Northern Tasmanian Lutheran Mission Undertakes Rite of Reception into LM-A
Pr Avito da Costa and Chairman Marc Horch look on as Elder Tasmin Bourne signs the LM-A Reception document.
The Northern Tasmania Lutheran Mission was blessed to have Pastor Avito da Costa conduct a Rite of Reception into the LM-A on Trinity Sunday (31 May), after receiving official approval of their membership application on 29 April 2026. Pastor Avito read a greeting to the congregation from LM-A President Matt Anker.
Held at the Blythe Heads Hall, the service was a true celebration as the congregation belted out joyful hymns to the organ music played by Anna da Costa.
The fledgling congregation has forged ahead over the last 20 months since members could no longer support the direction of the LCA. The membership includes former LCA members from Launceston, Devonport and Burnie, as well as former Anglican members who had become disillusioned with the direction their Anglican Church was taking. All were seeking a home where the Scriptures are taught in their truth and purity.
Moving from services in a residential basement to various public halls, the Northern Tasmanian Lutheran Mission now holds services at Blythe Heads Hall, with a once-a-month service in an old church building owned by the Sassafras Community Hall Association.
The congregation during the special Rite of Reception service.
For much of 2025 and early 2026, the Northern Tasmanian Lutheran Mission was fortunate to have weekly Holy Communion services, led by Pastor Sam Modra, as he awaited a permanent position.
God has guided the congregation and made provision at every turn. Northern Tasmanian Lutheran Mission is grateful to LM-A President, Pastor Matt Anker, for responding to its need for pastoral support, and arranging so quickly for Pastor Avito to visit from Geelong and serve the congregation.
Report by
Leanne Holland
Secretary, NTLM
Highlights from the journey
Pr Sam Modra conducting a Baptism service at the Sassafras Church.
The Blythe Heads church decorated for Easter Sunday.