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There are a couple of other small denominations of Lutherans. (I'm not at home so I can't get my list.) Most are small groups consisting of only a few congregations. The Wisconsin Synod is theologically more conservative than the Missouri Synod and the Missouri Synod is more conservative than the ELCA (which has members from all over the theological spectrum.) The ELCA resulted in 1988 from the merger of the LCA, the ALC and the AELC (an offshoot that broke away from the LCMS over theological issues.) The ELCA practices open communion. Any Christian (who believes in the true presence of Christ) is welcome to the Table. LCMS practices a closed communion. If you are a member of LCMS (and talk to the pastor first) you are welcome at the Table. There are other differences which I (an ELCA pastor) think of as minor but may be seen as major by LCMS).
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