Why is it Important to Send Voting Delegates to Convention?

Have you ever wondered why we make such a big deal about our district Conventions and LWML Conventions? I believe we do that because our conventions are critical to encouraging Lutheran Women In Mission.

Here is a list of the important things that happen at Convention both at the national and district levels:

1. We dig into God’s word
2. We enjoy fellowship with our sisters and brothers in Christ
3. We sing joyfully to the Lord
4. We make important decisions about our leaders
5. We vote on the Mission Grant Goal for the coming biennium, and elect new officers who will lead us in the future
6. We encourage each other in joyful service of our Savior

Since Conventions are so important, here are some reasons to send a voting delegate to the LWML CNH Convention:

1. To participate in selecting which Mission Grants we will support in the upcoming biennium with our Mites
2. To ensure continued strong leadership
3. To proclaim Christ to all nations and effectively share the Gospel to all nations
4. To bring inspiration back home to those who are unable to attend
5. To learn what others in our district are doing to share with your local groups
6. To enjoy fellowship with our Sisters and Brothers in Christ
7. To provide an example for the coming generations of Lutheran women

To send a voting delegate, it’s important to know who is eligible to be a delegate. Here are the Delegate Guidelines:

1. Anyone who is an active member of LWML is eligible
2. Each group/society and Zone is allowed one voting delegate and one alternate voting delegate
3. Voting delegates will vote electronically for the Mission Grants, in March, 2026 (NOTE: Voting delegates MUST register to be a voting delegate by February 28, 2026.)
4. Voting delegates who vote electronically for the Mission Grants must also attend the convention and vote. If they are unable to attend their alternate Voting Delegate will vote at convention.
5. If your group/society or Zone has paid their pro rate (see our district Standing Rules number 2), the Voting Delegate may receive reimbursement for their travel to and from the convention.
6. Convention Registration will be online this year for the first time. If you are not able to register online, print a copy of the form, complete it manually, and mail it to Cathy Pauley, Voting Registrar, 3315 N Cherryland Ave., Stockton CA 95215.

It is important to remind your local group that voting delegates are essential. Remember, there is a cost to attend the convention, especially due to our large geographical district—so your group might want to start now to raise funds to help your delegate with the travel and lodging expenses. You can also plan to share rides and rooms with others in your group or even women in other groups.

Keep your eyes peeled for the first Convention Package in early January, 2026. It will have all the convention information and the hotel and meal guidelines. The convention is planned for April 24-26 in Sacramento, CA. Here is the link to this event on our website: LWML CNH Convention 2026. Updates will be added in the coming months.