Full Communion Partners

Full communion is when two denominations develop a relationship based on a common confessing of the Christian faith and mutual recognition of Baptism and sharing of the Lord’s Supper. This does not mean the two denominations merge; rather, in reaching agreements, denominations also respect differences. These denominations worship together, may exchange clergy, and also share a commitment to evangelism, witness, and service in the world.

The ELCA is in full-communion partnership with 6 Christian Denominations: 
                     
Presbyterian Church (USA)  Full Communion partner since 1997. Brief history.
Reformed Church in America  Full Communion partner since 1997.  Brief history
United Church of Christ  Full Communion partner since 1997. Brief history
The Episcopal Church  Full Communion partner since 1999. Brief history
The Moravian Church  Full Communion partner since 1999. Brief history
The United Methodist Church  Full Communion partner since 2009.  Brief history

Bilateral Conversations

A "bilateral dialogue" involves two parties coming together in order to seek awareness, heal wounds and deepen a relationship. Contemporary bilateral dialogues between churches in the world received new enthusiasm from the entry of the Roman Catholic Church into the ecumenical movement in 1965, an event marked and ratified by the Second Vatican Council. Since then, many of these dialogues have allowed churches to establish relationships that permit greater sharing of pastors, witnesses, missions, and ministries. More information can be found here.                                       

African Methodist Episcopal (AME)
African Methodist Episcopal Zion
Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
Mennonite Church USA
The Orthodox Church
Roman Catholic Church