What does “Missouri Synod” mean?
The word synod means, “walking together.” Although all of our 6,000 congregations in the United States believe and teach the same Biblical truths, each is unique and autonomous, reflecting the great diversity of the 2.6 million people we serve. The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod is also identified by its great emphasis on Christian education. We administer the largest Protestant school system in the United States, operating 2,000 preschools, elementary schools, and high schools. We also operate 10 colleges and universities, and two seminaries. Across the nation and extending around the world, services can be found in any number of languages and in many different worship styles, all united in our belief in Jesus Christ – the one and only Light of the world. The Missouri part of the name comes from the fact that the founders of our synod came from Missouri. The name Missouri Synod has stuck ever since.
