Concordia Historical Institute, as the official department of archives and history of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, serves as general advisory agency for historical interests within synodical offices, departments, educational institutions and congregations.

CHI is charged with preserving and promoting Lutheran history, especially the history surrounding the LCMS. This is done through actively collecting, organizing, cataloging and preserving relevant documents, photographs, books, artifacts, and fine art — and making these historical items available to inform and inspire the church and community.