Experiences

The Way of the Lutherans is a spiritual pilgrimage for principals, directors and senior leaders of Lutheran education across Australia. It traces the footsteps of the early Lutheran migrants in South Australia and focuses on the sites and stories as they established their churches and schools. 

Beginning at Pirltawardli, the first Australian Lutheran school for Indigenous children, and concluding at Gnadenberg Lutheran Church in the Barossa Valley, this 150km pilgrimage journeys through places of deep historical and spiritual significance. Along the way, pilgrims will hear the stories of those who came before us—stories of courage, faith, and community.

The Way of the Lutherans is more than a walk. It’s a multi experiential opportunity for pilgrims to:

• Grow collegial networks with fellow leaders in Lutheran education
• Connect with the rich history of Australian Lutheranism
• Deepen spiritual and theological understanding
• Develop physical and mental resilience
• Be inspired by the beauty of God’s creation
• Reflect on personal growth and its impact on your community

MEMBER GRANTS AVAILABLE

The Way of the Lutherans will be offered twice a year and is open to Lutheran education leaders across Australia. LPA is offering two member grants of $2,500 for participation in 2026. NOTE: Numbers are limited to eight per pilgrimage. There will be two pilgrimages held annually: 11-18 April, and 5-12 September. 

If you are interested in applying, please reach out to executiveofficer@lpa.edu.au for eligibility criteria and further information.

TESTIMONIALS 

“The relationships we formed were absolutely remarkable. Walking 150 kilometres alongside peers and colleagues — some I knew well, others I didn’t — created space for deep conversations, shared stories, and mutual encouragement. The physical challenge was real, but the experience was absolutely worthwhile.”

Darren Altus, Principal, Good Shepherd Lutheran School, SA

“It's been challenging, but it's been great to walk in the footsteps of our earlier pioneers, and to walk with a group of people and get to know some fellow leaders in Lutheran schools. You learn, not just about the history of where we fit into in Lutheran schools, but also about yourself. And for me, in a very different context in Melbourne, it's thinking, how does that relate to my context today, which I think has been a really great pondering for me over the last week.”

Joanne Wegener, Deputy Principal – Secondary, Good News Lutheran College (Tarneit), VIC

“It gives you an understanding of the why of Lutheran education. We look at why there's so many Lutheran schools across Australia and this really takes it back to the beginning and it gives you an understanding of why we do have Lutheran schools and what our purpose is.”

David Field, Principal, Maitland Lutheran School, SA