Fellowship declaration deferred, partnerships strengthened

For the past few years, the WELS Commission on Inter-Church Relations (CICR) has been exploring a declaration of fellowship with the Africa Mission Evangelism Church (AMEC), a confessional Lutheran church in Tanzania, Africa. The CICR, along with the One Africa Team of WELS World Missions, has been holding doctrinal discussions to determine whether or not there is agreement between our two church bodies. Based on those discussions, the CICR was prepared to recommend a declaration of fellowship at our synod’s convention this July. Because of recent developments, however, both the WELS CICR and representatives of AMEC have agreed that the declaration of fellowship should be delayed at this time.

Rev. Larry Schlomer, administrator for WELS World Missions and a member of the CICR, provides the context and rationale for this delay:

WELS greatly values its expanding partnerships with sister churches worldwide, which include mission work, theological training, and shared confessional Lutheran principles. These collaborations highlight WELS’ commitment to building unity in faith through careful and deliberate processes.

We are excited about our continuous journey with the Africa Mission Evangelism Church (AMEC) in Tanzania. Since its establishment in 1993, AMEC has grown significantly, with 12,605 members across 78 parishes. AMEC’s dedication to spreading the gospel is evident in its vibrant congregations and active participation in the Lord’s Supper, with 6,255 members partaking last year. AMEC’s structure includes 61 pastors and 50 evangelists, all supported by community contributions. Its grassroots initiatives demonstrate its commitment to spiritual growth through prayer, Bible study, and mutual support despite challenges, such as a shortage of trained pastors and resources. Recently retired Bishop Baltazar Kaaya has been a joy for our mission team to work with, and our work has been very blessed. 

The WELS Commission on Inter-Church Relations (CICR) has decided to delay declaring fellowship at the 2025 WELS convention. This brief delay is due to new leadership within the Africa Mission Evangelism Church needing additional time to discuss its doctrinal statement within its congregations. This statement, developed collaboratively with AMEC’s leaders, the WELS One Africa Team, the CICR, and the WELS Board for World Missions (BWM), remains robust and free of doctrinal objections.

The proactive approach of AMEC’s new leadership is commendable, emphasizing leaders’ dedication to ensuring complete unity in faith. The CICR, BWM, and One Africa Team wholeheartedly support this careful and patient process. We remain confident that with continued collaboration, our fellowship with AMEC will be realized soon.

We are immensely grateful for the strong relationship between AMEC and the One Africa Team, which has facilitated numerous workshops and fostered a deeper understanding among Lutherans in Africa. AMEC’s new bishop, Rev. Judah Pallangyo, exemplifies this church body’s ongoing leadership and vision.

As we look to the future, we are filled with optimism and gratitude for our shared journey. The declaration of fellowship between WELS and AMEC is not just a milestone but a testament to our united faith and mission. We pray for AMEC’s continued faithfulness and boldness in spreading the gospel, just as AMEC’s members pray for WELS’ ongoing success in our mission work.

Thank you for your support and prayers. Together, we will continue to encourage and strengthen our global fellowship, sharing the joy of God’s Word with all.

We pray that once all things are in place, our synods will be able to declare fellowship in the near future.

Serving with you in Christ,
WELS President Mark Schroeder