Luther Memorial Chapel is a part of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, which is considered conservative in doctrine among Lutherans in general. LCMS churches preach that the Bible is the unadulterated and true word of God and does not allow communion to anyone but its own members, even other Lutherans. It is not, however, a dour sect, but counsels joy in all things as part of the creation. The Shorewood church occupies an imposing structure dedicated in 1925. It also is home to the synod's University Student Center, serving area colleges.