The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America traces its roots directly to the Protestant Reformation that took place in Europe in the 16th century. Martin Luther, a German monk, became aware of differences between the Bible and church practices of the day. His writings, lectures and sermons inspired others to protest errors in the church and adopt conservative reforms, retaining practices of the past that were faithful to Scripture and to Christ.

Some of the earliest European settlers brought Lutheranism to North America - Dutch, Swedish and German colonists whose faith and worship traditions supported them in their new homes in Delaware, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and South Carolina. The President of the Continental Congress and first Speaker of the House were Lutherans who served their country as it became independent.

The ELCA today is a gathering of God's faithful people from all ethnic and spiritual traditions, brought together and united in a common commitment to the risen Christ and the living Word of God.

With nearly 5 million baptized members in over 10,000 congregations, the ELCA today is one of the largest church bodies in the US. Our fellowship includes nearly 19,000 pastors and other professional leaders, 8 theological seminaries, 28 universities and colleges, nearly 1,900 schools and preschools, and the largest faith-based social service network in North America, serving more than 6 million people annually with healthcare, community support, emergency intervention, adoption, and family life services in 3,000 local communities including our own.

Some of the ministries of the ELCA:

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America - Main Home Page - www.elca.org

History of the ELCA - www.elca.org/communication/roots.html

The Lutheran - Official Magazine of the ELCA - www.thelutheran.org

ELCA Global Ministries - www.elca.org/globalmission

ELCA World Hunger Appeal - www.elca.org/hunger/resources/newsletter/