WELS seniors gather to celebrate past blessings and reimagine future
WELS seniors gathered in Omaha, Neb., Oct. 14-17, for the annual Lutheran Convention for Seniors, sponsored by the Organization for WELS Lutheran Seniors (OWLS). Under the theme “40 Years of Service,” this special gathering celebrated four decades of conventions and seniors serving in God’s kingdom.
One of the highlights of the convention was a Zoom presentation and Q&A with Rev. Robert Weiss, the WELS European civilian chaplain, who is stationed in Spiesheim, Germany. Weiss serves WELS military members and citizens living abroad in Europe. Each year, the OWLS provides substantial financial support to the European chaplaincy.
Another keynote featured Rev. Dan Sims, director of WELS Christian Aid and Relief. Sims gave an update of the organization’s compassion ministry, which helps to bring physical and spiritual blessings to people in need locally and in mission fields worldwide.
Rounding out the keynotes was a presentation by Rev. Joel Gaertner, director of WELS Special Ministries. Gaertner gave an overview of the eight areas of Special Ministries and the wide array of resources available to help share the gospel with those may not have access to it through traditional channels.
In addition to the keynotes, convention goers enjoyed breakouts, worship, fellowship, displays from WELS partner organizations, and a tour of the U.S. Strategic Command at nearby Offutt Air Force Base.
The convention also included an open forum to discuss the future of the OWLS, including a potential reimagining of the organization for a new generation of seniors. “The group asked, ‘What does the next generation of seniors want? What are ways seniors can serve their Savior?’ ” reports Gaertner. “The group contributed a great list of ideas for service opportunities and ways to support synod-related ministries.”
He adds, “The OWLS has been a tremendous blessing to seniors, and the service they’ve given has been a tremendous blessing. It’s a good time to now evaluate what the next 40 years can be.”
“The OWLS has provided a means for retirees to serve their Lord and their fellow members for 40 years,” says Mr. John Paulsen, outgoing OWLS executive director. “I’ve been the executive director since 2014, and it’s time for new ideas for the next generation. I look forward to what the new OWLS may look like.”
The 2025 Lutheran Convention for Seniors will be Oct. 14-17 at the Oshkosh Waterfront Hotel & Convention Center, Oshkosh, Wis. The convention is open to all seniors 55 and older in WELS and the Evangelical Lutheran Synod.
Learn more about the OWLS at wels.net/owls.
