When Leeds University and Leeds Metropolitan University have a teacher, staff and student total of approximately 100,000, almost anyone can feel in the minority--so why not have a Lutheran chaplains' gathering there? Lutheran university students are few and far between. Lutheran chaplains are even more so. In an effort to provide more coordination and an extension of pastoral care for some Lutheran students, a Lutheran chaplains gathering was arranged to take place at the Immanuel Centre in Leeds, 19 January.

The Immanuel Centre was originally a gothic style church, converted into meeting rooms and offices for the many chaplains at the two Leeds universities. Deaconess Seija Frears, the International Chaplain at Leeds University, hosted the event. Only six Lutheran chaplains were in attendance, due somewhat to the weather and train disruptions.

Material was presented that addressed the question of a chaplain's purpose and the difference between a chaplain and pastor. For more information on this topic, please email Revd Landgraf.

The enjoyable gathering was in an enjoyable part of the country. The chaplains each recognised their uniqueness in their own position, but also saw some similarities amongst them all. The plan is for the next gathering to be in London.

Labels: ELCE, gathering, LCiGB, Lutheran chaplains