Lutherans by the Numbers
All people seek meaning. This can come in the form of knowledge, relationships, spirituality or organized religion. The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is part of the Christian church. We believe God's grace, God's unfathonable love, is available to all people as a gift through Jesus Christ. All are welcome here with their whole selves, which includes one's race, ethnic background, past wrongdoing, socioeconomic status, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical ability and legal status. Questions and doubts are welcome. reference quote: www.elca.org/about
ELCA Member Churches
Luther Memorial Lutheran Church is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). A merger of 3 Lutheran church bodies formed the ELCA in 1988: The American Lutheran Church; the Association of Evangelical Lutheran Churches; and the Lutheran Church in America (of which Luther Memorial was a member congregation). Today, the ELCA is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with about 2.7 million members in over 8,300 congregations across the United States, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Rev. Yehiel Curry was elected at the 2025 ELCA Churchwide Assembly and officially began his six-year term on October 1, 2025. Bishop Curry is a historic leader in the denomination, making history as the first Black presiding bishop of the ELCA. Prior to his current role, he served as the bishop of the ELCA Metropolitan Chicago Synod.
Synods
The ELCA is made up of 65 Synods, varying in size, geography, membership, staffing and program. Synods unite the work of congregations within their areas. Luther Memorial is a member of the Upstate New York Synod. The Rev. Lee Miller, II serves as Bishop. The Upstate New York Synod has in the neighborhood of 170 congregations.
Conferences
There are 7 Conferences within the Upstate New York Synod. Luther Memorial is a member of the Central Crossroads Conference, made up of 23 congregations geographically stretching from Cortland to Canada. Rev. Susan Salomone is Dean of the Central Crossroads Conference.
Luther Memorial Lutheran Church
Luther Memorial Lutheran Church, North Syracuse, NY is a Christ-centered community, called to be a part of God’s mission to love and bless the whole world (that happens to be our mission statement!). In 2025 our congregation has 230+ active participants in our church life and mission work. So far in 2026, our church has welcomed an additional 25 members to our growing church family.