Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries (ELM) is committed to the full participation of persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities in the life and ministry of the Lutheran church.

What We Do

ELM provides financial assistance, pastoral care, and legal advice to sexual minority pastors and to the congregations that support them.

We encourage congregations to consider calling sexual minority clergy by providing placement services for pastors approved by the Candidacy and Credentialling Ellipse and offering Mission Partner grants to the congregations.

Since its founding in 1990, ELM has provided assistance to scores of Lutheran pastors and seminarians, often after their congregations or church leaders have deserted them. ELM advocates for the full inclusion of persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities within the Lutheran Church.