Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada

Organization and governance

Congregations are organized geographically into five regional synods. Each synod provides pastoral support, theological oversight and program resources to local parishes. At the national level the church is led by a presiding officer commonly called the National Bishop together with a national council and assemblies that set policy, budgets and mission priorities. The current National Bishop is the Reverend Susan Johnson.

Synods

• British Columbia Synod
• Synod of Alberta and the Territories
• Saskatchewan Synod
• Manitoba/Northwestern Ontario Synod
• Eastern Synod

History and development

The present church was established in 1986 when two Canadian Lutheran bodies came together to form a single national denomination. Since its founding it has continued to adapt to changing social and demographic patterns while maintaining core Lutheran theological commitments. Over time the church has taken part in national conversations about worship, ministry and public witness and has developed programs to support congregational vitality and theological education.

Beliefs, worship and ministry

The church follows classic Lutheran emphases: the authority of Scripture for faith and life, justification by grace through faith, and the centrality of Word and Sacrament. Worship is typically liturgical and centered on preaching, baptism and the Eucharist. The denomination ordains women and men to ministry and supports a range of parish ministries, diaconal work and education programs for all ages.

Ecumenical relationships and public role

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada participates in broader ecumenical networks and dialogues and has established formal partnerships with other churches in Canada and internationally. It engages in social and community ministries, advocacy on social justice issues and interchurch cooperation. For further information about the church’s programs and resources see the denomination’s pages and ecumenical material linked here: official resources and ecumenical information.

Note: This article gives a general introduction. For details about local congregations, worship schedules, or membership statistics consult the church’s published materials or contact a regional synod office.