The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) has experienced a significant and consistent period of decline in its membership over recent decades, indicating a clear trend of contraction rather than growth.
A Clear Trend of Decline within the ELCA
According to denominational records, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America has seen a substantial reduction in its membership. This trend indicates a strong pattern of decline rather than expansion.
Membership Decline Statistics
A notable decline of 41% in membership was recorded for the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America between 1987 and 2021. This substantial decrease highlights a long-term trend of contraction for one of the largest Lutheran denominations in the United States.
To illustrate this decline:
| Denomination | Period | Membership Change | Basis of Data |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) | 1987-2021 | -41% | Denominational Records |
This data points to a consistent challenge for the ELCA in maintaining or growing its congregational base. The nearly four-decade span over which this decline has occurred suggests a deep-rooted trend in its demographic changes.
In conclusion, based on available denominational data, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America is definitively declining.
