The Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) is holding a national conference this weekend (24-25 July) to discuss the Ordination of Women. The study conference has been organised by Luther Seminary, North Adelaide, which will host the event.
The issue of the Ordination of Women is currently under examination by the LCA, which will decide on the issue at its next national convention in the year 2000. Conference organiser, Rev Dr Mark Worthing, said that the purpose of the conference is to bring together people representing a whole spectrum of positions to learn to listen and respond to one another's concerns.
`It is important that all members of the LCA are fully aware of the issues involved, so that they can make an informed decision in the year 2000', he said.
Although theological understanding and biblical authority will always be the basis for the LCA's position, the possible effects of the final decision on inter-church relations, and pastoral issues will also be studied. The conference will include presentations, workshops, and time for discussion and questions.
Similar studies on a smaller scale are also planned for other states.