News & Resources
Educational Resources
Access the resources below to learn more and share WELS history.
- Christ through Us: A Pictorial History of the Wisconsin Synod, 1850-2025, has been published. Order your copy today!
- The Wisconsin Synod Lutherans is now available to order. This book includes a historical overview of WELS beginning with the Synod’s roots in Germany to present day.
- Northwestern Publishing House has curated a unique collection of WELS history books in honor of the 175th Anniversary. Discover the WELS 175th collection!
- Experience WELS history through the interactive timelines.
- The Wisconsin Lutheran Quarterly is featuring a series of articles on influential figures in our synod’s history, with additional pieces planned for the WELS Historical Institute Journal.
- Forward in Christ is featuring articles and historical photos for the anniversary throughout 2025.
- Watch the WELS Historical Institute YouTube channel to learn more about WELS History.
- 175th Anniversary Worship resources are available on The Foundation webpage. Resources include promotional graphics and worship planning for the anniversary. Access the 175th Anniversary Worship Resources.
Downloads
175th Bible Study
- This free comprehensive study guide is designed for pastors, teachers, and congregational leaders who wish to walk a class or small group through Christ Through Us: A Pictorial History of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (1850–2025).
- Each lesson closely correlates with a chapter from the book and includes carefully crafted questions to prompt discussion and reflection. Leader guides and student handouts are also available.
- The study highlights not only the blessings God has poured out on the synod as it carries out its mission across the nation and the world but also the theological and cultural challenges that refined WELS into a distinctly Christ-centered, confessional Lutheran church body.
PowerPoints
- Lesson 1 – Immigrants Bring Their Faith in Christ (PPTX)
- Lesson 2 – The Young Synod Embraces Confessionalism (PPTX)
- Lesson 3 – The Wisconsin Synod Remains Committed to Christ (PPTX)
- Lesson 4 – Perseverance in the face of Challenges (PPTX)
- Lesson 5 – Opportunities in a Changing World (PPTX)
- Lesson 6 – The Wisconsin Synod Comes Into Its Own (PPTX)
- Lesson 7 – A New Millennium Still Christ Through Us (PPTX)
175th Offering Brochure
This brochure explains what areas of ministry the 175th special offering supports along with directions on how to give. Download the brochure below.
Congregational Brochure
Bulletin Inserts
Ready-made bulletin inserts on WELS history are available for congregations to download below.
Federation with Minnesota and Michigan
Upcoming Events
West Granville Cemetery Tour
Our Great Heritage: Worker Training Schools Series – The History of Northwestern Academy in Mobridge
Hymn Sing using the German Mass of Martin Luther
Our Great Heritage: Worker Training Schools Series – The History of Northwestern College: “A School of the Prophets” and WELS Historical Institute Annual Meeting
A Landmark German Christmas Concert 2026
WELS Historical Institute Videos
Check out the WELS Historical Institute videos on YouTube for an in-depth look at WELS history. View featured videos below.
Dr. Timothy Grundmeier on August Ernst
WELS 175th Anniversary Dinner Presentation
Prof. em. John Brenner – WELS and the Missouri Synod
Dr. Timothy Grundmeier on WELS 1868 Synod Convention