Dear Lucy Leader,

We have a very supportive pastor who attends our LWML monthly meetings and events.

Are we permitted to make him an honorary LWML member? If not, what title would be appropriate? Does he get a vote at meetings?

Thanks,
Blessed Barb

Dear Blessed Barb,

It is such a blessing to have a pastor who is so supportive of your LWML. Regrettably, you are not able to make him an honorary LWML member or permit him to vote. The bylaws of the LWML state that this organization is composed of individual women and women’s groups within congregations of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. While membership is required for voting purposes, we encourage participation and involvement. If you are still looking for a title for your pastor, feel free to get creative. The national pastoral counselors are called advisory members of the board of directors, and we value their input every day. There is always a need for pastoral counselors at all levels. Your pastor may be interested in being the pastoral counselor at the zone level and continue his support of LWML at a larger scale sometime in the future.

Be sure to tell your pastor how appreciative you are for his support of LWML, his wisdom, and his counsel. You can also show your pastor your appreciation in tangible ways. The Pastor Support and Involvement Ideas page on the LWML website has some great ideas. Continue to invite him to meetings and events. Maybe your group could consider paying for his registration at your next district convention, so he can experience a wider view of LWML.

God’s blessings to you as you continue to engage your pastor,

Lucy Leader

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God's Blessings,

2021–2023 Group and Leader Development Committee Members
Christina Bean
Elaine Engelman
Jennifer Gierke
Brianne Stahlecker, Chairman
Marie Chow, Vice President of Organizational Resources, advisor