Losing 'Lutheran': Some congregations leave denomination out of name

Lutheran, The, Aug 2002 by Jerde, Lyn

As a result, attendance at Shepherd of the Valley's Spanish-language worship exceeds that of the English-language service, even in the winter months when the snowbirds live in southern Texas.

Platts says the naming of churches is one of many issues the ELCA will need to consider as it contemplates its future. "We are evangelical Lutherans," he says. "We believe in the doctrines, but not necessarily in the culture."

Jerde, a free-lance writer is a member of Lakeview Lutheran Church, Madison, Wis. She also writes a weekly faith and values column for the Telegraph Herald, Dubuque, Iowa.