Info about Peace Lutheran and the ELCA

Thanks again for visiting the Peace Lutheran website. Whether you are a member or a first time visitor, we hope you find everything you need.

This page provides more information about our church's background and how you can get involved.
Show our history . . .

What is a Lutheran?
In the 16th century, Martin Luther, a German monk, became aware of differences between the Bible and church practices of the day. His writings, lectures and sermons inspired others to protest church practices and call for reform.

By the late 1500s the Reformation had spread throughout Europe. Followers of Martin Luther's teachings were labeled "Lutherans" by their enemies and adopted the name themselves. Lutheran beliefs became widespread, especially in Germany and the Scandinavian countries (Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland and Finland), later spreading throughout the world as early explorers took their faith with them on their voyages.

The ELCA website has a wide variety of helpful resources, including brief answers to the essential questions of what Lutheran Christians believe, and an extensive, searchable set of FAQs on the ELCA's positions regarding Faith, The Bible, Church Life, and Lutheran History.

What is the ELCA
The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America resulted from a union of three North American Lutheran church bodies: The American Lutheran Church, the Association of Evangelical Lutheran Churches and the Lutheran Church in America.

The three churches agreed to unite in 1982. They formed a 70-member Commission for a New Lutheran Church, which planned the merger. The plan was approved by church conventions in 1986, and the ELCA constituting convention was held April 30-May 3, 1987, with the church actually beginning operations on January 1, 1988.

More information on the ELCA's history, organization, and demographics are at the ELCA.org website.

How do I join Peace?
New member orientation classes are held several times during the year, and scheduled depending on the current needs. Members are usually received a few Sundays after finishing the orientation class.

Current members of another ELCA congregation may transfer their membership to Peace at any time. Though not required, they may attend the orientation class to learn more about the church and how to become involved.

If you are interested in joining Peace, please contact the church office or one of the pastors. Feel free to stop by or send an email for more information about the membership process.

How can I get involved?
Feel free to contact committee chairs if you want to get involved in a particular church activity. If you're unsure of how to start, or where your talents and abilities could best be used, please fill out our Time and Talent form on the Stewardship page. It might also be helpful to work through the ELCA spiritual gifts assessment.