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...

ELCA Mission Investment Fund story.

The Town That’s 99% Perfect

Rockport, Texas, seemingly had it all: A beautiful shoreline on the Gulf of Mexico, a thriving arts community, warm weather. Indeed, this idyllic town offered residents everything they could ask for, except a place for Lutherans to worship.

With a Mission Investment Fund loan, new-start congregation Holy Cross Lutheran Church purchased land and constructed its very own worship center. The town that “had it all” finally did have it all.  More

Capture “God’s work. Our hands.” on video to win a prize in the ELCA Video Contest.

ELCA Video Contest Underway

Show God's people at work in the world in a short video and win a $5,000 ministry grant or $2,500 cash. The ELCA is inviting congregations and individuals to submit 30- to 90-second videos in a contest related to the ELCA tagline, "God's work. Our hands."

The ELCA video contest runs through July 15, 2009. Winners will be announced at the 2009 ELCA Churchwide Assembly, Aug. 17-23 in Minneapolis. 

News release  |  Get started

A Survey on “The Religious Beliefs and Practices of Lutheran Lay Leaders in the ELCA.”

Survey Reveals Influences on Leaders

Christian themes in the popular media are influencing the views of ELCA congregational leaders. Those themes aren't always Lutheran.

A survey on "The Religious Beliefs and Practices of Lutheran Lay Leaders in the ELCA" shows those influences may have an effect on the ELCA's Peace Not Walls and Book of Faith initiatives.

More  |  Survey Results PDF Format

2009 ELCA Churchwide Assembly will be Aug. 17-23 in Minneapolis, Minn.

Churchwide Assembly to Meet Aug. 17-23

Voting members of the 2009 ELCA Churchwide Assembly will act on a proposed social statement on human sexuality, a recommendation on ministry policies, a proposal for full communion, and funding proposals. They will also conduct elections, and consider memorials and other resolutions.

The assembly is Aug. 17-23 at the Minneapolis Convention Center.

More  |  Actions  |  Schedule

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.