WELS | Martin Luther

Who We Are

The Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS) is a confederation of nearly 1,300 Lutheran congregations across the United States and Canada, serving more than 350,000 members who gather to hear God's Word and receive the sacraments.

Founded in 1850, WELS is committed to faithfully proclaiming the unchanging truth of God's Word. We believe the Bible is the inspired, inerrant Word of God and the only source of truth for Christian faith and life.

Core Teachings

Essential truths that shape our faith and guide our ministry

The Gospel Message

At the heart of WELS is the gospel—the good news about Jesus Christ. All people are sinners, but God in his mercy sent his Son Jesus to live a perfect life in our place and die on the cross for our sins.

Jesus rose from the dead, proving that God accepted his sacrifice. Everyone who believes in Jesus has forgiveness and eternal life.

The Means of Grace

God comes to us through his Word and the Sacraments of Baptism and the Lord's Supper. Through these, the Holy Spirit creates and strengthens faith.

The Priesthood of All Believers

All Christians are priests before God. We have direct access to him through Jesus Christ and are called to share the gospel with others.

The Second Coming

Jesus will return on the Last Day to judge all people. Believers will live forever with God in heaven—this hope shapes how we live today.

Our Mission Together

World Missions

We support missionaries in nearly 50 countries, sharing the gospel with people who have never heard about Jesus.

Christian Education

We operate Lutheran schools, colleges, and seminaries to train pastors, teachers, and staff ministers for service.

Home Missions

We plant new churches throughout North America to reach more people with the gospel message.

Publishing

We create and distribute Bible study materials, worship resources, and Christian literature to support spiritual growth.