In theory, ELCA is very similar to LCMS, except women are allowed to be pastors. In practice, that may be another story.
Also, re Communion, here's a very good explanation of what we believe (consubstantiation) vs Roman Catholic (transubstantiation).
http://www.fact-index.com/c/co/consubstantiation.html
GP, if you came to the Lutheran Church downtown here, I think you'd be shocked how "Catholic" it is. I always say Lutherans are Catholic Lite, hold the Mary and excessive guilt.
