Evangelical Lutheran Church In America

Lutheranism is sometimes seen as a paradoxical union of Catholic substance and Protestant principle. Thus, while Lutheranism has accorded an important role to the "visible words" of the sacraments and also to the postures, gestures, and symbolic actions of liturgical worship, it has also raised the concern that the set things have been a principal source of superstition among Christians. The ELCA has devoted significant attention recently to worship and the sacraments. Christians trust the promise of Christ that "where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them" (Matt. 18:20). This church has held that God is present in Christ specifically through the means of grace, the Word of God, and the sacraments of Christ. The Holy Spirit works through these means, creating faith in those who hear and receive. Martin Luther wrote,"I preach the Gospel of Christ into your heart, so that you may form him within yourself. If now you truly believe, so that your heart lays hold of…