From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Evangelical Lutheran Worship is the primary worship resource and hymnal for use in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, replacing its predecessor, Lutheran Book of Worship .

It was first made available in October 2006, though not all congregations immediately adopted the book. However, demand for the book was so great that it sold out its first and second printings and some congregations had to delay its adoption until more could be printed. Since the initial introduction, synods throughout the church have hosted introductory events oriented towards worship leaders and pastors to introduce the new book to congregations.

The book provides ten musical settings for the Holy Communion service, three of which were previously published in the Lutheran Book of Worship, as well as a Service of the Word. Morning (Matins), Evening (Vespers), and Night Prayer (Compline) are all included as are occasional and pastoral offices such as baptism, marriage, burial, individual confession, and proper services for Ash Wednesday, Palm Sunday, and the Triduum. Martin Luther's Small Catechism is also printed in the book.

Unlike the abbreviated Psalter included in the Lutheran Book of Worship, Evangelical Lutheran Worship includes the entire Book of Psalms, newly translated for congregational prayer and singing.

The hymnal section is also expanded, including many options from the Lutheran Book of Worship as well as parts of "With One Voice," the "Renewing Worship Songbook," and various ethnic hymnals.

Some conservative Lutheran organizations such as Solid Ground and the WordAlone Network have expressed concerns over the book's use of inclusive language. Some progressive Lutherans have expressed concerns that the book does not use enough inclusive language.

• The ELCA's page about Evangelical Lutheran Worship (includes content from the hymnal)
• A Comparison of the Hymns in ELW with those in the LBW