Ways to give thanks for 70 years of service through ALWS

This Sunday 18 October, our Lutheran Church comes together to give thanks to God for 70 years of service to people hurt by poverty, injustice and crisis, through Australia Lutheran World Service (ALWS).

While COVID-19 may have cancelled public events planned to recognise the anniversary, you can still join in the thanksgiving. ALWS has prepared resources to use in face-to-face or online church services, in homes or in small groups, while observing your region’s health and government guidelines. These include a special thanksgiving prayer and two short videos – ‘Thank you x70!’ and ‘The miracle of your care’ – about the work ALWS does as the LCA’s overseas aid and development agency, thanks to your prayerful and financial support and generosity.

Pastor Stephen Schultz, Assistant Bishop for Mission in the LCA’s SA–NT District, has prepared the special thanksgiving prayer your church may wish to use this Sunday to give thanks to God for the love brought to life through ALWS over the past 70 years:

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the way Australian Lutheran World Service has helped our church serve those in need in our world. For 70 years we have been able to show the love and compassion of Jesus to so many people. We thank you for those who serve on the ground and in support roles throughout the world. The task is overwhelming, but we trust in you as the giver of every good thing. Continue to resource the work of ALWS so that your grace, hope, justice and life are brought to those in need. May the name of Jesus be glorified in this work, and may others come to know him through the help they receive in his name. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.