The Commission on Special Ministries offers spiritual and other services to people whose needs are not adequately met by the regular ministries of WELS parishes, schools, and agencies.

WELS Special Ministries reaches out to individuals, congregations, and families to offer specialized services and resources to address the special need(s) with which they are confronted. We serve people who are physically, mentally, or emotionally in need of special consideration in regard to their ability to learn, worship, and participate in local ministries and everyday living situations. We also serve thousands of people who are away from their church home, such as military personnel, people living overseas, and those in prison or some other institution.

To carry out our mission effectively and efficiently, we have appointed committees to focus on eight areas of special need. These committees include

• Health and Wellness Committee,
• Military Services Committee,
• Prison Ministry Committee,
• Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Ministries,
• Mission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing,
• Mission for the Visually Impaired,
• Care Committee for Called Workers, and
• Committee on Mental Health Needs.

While we gladly serve members of our own synod, our Lord continues to provide opportunities for us to also proclaim the gospel to people who are unchurched or have fallen away from their former church.