The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America installs the Rev. Yehiel Curry as its first Black presiding bishop on Saturday, marking a historic moment for the predominantly white denomination. Curry succeeds the Rev. Elizabeth Eaton, the first woman to lead the ELCA. His six-year term began Oct. 1, following his election in July. Curry's leadership comes as the ELCA faces challenges like a steep membership decline. Born in Chicago, Curry grew up Catholic and became Lutheran as an adult when he was working as a middle school teacher. His leadership aims to foster diversity and strengthen connections within the church.
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The motorcade departs after the funeral for 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel, who was killed in a church school shooting, at Mt. Olivet Lutheran Church, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, in Minneapolis. (Jeff Wheeler/Star Tribune via AP)
The hearse for the funeral of 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel, who died in a school church shooting, arrives at Mt. Olivet Lutheran Church, in Minneapolis, Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025. (Richard Tsong-Taatarii/Star Tribune via AP)