Through responsibly organized and managed financial resources, we are able to support and carry out the work of the church in our local communities and around the world. Check on the links to the right for the recent synod spending plan, compensation guidelines, and financial resources for congregations.

2026 Synod Spending Plan

2026 FY Treasurer Report

2027 Compensation Guidelines

ELCA Financial Resources for Congregations

Protecting Those in the Care of the Church

The church should be a safe place where people can worship, learn, work, love and receive care in a manner that is free from harassment and sexual misconduct. All forms of harassment by rostered ministers and lay leaders are unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Here are some policies the ELCA as well as the Metro D.C. Synod have adopted to protect all of God's people from harm.

ELCA Churchwide Resources

Early in the life of the ELCA, this church clearly expressed its intention to take whatever measures it could to help prevent sexual abuse and misconduct within the ELCA.

Resources are available from the ELCA churchwide website to inform reporting, risk reduction, and more.

View resources

Child Protection Policies

The “Youth Protection Policy for Synod-sponsored Youth Events” was adopted by the Synod Council in 2013, and highlights policies to care for and protect children including our synod’s background check policy.

Reporting of Misconduct

Establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries is a vital part of every ministry community. It is the responsibility of all members of the community to ensure a safe and healthy place to experience the Word of God and God's presence.

Behavior that crosses boundaries or violates our commitments to respect, integrity, and accountability harms the people of God and impedes the proclamation of the Gospel. Misconduct is not limited to sexual harassment or abuse; it includes harassment, bullying, hate speech, discriminatory actions, abuse of authority, financial impropriety, misuse of resources, and other conduct incompatible with the character of our community and ministry as set forth in Definitions and Guidelines for Discipline. Such behaviors—whether verbal, physical, digital, or organizational—harm relationships and erode trust. Reporting all forms of misconduct is essential to protect individuals and uphold the values of justice and care that define our shared life. Prompt reporting enables appropriate investigation, prevents escalation, and fosters a culture where accountability and restoration are possible. Silence allows harm to persist; speaking up is a vital act of stewardship, solidarity, and accountability.

How to Report Misconduct

Boundary & Inclusion Trainings

As people who work with people, we know the importance of relationships. We also know that healthy relationships depend upon clear and respectful boundaries. Rostered ministers need thoughtful and consistent training around boundaries because of the variety of their relationships.

Metro D.C. Synod leaders (active and retired) are expected to attend a boundary training workshop EVERY year.

One resource for finding upcoming trainings is on the United Lutheran Seminary website: search their events using the word "boundary."

Transgender Inclusion Policy

The Metro D.C. Synod does not discriminate in any way on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. This policy is designed to create a safe and productive environment for all synod employees and for all persons who attend events hosted by the Metro D.C. Synod.

View/Download Policy