The Christian Evangelical Lutheran Church of Bolivia began historically from the missionary work of the Norwegian Lutheran Mission in the country. The church legally organized and became independent in 1997.
However, The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod supported mercy work in Bolivia as early as 1989, training a Bolivian scientist and covering expenses as he provided training to Bolivian foresters and forestry students.
The LCMS began work in Bolivia in 1998, and the synod supports translation and theological education projects in Bolivia in partnership with the Christian Evangelical Lutheran Church of Bolivia.
The Children Christian Concern's Society, an LCMS Recognized Service Organization, has also worked with the Bolivian church by providing educational scholarships for students and teacher salaries at Lutheran schools.
The LCMS is currently discussing formal altar and pulpit fellowship with the Christian Evangelical Lutheran Church of Bolivia. It is a member of the International Lutheran Council.