EvangelischLutherse

Evangelisch-Lutherse, or Lutheran, refers to Christian churches and communities that trace their roots to the Lutheran Reformation of the 16th century and adhere to Lutheran theology. Core emphases include justification by faith, the authority of Scripture, and the central role of the two sacraments, Baptism and Holy Communion. Confessional standards are typically drawn from the Book of Concord, including the Augsburg Confession and Luther’s Small Catechism. Lutheran worship tends to be liturgical and sacramental, with ordained clergy responsible for preaching, teaching, and administering the sacraments.

The term is used in several countries to denote national or regional expressions of Lutheran life within Protestant Christianity. Lutheran churches often organize through synods or bishops, though governance models vary by country. Theological and liturgical practices are generally characterized by a balance between liturgy, hymnody, and biblical preaching, with catechetical instruction and pastoral care as ongoing priorities. Lutherans participate in ecumenical and social initiatives, reflecting a broader commitment to public witness and service.

In the Netherlands, the Evangelisch-Lutherse Kerk in Nederland (ELK) represented Lutherans as a distinct denomination. In 2004, the ELK joined the Protestant Church in the Netherlands (PKN) through a national merger of three churches, and Lutheran congregations thereafter have operated within the PKN framework. Globally, Lutheran churches are members of the Lutheran World Federation and engage in ecumenical networks, continuing the Lutheran tradition while adapting to contemporary contexts.