Description
Location : Pematangsiantar
Agreement Term :
Full Time, Four Years
Anticipated start date(s) include :
July 12, 2026
Agreement Type : Long-term
Description :
The purpose of the position of Professor and Consultant in the Lutheran Theology and Identity Project within the National Committee of the Lutheran World Federation (KNLWF) Indonesia is to promote and strengthen the understanding, practice, and dissemination of Lutheran theology and identity among members, communities, and institutions associated with LWF Indonesia. The position aims to deepen the theological knowledge and enhance the identity formation of individuals and communities within the Lutheran tradition, contributing to the growth and vitality of the Lutheran churches in Indonesia.
Serve as an instructor and consultant with the Lutheran theology and identity project with the Indonesian National Committee of the Lutheran World Federation (KNLWF).
Timeline :
- Application Opens : February 2026
- Interviews : February 2026 - April 2026
- Onboarding : May 2026 - June 2026
- ELCA Orientation in-person : July 2026
- Deploy to Indonesia : Late Summer / Fall 2026
Site Information :
The Indonesian National Committee of the Lutheran World Federation (KNLWF) has its offices in the North Sumatran city of Pematangsiantar (Siantar for short). Siantar also has the theological seminary of the HKBP (STT-HKBP), the largest Lutheran church in Indonesia; a campus of Nommensen [Lutheran] University; and headquarters of several Lutheran church bodies.
While proximity and collaboration with STT-HKBP is important, this position also works with other Lutheran theological institutions and training programs located in other parts of the country; as well as working with the 14 Lutheran church bodies that are under the umbrella of KNLWF.
Preservation and Promotion of Lutheran Theology : The Lutheran Theology and Identity Project plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting the unique theological perspective and heritage of Lutheranism. As a professor and consultant in this project, the person would contribute to deepening the understanding of Lutheran theology within the Indonesian context. This is important in a diverse religious (primarily Islam) landscape, where it is crucial to maintain the distinctiveness and relevance of Lutheran teachings.
The location also requires contextualization of Lutheran theology to make it accessible and meaningful to the local context. This position would have the opportunity to engage in research, teaching, and theological reflection to help Indonesian Lutherans understand how their theological tradition can address contemporary challenges and issues faced by the society.
Assignment Includes :
Work closely and consult with Indonesian theologians (and beyond) in shaping Lutheran identity programs, projects, and processes.Assist with the administration and implementation of Lutheran identity programs, projects and processes.Teach courses that relate to Lutheran distinctives, particularly in the area of specialty of the missionaryHelp coordinate courses and teachings in other areas Lutheran distinctives.Assist in the development of literature and other learning tools, scholarship, as well as teaching tools, in Lutheran distinctives.Attend conferences and consultations on Lutheran identity and other areas of theologyConduct research on the history and development of Lutheran theology in Indonesia, including its unique identity and contributions to the wider Christian community in the country.Help organize curricula for Lutheran Theology teaching through seminars, courses, training program or conference on Lutheran theology and identity for scholars, theologians, pastors, and members of the Lutheran community in Indonesia.Develop and implement a training program for pastors and lay leaders in Lutheran churches throughout Indonesia, focusing on topics such as Lutheran theology, liturgy, and spiritual practices.Work with the Indonesian National Committee of the LWF (KNLWF) to develop resources and materials to promote the understanding and practice of Lutheran theology and identity among its member churches and the wider Christian community in the country.Collaborate with other Lutheran churches and organizations in Indonesia and internationally to foster greater cooperation and dialogue on issues related to Lutheran theology and identity.Write and publish articles, papers, and books on Lutheran theology and identity in Indonesia, sharing insights and reflections on the history, current state, and future prospects of the Lutheran Church in the country.Provide pastoral care and support to members of the Lutheran community in Indonesia, especially those who are facing challenges related to their faith and identity.Participate in meetings, conferences, and other events organized by the KNLWF, contributing to discussions on issues related to Lutheran theology and identity and helping to shape the organization's priorities and agenda.Serve as a spokesperson and advocate for the Lutheran churches in Indonesia, promoting its unique identity and contributions to the wider Christian community in the country and beyond.Mentor and support the KNLWF program officer for theology in developing and promoting Lutheran theology and identity, helping to build a strong and vibrant community of leaders and thinkers in the field.This is an ELCA sponsorable position.
