The ELCIC is a young denomination. In 1986, the merger of two major Lutheran groups took place. In 1998, the ELCIC membership numbered about 200,000 across Canada.

          The ELCIC holds membership in the Lutheran World Federation, The Canada Council of Churches, and the World Council of Churches.

          The ELCIC is composed of five synods:
                    British Columbia Synod
                    Synod of Alberta and the Territories
                    Saskatchewan Synod
                    Manitoba / Northwestern Ontario Synod
                    Eastern Synod

          The presiding officer and chief pastor of each synod is a bishop.