning devotion at the Youth Pre-Assembly in a chapel near Heja Game Lodge. Photo: LWF/JC Valeriano

The first morning devotion at the Youth Pre-Assembly in a chapel near Heja Game Lodge. Photo: LWF/JC Valeriano

Pre-Assemblies

The venue for preparing delegates

Pre-Assembly meetings are integral to Assemblies. Core to the preparation of an Assembly, pre-Assemblies are essential for preparing delegates, enabling them to understand issues and concerns of member…

Image
Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Stewards program

Assembly stewards 

Assembly stewards contribute to the life of the Assembly in a way that’s both practical and enriching. A special group of 25 young Lutheran leaders have been selected to train and share their gifts at the Assembly…

Image
Assembly logo

Assembly logo

Visual Identity

The story behind the Thirteenth Assembly logo

The visual identity is an integral element of the Assembly. The logo we have selected is a bold expression of our connectedness as one body in Christ, led by the Holy Spirit and called to…

Image
 The Assembly during a plenary session at the 1952 LWF Second Assembly in Hanover, Germany. Photo: LWF Archives

The Assembly during a plenary session at the 1952 LWF Second Assembly in Hanover, Germany. Photo: LWF Archives

History of the Assembly

LWF Assembly history in photos

Asamblea

Setting the scene for the Thirteenth LWF Assembly

The LWF welcomes delegates to the historic Polish city of Kraków, venue of the LWF Thirteenth Assembly, which is meeting under the theme of One Body, One Spirit, One Hope.

Image
10 May 2017, Windhoek, Namibia: Delegates respond to the opening session of the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation. Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

10 May 2017, Windhoek, Namibia: Delegates respond to the opening session of the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation. Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

This section offers an overview of the host church, country, protocol and formalities requested of attendees, information about the visual identity of the Assembly, the way in which an Assembly is prepared, and extensive information about the four regional pre-Assemblies as well as the women, youth and men pre-Assemblies.

In total, some 355 official delegates will attend. Also present will be representatives of associate members, ecumenical guests, official presenters, advisors, ex officio participants, volunteers and staff.

This week-long occasion, preceded by the pre-Assemblies, will not only celebrate the communion and the unique contexts of member churches but carry out the official functions of the Assembly.

Assembly Planning Committee

Our great thanks to the following members of the Assembly Planning Committee for establishing the concept of and making preparations for the Thirteenth Assembly, in conjunction with other committees, reference groups and staff members. 

Members
  • Ms Colleen Elizabeth CUNNINGHAM, Moravian Church in South Africa (Africa)
  • Mr Leon CHAU, Chinese Rhenish Church Hong Kong (Asia)
  • Rev. Gustavo GÓMEZ, United Evangelical Lutheran Church (Latin America & the Caribbean)
  • Rev. Katherine ALTENBURG, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (North America)
  • Presiding Bishop Dr Tamás FABINY, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hungary (Central Eastern Europe)
  • Ms Kadre ARIKAINEN, Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church (Central Eastern Europe)
  • Ms Amanda CARLSHAMRE, Church of Sweden (Nordic countries)
  • Rev. Klaus RIETH, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wuerttemberg, Germany (Central Western Europe) 
Consultants
  • Bishop Jerzy SAMIEC, Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland (host church)
  • Ms Ewa SLIWKA, Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland (host church)
  • Rev. Dr Emma NANGOLO, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia (Chair of the Local Assembly Planning Committee, LWF Twelfth Assembly in Namibia, 2017)
Read more
Image
Delegates at the first plenary session at the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, gathers in Windhoek, Namibia, on 10-16 May 2017. Photo: LWF/JC Velariano

Delegates at the first plenary session at the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, gathers in Windhoek, Namibia, on 10-16 May 2017. Photo: LWF/JC Velariano

For delegates

Information for those with voice and vote at the Assembly 

We expect at least 358 delegates to attend the Thirteenth Assembly. We look forward to your arrival in Kraków with excitement and anticipation. 

Image
Reformation Jubilee service in Warsaw, 2017. Photo: D. Bruncz

Reformation Jubilee service in Warsaw, 2017. Photo: D. Bruncz

Host Church

The Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland

The Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland is the largest evangelical Church in Poland with over 60,000 members.

