Living Hope is part of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). The WELS was formed in Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1850 by three German pastors who sought to serve the region’s German immigrant population with the gospel.. Characterized as theologically conservative, is the third largest Lutheran church body in America. It has 350,000 baptized members served by over 1000 pastors.

Many of its congregations operate early childhood centers, elementary schools, and high schools—together operating one of the largest parochial school systems in the United States. It carries out mission work in forty-four countries.

To prepare pastors, teachers, and missionaries to serve its congregations, schools, and missions, the WELS owns and operates two preparatory high schools (Luther Preparatory School and Michigan Lutheran Seminary), a college (Martin Luther College), and a seminary (Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary).