The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania – Northern Diocese (ELCT-ND) was honored to host a high-level delegation from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Northern Germany (ELCNG) from July 17 to 23, 2025. The delegation, led by Presiding Bishop Dr. Kristina K. Schmidt, embarked on a week-long learning and partnership visit aimed at strengthening the long-standing relationship between the two churches.
The delegation included:
- Prof. Dr. Christoph Stumpf – Vice Chairperson of the Executive Council of ELCNG
- Rev. Dr. Christian Wollman – Director of the Ecumenical Centre of ELCNG
- Rev. Dr. Katharina Davis – Coordinator for Africa at the Ecumenical Centre
- Mr. Dieter Schulz – Chief Press Officer and Spokesperson of ELCNG
They were warmly welcomed by Bishop Dr. Fredrick Onael Shoo, Presiding Bishop of the ELCT Northern Diocese, who served as host throughout the visit.
A Week of Deep Engagement and Spiritual Exchange
The ELCNG delegation visited several institutions and ministries under the ELCT and the ELCT Northern Diocese, witnessing the dynamic work of the church in evangelism, education, health care, environmental stewardship, and community development. Among the sites visited were:
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre (KCMC)
- Ushirika wa Neema Nuns’ Centre
- Majengo Parish – where a dedication service was held for a newly constructed church building.
- Under construction main campus of the Stefano Moshi Memorial University College
- Tumaini University Makumira (TUMa)
- ELCT National Headquarters
- Kidia Parish – a historically significant location for Lutheran mission, associated with Rev. Bruno Guttmann and the grave of missionary Sylvia Wilson (d. 1936)
- Kidia Ecological Project – promoting tree planting and ecological research
- Mwika Bible and Theological College
- Ngaruma Vocational Training Centre
- ELCT-ND Tree Nursery
At various points, the visitors participated in tree-planting ceremonies as part of the diocese’s commitment to environmental care. They also engaged in meaningful dialogue with women pastors, departmental heads, and *the diocesan leadership.
Bilateral Agreement Signed
A highlight of the visit was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two churches. The agreement aims to enhance collaboration in:
- Theological education and exchange
- Social service programs
- Environmental conservation efforts
- Holistic development rooted in Christian values
Departure and Commitment to Continued Fellowship
The delegation concluded their visit and departed Tanzania on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, with renewed joy and commitment to deepen intercontinental collaboration between the ELCT and ELCNG