Image
The Kraków Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) on the Market Square in Kraków. Photo: A. Godfrejów-Tarnogórska

The Kraków Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) on the Market Square in Kraków. Photo: A. Godfrejów-Tarnogórska

Host country

Poland

Poland is a large country in the central Europe with almost 38 million citizens, the capitol of which is Warsaw. It has a 1000-year history and is a land of rich culture and heritage.

Image
The first morning devotion at the Youth Pre-Assembly in a chapel near Heja Game Lodge. Photo: LWF/JC Valeriano

The first morning devotion at the Youth Pre-Assembly in a chapel near Heja Game Lodge. Photo: LWF/JC Valeriano

Pre-Assemblies

The venue for preparing delegates

Pre-Assembly meetings are integral to Assemblies. Core to the preparation of an Assembly, pre-Assemblies are essential for preparing delegates, enabling them to understand issues and concerns of member…

Image
Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Stewards program

Assembly stewards 

Assembly stewards contribute to the life of the Assembly in a way that’s both practical and enriching. A special group of 25 young Lutheran leaders have been selected to train and share their gifts at the Assembly…

Image
Assembly logo

Assembly logo

Visual Identity

The story behind the Thirteenth Assembly logo

The visual identity is an integral element of the Assembly. The logo we have selected is a bold expression of our connectedness as one body in Christ, led by the Holy Spirit and called to…

Image
 The Assembly during a plenary session at the 1952 LWF Second Assembly in Hanover, Germany. Photo: LWF Archives

The Assembly during a plenary session at the 1952 LWF Second Assembly in Hanover, Germany. Photo: LWF Archives

History of the Assembly

LWF Assembly history in photos

L’Assemblée

Setting the scene for the Thirteenth LWF Assembly

The LWF welcomes delegates to the historic Polish city of Kraków, venue of the LWF Thirteenth Assembly, which is meeting under the theme of One Body, One Spirit, One Hope.

Image
10 May 2017, Windhoek, Namibia: Delegates respond to the opening session of the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation. Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

10 May 2017, Windhoek, Namibia: Delegates respond to the opening session of the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation. Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

This section offers an overview of the host church, country, protocol and formalities requested of attendees, information about the visual identity of the Assembly, the way in which an Assembly is prepared, and extensive information about the four regional pre-Assemblies as well as the women, youth and men pre-Assemblies.

In total, some 355 official delegates will attend. Also present will be representatives of associate members, ecumenical guests, official presenters, advisors, ex officio participants, volunteers and staff.

This week-long occasion, preceded by the pre-Assemblies, will not only celebrate the communion and the unique contexts of member churches but carry out the official functions of the Assembly.

Assembly Planning Committee

Our great thanks to the following members of the Assembly Planning Committee for establishing the concept of and making preparations for the Thirteenth Assembly, in conjunction with other committees, reference groups and staff members. 

Members
  • Ms Colleen Elizabeth CUNNINGHAM, Moravian Church in South Africa (Africa)
  • Mr Leon CHAU, Chinese Rhenish Church Hong Kong (Asia)
  • Rev. Gustavo GÓMEZ, United Evangelical Lutheran Church (Latin America & the Caribbean)
  • Rev. Katherine ALTENBURG, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (North America)
  • Presiding Bishop Dr Tamás FABINY, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hungary (Central Eastern Europe)
  • Ms Kadre ARIKAINEN, Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church (Central Eastern Europe)
  • Ms Amanda CARLSHAMRE, Church of Sweden (Nordic countries)
  • Rev. Klaus RIETH, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wuerttemberg, Germany (Central Western Europe) 
Consultants
  • Bishop Jerzy SAMIEC, Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland (host church)
  • Ms Ewa SLIWKA, Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland (host church)
  • Rev. Dr Emma NANGOLO, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia (Chair of the Local Assembly Planning Committee, LWF Twelfth Assembly in Namibia, 2017)
Read more
Image
Delegates at the first plenary session at the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, gathers in Windhoek, Namibia, on 10-16 May 2017. Photo: LWF/JC Velariano

Delegates at the first plenary session at the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, gathers in Windhoek, Namibia, on 10-16 May 2017. Photo: LWF/JC Velariano

For delegates

Information for those with voice and vote at the Assembly 

We expect at least 358 delegates to attend the Thirteenth Assembly. We look forward to your arrival in Kraków with excitement and anticipation. 

Image
Reformation Jubilee service in Warsaw, 2017. Photo: D. Bruncz

Reformation Jubilee service in Warsaw, 2017. Photo: D. Bruncz

Host Church

The Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland

The Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland is the largest evangelical Church in Poland with over 60,000 members.

