Int'l LLL Membership Approves Biennial International Conventions
 Attendees of the international convention in Greensboro approved by an 82 percent to 18 percent margin to go to biennial international conventions following the 2010 convention in Omaha, Nebraska.
The proposal for biennial conventions was presented in response to a need to make conventions more accessible to younger and/or working folks and to offer an opportunity to bring the conventions closer to the grassroots so that more people can be reached with the excitement of Lutheran Hour Ministries. Although significant cost savings can be expected to Lutheran Hour Ministries, the value of greater exposure, accessibility, and engagement with participants are the key benefits.
In the odd numbered years (beginning in 2011), districts will have the option of working with the staff of Lutheran Hour Ministries to conduct regional conferences (or holding a district convention on their own if that better suits their needs). The regional conference would offer many of the same opportunities of the international convention in a condensed format. Content could include Bible studies and worship services, ministry updates, motivational speakers, training sessions, and a servant event to promote community involvement and bring in new supporters. Staff will work with regional leadership to structure the convention program format which best serves the needs and objectives of the region.
"This vote does not imply that the international convention no longer serves a purpose," says Mick Onnen, President of the Int'l LLL. "We believe it remains an important way to energize the laity and stay in contact with our most involved supporters. But we also recognize that we must find ways to reach new people and we believe regional conferences, with an expanded publicity effort in the areas where these events will be held, will help us connect with more people."
The Board of Governors for the Int'l LLL will begin working on necessary bylaws changes to be presented for approval at next year's international convention. Convention timing and the election of officers are just a couple of the items that will be reviewed.
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