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Browse Lutheran churches by state
There are approximately 8,500 Lutheran congregations in the United States. They are concentrated in the Upper Midwest (Minnesota, Wisconsin, the Dakotas) — reflecting the German and Scandinavian immigrant communities that founded many of these churches — but Lutheran congregations exist in every state. Browse all Lutheran churches by state →
ELCA vs. LCMS vs. WELS
There are three major Lutheran bodies in the US, differing primarily in theology and practice:
- Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) — the largest Lutheran denomination in the US, with ~3.3 million members. Theologically progressive, ordains women, part of various ecumenical agreements.
- Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod (LCMS) — the second largest, with ~1.8 million members. Theologically conservative, does not ordain women, holds to inerrancy of Scripture.
- Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS) — smaller (~350,000 members), the most conservative of the three; strict about fellowship and closed communion.
If you grew up Lutheran or have a preference, search for your specific synod. If you're new to Lutheranism, any congregation will welcome a visitor.
What to expect at a Lutheran service
Lutheran services are typically liturgical — following a set order of worship drawn from the historic Christian tradition. A Sunday morning service includes:
- Liturgy of the Word — Scripture readings, creed, psalm, sermon
- Liturgy of the Table — in congregations that celebrate Communion, the Lord's Supper follows the sermon
- Hymns — Lutheran hymnody is among the richest in Christianity; many churches use a traditional hymnal
- The sermon — typically expository, 15–25 minutes, grounded in the week's lectionary readings
Services typically last 60–75 minutes. Dress is smart casual to business casual in most congregations.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lutheran the same as Catholic?
No — though the two traditions share liturgical worship and a high view of the sacraments. Lutherans broke from Rome in the 16th century over the doctrine of justification (salvation by grace through faith alone), papal authority, and other issues. The two traditions have been in ongoing dialogue for decades.
Do Lutherans baptize infants?
Yes. Infant baptism is the practice of all three major Lutheran bodies. They understand baptism as God's action of grace, not a human decision or declaration of faith.