Image
The Kraków Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) on the Market Square in Kraków. Photo: A. Godfrejów-Tarnogórska

The Kraków Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) on the Market Square in Kraków. Photo: A. Godfrejów-Tarnogórska

Host country

Poland

Poland is a large country in the central Europe with almost 38 million citizens, the capitol of which is Warsaw. It has a 1000-year history and is a land of rich culture and heritage.

Image
The first morning devotion at the Youth Pre-Assembly in a chapel near Heja Game Lodge. Photo: LWF/JC Valeriano

The first morning devotion at the Youth Pre-Assembly in a chapel near Heja Game Lodge. Photo: LWF/JC Valeriano

Pre-Assemblies

The venue for preparing delegates

Pre-Assembly meetings are integral to Assemblies. Core to the preparation of an Assembly, pre-Assemblies are essential for preparing delegates, enabling them to understand issues and concerns of member…

Image
Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Stewards program

Assembly stewards 

Assembly stewards contribute to the life of the Assembly in a way that’s both practical and enriching. A special group of 25 young Lutheran leaders have been selected to train and share their gifts at the Assembly…

Image
Assembly logo

Assembly logo

Visual Identity

The story behind the Thirteenth Assembly logo

The visual identity is an integral element of the Assembly. The logo we have selected is a bold expression of our connectedness as one body in Christ, led by the Holy Spirit and called to…

Image
 The Assembly during a plenary session at the 1952 LWF Second Assembly in Hanover, Germany. Photo: LWF Archives

The Assembly during a plenary session at the 1952 LWF Second Assembly in Hanover, Germany. Photo: LWF Archives

History of the Assembly

LWF Assembly history in photos

Zgromadzenie Ogólne

Setting the scene for the Thirteenth LWF Assembly

The LWF welcomes delegates to the historic Polish city of Kraków, venue of the LWF Thirteenth Assembly, which is meeting under the theme of One Body, One Spirit, One Hope.

Image
10 May 2017, Windhoek, Namibia: Delegates respond to the opening session of the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation. Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

10 May 2017, Windhoek, Namibia: Delegates respond to the opening session of the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation. Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

This section offers an overview of the host church, country, protocol and formalities requested of attendees, information about the visual identity of the Assembly, the way in which an Assembly is prepared, and extensive information about the four regional pre-Assemblies as well as the women, youth and men pre-Assemblies.

In total, some 355 official delegates will attend. Also present will be representatives of associate members, ecumenical guests, official presenters, advisors, ex officio participants, volunteers and staff.

This week-long occasion, preceded by the pre-Assemblies, will not only celebrate the communion and the unique contexts of member churches but carry out the official functions of the Assembly.

Assembly Planning Committee

Our great thanks to the following members of the Assembly Planning Committee for establishing the concept of and making preparations for the Thirteenth Assembly, in conjunction with other committees, reference groups and staff members. 

Members
  • Ms Colleen Elizabeth CUNNINGHAM, Moravian Church in South Africa (Africa)
  • Mr Leon CHAU, Chinese Rhenish Church Hong Kong (Asia)
  • Rev. Gustavo GÓMEZ, United Evangelical Lutheran Church (Latin America & the Caribbean)
  • Rev. Katherine ALTENBURG, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (North America)
  • Presiding Bishop Dr Tamás FABINY, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hungary (Central Eastern Europe)
  • Ms Kadre ARIKAINEN, Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church (Central Eastern Europe)
  • Ms Amanda CARLSHAMRE, Church of Sweden (Nordic countries)
  • Rev. Klaus RIETH, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wuerttemberg, Germany (Central Western Europe) 
Consultants
  • Bishop Jerzy SAMIEC, Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland (host church)
  • Ms Ewa SLIWKA, Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland (host church)
  • Rev. Dr Emma NANGOLO, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia (Chair of the Local Assembly Planning Committee, LWF Twelfth Assembly in Namibia, 2017)
Read more
Image
Delegates at the first plenary session at the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, gathers in Windhoek, Namibia, on 10-16 May 2017. Photo: LWF/JC Velariano

Delegates at the first plenary session at the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, gathers in Windhoek, Namibia, on 10-16 May 2017. Photo: LWF/JC Velariano

For delegates

Information for those with voice and vote at the Assembly 

We expect at least 358 delegates to attend the Thirteenth Assembly. We look forward to your arrival in Kraków with excitement and anticipation. 

