So we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.

-Romans 12:5

Stories of Faith

This project is a photographic journey that aims to transcend languages and cultures, uniting the global body of Christ. In this long-term photography project, my goal is to embark on a quest to document the confessional Lutheran church in its diverse forms across the world. My mission is to go beyond geographical boundaries and cultural distinctions to reveal the shared bond that unites us as believers in Jesus Christ.

I plan to spend time with pastors, congregation members, and families living their daily lives within the confessional Lutheran church. Through photographs of church services, baptisms, funerals, weddings, school days, and the simple, moments of daily existence, I aim to illuminate the beauty of the unity we all share. Beyond the visual narratives, my hope is to build genuine relationships with individuals in each location and to visit more than once if possible.

Why This Project?

My work has led me to Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, Singapore, and Sweden instilling in me a profound love for sharing the stories of my fellow Christians and others I meet along the way.

What continues to resonates with me from each of these journeys are the individuals I've encountered and the stories they've shared. Whether it's those I've met at churches and villages I visited or strangers in restaurants and hotels, I'm continually humbled by the people God has placed in my path.

My goal is to harness my God-given ability to connect with others and share their stories in a long-term photography project aimed at strengthening our shared bond with our brothers and sisters in Christ.

My Philosophy & Approach

My work abroad has led me to Indonesia, Thailand, and Myanmar, instilling in me a profound love for sharing the stories of my fellow Christians.

What consistently resonates with me from each journey are the individuals I've encountered and the stories they've shared. Whether it's those I've met at churches and villages I visited or strangers in restaurants and hotels, I'm continually humbled by the people God has placed in my path.

My goal is to harness my God-given ability to connect with others and share their stories in a long-term photography project aimed at strengthening our shared bond with our brothers and sisters in Christ.

My Process

  • Research and Context

    I will study the history and current status of the Lutheran Church across the globe, identifying the locations I wish to visit. I'll also examine the challenges, successes, unique aspects, and noteworthy events and individuals within the Lutheran communities of each location.

  • Storytelling Approach

    I'll plan the photo story's narrative structure, deciding if it's chronological, individual-focused, or diverse in content. I'll also define the key themes and messages I intend to convey through the photographs. Elements like weddings, funerals, church services, education, and home life.

  • Access & Connections

    I'll locate crucial contacts within the various churches to aid my access to pastors, teachers, families, and locations. I will seek local guidance to ensure cultural sensitivity and a deeper understanding of their connection with the church. Additionally, I'll identify a collaborator within each church to serve as a translator and fixer.

  • Ethical Considerations

    I will consider the ethical aspects of photographing sensitive subjects, ensuring proper consent. I will also be culturally sensitive, respecting norms and potential community impact, while ensuring that the work I am doing is uplifting those involved and works towards an honest Christ-like approach to sharing their stories.

My Influences

The Outcomes

The outcomes of this project are photographically centered and aim to create a comprehensive narrative of the journey. Firstly, a vlog-style series will offer an engaging visual documentation, providing viewers with an immersive experience of the project's progress and the stories uncovered.

A photo book will serve as a the end goal and a tangible keepsake and historical document, allowing readers to explore the images and narratives in a printed format for generations. The audience for the book is global which means the goal will be to have a version in the language of each location that is visited.

Additionally, an online photo library will be made available to churches and schools for educational purposes. The images and stories will also be licensable to organizations connected with the places I visit.

The Timeline

A long-term photography project distinguishes itself through its extended duration and in-depth exploration of a subject or theme. Unlike short-term projects that capture moments or events within a limited timeframe, long-term projects allow photographers to immerse themselves in their subject matter, fostering deeper connections and a comprehensive understanding. These projects often involve extended research, ongoing relationships with subjects, and the ability to document changes over time. This approach enables photographers to reveal multifaceted narratives and evolving stories, offering a more profound and nuanced perspective on their chosen topic. Long-term projects require dedication, patience, and the capacity to adapt to the dynamic nature of the subject, resulting in a richer, more in-depth photographic narrative. The proposed timeline for the project is as follows:

1. Research and Planning (Year 1):

  • Initial research on selected locations.

  • Establish contacts within Lutheran churches.

  • Begin obtaining permissions and consents.

2. Fieldwork and Photography (Year 2-8):

  • Extensive travels to various Lutheran churches and communities.

  • Document home life, schools, weddings, funerals, pastors, and parishioners.

  • Build rapport with subjects for authentic portrayals.

  • Continual data and image collection.

3. Post-production and Archiving (Year 9):

  • Organize and catalog images.

  • Prepare a comprehensive archive.

4. Presentation and Outreach (Year 10):

  • Develop exhibitions, publications, and online galleries.

  • Engage with Lutheran communities and the wider audience.

  • Reflect on the project's impact and consider future steps.

Possible Locations

The Team

  • Ben Lundsten

    PHOTOGRAPHER - PROJECT LEAD

  • (Seeking)

    WRITER

  • (Seeking)

    FILMMAKER - BEHIND THE SCENES PRODUCER

  • (Seeking)

    FIXERS - LOCATION PRODUCERS

  • (Seeking)

    LOGISTICS COORDINATOR

  • (Seeking)

    LEGAL/FINANCIAL ADVISOR

  • (Seeking)

    GRANT WRITER

  • (Seeking)

    ASSISTANT/PHOTO EDITOR

Interested in joining the team? Fill out some info and I will be in touch shortly!

How can you help?

Your support is pivotal in bringing this global Lutheran project to life. By contributing, you'll play a vital role in enabling us to continue capturing the profound unity of the Christian faith across the world. Your generous donations will empower us to build bridges, share stories, and strengthen the bond we all share as believers in Christ. Every contribution brings us one step closer to making this project a reality.