EvangelischLutherische

Evangelisch-lutherische is a designation used for Lutheran churches and their confessional tradition within Protestant Christianity, especially in German-speaking regions. The term signals a lineage that emerged from the 16th‑century Reformation led by Martin Luther. In historic contexts, German territories organized their churches as Evangelisch-Lutherische Landeskirchen (state churches) or under similar confessional bodies; in modern usage the form is often presented as Evangelische Kirche with Lutheran heritage still acknowledged.

Beliefs and doctrine run through a common Lutheran core. Central affirmations include justification by faith alone, grace through faith, and the authority of Scripture. Lutherans typically uphold two sacraments, baptism and the Eucharist, and subscribe to the doctrinal standards of the Book of Concord, including the Augsburg Confession. Worship is generally liturgical, with catechetical instruction and hymnody playing important roles in religious life.

Organization and practice vary by country and tradition. Lutheran churches can be episcopal or synodical in governance, and their relationships range from independent national churches to components of larger Protestant bodies. In Germany and some other regions, Lutheran heritage is part of broader church structures that identify as Protestant, while maintaining distinct historical roots in Lutheran doctrine and practice. Globally, Lutheran churches participate in ecumenical and confessional networks such as the Lutheran World Federation.

See also: Lutheranism; Book of Concord; Augsburg Confession.