Blog: Does Your Church or School Have an Urgent Maintenance Need? LCEF Can Help!

Does Your Church or School Have an Urgent Maintenance Need? LCEF Can Help!

Unexpected facility issues or ministry improvement needs can pop up at any time—and they don’t always wait for the next budget cycle. That’s where the Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF) comes in. Through the Ministry Improvement Loan, your congregation or school can take quick, confident action on essential updates and repairs.

Fast, Flexible Funding for Immediate Needs

LCEF’s Ministry Improvement Loan is designed with flexibility in mind. Eligible churches and schools can borrow up to $150,000 for terms of up to 10 years. Even better, the first two years feature interest-only payments, giving you room to plan while moving forward with important projects. From year three onward, the loan transitions into standard principal and interest payments.

What Can a Ministry Improvement Loan Cover?

Churches and schools across the Southeastern District (SED)—and the Synod—are already putting this loan to great use. Here are just a few examples of how it can help your ministry:

Repair or replace damaged roofing
Upgrade HVAC systems for greater comfort and efficiency
Make buildings more welcoming through aesthetic improvements
Ensure accessibility with updated restrooms and facilities
Reduce utility costs with energy-efficient upgrades
Enhance safety in educational environments
Invest in technology and tools that support modern learning
Refresh outdoor spaces with new landscaping or playground equipment
Address other urgent or unplanned maintenance needs
Many ministries use this loan as a bridge solution—beginning the project now, then launching a fundraising effort to pay off the loan quickly.

Ready to Learn More?

If your ministry has a pressing improvement project, now’s the time to act. For more information about the Ministry Improvement Loan or other LCEF offerings, contact:

Kirk Hymes
LCEF Vice President of the SED & Executive Director of Stewardship
khymes@se.lcms.org

Let LCEF help your ministry move forward—faithfully and financially.