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 10,000 congregations across the U.S., Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, and 4.2 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...

Bishop Crist will serve a four-year term. She succeeds the Rev. Allan C. Bjornberg, bishop of the ELCA Rocky Mountain Synod.

Exciting new leadership

Bishop Jessica Crist of the ELCA Montana Synod is the new chair of the ELCA Conference of Bishops. Crist is the first woman synod bishop ever to hold this position.

In response to her election, Crist said she has "great hope for the future of the church and respect for the many fine lay and clergy leaders who serve."

More | ELCA Conference of Bishops

If you will be between the ages of 15 and 21 in July 2012, consider applying to become an emcee at the 2012 ELCA Youth Gathering.

Living faith out loud

Are you a creative, talented ELCA member between the ages of 15 and 21? If so, consider auditioning to become an emcee at the ELCA Youth Gathering in New Orleans, July 14-23, 2012. The ELCA is looking for young people ready to live their faith out loud!

Audition videos are being accepted now until Oct. 15.

Apply Now | 2012 ELCA Youth Gathering

Remembering lives lost

A commemoration of "Prayer and Remembrance" will take place Sept. 11, 2011, at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in New York City, to acknowledge the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks in the United States that day.

Read an invitation from ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark Hanson, who calls this church to observe the anniversary with other religious partners, dedicating ourselves to a common mission of reconciliation.

Worship Resources | ELCA Disaster Response

Let it be according to your Word

In his sermon at the 2011 ELCA Churchwide Assembly, Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson asks if we as a church are ready to be moved by the Holy Spirit.

Read the presiding bishop's sermon from the assembly's opening worship, along with other daily content and conversation about what it means to "live Lutheran."

Visit LivingLutheran.com | Report of the ELCA Presiding Bishop

Video contest winners

The winners of the 2011 ELCA Video Contest were announced August 18 at the 2011 Churchwide Assembly in Orlando, Fla.

ELCA Churchwide Assembly | View the winning videos

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 —

10,000 local congregations
65 synods throughout the U.S. and Caribbean
and the churchwide organization (national office) in Chicago

Learn how our structure helps the ELCA thrive.