The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA)

The ELCA is a community of faith that shares a passion for making positive changes in the world. Our faith is built around a strong belief in God as made known to us in Jesus Christ. Through worship, service, and education, we practice our faith, grow our relationship with God and experience God's grace in our lives. Learn more about What We Believe.

We also work hard to put our faith into action. In today’s complex world, we strive to make a difference in practical, realistic ways.

With nearly 10,500 congregations across the U.S., Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, and nearly five million members—we welcome you to experience this church right in your community. Explore the ELCA, and help us celebrate our gift of faith—with action.

Spotlight On...

On-demand video of the Town Hall Forum hosted by ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson will be available for viewing and download on March 9.

On-Demand Video for Town Hall Forum Now Available

Thank you to all who participated in the second online Town Hall forum hosted by ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson.

Watch webcast Video  |  News Summary News Story 

Transcript in English  |  SpanishPDF Format

Visit www.elca.org/townhall for details.

Global Links is the monthly ELCA Global Mission e-newsletter.

Stay Informed with Global Links 

Stay informed. Be inspired. Get involved. Get regular updates from around the world by subscribing to Global Links, a monthly e-newsletter from
ELCA Global Mission

Each issue, e-mailed at the beginning of the month, includes links to news releases, congregational resources and upcoming opportunities. |  Subscribe

Ecumenical Journey

ELCA Delegation to Strengthen Ecumenical Relationships

A delegation of 12 official ELCA representatives will meet with world Christian church leaders Feb. 3-17.

The Rev. Donald McCoid says that topics of conversation will include promotion of Christian unity; human sexuality; care for creation and people living in poverty and with disease; peace; and the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation in 2017. 
More

Lutheran Health Care for Haitians

Lutheran Health Center Prepares for Arriving Haitians

The Caribbean-American Family Health Center, a satellite clinic of Lutheran HealthCare, Brooklyn, is providing treatment for patients arriving in the U.S. from Haiti.

The center is prepared to receive patients who have been traumatized or who were injured in Haiti, says the health center's director, Claudette Richardson. “No one will be turned away.”  |  More


History

Leaders

Our Three Expressions

ELCA history ELCA Leaders Our Three Expressions
The ELCA has a rich history that extends far beyond its formation in 1988. Its roots go back to Jesus of Nazareth and to the reformation of Martin Luther in the early 1500s. See where we’ve been – so you can experience where we’re going. Our leaders are committed to proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ, guiding our community of faith, educating our members and welcoming new neighbors and friends into this church. Read a statement from Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson and meet other leaders throughout this church. Our church body is organized in three expressions —

Learn how our structure helps the ELCA thrive.