“It is my pleasure to announce the theme of the 39th Biennial Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML) Convention in Lexington, Kentucky,” stated Marie Chow, LWML Vice President of Organizational Resource and 2019-2021 Convention Programming Committee Chairman, as she described the theme of the upcoming convention.

“Running the Race … Looking to Jesus”

This theme is based on Scripture verses from the book of Hebrews: Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God (Hebrews 12:1-2).

nullThe convention logo was designed by LWML Graphics Team Member Cheryl Rackov of Dickinson, North Dakota. She incorporated the shape of the last letter of the Greek alphabet, Omega, and refers to this Scripture passage: “I am the Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end”(Revelation 22:13).

The symbol is shaped like a horseshoe, which is appropriate, as horses are a large part of the Kentucky culture. Ancient Greeks awarded horseshoe-shaped laurel wreaths to victors of competitions. In our logo, the laurel wreath symbolizes our victory in Christ. The banner was a method of announcing an official proclamation. Our banner proclaims that we are “Running the Race … Looking to Jesus.”

The goal statement of the convention is “Looking to Jesus, we run the race set before us and proclaim the joy of the Lord.” Convention attendees will focus on Jesus through God’s Word and Sacrament, joyfully celebrate our salvation with song and prayer, and serve our neighbors through witness and mission. Put June 24 through June 27, 2021, on your calendar! For up-to-date convention information, see future issues of the Lutheran Woman’s Quarterly.