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 more than 10,300 congregations across the U.S., Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, and 4.5 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...

The Rev. Elizabeth A. Platz, left, listened to the Rev. Paul M. Orso, right, president of the Maryland Synod, Lutheran Church in America, at Platz's ordination service in 1970.

Forty Years of Ordained Service

In 1970 the Lutheran Church in America ordained Elizabeth A. Platz at the University of Maryland's Memorial Chapel, where she serves today. Platz, the first woman ordained a Lutheran pastor in North America, has served her entire ministry as UM Lutheran campus pastor.

On Nov. 22, the ELCA will mark the 40th anniversary of her ordination.

More | Photos | ELCA Archives exhibit

Listening for God at Halfway Creek

When Pastor Jean Pagliaro arrived at Halfway Creek Lutheran Church in Holmen, Wis., members felt they had limited input in decision making.

Pastor Jean encouraged a lay leader who was vocal in her frustrations to lead informal conversations about creating a new vision of healing and hope for the congregation. They began to see a shift almost immediately.

More | Congregational Life Stories

The Revs. Beth Birkholz and Scott Seeke, ELCA pastors who are extras in the upcoming movie

Family Funeral Tale Leads to Movie

The Revs. Beth Birkholz and Scott Seeke are ELCA pastors in suburban Atlanta. They're also extras (at left) in the movie "Get Low," released on July 30.

The story is based on Felix "Bush" Breazeale, who ran a funeral home in Tennessee. Breazeale threw himself a funeral party -- while still alive -- in 1938, so he could hear what people would say about him. Birkholz's grandfather drove the hearse. | More

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 —