Who are Lutherans

Who Are

Lutherans?

Lutherans are Christians in the Protestant tradition and were the first Protestants. The movement began in 1517 when Martin Luther, an Augustinian monk, posted his Ninety-Five Theses in Wittenberg, Germany, protesting against the Roman Catholic Church. At the heart of Lutheran belief is justification by faith alone: we are saved by God’s grace through faith in the Triune God, not by our works.

Our Denominational Affiliation

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is a vibrant and diverse Christian denomination committed to spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ through love, compassion, and service. With over 9,000 congregations across the United States, totaling approximately 3.3 million members, the ELCA is a thriving community of faith rooted in the Lutheran tradition.

As one of the largest Christian denominations in the country, the ELCA is organized into 65 synods, each serving a specific geographical region. These synods provide support, resources, and guidance to congregations and ministries within their boundaries, fostering a sense of connection and collaboration throughout the denomination.

Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, the ELCA is led by Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry and an elected Church Council. Together, they provide leadership and direction for the church, guiding its mission and ministry efforts both domestically and globally.

At its core, the ELCA is a welcoming and inclusive church that embraces diversity, values community, and seeks to make a positive impact in the world. Through worship, fellowship, education, and service, the ELCA invites all people to experience the transformative love of God and join in the mission of proclaiming Christ's peace and justice to all creation.

The Rev. Yehiel Curry

Presiding Bishop

8765 W. Higgins Rd.

Chicago, IL 63061

Main: 800-638-3522

Our Synod

The Metropolitan Washington, D.C. Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is a dynamic and diverse expression of Lutheran faith serving the greater Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Comprising 72 congregations spread across Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia, our synod is a vibrant community of believers dedicated to sharing God's love and grace with all people.

Our synod is led by Bishop Philip Hirsch, a compassionate and visionary leader who provides spiritual guidance, support, and pastoral care to congregations and ministries within our synod. With a deep commitment to fostering collaboration and unity, Bishop Hirsch encourages congregations to engage in mission and outreach efforts that address the needs of our local communities and beyond.

Through worship, education, advocacy, and service, the Metropolitan Washington, D.C. Synod seeks to embody the inclusive and reconciling love of Christ, welcoming all who seek a place of belonging and spiritual growth. Together, we strive to live out our shared values of justice, mercy, and compassion, working towards a world where all are valued, respected, and empowered to live abundant and meaningful lives in Christ.

The Rev. Dr. Philip Hirsch

Synodical Bishop

Physical Location:

222 M. Street, SW

Washington, D.C. 20024

Mailing Address:

4005 Wisconsin Ave., NW #39105

Washington, D.C. 20016

Main: 202-417-3678