Lutheran Links
A merger of three Lutheran churches formed the ELCA in 1988. They were The American Lutheran Church, the Association of Evangelical Lutheran Churches and the Lutheran Church in America.
Now 30 years later, the ELCA is a church that shares a living, daring confidence in God’s grace. As members of the ELCA, we believe that we are freed in Christ to serve and love our neighbor. With our hands, we do God’s work of restoring and reconciling communities in Jesus Christ’s name throughout the world.
We trace our roots back through the mid-17th century, when early Lutherans came to America from Europe, settling in the Virgin Islands and the area that is now known as New York. Even before that, Martin Luther sought reform for the church in the 16th century, laying the framework for our beliefs.
Our synod is the regional expression of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. There are nearly 200 congregations across New York City, Long Island, and seven upstate counties. The Rev. Dr. Robert Rimbo serves as our bishop. As Lutherans, we are worshipping God, helping friends and neighbors, celebrating diversity, feeding the hungry, working for justice, and advocating for peace.
The Lutheran Counseling Center provides professional mental health services with a compassionate, faith-based approach. Offering individual, family, and group therapy, the center supports individuals in navigating life’s challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and more. With licensed counselors who integrate Christian principles into their practice, the center strives to help clients find healing, growth, and spiritual support. It is committed to fostering emotional well-being in a safe, welcoming environment for all who seek guidance and support.