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...

Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson wrote in a July 13 pastoral letter that it is time for immigration reform.

Bishop Calls for Immigration Reform

The time has come for immigration reform, wrote Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson in a pastoral letter to rostered leaders July 13.

Hanson stated that most U.S. Lutherans are descendants of immigrants. "Our personal histories and faith stories are of an immigrant people moving in search of freedom, opportunity and safety," he wrote.

More | Read letter | version en español

Kate Hagen, ELCA Young Adult in Global Mission, with one of her students from the primary school in South Africa.

The Beauty of Being

Kate Hagen's year of teaching at a primary school in South Africa taught her many things.

She found that taking time to just "be" with her students made room for something greater: Relationships.

The 23-year-old Wisconsin native served as part of the ELCA's Young Adults in Global Mission program.

More

'Together We Are the Church'

ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson shares his experience from recent synod assemblies and his excitement about what the ELCA is doing.

So far this year, with $11.8 million given to Haiti relief and 41 new congregations approved across the ELCA, people are living out their calling as "Everyday Evangelists."

Watch or download video message

Everyday Evangelists is the title of the 2010 synod assembly video message from ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson.

'Here I Am, Lord, Send Me.'

"Everyday Evangelists" is a message to 2010 synod assemblies from Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson.

Watch ELCA members who are everyday evangelists:
• Bernice Janssen and quilters of Bethesda Lutheran
• Vicar Craig Simenson at Faith Kitchen in Boston
• Jorge Cervera and the Puerta Abierta ministry
• A chorus of ELCA members affirming their calls

Watch or download video

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 —