Are you looking forward to Ministry Expansion? As President Harmon regularly points out, Ephesians 3: 20 tells us that God is able to do more than we could ever ask or imagine. My question to you is this—are you letting yourself think big? What does God have in store for you and your ministry?
Wayne Gretzky, probably one of the premier Hockey players of all time is famous for saying, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” This quote literally means that if you don’t try, you have a 100% chance of never succeeding.
We as Christians can use this quote with slight modification, “If we don’t ask God for big things in our ministry, we are destined to settle for small things.” What have you asked God to do for you?
Recently, that furry prognosticator was aroused from his slumber on Gobbler’s Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. Punxsutawney Phil announced to the world that there would be six more weeks of winter before warmer temperatures reach us. Well, I don’t know about you, but I’m not going to let that hold me back. If the cold weather keeps you indoors, go ahead and use this time to map out your future and the big things God has in store for you and your ministry.
Here are some ways the Lutheran Church Extension Fund is available to help you expand your ministry:
- Secured Loans –Secured Congregation Loans are designed to fund property purchases, equipment, organ upgrades, repairs, HVAC replacements and other capital improvements. They can also be used to refinance existing loans, providing flexible solutions for your congregation’s needs.
- Construction Loans–Construction Loans from LCEF help fund new building projects or renovations to existing facilities. With a single closing, these loans save your congregation time and money while supporting your mission to grow and serve.
- Bridge Loans–Bridge Loans provide short-term financing to bridge the gap between project completion and the collection of pledged funds. With a single closing, these loans save time and streamline the process for your congregation.
- Lines of Credit–Lines of Credit offer flexible financing for short-term capital needs, seasonal cash flow or anticipated fluctuations, ensuring your congregation can manage resources effectively.
- Ministry Improvement Loan–The Ministry Improvement Loan is ideal for repairs, upgrades and enhancements that create a welcoming and functional space for your congregation and visitors. Enjoy features like interest-only payments for the first two years, funding up to $150,000 and a quick approval process for most unsecured loans.
- New Start Loans–A New Start Loan provides funding for first-time worship facilities or new ministry plants. These loans help congregations establish a strong foundation for growth and outreach as they begin their journey to share the Gospel.
We know each church is unique and that no two church bodies are exactly alike. That’s why your Southeastern District LCEF Vice President is more than willing to guide you through the ministry expansion process. Reach out to Kirk Hymes and set up an appointment for him to visit with you and your congregational leadership.
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f you have any questions or comments, please reach out to
Kirk Hymes – Khymes@se.lcms.org
LCEF Vice President of the SED & Executive Director of Stewardship