A Brief Survey of the ELCA Clergy

Abstract

Kenneth Brokmeier’s 1988 paper presents a survey-based analysis of theological beliefs among pastors in the newly formed Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Inspired by earlier research from The Lutheran Ethic, Brokmeier distributed a 36-question survey to 100 ELCA pastors in southeastern Wisconsin, receiving 29 usable responses. The survey explored views on biblical inerrancy, original sin, morality, Christology, and church fellowship. Brokmeier found significant doctrinal divergence from traditional Lutheran teachings, particularly regarding scriptural authority, justification, and moral issues such as homosexuality and abortion. The paper includes statistical breakdowns, direct quotes from respondents, and reflections from phone interviews. Brokmeier concludes with concern over theological liberalism within the ELCA and expresses gratitude for the doctrinal clarity of his own Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). The study offers a snapshot of shifting Lutheran beliefs during a pivotal moment in American church history. —Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)