Anticipation Builds for Lutheran Church–Canada’s 13th Regular Convention
National—Excitement is building across the country as preparations ramp up for the upcoming 13th Regular Convention of Lutheran Church–Canada, set to take place in Winnipeg, June 12-15, at Victoria Inn Hotel & Convention Centre.
Held every four years, the national convention is one of the most significant gatherings in the life of the church. Clergy and lay delegates from congregations across Canada will come together to worship, learn, and carry out the important work of guiding the church’s ministry in the years ahead.
For many participants, convention is much more than a business meeting.
“It’s like a mountaintop experience of faith,” Iris Barta explains. “You come together with fellow believers from across the country, you worship together, receive Holy Communion together, and you’re reminded that you are part of something much larger than your local congregation.” Barta is the convention manager, working with other organizers to pull this important event together.
Worship, Study, and Shared Mission
Faith will be at the heart of the convention’s programming. Attendees will gather for worship services and Bible study, grounding the work of the church in Scripture and prayer.
As LCC congregants stream in from all across synod, coming together as one, this year’s essayist, Rev. Dr. James Kellermann will lead a Bible study based on Ephesians 2:13–22, reflecting on the unity of God’s people and the church’s shared life in Christ.
This year’s other essayist, Rev. Dr. Alexandre Vieira, pulls attendees together for a time of Koinonia—the New Testament concept of ‘fellowship’. Additional presentations and breakout sessions will explore the church’s mission and outreach, highlighting the work of the church both locally and globally, and pointing the way forward.
Shaping the Future of the Church
In addition to worship and teaching, delegates will take part in the business of the church—electing leaders, considering resolutions, and discussing priorities that will guide Lutheran Church–Canada’s work for the next four years.
Resolutions brought to the convention floor will reflect input from across the church, ensuring that grassroots voices help shape the direction of national ministry.
Leaders will also share reports on the work of the church, including mission initiatives, financial stewardship, and ongoing efforts to strengthen congregations and outreach across Canada.
A Global Fellowship
This year’s convention will also welcome guests from international partner churches, including representatives from Evangelical Lutheran Church of Haiti (ÉÉLH) and the Lutheran Church in the Philippines (LCP).
One of the anticipated highlights of the convention will be the recognition of new fellowship relationships with international Lutheran partners—an encouraging sign of the church’s growing connections around the world.
Fellowship and Celebration
While convention includes important decision-making, it is also a time for fellowship and celebration. Attendees will have opportunities to reconnect with friends, meet new ministry partners, and share stories of how God is at work in congregations across the country.
Special events—including social gatherings and creative programming—will help foster relationships and create memorable moments throughout the week.
For many, these connections are one of the most meaningful aspects of convention.
“You realize you’re not alone,” Barta notes. “You see how God is working in different places, and that encouragement carries you back to your congregation.”
A Gathering That Strengthens the Church
As Lutheran Church–Canada prepares for this important gathering, anticipation continues to grow.
Conventions not only guide the work of the church—they also strengthen faith, renew relationships, and remind participants of the shared mission that unites congregations across the country.
Those who attend often return home encouraged and energized for the work of ministry.
And as the church gathers once again in Winnipeg, many look forward to experiencing that renewal together. So, if your church has not yet appointed their delegate, be sure to do so by Saturday March 14, 2026, and if you are in Winnipeg and/or will certainly be attending the convention, do consider being a volunteer.