“Direct my footsteps according to your Word” Psalm 119:133, was the theme for the 36th Biennial Lutheran Women’s Missionary League (LWML) Gulf States District Convention that met at Courtyard by Marriott Hotel and Conference Center in Gulfport, Mississippi, from April 29—May 1, with 137 LWML members and guests attending.The convention hosts were members of the Magnolia Zone, with Ginny Hermetz serving as Convention Chair.
Judy Lessmann, LWML Gulf States District President, opened the convention on Friday evening, followed by a processional of officers, past presidents and participating clergy. This was followed by a communion worship service with Rev. J. Mark Kuehnert, Jr. Counselor, as the Proclaimer. Special music from the LWML Women’s Choir was directed by Sarah Dukeman. Alice Butler served as song leader throughout the convention.
Two Saturday Bible studies were led by Rev. Dr. Kevin Wendt. Rev. Rudy Schaser gave the keynote address, and Merle Goldnick was the mission speaker. Entertainment during a banquet on Saturday evening was provided by Jan Struck and Linda Bailey, ventriloquist, and past president of the Gulf States District.
Convention delegates designated the following as mission grant recipients: District Scholarship Fund, Food and Clothing Co-op of CTSFW, Shepherd of the Bay Food Pantry, “Be a Friend” Bethesda Camp Counselor Intern, Good Shepherd Lutheran School (Elberta), Shepherd’s Heart Ministry, LCMS Missionaries, and Project Hope. Delegates adopted a $58,000.00 mission goal for this biennium.
Newly elected officers are: Second Vice President – Jackie Morris, Recording Secretary – Vickey Southern, Treasurer – Diane Plotz, Junior Counselor – Rev. R. Daniel Carlson, Nominating Committee – Maggie Johnson (Chair), Betty Alms, and Jean Caldwell.