The problem
Life for our church workers can be challenging. True, the joys of ministry often compensate for the sorrows. But it’s not getting any easier.
The culture has turned its back on our pastors and teachers. Our called workers are asked to do more with fewer resources. And inflation continues to squeeze their earnings.
“Many church workers have given their lives to serve, often in modest circumstances,” said Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison, LCMS President. “And while it’s not the only one, financial strain is an important factor in our church worker shortage.”
Our workers pour out their lives to serve the church. It’s our turn to take care of them.
What’s at stake?
We all must play our part in making church work attractive to young people. This includes creating a better financial future for those who serve.
“If we want our best and brightest young people to find church work appealing, at the minimum, they must know and feel the church has their back,” said Rev. Dr. Brian Friedrich, president of Concordia University, St. Paul.
“That’s why I love LCEF’s Church Worker Loan Pool. It’s a concrete demonstration that our church leaders listen to and act on our church workers’ needs.”
What is the Church Worker Loan Pool?
It is a low-cost source of funds created for all Rostered Church Workers of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS). It will allow LCMS church workers to purchase a home, refinance educational loans, consolidate debt or tap into their home equity at—and this is the crucial part—preferred rates.
How is this different from the way LCEF normally operates? This dedicated loan pool will help secure these preferred loan rates for our workers for many years.
How much should you invest?
We are not asking for much. If every able-bodied Lutheran invested $1,500, we would easily meet our audacious goal of raising $250 million.
Next steps
For rates, visit lcef.org/bold or call 800-843-5233. Our friendly customer relations specialists will walk you through the process or answer any questions. Will you join us in this noble effort?