The Lutheran Church

About 190,000 Australians and New Zealanders identify as Lutheran, according to the latest Australian Census data. The Lutheran Church of Australia and New Zealand (LCANZ) is a relatively small Christian denomination with 30,000 regular worshippers. The LCANZ oversees its various congregations, districts, offices, missions and other facilities.

Our History

The Lutheran church is the oldest Protestant church. It dates back to the Reformation in the sixteenth century when Martin Luther challenged some of the teachings and practices of the church of his day. Luther insisted that the Bible is the authority that decides what the church should teach and do. The name 'Lutheran' was given to people who believe that Martin Luther was right in his interpretation of the Bible.

The Lutheran church has been in Australia and New Zealand for 175 years. In the 1830s small groups of Lutherans emigrated from Germany in search of religious freedom. They settled mainly in rural areas in various parts of the country. The oldest Lutheran school is St Michael’s Lutheran School in Hahndorf, which was opened in 1839. Today the Lutheran Church is made up of people from rural and urban areas and many different cultural backgrounds.

Our Beliefs and Teachings

In the words of the classic Lutheran summary of faith, we believe that we are saved 'by grace, for Christ's sake, through faith'. In other words, there is nothing we can do to earn God's favour or to gain eternal life. Through his death and resurrection, Jesus Christ has won all this and more for us. We also believe that only the Bible is the source of inspiration and teaching.

Lutheran Schools

The Lutheran Church of Australia has a rich history in education. Since the first Lutheran school opened in 1839 Lutheran schools have grown considerably.

Today, over 45,359 students receive their education in 77 Lutheran schools throughout Australia. They are located in every state and territory apart from the ACT.

In addition, close to 4,000 children are educated and cared for in 60 Lutheran early childhood centres around the nation.

Further Information