As A Free Evangelical Synod in South Africa,
we believe and participate in the Mission of God in which God the Father sent the Word, Jesus Christ, to become flesh, who died on the cross and who was raised again from the dead on the third day. Through the ministry of Word and sacrament, he calls and welcomes all believers into the body of Christ, equipping them for the ministry of proclaiming the gospel and caring for the world on the way to everlasting life!
Welcome to FELSISA
Serving South Africa Since 1892, With Roots in the Hermannsburg Mission
We welcome you to the website of the Free Evangelical Lutheran Synod in South Africa (FELSISA). The FELSISA was founded in 1892. Its roots are traced back to the Hermannsburg Mission in Germany when a cohort of missionaries were sent to South Africa by the Mission Director, Pastor Ludwig Harms. Although its roots lie in Germany, the FELSISA endeavours to be a church for all South Africans.
About FELSISA
An introduction to the Free Evangelical Lutheran Synod in South Africa, its history, beliefs, and core values.
Biblical Stewardship
Focusing on the shift towards biblical stewardship, including teachings on Christian giving and generosity.
Events
Join us at upcoming gatherings to deepen your faith, connect with fellow believers, and support our mission as we proclaim the Kingdom of God together.
International Lutheran Council
Explaining the ILC's history and FELSISA's global connections through confessional Lutheranism.
Resources and Studies
Providing links and references for further reading on various topics, such as the Book of Concord, pastoral letters, and related theological writings.
Our Foundation in Faith
It is bound to the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testament as the infallible Word of God, inspired by the Holy Spirit, and the Lutheran Confessions as the true and faithful exposition of the Scriptures. As such the FELSISA is a confessional Lutheran church and a member of the ILC. We would be most grateful if you should join us in divine worship in one of our congregations and actively support our mission to proclaim the Kingdom of God in word and in deed.
Helmut Paul
Parish Pastor &
Bishop of the FELSISA
Durban, KZN
Engaging with Our Community:
The FELSISA actively engages with its community through various events and happenings that reflect the vibrant life within our congregations. From joyful festivals to enriching retreats and educational seminars, our events are designed to strengthen faith and foster fellowship among members. Each gathering is an opportunity to celebrate our unity and commitment to Christ’s mission, providing enriching experiences that cater to families, youth, and the broader community.
A Visual Journey of Faith:
Below, you will find a gallery showcasing the rich tapestry of events that bring our community together. The images capture moments from traditional worship services, community outreach programs, and special celebrations that highlight the active and diverse life of our church. These snapshots not only depict our adherence to tradition but also our adaptation to the needs of a modern congregation, demonstrating how we live out our faith in dynamic and impactful ways.
Our MISSION
The Free Evangelical Lutheran Synod in South Africa (FELSISA) is committed to proclaiming the Kingdom of God in word and deed. Rooted in the Holy Scriptures and Lutheran Confessions, it strives to build a welcoming and inclusive church for all South Africans, dedicated to worship, teaching, and active community support.
Support Our Mission
Your generous contribution helps us continue proclaiming the Gospel and supporting our community in faith.
Mission Work and Outreach
Discover Our Initiatives in Spreading the Gospel Across South Africa.
Leadership & Staff
Get to know the pastors, staff, and volunteers who faithfully guide and support our synod and its congregations.
Youth Ministry
Discover programmes and resources designed to inspire, equip, and encourage young members to grow in their faith journey.
Reach Out with Your Questions
We’re here to help with any queries or support you may need. Feel free to connect with us using the form below.
News & updates
Devotion: Be perfect! Really?
Pastor Martin Kurt Paul, Fairlands Jesus says to you: “Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48). Did you turn the other cheek when you were struck in the face? Have you been tolerant after an insult? Have you walked that extra mile with someone? Have you been…
What About Alcohol?
Frank Gantt, LCMS, Lutheran Spokesman, April 2016https://lutheranspokesman.org/2016/04/01/what-about-alcohol/ Is the use of alcohol a sin? Of course we know that cannot be the case. Christ Himself drank from “the fruit of the vine” (Matthew 26:29), and in the institution of His Supper, He attached His word of promise to the contents…
Global Lutheran Leaders – ICRC 2026
Rachel Bomberger5. August 2026, https://reporter.lcms.org Brotherly love, confessional solidarity and mutual encouragement were the orders of the day throughout the 2026 International Church Relations Conference (ICRC), held July 16–27 under the theme (inspired by Lutheran Service Book [LSB] 468) “I Am Content! My Jesus Ever Lives!” Sister and associate church…
Winter Youth Camp 2026
Matome Makgato, Pretoria Upon arrival, we were greeted with greetings as warm as the chicken soup. Thereafter, we settled into our rooms and got to know each other. The next morning after breakfast we dove into the topic or theme of this year’s camp which was the “The heart of…
Installation of Pastor Tobias Schütze in Vryheid
Pastor Tobias Schütze, Vryheid On 5 July 2026, the St. Peter’s congregation in Vryheid celebrated the installation of its new pastor and missionary, Tobias Schütze. Mr. Schütze had already been ordained in Wiesbaden (Germany) in March, together with his brother, Pastor Benjamin Schütze (Cologne), by Bishop Hans-Jörg Voigt, and subsequently…
82nd Youth Day of the FELSISA
Sara Thandazile Weber, Pretoria It was time once again for a chilly weekend of singing, church services and sport. On 27 June, the FELSISA congregations and young people from near and far gathered to celebrate the annual synodical Youth Day in Lüneburg. It all began on Friday evening. With shivering…
Upcoming events
Synodical Council Visitation in Pretoria
Women's Retreat (FELS)
Ash Wednesday
ELF Confirmation
Newcastle Confirmation
Easter
Pastors' Convention (Greytown)
Deadline for submission of motions to the Synodical Council
FELSISA Youth Day (Jugendtag; Kirchdorf)
FELSISA Brassband Festival (Posaunenfest; Kirchdorf)
Synodical agenda, financial report and motions to be sent to the congregations
Deadline for submission of reports to the Synodical Council
FELSISA Mission and Song Festival (Pietermaritzburg)
Synodical reports to be sent to the congregations
Pretoria Afrikaans Confirmation
Pretoria Deutsche Prüfung
Pretoria Deutsche Konfirmation
Wittenberg Prüfung
FELSISA Synodical Convention (Panbult)
Wittenberg Konfirmation
Lüneburg Konfirmation
FELSISA Song Festival (Wittenberg)
Kirchdorf Prüfung
Kirchdorf Konfirmation
FELSISA Church Council Retreat (FELS)