Lutherans are… EvangelicalEvangelical means centered in the good news, the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) chose to use this word in its namebecause it expresses the heart of Lutheran theology.(click here for more information)
Lutherans are… Catholic
Lutherans are catholic – part of the universal Church through the ages and around the world.
In the Nicene creed we say we believe in the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church.
Lutherans embrace the fullness of the Church’s tradition.
Lutherans claim to be part of the catholic (small c) Church rather than a separate sect.
Lutherans are… Ecumenical
Lutherans in the ELCA are committed to the oneness and unity we have in Jesus Christ.
We see healing for the brokenness and divisions of the church through history.
We strive for unity in order that our witness to the world will be stronger and more effective.
Lutherans are… Reforming
Some define Lutheranism as a “reforming movement” within the Church catholic.
In each age the gospel continues to challenge the Church to be faithful.
We are reforming because we continue to adapt traditions or social teachings in order that they will further the proclamation of the gospel.
The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) chose to use this word in its namebecause it expresses the heart of Lutheran theology.(click here for more information)
Lutherans are… Catholic
Lutherans are catholic – part of the universal Church through the ages and around the world.
In the Nicene creed we say we believe in the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church.
Lutherans embrace the fullness of the Church’s tradition.
Lutherans claim to be part of the catholic (small c) Church rather than a separate sect.
Lutherans are… Ecumenical
Lutherans in the ELCA are committed to the oneness and unity we have in Jesus Christ.
We see healing for the brokenness and divisions of the church through history.
We strive for unity in order that our witness to the world will be stronger and more effective.
Lutherans are… Reforming
Some define Lutheranism as a “reforming movement” within the Church catholic.
In each age the gospel continues to challenge the Church to be faithful.
We are reforming because we continue to adapt traditions or social teachings in order that they will further the proclamation of the gospel.