There are three expressions of Women of the ELCA, each with its own constitution:
- Congregational, inter-congregational and special units (about 4,500)
- Synodical Women’s Organization (in 64 of the ELCA’s 65 synods)
- Churchwide Women’s Organization
The congregational, inter-congregational and special units are the largest expression of the organization and are the heart of the organization. This is where we grow the organization, inviting women to experience the reconciling and transforming love of God through Jesus Christ, encouraging women to act on their baptismal covenant.
The synodical women’s organizations (SWOs) establish a partnership with units in their geographic areas and with the churchwide women’s organization. SWOs exist to support women in congregations. Each SWO has a board whose members are elected at an annual or biennial convention by voting members from units. Each SWO establishes clusters or conferences of units within its geographic area.
Conferences and clusters are groupings of congregations within a synodical organization. While they have no legislative responsibilities, conferences and clusters provide learning opportunities through leadership development, community building, stewardship education, networks for communication and opportunities for joint ministry and action with the guidance of the SWO.
The churchwide women’s organization (CWO) is the entire organization. Within the churchwide expression of Women of the ELCA, the triennial convention is the highest legislative authority; voting members to the convention are elected by synodical organizations. Between conventions, the churchwide executive board (volunteers elected by the triennial convention) conducts the business of the organization.
The churchwide executive board hires an executive director to oversee the operations of the CWO; the executive director, in turn, hires staff to assist in that endeavor. The only paid staff is located within the CWO. In all other expressions of the organization, volunteers carry out the organization’s mission and purpose.
WELCA is the women’s ministry organization of the ELCA. It is separately incorporated and is not an auxiliary of the church. It is financially independent and responsible for its own financial affairs. Financial support comes from individual and group offerings and gifts.
Our Mission
Mobilizing women to act boldly on their faith in Jesus Christ.
Our Purpose
As a community of women created in the image of God, called to discipleship in Jesus Christ, and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we commit ourselves to grow in faith, affirm our gifts, support one another in our callings, engage in ministry and action, and promote healing and wholeness in the church, the society, and the world.