All ELCA long-term global personnel participate in mission interpretation and storytelling. This includes :
Quarterly newsletters to sponsoring congregations and individuals.Virtual visits throughout the year with sponsoring congregations and individuals.In-person visits are required typically every two years including travel back to the United States to visit sponsoring congregations and individualsRequirements
Experience and Skills :
Academic Qualifications : Ordained Pastor and doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in Theology, preferably specializing in Lutheran theology or a related field.Expertise in Lutheran Theology : A comprehensive understanding of Lutheran theology, its historical development, core doctrines, and contemporary interpretations.Teaching Experience : If available extensive experience in teaching at the university level, preferably in theology or related disciplines.Christian faith and a commitment to the mission of the churchOpenness to various expressions of Christian faith and respect for people of other faithsRespect for beliefs, values and customs of church and culture where assigned?Well-developed inter-personal skills demonstrating understanding and compassionDemonstrate ability to carry out the responsibilities and the ability to adapt to different standards and practicesAbility to work within the framework of a local administrationAdaptable and flexible - sense of humor - good physical and emotional healthLive and serve in a way which reflects the vision and expectations of the ELCAPreferred :
Research Abilities : If available demonstrated competence in conducting original research, producing scholarly publications, and presenting findings at conferences or seminars.Project Management : Proficiency in planning, organizing, and overseeing research projects, including the ability to coordinate diverse teams and meet deadlines.Interdisciplinary Collaboration : Willingness to collaborate with KNLWF scholars from different disciplines and engage in interdisciplinary conversations on theological topics.Leadership Skills : Strong leadership qualities, including the ability to provide guidance and mentorship to KNLWF program officer, students and junior researchers.Publications : If available A track record of published research in reputable theological journals or academic presses.Field Experience : Experience in conducting research or participating in theological projects related to Indonesia or the Southeast Asian context.Helpful :
Grant Writing : Experience in securing research grants or funding for academic projects.Network and Collaborations : Existing connections with theological institutions, scholars, or organizations within Indonesia or the global Lutheran community.Intercultural Competence : Sensitivity and understanding of diverse cultural and religious contexts, particularly in relation to Indonesia and its religious landscape.Pastoral Experience : Experience in pastoral ministry or involvement in church-related activities, which can contribute to a practical understanding of theological concepts in real-life contexts.It's worth noting that specific requirements for the position may vary depending on the organization and the particular project's focus within the field of Lutheran theology and identity.Terms and Conditions :
Long-Term Terms and ConditionsThis position is supported under the terms of ELCA Service and Justice Expectations and Support for Long Term Mission Personnel. Those provisions include international transportation, transportation related to work assignment, pensions and major medical coverage, assistance with schooling for children through high school, housing and cash salary which is adjusted according to the goods and services differential for Indonesia.Salary is based on years of work experience.If candidate is married , both must complete an application for this position for discernment of the appropriate pattern of service of the spouse. In the context of global mission service, the accompanying spouse is seen as a representative of the ELCA and of the receiving church regardless of their actual role. It is important for the ELCA that both members of a couple understand the role of a missionary and are comfortable with that reality.Physical Efforts :
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone. This position requires sitting for long periods of time. Employees will occasionally need to lift boxes or materials up to 15 pounds. Reasonable accommodation can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
A psychological evaluation is required.
Benefits :
The ELCA offers a competitive benefits package for eligible employees, including employer paid health premiums for employees and dependent, life insurance, and a substantial employer contribution to 403b retirement plan (no match required). We also offer additional benefits upon deployment to the country of service.
Salary Description $30,267 - $39,348 annually
