The denomination was established in 1957 as the Evangelical Lutheran Church in South West Africa (Rheinische Mission).

[1] Together with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Namibia, the ELCRN operates Paulinum Theological Seminary.

[1] In December 2015, the ELCRN postponed its synod, which usually meets every six years, "pending the rectification of alleged irregularities regarding administrative procedures.

"[4] The elections were declared null and void and an extraordinary synod was then held in July 2016.

No consensus could be reached, however, and the term of the current church council was extended until 31 August 2017.