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Who We Are

Summer Memorial Lutheran is part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), a global faith community that shares a passion for making positive changes in the world. Our faith is built around a strong belief in God as made known to us in Jesus Christ. Through worship, service, and education, we practice our faith, grow in our relationship with God and experience God's grace in our lives.

We also work hard to put our faith into action. In today's complex world, we strive to MAKE THE DIFFERENCE in a meaningful way.                       

Membership

It is expected that members worship, commune and contribute their time, talents and treasure regularly.                                                   

ELCA 

With more than 10,300 congregations across the U.S., Puerto Rica and the Virgin Islands, and 4.5 million members, we welcome you to experience this church right in your community.  Explore the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America -ELCA - and help us celebrate our gift of faith--with action. LEARN MORE     

Through the ELCA, we are a part of the South Carolina Synod, which includes about 128 congregations.  The Rev. Dr.  Herman R. Yoos, III, is the bishop and he and other staff members are located in Columbia. LEARN MORE

Summer Memorial contributes to support ministries in the Synod and the ELCA.  Some Synodical ministries include:

  • Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary, which educates men and women for the ministry in the church. LEARN MORE

  • Newberry College is located near our church, a liberal arts college with about 1,100 students.
    LEARN MORE

  • The Heritage at Lowman, provides residential care for older adults located in White Rock, SC. LEARN MORE

  • South Carolina Lutheran Retreat Centers offers year-round retreat and camping facilities. LEARN MORE

The ELCA's primary purposes are expressed in the constitutions of congregations, synods, and the church-wide organizations as follows:

  • To proclaim God's saving Gospel

  • To carry out Christ's Great Commission

  • To serve in response to God's love to meet human needs

  • To worship God

  • To nurture members in the Word of God, and

  • To manifest the unity given to the people of God

Some key ministries of the ELCA include Global Mission - such as fighting hunger, and missionaries; domestic mission,  such as establishing new churches; and seminary education, and training people who desire to be in full-time ministry.