Global Survey on Being Lutheran

A Global Study Process on Lutheran Identity: We believe in the Holy Spirit: From 2019-2022, the LWF is engaged in a global study of contemporary Lutheran identities in local church contexts. The process features dynamic theological reflection and creative opportunities for participation. The aim is to listen for ways in which we express our shared Lutheran identity in a harmony of lived, contextual identities across our communion. This study explores the way baptism, belief and practices relate to the ways Lutherans feel called to live out our tradition in diverse cultural, contexts. 

The present survey is designed for any member of your church to give feedback. It asks questions about beliefs, experiences, and the way Lutheran identity relates to your daily life.  

In addition to the survey, LWF has produced a discussion guide to help you host open, guided conversations at various levels of your church. Parishes could use the guide to a host conversation among council members, adult classes, a youth group, or by individual members who want to reflect more deeply. At the diocese or national level, groups of clergy or staff could reflect together on these questions. At a theological institution, a conversation could be hosted among students. Please forward these resources, with the intent to inspire conversations at the level of diocese, district, deanery, parish, or congregation.   

Your responses are significant! The information gathered is one way for us to experience our unity and diversity as a communion. The survey is anonymous, in the sense that individual respondents and churches will not be identified when publishing the results. We request demographic information in order to identify regional trends and commonalities, and to ensure one submission per person. Analysis will be published and shared with member churches and participants. 

The survey will be open for three months, and submissions will be received until 31 March, 2021. (Responses to the study guide will be received until June 30, 2021) Thank you for taking the time to participate in this listening process. For any questions, please write to BeingLutheran@lutheranworld.org.