Convention Proceedings

Triennial conventions are the most important activity of the CELC, held regularly since the constituting convention in 1993. At these conventions, representatives from the CELC member churches encourage each other with Christ-centered worship and Scripture-based essays centering on a doctrinal theme. The official business of the CELC is also conducted.

In these Proceedings, you can read the essays and sermons that were delivered. You can also find a record of the business of the CELC.

2023
The Eleventh Triennial Convention
Seoul, South Korea

2021
The Tenth Triennial Convention
Online Conference

2017
Theme: Reformation- Then and Now
Grimma, Germany

2014
Theme: Sanctification
Lima, Peru

2011
Theme: The Church
New Ulm, Minnesota, USA

2008
Theme: Evangelism
Kyiv, Ukraine

2005
Theme: The Last Things
Narita, Japan

2002
Theme: Christology
Gothenburg, Sweden

1999
Theme: The Holy Spirit
Winter Haven, Florida, USA

1996
Theme: Justification
Quebradillas, Puerto Rico

1993
Theme: Holy Scripture
Oberwesel, Germany

The Confessional Evangelical Lutheran Conference is a worldwide fellowship of Lutheran church bodies, committed to the teachings of the Lutheran Church found in the Book of Concord of 1580. Established in 1993 with thirteen churches, the CELC has grown by God’s grace to include thirty-four church bodies today.

Every three years, representatives from CELC churches gather for fellowship and theological study at an international convention. Regional meetings are held in alternate years. These gatherings provide spiritual encouragement for confessional Lutherans who often find themselves quite isolated. Visitors are always welcome at these gatherings

Joint work of the CELC includes the writing of The Eternal Word: A Lutheran Confession for the Twenty-First Century, which testifies to the unity of doctrine enjoyed by CELC churches. The CELC also has a commission to help coordinate and improve theological training in CELC churches.

Speaking about the heart and core of the CELC, former President Gaylin Schmeling wrote: “The CELC stands ready to give answer to the confident hope of salvation in Christ that is within us. It is a refuge for those seeking confessional homes and a beacon shining the light of the Gospel in a sin-darkened world. Here the central truth of the Reformation, justification by faith alone, continues to be proclaimed. We are declared righteous by nothing we do or accomplish, but alone on the basis of Christ’s redemptive work which is counted as ours through faith in the Savior. He accomplished salvation for all on the cross and announced it to all by His resurrection, declaring the whole world righteous in Christ. This treasure is brought to us personally through the means of grace and is received by faith alone in the Savior which is worked through those very means of grace.”