Who We Are - Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

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 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.
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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

Good Health Strengthens Ministry

January is a time for making resolutions, many centering on improving health and wellness. The January-February 2010 issue of Seeds for the Parish explores how good health enables leaders to minister effectively for the sake of the world.

“ELCA congregations and their pastors shape ministry together,” writes editor Jan Rizzo. “That’s what makes their collective health so important.”

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Climate Change Conference

Members of the ELCA and the Lutheran World Federation participated in the 2009 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen.

Mary Minette, director for environmental education and advocacy, ELCA Washington Office, was part of the LWF delegation. Writing a blog, she said the LWF delegation expressed concern that "the future of all creation is in jeopardy. Our belief is the issue is not only about science and policy and politics, but also an issue of justice." | More

History

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 —