Churchwide Assembly

A Churchwide Assembly is a gathering of elected representatives from across a denomination, such as the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. It typically occurs every few years and serves as the highest decision-making body. During the assembly, members discuss and vote on important issues like theology, policies, budgets, and mission priorities. It provides an opportunity for congregational leaders and individual members to participate in shaping the church's direction, reaffirm core beliefs, and respond to current societal needs. The assembly fosters unity, accountability, and shared governance within the church community.