Clergy

ELC AC has 3 levels of priesthood, following the high church movement in Lutheranism, as well as inheriting the Apostolic Succession. The steps of the priesthood include:

• Deacon
• Pastor (or priest, presbyter, priest)
• Bishop

A deacon can be ordained by a bishop and, in special cases, by a pastor. For special services to the church, a deacon can be awarded the elevation to the rank of protodeacon.

A pastor (priest) can only be ordained by a bishop. Just like a deacon, priest, who is also a pastor, presbyter or priest, can be awarded the elevation to the rank of archpriest, or protopresbyter. In addition, a pastor, if he is managing a church district, can be appointed a probst or superintendent.

The hierarchy of bishops in the ELC AC contains the dignity of bishop and archbishop. The latter is the head of the church and is approved by the Synod. Bishops administer church districts and oversee the purity of the Lutheran faith.