New Starts

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America has a robust program for developing new congregations, called Synodically Authorized Worshipping Communities. Our synod currently has eight of these communities:

Another Level Ministries

Originally planted at Cal State Dominguez Hills, this community supported college students and people who love them. It has evolved to a spirited community for mostly African Descent young people and is now turning its attention to unhoused and other at-risk populations. Another Level Ministries is led by Maurice Ingram and meets at Chapel of Peace in Inglewood.

https://www.facebook.com/AnotherLevelLA/

Fruit of the Spirit

One of the only Japanese language churches in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, this community meets in Torrance under the leadership of Pr. Hongsun Kim, and may be one of the only LGBTQ affirming Japanese congregations in the country.
https://www.fruitofthespiritlutheranchurch.org/

Trinity Faith

This Chinese-language community welcomes newly arrived migrants from mainland China and Taiwan. David Lin serves this congregation in Monterey Park and emphasizes the need for new Christians to be baptized in the faith.

Redimidos

Pastora Jade Ortiz leads this Latinx Ministry in Oxnard, California. The community is known for their vibrant youth ministry and monthly Diaper drive. This community often meets on weeknights in backyards and other informal spaces.

Strategic Ministries

The ELCA and the Southwest California Synod provide intentional support to congregations who are serving marginalized and at-risk populations. Understanding these congregations may never be self-sustaining, the church makes financial and spiritual commiments to support this vital work.

Central, Van Nuys

This congregation has been serving the unhoused, migrant and impoverished neighbors for over seventy years. 1000s of meals are provided each month, as well as a community garden, job skills and ESL classes.
https://centrallutheranvn.spruz.net/

Sharing Hands

St. Matthew’s North Hollywood is the home of the ministry to the deaf and hard of hearing. ASL is offered in worship services every Sunday. Members of Sharing Hands are active participants in church council and all aspects of ministry.
https://www.stmatthewsnoho.org/

Pueblo de Dios

Significant food Ministry and outreach to the Spanish-speaking community in Compton. Pastor Samuel Nieva and Pueblo de Dios is also committed to children’s education and raising up adult pastors and lay leaders in ministry.
https://www.facebook.com/PdDLutheranchurch/

Fe Y Esperanza

Pastora Marta Moscoso serves this South Gate congregation with a deep commitment to mental health and wellness, as well as massive food and clothing distribution services.