English » About KAD » Introduction

Introduction to the ELCT Karagwe Diocese

The Karagwe Diocese (KAD) belongs to the Evangelical-Lutheran Church in Tanzania (ELCT).

In January 2009, the KAD celebrated its 30th anniversary. Looking back, the diocese has experienced many hard times. A number of crisis and problems had to be tackled. Nonetheless, the diocese has also experienced increasingly good times. This shows that when you resolve problems, then development is possible, and this is encouraging.

Diocesan Structure

The diocese operates through the following organs: The Synod, Diocesan Executive Committee, Head Office etc. The Synod (General Assembly), with delegates from all the parishes, is the highest decision making body and meets once every two years. The Synod has the duty to make sure that the Diocese is operating. The Synod also oversees the teaching and preaching and makes sure that this happens according to the established vision and mission, as well as the constitution of KAD and the Lutheran Christian teachings. The Synod elects the Bishop and the assistant to the Bishop (Dean).

On behalf of the Synod, the Diocesan Executive Council (KAD EXCO) meets two to three times a year to oversee and regulate the ongoing work of the diocese. It approves the reports and budgets, institutes rules and regulations, and appoints the district pastors, diocesan and units senior staff. For the smooth running of the different activities there are a number of councils, boards and committees operating on behalf of the Executive Council.

The Head Office of the diocese works through seven departments:

• Department of Finances
• Department of Planning & Development
• Department of Mission & Evangelism, Stewardship
• Department of Women, Youth & Christian Education
• Department of Health
• Department of Diaconia
• Department of Building.
Plans are underway to establish a Department of Auditing.

District and Parish Level

Under the Diocesan level there is the District level. So far there are seven church districts: Lukajange, Bweranyange, Kituntu, Mabira, Kyerwa, Murongo and Ihembe. Ngara mission area is planned to be the eighth district. There are no formal departments at the district level. But the youth and women wings are very active.

Under the district level, there the parish level. Each district has three to seven parishes. Once again there are no formal departments at the Parish level. Each parish is composed from five to twelve congregations. Each congregation is headed by a evangelist and church elders.

There are General meetings and committees at all levels. From the congregations, through the parish to the district, all matters are forwarded. The district then forwards matters to the diocesan organs.


Further information through download of [download#14]



Text: Erasto Kamihanda