Innovation for Church Leaders

ELCA Innovation activates leaders across all expressions of the church to experiment with new and useful ways of sharing God’s love in response to complex, changing realities.

We do this by practicing human-centered design: listening deeply, connecting networks, and equipping leaders and partners with the tools and confidence to take the next most faithful step.

One approach we use is design thinking, a process that begins by understanding lived experiences before rushing to solutions. This method helps communities uncover fresh, human-centered ways to live into their mission and pursue their deepest hopes. Whether you’re testing an idea, at an impasse on a project or eager to share a story of innovation from your ministry, the Innovation Lab is here to accompany you. By connecting leaders with resources and with one another, we strengthen the church’s ability to adapt, grow and faithfully serve in a changing world.