About

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with about 3.5 million members in about 9,100 congregations across the United States, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Rooted and built up in Jesus Christ, the ELCA walks with more than 80 companion churches in other countries to participate in God’s reconciling mission through proclamation and service. By participating in these relationships, ELCA members see how people’s lives are touched, transformed and renewed by the gospel, and how their communities live in hope.

Known as the church of “God’s work. Our hands.,” the ELCA emphasizes the saving grace of God through Jesus Christ. Our living, daring confidence in God’s grace propels us, along with our companions, to say “yes” to a world searching for renewal and wholeness. Members and supporters are invited to give to the ELCA’s missionaries knowing that, together, we accomplish much more than we ever could alone.

The ELCA’s Approach to Global Mission

As part of a global Lutheran community, we gratefully receive the witness of global siblings whose faith, hospitality, resilience and zeal energize us and our own congregations. In response, we share our gifts and talents to address the root causes of poverty and hunger, fight malaria and HIV/AIDS, build communities that coexist in peace, and prepare people to preach the good news of Jesus Christ throughout the world.

There are 118 ELCA missionary households serving in a diverse range of roles throughout the world. These missionaries serve in the spirit of accompaniment, walking alongside global companions in a manner that practices mutuality, interdependence and solidarity. As members of one body of Christ, ELCA missionaries live and serve as partners in building God’s global church and sharing Christ’s transformative love with all people.

No matter where or how they serve, every one of our missionaries needs your prayers, support and gifts to succeed in their work. Will you join in their journey by giving a gift to the ELCA’s missionaries today? By doing so you’ll be investing not only in their work but in helping to grow God’s global church.