CHICAGO (June 12, 2025) — In remembrance of the tragic events of June 17, 2015, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) invites all congregations and synods to join in the Commemoration of the Emanuel Nine — nine faithful members murdered during Bible study at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, S.C.
“As followers of Christ, we are called to confront the sin of racism that lives in us and in our institutions,” the ELCA states. “This commemoration is both an act of lament and a commitment to the work of racial justice and reconciliation.”
This day is also a time of confession. Our connection to both the shooter and the victims calls us to acknowledge the legacy of white supremacy in our church and society. At the same time, we cling to the promise of new life and unity in Christ, who "has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us" (Ephesians 2:14).
Resources are available for worship, reflection, and conversation—both in person and online—to support your community in honoring this day.
Read more and access resources HERE.
About the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America:
The ELCA is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with 2.8 million members in more than 8,500 worshiping communities across the 50 states and in the Caribbean region. Known as the church of “God’s work. Our hands.,” the ELCA emphasizes the saving grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, unity among Christians and service in the world. The ELCA’s roots are in the writings of the German church reformer Martin Luther.