The Confessional Evangelical Lutheran Conference joins its sister church, the Evangelical Lutheran Free Church—Germany (Evangelisch-Lutherische Freikirche, ELFK), in giving thanks to God for the ELFK’s 150th anniversary.
Founded in 1876, the ELFK was formed by Lutherans who, in faithfulness to Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, separated from state churches that had departed from biblical teaching. From its beginning, the ELFK sought and enjoyed fellowship with confessional Lutheran church bodies that shared its commitment to God’s Word.
Through its history, the ELFK has endured significant trials, including restrictions and hardships under Communist rule in East Germany. Yet the Lord preserved his church and continued to bless the preaching of the gospel among his people. Today, the ELFK serves congregations and preaching stations in Germany and Austria, operates Dr. Martin Luther School in Zwickau, trains pastors at its seminary in Leipzig, and carries out publishing work through its bookstore in Zwickau.
The ELFK is one of 34 member church bodies of the CELC, a worldwide fellowship committed to the teachings of Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions. The anniversary is therefore not only a German celebration, but also a shared occasion for thanksgiving across the CELC. It reminds the conference of the Lord’s faithfulness in preserving confessional Lutheran witness through changing times, political pressure, and many challenges.
With our brothers and sisters in the ELFK, we thank God for 150 years of grace, faithful confession, and gospel ministry. We pray that the Lord Jesus Christ will continue to bless the ELFK’s pastors, teachers, congregations, schools, seminary, publishing work, and mission efforts, so that his saving Word may continue to be proclaimed in Germany, Austria, and throughout the world.
