Social statements are social policy documents, adopted by the ELCA Churchwide Assembly, addressing significant social issues.

Since 1991 the ELCA has adopted eight social statements. You can read and download these social statements by clicking on a link to the right. 

Messages, which are adopted by the ELCA Church Council, are built on the social policy of the church (including social statements), draw attention to current social issues and encourage action.

Since 1988, the ELCA has adopted eleven messages. 

Social statements and messages guide the social witness of the church in public life.  "Policies and Procedures of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America for Addressing Social Concerns" describes the purpose, character and processes for social statements, messages, social policy resolutions and studies.