The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with approximately 4.5 million members in more than 10,000 congregations across the 50 states and in the Caribbean region. Since this denomination’s beginning in 1988, the ELCA has been one church body organized in three expressions that enable and support us all to grow in faith and put faith into action.

More than 10,300 congregations across the United States, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands are local communities of faith-filled people celebrating, learning and connecting through weekly worship and various ways to serve others.

Sixty-five synods throughout the country unite the work of congregations within their areas, serving as regional support and guiding pastoral and other staff candidates through the call process.

The churchwide expression includes the ELCA Churchwide Assembly, Church Council, officers, offices and churchwide units. Churchwide staff work from the Lutheran Center in Chicago, Ill., and from locations around the globe.

Our three expressions, together with affiliated agencies and institutions, are all part of the ELCA, enjoying a strong presence at the local, regional and continental levels. And because of our connections with worldwide Lutheran, ecumenical and interfaith partners, the ELCA is an active participant in the global community.

	University Lutheran is an ELCA congregation.  At the ELCA website you'll find stories about how its members have made positive changes in the world, statements that may help guide your values and beliefs, ways this church lives out its faith through ministry, and opportunities to donate your time and financial resources
	MinistryLink is the website of the Southeastern Pennsylvania (SEPA) Synod.  Check it out for information about Synod ministry and events.
	Message from ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson
	Prayer is an intentional and meaningful way that every individual -- no matter of age, race, or background -- can deepen his or her personal relationship with God.  At the ELCA Prayer Center you can find prayer resources, request a prayer, and link to Prayer Ventures, a guide to daily prayer for the ministries of the ELCA.
	Sebastian Kolowa University College (SEKUCo) has been established by theSoutheastern Pennsylvania Synod's companion synod, the North Eastern Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tanzania. In three short years, SEKUCo has progressed from an idea to a completed year of classes for 137 students. Rev. Dr. Anneth Munga has been an incredible driving force throughout, while SEPA provided other support. The College concept was first discussed with a SEPA delegation to the North Eastern Diocese in Tanzania in August, 2005.  When I reflect on these past three years it’s evident that God has a plan for SEKUCo and for SEPA’s support. Let us rejoice and continue the fulfillment of this plan.  God Bless You!  Susan Pursch (UniLu Member) Chair, SEPA SEKUCo Committee
	This "blog digest" is brought to you by the ELCA Global Mission Support team. Here you will find posts and re-posts by ELCA missionaries, ELCA Global Mission churchwide staff, and other friends.