Image
Reformation Jubilee service in Warsaw, 2017. Photo: D. Bruncz

Reformation Jubilee service in Warsaw, 2017. Photo: D. Bruncz

Host Church

The Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland

The Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland is the largest evangelical Church in Poland with over 60,000 members.

Image
The Kraków Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) on the Market Square in Kraków. Photo: A. Godfrejów-Tarnogórska

The Kraków Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) on the Market Square in Kraków. Photo: A. Godfrejów-Tarnogórska

Host country

Poland

Poland is a large country in the central Europe with almost 38 million citizens, the capitol of which is Warsaw. It has a 1000-year history and is a land of rich culture and heritage.

Image
The first morning devotion at the Youth Pre-Assembly in a chapel near Heja Game Lodge. Photo: LWF/JC Valeriano

The first morning devotion at the Youth Pre-Assembly in a chapel near Heja Game Lodge. Photo: LWF/JC Valeriano

Pre-Assemblies

The venue for preparing delegates

Pre-Assembly meetings are integral to Assemblies. Core to the preparation of an Assembly, pre-Assemblies are essential for preparing delegates, enabling them to understand issues and concerns of member…

Image
Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Stewards program

Assembly stewards 

Assembly stewards contribute to the life of the Assembly in a way that’s both practical and enriching. A special group of 25 young Lutheran leaders have been selected to train and share their gifts at the Assembly…

Image
Assembly logo

Assembly logo

Visual Identity

The story behind the Thirteenth Assembly logo

The visual identity is an integral element of the Assembly. The logo we have selected is a bold expression of our connectedness as one body in Christ, led by the Holy Spirit and called to…

Image
 The Assembly during a plenary session at the 1952 LWF Second Assembly in Hanover, Germany. Photo: LWF Archives

The Assembly during a plenary session at the 1952 LWF Second Assembly in Hanover, Germany. Photo: LWF Archives

History of the Assembly

LWF Assembly history in photos

Für Delegierte

Information for those with voice and vote at the Assembly 

We expect at least 358 delegates to attend the Thirteenth Assembly. We look forward to your arrival in Kraków with excitement and anticipation. 

Image
Delegates at the first plenary session at the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, gathers in Windhoek, Namibia, on 10-16 May 2017. Photo: LWF/JC Velariano

Delegates at the first plenary session at the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, gathers in Windhoek, Namibia, on 10-16 May 2017. Photo: LWF/JC Velariano

Each LWF member church has the right to have at least one representative at the Assembly. In determining the number of delegates of each member church, the Council considers the numerical size of each church and its distribution by continent and country. Council guidelines provide for the inclusion of clergy and lay persons, and member churches are to ensure that 40 percent of delegates are women, 40 percent men and 20 percent youth.

Delegates are the only attendees to have both voice and vote at the Assembly. They will be joined by representatives from associate member churches, who have voice but not vote, as well as observers, presenters, ex-officio participants, advisors, ecumenical guests, official guests, and media, staff, volunteers and stewards who will support them in their work.

Delegates are invited to better inform themselves about the Assembly, the host church and the host country by reading the information in this section. 

We pray all delegates have an enjoyable and meaningful experience at the Assembly and thank them for their contribution to this important body. 

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Reformation Jubilee service in Warsaw, 2017. Photo: D. Bruncz

Reformation Jubilee service in Warsaw, 2017. Photo: D. Bruncz

Host Church

The Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland

The Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland is the largest evangelical Church in Poland with over 60,000 members.

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The Kraków Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) on the Market Square in Kraków. Photo: A. Godfrejów-Tarnogórska

The Kraków Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) on the Market Square in Kraków. Photo: A. Godfrejów-Tarnogórska

Host country

Poland

Poland is a large country in the central Europe with almost 38 million citizens, the capitol of which is Warsaw. It has a 1000-year history and is a land of rich culture and heritage.

