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What does this mean?
“God doesn't need our good works, but our neighbor does.”
—paraphrase of Martin Luther’s teaching
Our vision is how the world might look when God's ruling activity (basilea, or "kingdom") is realized. God works through relationships. When we follow Jesus' example and cross human-made boundaries to build relationships with others, we transform those boundaries, and experience God's love in new and profound ways. Building cross-boundary relationships helps us realize the abundance of resources and opportunities that all people can share.
LPGM is seeking an International Program Manager
The International Program Manager is responsible for the coordination, partnerships and evaluation of all international programs of the organization. Working with the executive director, the program manager assesses needs and ensures that program objectives are met, tracks and reports on program impact, including outcomes, activities and financial transfers and payments.
Pastor Jane Anitha Visits Minneapolis
Pastor Jane, the former longtime manager of Siloam Boarding Home, paid a visit to Minnesota this past week. The short visit was filled to the brim with connection and love.
LPGM Program Director Mary Peterson Announces Retirement
Our beloved program director has announced her retirement from LPGM effective December 31, 2024. While this news brings mixed emotions, we are first and foremost filled with gratitude for her 12 years of outstanding service to LPGM!
A Newcomer's Perspective: What Makes LPGM Special
Shannon Mahedy reflects on her first six Months as LGPM's communications coordinator
What does this mean?
“I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.”
—Matthew 25:35 (NRSVue)
All people are created and loved by God (Genesis 1-2). But too many have been pushed to the margins of society because of where they were born, to whom they were born, or because of who makes choices on their behalf. Education is one of the only things we can give someone that can never be taken away and, historically, women and girls have been given the least access to education.
LPGM works with churches and community-based organization partners who are native to—or have a long history of living and working in—the communities we serve. These partners speak the local language(s), know the local values and customs, and work within their own systems to create lasting change.
We listen to these partners, respond to their needs, and bear witness to God's work in their lives.
Sponsor Relations Coordinator (SRC) at ALC Boarding Homes in the Kalrayan Hills
Child Advocate. Giving Hands. Praying Heart. Loving People and Students.
Victor serves students in his home region of India, the Kalrayan Hills. He joined LPGM in 2018. His parents encouraged him to become an engineer. Upon completing his studies he became the first engineer in his village. But then Victor’s passion to serve drew him to Social Work. The children in the boarding homes have found a special place in his heart, especially the Alathi Angels.
Development Director
Connector. Storyteller. Mission-minded. Heart for the Underdog.
As the primary contact for LPGM donor interactions, Bethany brings her love for people, mission, and Jesus to the role. A Wisconsin native and Luther College graduate, she has spent 25 years working in Lutheran higher education and the nonprofit realm. She enjoys cooking and hitting the road with her husband, Jim, and two young daughters in their camper trailer. She joined LPGM in 2020.
Sponsor Relations Coordinator (SRC) at Saron Boarding Home
With a Master's in Social Work, Praveen's studies focused on research and support of indigenous tribes in the Nilgiri Hills in India. He is excited to work with the boys at Saron Boarding Home. Praveen joined the LPGM staff in 2022.
Communications Coordinator
Shannon keeps LPGM’s supporters in the loop through social media, newsletters, reports, and blog posts. She has experience advocating for victim/survivors of gender-based violence, and through her work, she has gained proficiency in community outreach, social media management, and project coordination. Originally from New Jersey, Shannon came to Minnesota to attend Macalester College, and she fell in love with the Twin Cities. Shannon lives with her partner Sean and their two cats, Marvin and Mackerel, in the Longfellow neighborhood of Minneapolis. Shannon joined LPGM in 2024.
Sponsor Relations Coordinator (SRC) at Melpattambakkam Boarding Home
After teaching yoga for eight years and karate for five, Keerthiga decided to pursue her long-time dream of becoming a social worker. After earning an MSW, she joined the LPGM staff in 2022 and is working at Melpattambakkam boarding home. She loves working with children and hearing the love and care that sponsors have for these students
India Program Manager
Accountant. Curious Social Worker. Reader.
