Synods

We are a church that believes God calls us into the world — together. The ELCA’s 65 synods vary in size, geography, membership, staffing and programs. The smallest synod has 30 congregations; the largest, nearly 250. Grouped into nine regions, synods serve as vital connection points between congregations and the churchwide organization. They unite the work of congregations in their area, provide regional support, and guide candidates for pastoral and other leadership roles. Synods strengthen leaders and ministries, helping us accomplish together what no single congregation could do alone.

When our congregations and synods work together, we draw on a wealth of leaders, resources, networks and diverse perspectives to do God’s work in the world. Across the United States, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, nearly 8,400 congregations and 65 synods are active in loving and serving neighbors, proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ. Each synod elects a bishop to oversee its ministry and administration. Together with the ELCA’s presiding bishop and secretary, these 65 bishops form the Conference of Bishops, offering leadership, counsel and vision for the whole church.