Image
The first morning devotion at the Youth Pre-Assembly in a chapel near Heja Game Lodge. Photo: LWF/JC Valeriano

The first morning devotion at the Youth Pre-Assembly in a chapel near Heja Game Lodge. Photo: LWF/JC Valeriano

Pre-Assemblies

The venue for preparing delegates

Pre-Assembly meetings are integral to Assemblies. Core to the preparation of an Assembly, pre-Assemblies are essential for preparing delegates, enabling them to understand issues and concerns of member…

Image
Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Stewards program

Assembly stewards 

Assembly stewards contribute to the life of the Assembly in a way that’s both practical and enriching. A special group of 25 young Lutheran leaders have been selected to train and share their gifts at the Assembly…

Image
Assembly logo

Assembly logo

Visual Identity

The story behind the Thirteenth Assembly logo

The visual identity is an integral element of the Assembly. The logo we have selected is a bold expression of our connectedness as one body in Christ, led by the Holy Spirit and called to…

Image
 The Assembly during a plenary session at the 1952 LWF Second Assembly in Hanover, Germany. Photo: LWF Archives

The Assembly during a plenary session at the 1952 LWF Second Assembly in Hanover, Germany. Photo: LWF Archives

History of the Assembly

LWF Assembly history in photos

Gastgeberland

Poland

Poland is a large country in the central Europe with almost 38 million citizens, the capitol of which is Warsaw. It has a 1000-year history and is a land of rich culture and heritage.

Image
The Kraków Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) on the Market Square in Kraków. Photo: A. Godfrejów-Tarnogórska

The Kraków Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) on the Market Square in Kraków. Photo: A. Godfrejów-Tarnogórska

The name "Poland" originates from the name of the tribe Polanie, meaning "people living in open fields”. Established as a state in 10th century, the borders of the country have since changed several times. Poland has had to fight for its freedom. Its first constitution was enacted in 1791, one of the earliest modern constitutions. Shortly after its introduction, the country lost independence and was partitioned for 123 years. World War 2 was a time of destruction and suffering, with many lives lost.

An abundance of cultural history

Poland is a beautiful country with beaches, sand dunes, lakes, forests, mountains and even a desert. It has a moderate climate. Thirty percent of land area is forested, with animal life such as bison, moose, beaver, wolf, lynx and brown bear. Birdlife includes the aquatic warbler, corncrake, spotted eagle and white-backed woodpecker.

Poland has developed extensive infrastructure with national road and railway networks, and has many historical buildings, such as Europe’s largest medieval castle, at Malbork. Poland is the world's biggest exporter of amber.

Poland remains one of the most religious countries in Europe. The Roman Catholic Church is the predominant church, and was once a great influence on Polish culture and traditions. Polish society is homogenous. Ethnic, religious and denominational minorities make up only a small percent of the population. Polish cuisine is full of meat, dumplings, cabbage and mushrooms, with the best known dishes being pierogies (dumplings), bigos (hunters stew), barszcz (beetroot soup) and żurek (fermented rye soup). The Polish are friendly and renowned for their hospitality. The national saying is “Guest in the house, God in the house”.

Read more
Image
Delegates at the first plenary session at the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, gathers in Windhoek, Namibia, on 10-16 May 2017. Photo: LWF/JC Velariano

Delegates at the first plenary session at the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, gathers in Windhoek, Namibia, on 10-16 May 2017. Photo: LWF/JC Velariano

For delegates

Information for those with voice and vote at the Assembly 

We expect at least 358 delegates to attend the Thirteenth Assembly. We look forward to your arrival in Kraków with excitement and anticipation. 

Image
Reformation Jubilee service in Warsaw, 2017. Photo: D. Bruncz

Reformation Jubilee service in Warsaw, 2017. Photo: D. Bruncz

Host Church

The Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland

The Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland is the largest evangelical Church in Poland with over 60,000 members.

Image
The first morning devotion at the Youth Pre-Assembly in a chapel near Heja Game Lodge. Photo: LWF/JC Valeriano

The first morning devotion at the Youth Pre-Assembly in a chapel near Heja Game Lodge. Photo: LWF/JC Valeriano

Pre-Assemblies

The venue for preparing delegates

Pre-Assembly meetings are integral to Assemblies. Core to the preparation of an Assembly, pre-Assemblies are essential for preparing delegates, enabling them to understand issues and concerns of member…

Image
Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Stewards program

Assembly stewards 

Assembly stewards contribute to the life of the Assembly in a way that’s both practical and enriching. A special group of 25 young Lutheran leaders have been selected to train and share their gifts at the Assembly…

Image
Assembly logo

Assembly logo

Visual Identity

The story behind the Thirteenth Assembly logo

The visual identity is an integral element of the Assembly. The logo we have selected is a bold expression of our connectedness as one body in Christ, led by the Holy Spirit and called to…

Image
 The Assembly during a plenary session at the 1952 LWF Second Assembly in Hanover, Germany. Photo: LWF Archives

The Assembly during a plenary session at the 1952 LWF Second Assembly in Hanover, Germany. Photo: LWF Archives

History of the Assembly

LWF Assembly history in photos

Host country

Poland

Poland is a large country in the central Europe with almost 38 million citizens, the capitol of which is Warsaw. It has a 1000-year history and is a land of rich culture and heritage.

