Ruth Jensen, former Executive Director of Canadian Lutheran World Relief, dies

In a statement issued yesterday from ELCIC’s partner, Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR), the organization shared that Ruth Jensen, former Executive Director, passed away suddenly over the weekend.

“We are deeply saddened,” CLWR shared in its statement. “Ruth left a lasting imprint on many current and former CLWR staff and partners through her deep wisdom and her warmth, and through her remarkable leadership at a time when few agencies were led by women.” Ruth served as Executive Director of CLWR from 1997 to 2005.

“I give thanks to God for Ruth’s faithful service, and for her deep concern for the world’s most vulnerable people,” says ELCIC National Bishop Susan Johnson. “Our prayers are with all who mourn her death.” Tributes and memories of Ruth have been shared on social media since the news first broke. Many recall the lasting impact of her passion for social justice and her care for people all over the world.