Churchwide Organization
The ELCA churchwide organization, based at the Lutheran Center in Chicago, works with 65 synods and nearly 8,400 congregations across the U.S., Caribbean and Virgin Islands. Guided by the churchwide assembly, Church Council and four officers, it serves the church through leadership and support.
Staff and officers serve from Chicago and locations worldwide, acting as administrators, advisers, conveners, partners and those providing resources. Together, they strengthen ministries across the ELCA, equipping congregations and leaders to live out the gospel in daily mission and service.
The ELCA nurtures vital partnerships with Lutheran, ecumenical and interfaith organizations, plus 27 colleges, seven seminaries, 2,000 schools, outdoor ministries and social service agencies. The work of God’s church is never done alone, but through a shared mission of faith and justice.
The Office of the Presiding Bishop provides overall leadership and administration for the ELCA, chairs key assemblies and councils, guides the church’s bishops, leads ecumenical relationships and supports members as they live boldly in God’s mission.
The Office of the Secretary provides administrative services and tools for ELCA leaders who are serving this church in their congregations, synods and the churchwide organization, especially those given responsibility for governance of the ELCA.
The Office of the Treasurer manages the ELCA’s business affairs, finances, investments, IT and facilities. It proposes and implements financial policy, while also equipping synods and congregations with tools and resources to strengthen their ministries and operations.
Important Resources from the Office of the Secretary
Along with the shared leadership of congregations, synods and the churchwide organization, the churchwide officers, elected to serve six-year terms, bring their enthusiastic faith and unique skills to their service on behalf of our church and its mission.
The presiding bishop leads the ELCA’s mission, represents the church ecumenically and guides vision, governance and ministry.
The vice president chairs the Church Council and plays a key role in guiding the church's direction.
The secretary provides administration, interprets governing documents and supports the work of the churchwide assembly.
The treasurer oversees finances, policies, assets, compliance and budget to support the church’s mission.