Image
The Kraków Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) on the Market Square in Kraków. Photo: A. Godfrejów-Tarnogórska

The Kraków Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) on the Market Square in Kraków. Photo: A. Godfrejów-Tarnogórska

The name "Poland" originates from the name of the tribe Polanie, meaning "people living in open fields”. Established as a state in 10th century, the borders of the country have since changed several times. Poland has had to fight for its freedom. Its first constitution was enacted in 1791, one of the earliest modern constitutions. Shortly after its introduction, the country lost independence and was partitioned for 123 years. World War 2 was a time of destruction and suffering, with many lives lost.

An abundance of cultural history

Poland is a beautiful country with beaches, sand dunes, lakes, forests, mountains and even a desert. It has a moderate climate. Thirty percent of land area is forested, with animal life such as bison, moose, beaver, wolf, lynx and brown bear. Birdlife includes the aquatic warbler, corncrake, spotted eagle and white-backed woodpecker.

Poland has developed extensive infrastructure with national road and railway networks, and has many historical buildings, such as Europe’s largest medieval castle, at Malbork. Poland is the world's biggest exporter of amber.

Poland remains one of the most religious countries in Europe. The Roman Catholic Church is the predominant church, and was once a great influence on Polish culture and traditions. Polish society is homogenous. Ethnic, religious and denominational minorities make up only a small percent of the population. Polish cuisine is full of meat, dumplings, cabbage and mushrooms, with the best known dishes being pierogies (dumplings), bigos (hunters stew), barszcz (beetroot soup) and żurek (fermented rye soup). The Polish are friendly and renowned for their hospitality. The national saying is “Guest in the house, God in the house”.

Read more
Image
Delegates at the first plenary session at the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, gathers in Windhoek, Namibia, on 10-16 May 2017. Photo: LWF/JC Velariano

Delegates at the first plenary session at the Twelfth Assembly of the Lutheran World Federation, gathers in Windhoek, Namibia, on 10-16 May 2017. Photo: LWF/JC Velariano

For delegates

Information for those with voice and vote at the Assembly 

We expect at least 358 delegates to attend the Thirteenth Assembly. We look forward to your arrival in Kraków with excitement and anticipation. 

Image
Reformation Jubilee service in Warsaw, 2017. Photo: D. Bruncz

Reformation Jubilee service in Warsaw, 2017. Photo: D. Bruncz

Host Church

The Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland

The Evangelical Church of the Augsburg Confession in Poland is the largest evangelical Church in Poland with over 60,000 members.

Image
The first morning devotion at the Youth Pre-Assembly in a chapel near Heja Game Lodge. Photo: LWF/JC Valeriano

The first morning devotion at the Youth Pre-Assembly in a chapel near Heja Game Lodge. Photo: LWF/JC Valeriano

Pre-Assemblies

The venue for preparing delegates

Pre-Assembly meetings are integral to Assemblies. Core to the preparation of an Assembly, pre-Assemblies are essential for preparing delegates, enabling them to understand issues and concerns of member…

Image
Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Photo: LWF/Albin Hillert

Stewards program

Assembly stewards 

Assembly stewards contribute to the life of the Assembly in a way that’s both practical and enriching. A special group of 25 young Lutheran leaders have been selected to train and share their gifts at the Assembly…

Image
Assembly logo

Assembly logo

Visual Identity

The story behind the Thirteenth Assembly logo

The visual identity is an integral element of the Assembly. The logo we have selected is a bold expression of our connectedness as one body in Christ, led by the Holy Spirit and called to…

Image
 The Assembly during a plenary session at the 1952 LWF Second Assembly in Hanover, Germany. Photo: LWF Archives

The Assembly during a plenary session at the 1952 LWF Second Assembly in Hanover, Germany. Photo: LWF Archives

History of the Assembly

LWF Assembly history in photos

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“There is one body, one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called” – Ephesians 4:4