Elangovan has been an accounting trainer for 25 years. Managing LPGM’s programs and staff in India, Elangovan brings organizational accountability and rigor to all that we do. He joined the LPGM staff in 2006.
Program Director
Gardener. Reader. Traveler. Nurturer of Friendships, Near and Far.
Mary manages the Project Education India sponsorship program and collaborates with global partners on a variety of programs. She is passionate about making sure women have a place at the table and that their voice is heard. She likes to quilt, take walks with her dog Mia, and volunteer in her spare time. Mary and her husband, Ralph, spend as much time as possible at their lake place with family and friends. She joined LPGM in 2012.
Executive Director
Lutheran Pastor. Bread baker. Attempting to live thoughtfully & faithfully.
Dan is passionate about helping people see where God is at work in the world. With experience in international development and nonprofit communications, Dan focuses on helping create the most meaningful outcomes or impact. He joined LPGM in 2017.
Sponsor Relations Coordinator (SRC) at Siloam Boarding Home
In Aswini's childhood days, she was very interested in social work. She gets positive energy by serving people. Before coming to LPGM, Aswini worked as a counselor in a girl’s care institute, and loves working with children because "children have a great soul." She joined the LPGM staff in 2022.
Finance & Office Administrator
Counting dollars. Making Sense. Exploring the great outdoors.
Originally from Gujarat, India, Vishwa is a charismatic and adventurous individual who has recently relocated to Minnesota after getting married. Holding a bachelor's degree in accounting, she comes from an accounting background and will be managing financial aspects at Lutheran Partners in Global Ministry. She's excited to explore new opportunities in the Twin Cities. With a strong foundation in working with non-profits, she has witnessed firsthand the positive impact they have on communities. When she's not working, you can find her and her partner hiking and exploring the beautiful state parks of Minnesota. She's thrilled to be a part of this community, and she looks forward to making new connections! Vishwa joined LPGM in 2024.
Tim Olson commits to one year of service for the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) as the supervisor of a church building project in Bangui, Central African Republic.
Tim was killed in an ambush in November.
The finished structure is dedicated as St. Timothy’s Lutheran Church; Gordy & Betty Olson attend.
Lutheran Partners in Global Ministry is incorporated (officially July 10) as an independent, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in Minnesota; volunteers perform all organizational work.
A Chapel at the seminary in Baboua, C.A.R. is built according to a design in Tim Olson’s journal with funds revealed through the first of many miracles.
LPGM partners with the Arcot Lutheran Church (ALC) in Tamil Nadu, India, to begin sponsoring 217 students in ALC schools.
Gordon & Betty Olson lead a trip to Argentina on a partnership exploration (1997).
A group of nineteen youth and adults travel to India on LPGM's first global trip (1999).
Project Education India surpasses 1,200 sponsored students and expands to India Evangelical Lutheran Church (IELC) boarding homes.
LPGM launches linen sales from the Lebanon Home in India and completes the Mananjary Lutheran Church in Madagascar.
LPGM funds the building of the Orkesumet Clinic in Tanzania.
Plans begin to build a Women's Center in Bouar and a clinic to serve the Gallo region, both in the Central African Republic.
LPGM launches a library program in Arcot Lutheran Church schools in India (2007).
Travelers with LPGM renovate a print shop in Jerusalem (2008).
The Emmanuel Health Center in the Central African Republic (2010) with ELCA companion synod bishops, LPGM & Global Health Ministries representatives, and many other partners in attendance.
Village Savings & Loan program begins in the Central African Republic
In India, the English+ program begins and the ALC Community College expands with a grant from the ELCA
LPGM launches new partnerships with the Church of North India (CNI) and Community Cloud Forest Conservation in Guatemala.
Gordon & Betty Olson retire from day-to-day operations.
LPGM launches new partnerships with Mwangaza and Eripoto, both in Tanzania.
New Mission & Vision Statements are approved by the board as LPGM focuses its work and looks to the future God is opening for us.
In celebration of 25+1 years of ministry, we self-published a book: BEARING WITNESS TO HOPE, Visions of Global Partnership.